A Faction of Mombasa Leaders Led by Mombasa Governor Joho Reject Sonko Mombasa Gubernatorial Bid.

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko's decision to run for Mombasa governor, according to the leaders, violates an agreement that states that top political seats should be reserved for natives of any location.

The leaders from Mombasa and Kilifi counties, led by Mr Joho and former Lands Chief Administration Secretary Gideon Mung'aro, said Sonko's candidacy was disrespectful to the Coastal people.

The governor stated that different tribes coexist in Mombasa and warned leaders not to exploit racial, religious, and tribal differences for political gain.

"Our diversity is our strength. We have lived in harmony and welcomed everyone who wants to come to Mombasa to do business. We warn those out to create divisions and violence that we are ready for them," said Joho.

He promised to travel across the Coast to campaign for ODM candidates, saying that nothing will stop Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya presidential candidate Raila Odinga from pushing for a six-member vote in the region.

“Wiper candidates should ask their leader to come and campaign for them. ODM leadership will vigorously campaign for six-piece vote in Coast," said Joho during Idd Baraza at Treasury square in Mombasa.

Mr Mung'aro, the ODM Kilifi governorship candidate, believes that political leadership in the Coast should be left to the people.

"This is a very bad sign (Sonko's candidature). If he wins then it means that forces with money can bring in candidates for MCA, MP and other seats and buy us to vote for them," he said.

He noted that they welcome people from all tribes to do business and stay in Coast but top political leadership positions should be left to locals. "This is an unwritten rule," said Mr Mung'aro.

"We have our own problem but we do not have the shortage of people who can lead us. We will not accept a situation where people from outside will chose leaders for us the people of Coast," he added.

The former CAS urged residents to reject candidates being imposed on the region. "This is not incitement. It is a fight for our inalienable right as the people of Coast," he said. 

Sonko, on the other hand, stated in an interview that he was born and raised in Mombasa and has the right to run for political office anywhere in the country. Mombasa was his home county, he said.

"I was born in Majengo. My mother died and was buried in Mombasa. The Constitution does not stop me from contesting for any seat anywhere in the country," he said