“We Will Support Ruto in 2027, But Coast Must Get Its Turn in 2032,” Joho Declares as He Reveals Conditions for Backing President

Former Mombasa Governor and current Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho has sparked fresh political debate after openly declaring that the Coast region will support President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election — but only under a clear political understanding about succession in 2032.

Speaking during a political gathering in Kwale County, Joho made it clear that his support for Ruto’s re-election is tied to what he described as a long-term political arrangement that would eventually allow the Coast region to produce a presidential candidate after Ruto’s expected second term.

According to Joho, the Coast has remained loyal to different governments over the years but has never been given a realistic opportunity to occupy the country’s top seat despite producing influential leaders and contributing significantly to the national economy.

“We will support President Ruto in the next election, but after his second term, people must support us as Coastal people so that we too can enter State House,” Joho said during the rally.

The outspoken Cabinet Secretary further hinted at his own presidential ambitions, saying leaders from the Coast are equally qualified to lead Kenya and should no longer be viewed as political spectators in national leadership contests.

“We will unite our people to support President Ruto, but you should also know that our mothers gave birth to people qualified to be president. You must support us after 2027,” he added.

Joho’s remarks are being interpreted by political observers as an early attempt to position himself and the Coast region for the 2032 succession politics, even as the country remains focused on the 2027 elections.

His comments also appeared aimed at consolidating political unity within the Coast region while strengthening ties with the Kenya Kwanza administration. 

Joho argued that the region has already benefited from being part of government and should continue working closely with President Ruto’s administration for development projects and economic opportunities.

At the same time, the former governor launched a sharp attack against opposition leaders, particularly former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, accusing them of attempting to infiltrate and destabilize Coast politics.

He warned residents against embracing opposition politics, claiming some leaders were misleading the region for personal political gain instead of focusing on development and national unity.

Joho also urged Coast politicians to maintain a united political front to strengthen the region’s bargaining power in national politics. 

According to him, internal divisions have previously weakened the Coast’s ability to negotiate for major government positions and development resources.

The statement now places Joho among the first senior government officials to openly discuss the 2032 presidential succession while still serving in President Ruto’s administration.