Ali Hassan Joho, the former Governor of Mombasa County, has been nominated as a Cabinet Secretary in President William Ruto’s administration, following the dismissal of the entire cabinet on July 11, 2024.
This major reshuffle aims to address public concerns and enhance governance as Ruto seeks to implement his agenda effectively.
Joho’s nomination has garnered support from various coastal leaders who recognize his political and regional influence.
His endorsement not only highlights his standing within local politics but also aligns with his ambitions for higher office, as he actively positions himself for a presidential run in 2027.
Before entering politics, Joho was a successful businessman in the waste management sector, running a family-owned garbage collection company, Prima Pest and Bins Ltd.
Start Of Joho’s Political Career
His political career began in 2004 when he contested in the Kisauni by-election, on a Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) ticket following the death of the incumbent MP Emmanuel Karisa Maitha, who collapsed and died during a press interview in Germany.
In the by-election, Joho lost to Narc’s Anania Mwaboza garnering 7,293 votes against Mwaboza’s 8,374. He was however dissatisfied with the results and contested the results in court.
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Joho returned to the political arena, in the 2007 general election where he won the Kisauni parliamentary seat on an ODM ticket.
In 2012 Joho was appointed the Assistant Minister for Transport after a cabinet reshuffle made by President Mwai Kibaki and Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s grand coalition government.
Joho Becomes Mombasa County’s First Governor
Joho’s political ascent continued when he was elected as the first Governor of Mombasa County in 2013, defeating his closest rival Suleiman Shahbal by a large margin.
His tenure as governor was marked by his vocal advocacy for coastal issues and his contentious relationship with the national government.
Additionally, Joho faced several controversies, including a feud with the national government over the management of the Mombasa port.
He was also on the spot over his academic credentials after Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) rejected the authenticity of his form four results slip challenging his suitability for the gubernatorial job.
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Despite these challenges, Joho remained resilient, cementing his presence in the Kenyan political scene.
His close ties with ODM leader Raila Odinga have further solidified his influence, making him a key player in the opposition landscape.
Joho’s educational background includes a BA in Business and Human Resource Management from Kampala University, along with diplomas in business and logistics.
His philanthropic work through the Hassan Joho Foundation, which focuses on education and youth empowerment, has also contributed to his public image.
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