Relevance is the key, and every political leader wants to remain relevant, but what will happen to Mombasa governor Ali Hassan Joho, his Kilifi counterpart Amason Kingi and Kwale’s Salim Mvurya after 2022? All the three governors are serving their final term. Are they fit for Presidential contest? It is very hard following their prominence, which is quite low compared to that of ODM leader Raila Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto. Then what are their plans after expiry of their term?
The final-term governors want a three-tier form of government, popularly known as federalism, introduced for them to remain politically relevant in the region.
With the presidency a “bridge too far” for either governor Joho, Kingi and Mvurya, being regional king makers will be the option.
Coast region does not have a large enough vote basket to win the State House job.
It is the reason the three are supporting constitutional change with the hope it includes federal governments.
This system will mean the six counties can form a unit but remain independent in their affairs.
The proponents of federalism want the former provinces transformed into 14 regional governments.
The head of such unit is likely to hold a higher position than a governor. Kingi roots for at least 80 per cent of national revenue allocated to the federal regions while Joho proposes a 30 per cent allocation with each region having its own police officers.
“I will be political advisor in Mombasa after I finish my term. I will decide who fits. I will be looking for a bigger seat because I have a greater experience,” Joho said on Jamhuri Day.
Both Joho and Kingi are ODM members and would have a huge task of getting the party’s endorsement to run for president compared to Raila. If their wishes are to be granted, whom do you think is capable of clinging coastal region top seat?