Mvita Member of Parliament Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir has received a major boost in his Mombasa gubernatorial bid after businessman Suleiman Shahbal stepped down in his favour.
In a deal brokered by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga who is also the Azimio One Kenya Coalition presidential flagberarer, Shahbal said he has withdrawn from the race.
“We had two strong candidates for the (Mombasa) seat but Mr Shahbal has decided to step down and support Mr Nassir.” Raila said hailing Shahbal for the act, which he said, epitomises his love for the party.
Effectively, Nassir will fly the ODM flag for Mombasa gubernatorial race in the August 9 polls to face off with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Omar Hassan who was also unveiled as the Kenya Kwanza candidate.
The deal also includes Senator Mohamed Faki, who will now defend his seat.
They will battle to succeed incumbent Ali Hassan Joho.
Shahbal will be incorporated into the Raila Odinga Presidential campaign team where he will coordinate the party’s campaign across the country.
Speaking soon after the deal was arrived at, Shabhal said his decision was informed by his belief that unity in the party strengthens the ODM’s stranglehold in Mombasa and the Coast region at large.
He committed to campaign for the party ahead of the eagerly-awaited general elections.
Nassir welcomed Shabhal’s decision to back him, describing the businessman as a worthy competitor who had to forgo his political ambitions in the interest of the party.
“To fly our party ODMs flag in Mombasa is a great honor. I have been bestowed this responsibility and my reciprocating pledge is we shall fly the flag as a team,” he said
Raila hailed Shabhal for demonstrating ‘bravery and loyalty’ to the party at a time the outfit needed it most.
“I want to thank Hon. Shabhal for taking this bold decision”. Raila added.
Members present during the announcement of Shabhal’s decision included ODM Deputy Party Leader Hassan Joho and the party’s director of elections Junet Mohamed.