Kenya's political landscape has been shaken by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir's support of Azimio La Umoja leader Raila Odinga for president in the general election of 2027. Nassir, an ODM member, stated unequivocally on Sunday at a party gathering that Odinga's candidacy is not negotiable.
The first-time governor positioned Odinga as the most qualified candidate to lead Kenya in a passionate speech that highlighted his unmatched political experience.
"The people of Kenya are ordering you to run for president in 2027; we are not pleading, requesting, or asking. You must be on the ballot in 2027," he declared at the event.
Nassir emphasized the significance of attending to Kenyans' needs and opposing the influence of President William Ruto, while also praising Odinga's altruism and pushing for his sixth presidential run.
He continued by emphasizing that, as part of Azimio, they have only found Raila Odinga to be qualified for the position.
Nobody that has been able to prioritize the needs of Kenyans over his own goals has come to our attention. "Odinga is the one who needs to be prayed for," Nassir declared.
This endorsement coincides with alleged ambiguity about the alliance's flagbearer within Azimio la Umoja. Odinga has remained silent regarding the 2027 contest, in contrast to Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who has been outspoken about his candidacy.
Odinga's lead is strengthened by Abdulswamad's unwavering declaration that the former Vice President will not be taken into consideration.
In addition to solidifying Odinga's position within the coalition, Nassir's endorsement has generated discussion and conjecture among political observers from a wide range of backgrounds.
This endorsement adds another level of expectation and suspense to the developing political scene in Kenya as the general election of 2027 approaches.