With Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho expected to leave office after the expiry of his second and final term, the race to succeed him is tipped to be a bruising battle.
Nearly all the veterans in the county's politics are expected to face off in a bid to clinch the top political office in the Coastal city.
Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo, a rising political star, is among the favourites to win the seat. To the wealthy businessman, his main asset is his mobilization skills. Further, the fact that he is from the majority Mijikenda community gives him an edge.
Also tipped to win the coveted seat is Mvita MP Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir. The lawmaker who is from a political family is one of Joho's most trusted allies and to him, his closeness to the Governor may be his great asset.
Former Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar may try to reinvent his political career by joining the rece to succeed Joho.Though he is yet to open up on his next political move, but the former Wiper Secretary General may throw the hat into the ring once again.
After failing to beat Joho in two attempts, Suleiman Shahbal may try his luck again in 2022. However, for him, his main hurdle may be to secure the Jubilee party ticket as many contestants may be lining up for the same. But whatever happens, Shahbal's opportunity to fulfill his burning political ambitions may be in 2022.
Tourism CS Najib Balala is yet another politician expected to try make a political comeback with the gubernatorial seat being his most likely target.
Former Nyali MP Awiti Bollo may also test the waters once again.