I’m in ODM Party and Ready to Vie for the Presidency — Hassan Joho

After many months of absence from the glare of the media, coast politician Ali Hassan Joho resurfaced in Malindi at the birthday bash of ODM Party leader Raila Amollo Odinga.

Joho broke the silence and speculation over his political future at the Tropical Hotel in Malindi when he said:

“I am still in ODM Party and ready to vie for the Presidency come 2027.”

Unconfirmed reports indicate that Joho held a private luncheon for the ODM Party leader at his residence in Malindi.

ADVERTISEMENT

Amid questions why he has not been prominent in party functions as before, Joho said he has been out of the country pursuing personal matters.

“I am strongly in ODM and behind Baba. Let us not listen to people who want to create division in our party. ODM is still the strongest party in Africa,” said Joho.

The ODM Deputy Party leader said, if given the opportunity, he will be ready to face anyone in the presidential race.

Joho was responding to other leaders who asked Raila to go for the presidency in 2027.

“I am very ready at any time to vie for the presidency should you feel that you need someone to vie,” he said.

In addition, Joho said he would lead a membership recruitment drive to strengthen the party.

Kilifi South Member of Parliament Ken Chonga urged Raila to make sure he is on the ballot in 2027. Chonga claimed Raila is still strong enough to vie.

“Baba you are too young to ditch politics. We want you in the ballot box in 2027 and I am confident you will win this seat,” said Chonga.

Jubilee Vice Chairman David Murathe who also attended the party said Raila is still the candidate for the Azimio La Umoja coalition.

Murathe said age comes with wisdom.

“In Malaysia, they elected Mahathir Mohamad as Prime Minister at the age of 93 and he steered the country to greater heights. He was older than Raila,” he said.

Other leaders who graced the event are Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule, Kilifi Senator Stewart Madzayo, MPs Ken Chonga (Kilifi South), Amina Mnyazi (Malindi), Harry Kombe (Magarini) Mishi Mboko (Likoni), Rashid Bedzimba (Kisauni) and businessman Evans Ng’onga from Siaya, among other leaders.