MOMBASA County-Jan 15, 2026-Political temperatures continue to rise in Likoni Constituency following the official declaration by Nominated Senator Miraj Abdillah that she will vie for the parliamentary seat.
Senator Abdillah, who is regarded as a key ally of President William Ruto in the Coast region, has positioned herself as a strong proponent of the President’s development agenda, while openly distancing herself from what she describes as self-serving politics by some regional leaders.
Her entry into the Likoni race has significantly reshaped the local political landscape, attracting heightened attention from senior politicians and influential business figures within the county, many of whom have strongly opposed her candidature.
Sources indicate that resistance to Abdillah’s bid stems largely from her hardline stance on key governance and security issues, including the fight against insecurity, drug trafficking, and the grabbing of public land—issues that remain deeply sensitive in the coastal region.
Analysts say her bold positioning has injected new momentum into the Likoni contest, setting the stage for a potentially high-stakes and closely watched political battle ahead of the next general election.
The Likoni parliamentary race is shaping up to be a notable women’s political battle, with incumbent Mishi Mboko seeking a third term, popular TV personality Mwanahamisi Hamadi also declaring her interest, and now Senator Miraj Abdillah joining the contest.
Observers say the three-way race is likely to intensify competition and draw significant public attention ahead of the next general election.
