Nyali MP Mohammed Ali has signaled his intent to run for the Mombasa governor’s seat in 2027, marking his first open declaration after years of speculation. Ali, who has been recovering from a knee injury sustained in December, made his ambitions clear during a bursary issuance event at Khadija Primary School on Saturday.
Ali, who distributed Sh17 million in bursaries, emphasized the need for politicians in Mombasa to embrace development-oriented leadership. He highlighted Nyali’s Sh136 million annual allocation, citing tangible achievements such as school construction, road development, and police station upgrades. Taking a jab at the current county administration, Ali accused Governor Abdulswamad Nassir of mismanaging Mombasa’s Sh13 billion budget.
“We will come for that Sh13 billion and ensure that each and every person in Mombasa benefits,” Ali declared, positioning himself as a champion of equitable resource distribution.
Ali’s statement has further heightened Mombasa’s political landscape, where several leaders are already positioning themselves for the gubernatorial contest. Governor Nassir, speaking at Mjambere Primary School, dismissed his opponents’ challenges, asserting his track record and resilience in the face of criticism.
“I was blessed to be MP for two terms, then governor. I will be blessed to be governor again, and I will be blessed to be more than a governor in the future,” Nassir stated, exuding confidence in his reelection prospects.
He reiterated that his political style prioritizes action over verbal confrontations, saying, “A silent leader is stronger because he endures criticism while remaining focused on service delivery.”
Mombasa Speaker Aharub Khatri, another potential contender, has also fueled speculation with his county-wide food distribution initiatives. Despite denying gubernatorial ambitions, Khatri hinted at a determined political approach, stating, “I will show people dust if that is what it takes to ensure Mombasa residents get the services they deserve.”
With the 2027 elections still three years away, Mombasa’s political scene is already heating up. Ali’s declaration, coupled with Nassir’s defiance and Khatri’s growing influence, sets the stage for a highly competitive race. As Mombasa residents weigh their options, the battle for the county’s top seat promises to be one of the most closely watched in Kenya’s political landscape.
