Former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho’s recent appointment to President William Ruto’s Cabinet has sparked significant debate in Kenyan political circles. Once a vocal critic of Ruto, Joho’s shift from opposition to government roles has raised questions about loyalty, betrayal, and the strategic choices of Kenya’s political elite. In an interview with Obinna TV, Joho addressed these concerns, emphasizing his commitment to effecting change from within.
Joho’s Justification: No Betrayal, Just Strategy
Joho began by clarifying his decision to join the government, stating unequivocally that he did not feel he had betrayed the electorate or his principles. He explained that joining the government was not a sign of betrayal but rather an opportunity to influence policies and contribute to national development from within. According to Joho, the role allowed him to make an impact on issues that matter to Kenyans directly, particularly in his capacity as Cabinet Secretary for Mining. He noted, “There are two options in politics. The first is to hold the government accountable, as the opposition does, and the second is to create change from the inside. I chose the latter because that’s where I believe I can make a real difference.”
Shifting Alliances: From Critic to Collaborator
Joho’s transition from being a fierce critic of Ruto’s administration to a supporter represents a significant shift in his political strategy. He explained that his decision was informed by a desire to be part of the government and to work towards implementing some of the Azimio manifesto’s goals. “If Raila Odinga had succeeded as President, we would have formed a government. Now that’s not the case,” Joho said, emphasizing the necessity of adaptation in the ever-changing political landscape. His move reflects a broader trend where political leaders join governing coalitions after losing elections, aiming to influence from within rather than remain in opposition.
The Complex Nature of Political Dynamics
Reflecting on the complexities of political alliances, Joho acknowledged that Ruto is now his president and boss. This shift, he noted, was not entirely unexpected given their previous collaborations within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and their shared history as leaders within the party. Joho remarked, “It is not strange. We have worked together before,” pointing out that their partnership goes back to Ruto’s tenure as ODM’s deputy party leader during the 2007 elections. This history, according to Joho, informed his decision to join the government, despite previously being a strong critic of Ruto.
Strategic Realities and National Unity
Joho also emphasized the need for unity in the face of political differences. He argued that Kenya can only be governed by one government at a time, and his role in the Cabinet was about ensuring that the government remains accountable while also delivering on its promises. “There is no betrayal,” he said, reflecting on the unity of purpose required to advance national interests. “We have only one Kenya and one government at a time,” he reiterated, signaling that his decision was made with a broader vision for the country’s development in mind.
Looking Forward: Implementing the Azimio Agenda
For Joho, joining the government wasn’t just about securing a position; it was about being in a position to implement policies that align with the Azimio manifesto. He expressed his commitment to pushing for policies that would address key issues like economic development, healthcare, and infrastructure. “Now that we have the opportunity to be part of the government, it’s about what we can do,” he said. “We have to be able to implement some of the manifesto’s goals and make a real impact on people’s lives.” This commitment, he noted, was what guided his decision to join Ruto’s administration.
Conclusion
Joho’s move from critic to collaborator illustrates the pragmatic nature of Kenyan politics, where alliances shift and adapt based on the political landscape and the opportunity to influence policy. His explanation of his decision to join the government reflects a broader understanding among politicians that sometimes the best way to effect change is from within. As Joho put it, “What matters is what we are able to do now because we have been given the opportunity.” The former governor’s approach is a reminder that in politics, the lines between betrayal and strategic repositioning can be blurred, especially when the ultimate goal is the betterment of the nation.
Through his work in the Ruto administration, Hassan Joho is striving to bridge the gap between political oppositions and government, illustrating a willingness to adapt for the sake of national progress. His journey from critic to collaborator serves as a case study in the complexities of Kenyan political dynamics and the ongoing search for leadership that can truly make a difference.
