The political storm at the coast has forced a section of elders to intervene and demand an apology from ODM rebels. The group is under the Sauti ya Wazee wa Pwani umbrella. They asked the rebel opposition leaders to respect Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho as a national leader and honor his support when they were seeking parliamentary slots.
They had representatives from Taita Taveta (Ibrahim Langalia), Lamu (Mohamed Issa), Tana River (Ali Said), Kilifi (Juma Fimbo), Mombasa (Ali Faranga) and Kwale (Mohamed Kutsetsera).
They cited Malindi MP Aisha Jumwa and her Msambweni counterpart Suleiman Dori as the main characters who should reward Joho’s support with loyalty.
“Mr Dori and Ms Aisha were supported by Joho while running for their seats in last year’s general election. Unfortunately, after winning, they have suddenly found solace by attacking the governor whenever they accompany the Deputy President William Ruto in his coast visits. This is an act of betrayal and as elders upholding respect for Mr. Joho, we feel offended by their antics,” Mzee Kutsetsera said.
The elders said that Joho has matured politically and local leaders should support his bid.
“They are busy attacking the governor in podiums but they have not told their electorate what they have done on the ground. In all these antics, the governor has remained mum, which is the sign of a good leader. They should apologize to the governor and join him in his quest for the top seat,” Mzee Khamisi added.