By Miraj Guo | March 11, 2026
A section of Kwale religious and grassroots leaders have criticised Hassan Ali Joho, the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, accusing him of interfering in local political affairs following his recent visit to the region.
The leaders were reacting to the Cabinet Secretary’s visit where he attended two separate events hosted by Feisal Bader, the Member of Parliament for Msambweni Constituency. The events included an iftar gathering at Gazi Village and a fundraising function in neighbouring Matuga.
Political observers have linked the visit to growing political competition in the region, particularly after Kithure Kindiki recently led an empowerment programme in Lunga Lunga where more than Sh8 million was raised for women’s groups.
Speaking during a press briefing in Diani, community leaders led by Hamisi Juma Raso urged the Cabinet Secretary to respect the leadership of Fatuma Achani, the Governor of Kwale County, and avoid actions that could be interpreted as undermining her administration.
“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,” said Raso.
Former Mkongani Ward MCA Ndoro Mweruphe also criticised MP Bader for hosting leaders perceived to be opposed to the governor.
“It was unnecessary for the Msambweni MP, who was elected through the ruling United Democratic Alliance party, to host leaders openly opposing Governor Achani. If he cannot remain loyal to the party that sponsored him, then the honourable thing would be to resign and join those he politically aligns with,” said Mweruphe.
Religious leaders led by Sheikh Athuman Shaban and Pastor Esther Kamau also urged the Cabinet Secretary to focus on his national responsibilities and avoid political confrontations that could divide communities.
“As religious leaders, we believe leadership should be exercised with humility and mutual respect. Leaders must focus on serving the people instead of engaging in political mockery that can divide communities,” said Sheikh Shaban.
The remarks come amid shifting political alignments in the coastal region as leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
