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Former Mombasa governor Hassan Joho has disclosed his intention to step back from active political involvement simultaneously with Raila Odinga, leader of the ODM party.
Addressing a gathering in Nyanza recently, Joho emphasized that it seemed fitting for him to exit politics at the same time as Raila, especially as Raila shifts focus towards vying for the role of African Union chairperson.
Joho underscored that his entry into politics was at the encouragement of the former Prime Minister, expressing his desire to conclude his political journey alongside him.
The ex-governor asserted that his decision to retire alongside Raila was unshakable unless persuaded otherwise by the Azimio leader.
“I am one of the founding members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), and let me make it clear: unless Raila decides otherwise, my political journey began with him and will end with him,” Joho affirmed.
As the deputy Party leader of ODM, Joho attributed his solidarity with Raila to their shared political vision.
He also highlighted the influence of Raila’s previous work as Roads Minister, which, according to Joho, laid the groundwork for infrastructure development later undertaken by President Uhuru Kenyatta, including projects initiated by President William Ruto’s administration.
Despite expressing readiness to step down alongside Raila, Joho remained optimistic about ODM’s potential to lead a future government in 2027. However, he refrained from commenting on whether his retirement from politics would quell his presidential aspirations.
Joho’s statements come amid speculation within ODM about potential successors to Raila’s leadership. Joho began his national political career as the Kisauni Member of Parliament in 2007 before serving as governor in the 2013 and 2017 elections.
