Former Changamwe MP Ramadhan Kajembe addressing a meeting at Mikindani Social Hall, where he endorsed Mombasa governor aspirant Suleiman Shahbal. [Photo: Suleiman Shahbal/ facebook.com]
Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho's quest to defend his seat during the August 8 polls has been dealt a blow following the endorsement of his rival Suleiman Shahbal by veteran Mombasa politician Ramadhan Kajembe.
In an event held on Friday at the Mikindani Social Hall, Jomvu constituency, Kajembe who represented Changamwe constituency for three consecutive terms said his decision to back Shahbal is informed by his desire for development in the county which he said has been mismanaged.Kajembe who is still an influential figure in Mombasa politics lost to Hassan Omar in the 2013 senatorial race despite vying on an ODM ticket, the most dominant party in the county.After losing in the 2013 elections, the veteran politician maintained a low political profile. However, he came back into the limelight when he was appointed Board Chair for the Kenya Ferry Services, and also declared interest in the Mombasa senator race .According to analysts, his latest decision to throw his weight behind Shahbal may prove to be a game-changer in Mombasa politics.