After being officially appointed as the Minister of Minerals and Blue Economy, former Mombasa Governor Hassan Ali Joho met with all Coast region MPs, senators, and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir.
At a lunch meeting, except for Nyali MP Mohammed Ali, the leaders discussed how to set aside their differences and improve unity. Joho’s appointment has seemed to revive the unity among the region’s leaders, who had felt leaderless since Joho’s term as governor ended.
Leaders from ODM, UDA, Wiper Party, and Pamoja Africa Alliance (PAA) attended the meeting.
“We met as leaders and discussed how to unite and maintain unity. We discussed many things, but I cannot reveal them yet. We will make them known soon,” said one of the MPs who attended the lunch.
The last similar meeting was nine months ago when Joho had called for it, and they discussed Coast region issues.
During the swearing-in ceremony at the State House, Joho, known as the ‘sultan’ of Coast, was seen with key government officials, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Joho has been a key figure in Coast politics due to his ability to persuade leaders to follow a particular political path. After the meeting, leaders congratulated Joho on his new government role.
“We are happy to see Joho appointed as Minister of Minerals and will work with him to ensure he performs well. Based on his expertise, we are confident he will do a great job,” said Likoni MP Mishi Mboko.
While leaders were meeting in Nairobi, peace prevailed in the six Coast counties. Youths avoided protests, saying that Joho’s and Salim Mvurya’s appointments show they are part of the government.
“We are pleased with the appointments of our leaders and will continue to ask President Ruto to remember us in the future,” said Mombasa resident Salima Hussein.
Peace was also reported in Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, Taita-Taveta, and Kwale counties, where youths protested against the current government in Nairobi.
By Newsmedia