MOMBASA County—Feb 3, 2026—Mombasa Governor Abdulswammad Sharrif Nassir has sharply criticised Nyali Member of Parliament Mohammed Ali, accusing him of promoting divisive tribal politics among residents of the coastal county.
Speaking after meeting residents of Ziwa la Ng’ombe Ward in Nyali Sub-county, Nassir said it was regrettable for an elected leader to advance ethnic-based politics in a county known for its diversity, despite having been voted in by residents from different communities.
“It is unfortunate for a leader who was elected by all communities to now turn around and promote tribal politics in Mombasa,” Nassir said.
The governor further accused the MP of misleading Coast residents and inciting them against fellow leaders for political gain, warning that such rhetoric risked undermining social cohesion in the county.
At the same time, Nassir dismissed claims attributed to Mohammed Ali that some Coast leaders were planning to quit the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to form a new regional political outfit for their own personal interests. He said the allegations were false and aimed at sowing suspicion among residents.
The exchange comes amid growing political activity ahead of the 2027 general election, with Mombasa’s gubernatorial race already taking shape.
Political leaders have increasingly weighed in on the role of ethnicity in Coast politics, an issue that has historically influenced electoral contests in the region.
Former Kisauni MP and Mombasa gubernatorial aspirant Ali Mbogo recently condemned leaders he accused of exploiting tribal divisions for political advantage, saying Mombasa’s future depended on unity rather than ethnic mobilisation.
Mbogo has positioned himself as an advocate for issue-based politics as the race for the county’s top seat gather momentum.
Mombasa County is home to a diverse population drawn from different ethnic and religious backgrounds, making cohesion a sensitive but central issue in its politics.
Analysts say early political messaging ahead of 2027 could shape alliances and voter sentiment long before formal campaigns begin.
