A section of leaders from the Coast aligned to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have intensified calls for Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho to be considered as a running mate to President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
The push is being championed by key party figures including Abdulswamad Nassir, Gideon Mung’aro, Fikirini Jacobs, and Stewart Madzayo. Speaking during a political gathering, Nassir noted that under the current broad-based government arrangement, ODM would push for a greater share of leadership, including the Deputy President position in the next election cycle.
He emphasized that while the position is currently held by Kithure Kindiki, ODM’s focus is on securing it in 2027, with Joho as the preferred candidate. Kilifi Governor Mung’aro affirmed that the party would support President Ruto’s re-election bid, while also cautioning the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) against fielding a gubernatorial candidate in Kilifi.
Joho, on his part, expressed confidence in his national appeal, stating that a Deputy President role would position him for a possible presidential run in 2032. He added that ODM plans to field candidates across all elective positions in 2027, including governors, senators, MPs, women representatives, and MCAs, while leaving room for negotiations at the presidential level. Joho also warned political rivals against encroaching on ODM strongholds, saying the party is prepared to defend its turf.
The growing support for Joho signals early political alignments within ODM as leaders strategize ahead of the 2027 elections, with the Coast region positioning itself for a bigger role in national leadership.
