Cabinet Secretary for Maritime and Blue Economy, Ali Hassan Joho, has defended his relationship with President William Ruto, stating that engaging with the presidency is essential for addressing the long-standing challenges in the coastal region.

Speaking during the Eid al-Adha on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the Ummu Kulthum Mosque in Kizingo, Mombasa County, Joho told off critics questioning his political alignment and participation in national development forums, urging coastal residents to embrace inclusive governance for the region’s progress.

“Race. Why does it have to be questioned? Why?” Joho asked, responding to accusations and doubts from a section of leaders and residents over his recent engagements with the Head of State.

“What is wrong for us and the leadership of the Coast to sit with the President?” he posed.

Joho stressed that the presidency remains the cornerstone of national development and should not be viewed through a narrow political lens. He insisted that collaborating with President Ruto and his administration is a strategic move to ensure coastal issues are not sidelined.

“The presidency is the centre of development. People go to engage so that they can develop the areas,” he said.

Call for political amity

The former Mombasa governor, who has long been associated with the opposition, stated that his loyalty remains with the people of the Coast and not political camps.

He said his current focus is economic transformation, especially in blue economy sectors such as fisheries, ports, and coastal tourism, which have a direct impact on livelihoods.

In his remarks, Joho criticised what he termed as double standards in evaluating the conduct of Coast leaders, arguing that engagement with State House should not be reduced to partisan politics or tribalism.

“You cannot talk about the coastal region when you only have your interests” he said,  

The Cabinet Secretary called for unity among elected officials and urged them to put aside political rivalries and focus on development. According to Joho, the time for rhetoric had passed and leaders should now deliver tangible results for their constituents.

Joho also reaffirmed his commitment to using his ministry to champion marine-related development projects in Lamu, Kilifi, Kwale, and Tana River counties. He cited the recent launch of youth training programmes in marine skills and plans to expand fishing infrastructure along the coastline.

“We cannot wait for political seasons to make noise. Development must be continuous, and we must have the courage to work with anyone willing to support our region,” he noted.

He urged that the government has prioritised land reforms, jobs for the youth, and increased funding for infrastructure projects in the area.

The Eid al-Adha celebrations were attended by hundreds of Muslim faithful, religious leaders, and local politicians.  

Joho stood firm on his position, reiterating that the Coast will not prosper without constructive dialogue and collaboration with the national leadership.

“We must face forward. If we sit, we sit to negotiate for development. That is the leadership we must offer,” he asserted.