By Joyce Kifalu Zawadi | 14 August 2026
The Kenya Muslim National Advisory Council has strongly condemned the recent violence reported at the Mombasa County Assembly premises, calling for peaceful and lawful means of addressing public grievances.
Speaking to the media, the Council’s President, Sheikh Juma Ngao, criticised the confrontation between county security officers and youths who were taking part in demonstrations.
Sheikh Ngao urged civil society organisations and members of the public to use constitutionally recognised channels when presenting their grievances to authorities.
«“Mombasa is a tourist city, and security should be the priority of every individual who cares about our city,” said Sheikh Ngao.»
He further criticised what he described as the use of violence during demonstrations, urging activists and civil society groups to pursue peaceful and legally acceptable avenues when engaging public institutions.
«“Civil society organisations should use legally acceptable means to present their grievances to the county assembly, the Senate, other public offices within Mombasa County and the national government,” he said.»
His remarks were supported by the Council’s Deputy President, Abubakar Amin, who called for calm and dialogue when dealing with matters of public concern.
The Council also raised concerns over plans to shut down several state institutions, particularly the Coast Development Authority (CDA), which it said has played an important role in supporting economic activities and development initiatives along the Coast.
The Council described the proposed closure of CDA as a matter of concern, arguing that communities that depend directly on the authority should be consulted before any decision is made.
The Council has issued a 14-day ultimatum, warning that it will consider legal action if the government proceeds with the planned closure without adequately addressing the concerns raised.
Sheikh Ngao also called on the government to undertake meaningful public participation before making a final decision on the future of CDA.
«“The government ought to have called for public participation to ensure that the people who directly rely on CDA are well informed and involved before any decision is made,” he said.»
The Council’s statement comes amid growing debate over demonstrations, public security and the role of civil society organisations in raising community grievances.
The Council has urged all parties to embrace dialogue, respect the law and avoid violence when addressing issues affecting the people of Mombasa and the wider Coast region.
