By Lauryne Akoth
Former Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho believes he is the best opposition leader in the Orange Democratic Party (ODM) to succeed Raila Odinga.
Speaking on Monday in Bombolulu Mombasa, Joho reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to ODM as well as the opposition leader Raila Odinga. ” I have been in politics since 2004 and throughout my leader has just been one, Raila Omollo Odinga. I have not sourced any other party, I know the values of one Omollo Odinga.”Said joho.
Criticizing individuals who dubbed him as new in politics, Joho stressed that he was one of the founders of ODM and asserted that no other leader has been politically scrutinized for their allegiance to Raila Odinga as much as he has.
“No one in this nation has gone through political tests especially because of standing firmly with Raila Odinga and especially because of standing with ODM like I have. I challenge anyone, let them come here and tell us who has been shot at, whose businesses have been closed, and who was pressed so much because of matters of education, then you can tell me where Hassan Joho has been.”
Joho underscored that no other leader had dedicated themselves to supporting Raila Odinga’s cause over the years to the extent he has. He dismissed suggestions that his allegiance to Raila was only a recent development.
“If there’s anyone who has sacrificed his life over the years because of Raila Odinga, not for the last six months, and you are doing so because of possible succession conversations? Tuheshimiane.” Emphasized Joho.
Joho reiterated his commitment to the ODM party stating that he believes ODM should form the next government. He also stated, “If I am to run for president and I have already expressed my interest, I will run under an ODM ticket.”
Joho also dismissed allegations that most opposition leaders from western Kenya endorse Wycliffe Oparanya as Raila’s successor, stating that the majority of them support him.
Addressing the press, Joho stated, “I have leaders from the western region that we are engaging and let me tell you, it is not about me. We have to form a team of equals, like-minded leaders who believe in a cause, and who understand where we want to go as a party and as a people to liberate our people.”