The coastal region political king, Governor Ali Hassan Joho, is reincarnating the late Emmanuel Karisa Maitha and the legendary Ronald Gideon Ngala.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) deputy party leader has emerged as the most reliable guardian of coastal political interests. Despite lack of tribal numbers, Joho has attracted fanatical support across coastal tribes.
Maitha’s fight for coastal share on national political table earned him the 'Coastal Mugogo‘ title. People believed that through him, marginalization could be reduced to manageable levels.
He bulldozed his ideas and demands for coastal residents. He never feared annoying those in power including Retired President Danial Arap Moi.
His iron fist approach was revealed to the public on several occasions including when he revoked nominations of all councilors who opposed his political ideology. Then, he was the Minister for Local Authorities and he went ahead and defied a court order that demanded that he reinstate all unconstitutionally sacked councilors.
This was not a legal act but it proved how he was ready to stand by his ideologies and decisions. Joho has replicated his strong stand against the government. He also religiously supports his ideologies. He has also baptized himself the coastal ‘Sultan’.
The legendary Ronald Ngala was a different version of Maitha. However, he used a liberal approach to articulate the grievances of coastal people. The title of coastal political leader was earned from his great service to the people. Joho has also earned his dominance at the coast through fearless fights with those who marginalize the region.