By Mercy Ndunda

Nyali Member of Parliament, Mohammed Ali has echoed his sentiments over the decision to nominate Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir, over businessman Suleiman Shahbal, as the preferred candidate for ODM Mombasa County gubernatorial candidacy.

The decision was made last week by the ODM leader Raila Odinga in consultation with high ranking party officials among them outgoing Mombasa governor Hassan Joho.

Shabhal’s decision to step down from the Mombasa gubernatorial race has elicited different reactions. His supporters earlier this week expressed their disappointment with the decision during a meeting he held with them in Mombasa.

The Nyali Legislator termed the move as one that will lead to the fall of Mombasa in terms of development. He further said that Mombasa cannot be ruled and be planned for by non-residents.

“We cannot hand over Mombasa governorship to people who are making decisions from Nairobi boardrooms” said Ali.

He urged Nyali residents and Mombasa residents at large, to focus on electing intelligent leaders who aim to bring development in their areas.

The MP who is vying for a second term, encouraged residents to elect for change.

“It’s time the people of Mombasa focus on electing leaders who are educated. Let people focus on leaders aiming to make Mombasa a better place,” he said.

The MP was speaking as he awarded bursaries worth Sh.44 million, to Nyali students and pupils at the Nyali CDF grounds. He made clear his intentions to continue serving the residents of Nyali, should they give him an opportunity in the upcoming elections.

The event was graced by different aspirants for Mombasa County electoral positions, many of whom echoed the MP’s sentiments.