Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho and Nyali MP Hezron Awiti on Sunday shared a cake, as they called for unity in fighting tribalism and insecurity.
The two are tussling for the governor’s office next year. Last December, Awiti walked out of the Mashujaa Day celebrations at the Mombasa County Stadium after public criticism by Joho’s allies.
There were fears the two would feud in public during Sunday’s Labour Day celebrations at Tononoka Grounds. However, they instead pledged to work together to ensure the county’s security is improved and all residents feel part of it.
The two fed each other the celebratory cake in a symbolic gesture that encouraged other leaders. They urged parents to take care of their children, saying some 13-year-olds join youth gangs.
Joho said leaders should stop the blame game in addressing matters affecting the county, including insecurity, corruption and nepotism. “Those who are financing Wakali Kwanza and such groups should be arrested, even if they are MPs,” Awiti said.
He urged the county and national governments to adopt the state methods to deal with the outlawed Mungiki sect members who terrorised residents in Nairobi and Central region.
However, Joho said the youth gangs in Mombasa have not reached the levels of Mungiki.“These are young boys. They can be dealt with easily but only if parents stop shielding them.”
Raila tries to
end infighting
Governor Hassan Joho and Nyali MP Hezron Awiti have been at loggerheads since the legislator announced his bid for governor last year. Last July, Cord leader Raila Odinga implored Awiti to dial down his onslaught on the Mombasa government and Joho. Sources said Raila felt the rivalry could threaten his fourth stab at the presidency next year.
