Leaders, clerics and grassroots representatives from Kwale County have criticised Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho over what they described as interference in the county’s political affairs during his recent visits.
The leaders defended Fatuma Achani, saying national leaders should respect county leadership structures when conducting activities in the region.
The criticism follows Joho’s recent trip to Kwale, where he attended two events hosted by Feisal Bader, an iftar gathering at Gazi village in Msambweni Constituency and a fundraising event in Matuga Constituency.
Speaking during a press briefing in Diani, leaders led by grassroots mobiliser Hamisi Juma Raso said while residents respect Joho as a national leader and former governor of Mombasa County, he must also respect the leadership of Governor Achani.
“We respect the Cabinet Secretary, but he must also respect our Governor, Fatuma Achani. It is disappointing to see a national leader appearing to fight a woman leader. That is unacceptable,” Raso said.
The leaders accused some politicians allied to Joho of publicly criticising the Kwale governor, warning that such actions risk fuelling political tensions within the county.
Former Mkongani Ward MCA Ndoro Mweruphe also questioned the decision by Feisal Bader, who was elected on a United Democratic Alliance ticket, to host leaders perceived to be opposed to the county administration.
“It was unnecessary for the Msambweni MP, who was elected through UDA, to host leaders who are openly opposing Governor Achani. If he cannot remain loyal to the party that sponsored him to office, then he should consider joining another party instead,” Mweruphe said.
Religious leaders from the county also weighed in on the matter, urging political leaders to exercise restraint and avoid statements that could divide communities.
Speaking on behalf of clerics, Sheikh Athuman Shaban said leadership should be guided by humility and mutual respect.
“As religious leaders, we believe leadership should be exercised with humility and respect. Political differences should not be used to ridicule others or create unnecessary conflict,” he said.
Some political observers have interpreted Joho’s visits as part of growing political contestation in Kwale, particularly as Governor Fatuma Achani is increasingly seen to be strengthening ties with the ruling coalition.
The developments also come shortly after Deputy President Kithure Kindiki visited Lunga Lunga, where he led an empowerment programme for women’s groups.
The political tensions are unfolding amid shifting alliances in Kwale County ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Several leaders have recently moved closer to the ruling coalition, including MPs Gonzi Rai, Kassim Tandaza and Mangale Chiforomodo, signalling changing political dynamics in the coastal county.
