Mombasa County gubernatorial race come 2017 will be the most fierce battle in Kenya's political scene.
In the recent times, Governor Ali Hassan Joho has faced stiff criticism from candidates seeking to clinch a seat in the governor's office come 2017.
Candidates like businessman Suleiman Shahbal, Senator Hassan Omar and Nyali MP Hezron Awiti have expressed interest to oust the incumbent and occupy his office come 2017.
However, the coastal region has diverse population and this presents Mombasa as one of the most challenging political scenarios that require delicate alliance-building for one to make it to the top position.
This only means that the ones who will forge the most efficient and effective political alliance come 2017 will win the gubernatorial race.
Senator Hassan Omar has been the main rival to the current governor.
He has termed Joho's leadership as one that should be done away with as it is allegedly mismanaging the resources of the county government. With 2017 around the corner, it is only a matter of time before people see who will oust the other in the next general elections.
Personal resources will be mobilised to ensure they win the elections as all the candidates are considered to be wealthy.
On the other hand, Mr Awiti has been working hard to solidify his bases in Changamwe, Kisauni, Jomvu and Likoni constituencies where he plans to gain maximum votes to ensure that he wins the race.
Businessman Suleiman has also not been lagging behind. He has been in close contact with Ibrahim Khamis of Republican Congress to ensure they also win the next gubernatorial race.
The fierce battle is only left to be decided come 2017 and the best scheming politician will seat in the governor's office and represent Mombasa County residents as well as manage the County budget.