Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho has dismissed reports by critics that he is not fit for presidency.
In a meeting with about 175 MCAs from the six coastal counties Lamu, Kwale, Tana River, Kilifi, Taita-Taveta and Mombasa, Joho said he is ready to lead Kenyans during the 2022 general elections.
"They are being used to advance others' political ambitions," the ODM deputy party leader said citing his critics.
Also present during the meeting at PrideInn Hotel was Kilifi county governor Amason Kingi who also seeks to vie for the country's top seat.
The meeting by Joho also aimed to counter frequent visits by his rival, Deputy President William Ruto to the Coast.
Ruto has been attending fundraisers and several functions in Mombasa, Kilifi, Taita Taveta and Kwale counties with aims to consolidate his 2022 presidential bid political support.
He has since won the hearts of several ODM MPs who have since switched allegiance from Joho and their party leader Raila Odinga.
Joho told the MCAs that there is need for all leaders to come together in the spirit of the handshake that was initiated by President Uhuru Kenyatta and Odinga, irrespective of their political parties.
Joho said coast leaders will work on a consensus to attain political unity regardless of their party affiliations.
"We will consult widely with the people. We came together to establish a renewed bond to help us achieve our goals as a people. We resolve to embrace the building of bridges initiative mooted by President Uhuru Kenyatta and the Rt. Hon Raila Odinga to enhance national cohesion," he added on Wednesday.
On his part, Kingi indicated the region is facing many political challenges which can only be solved through unity of purpose.
"We have decided to walk a path no leaders have walked before," he said and later announced that all coast governors would meet in September 6, to chat the region's political path.
"We will be holding more of such meetings more regularly because we appreciate the strength in unity. I want to thank all members of County Assemblies who came in their numbers regardless of political party affiliation," added Joho during a press conference after the meeting.
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