Call for political unity in Coast region as leaders reflect on Karisa Maitha’s legacy

Political leaders from the Coast have been urged to adopt a united political approach to address the long-standing developmental neglect of the region.

The call came during the burial of John Thoya Karisa, a lecturer at the Technical University of Mombasa and son of the late former Cabinet Minister Karisa Maitha.

The ceremony, held in Kilifi, drew prominent regional leaders who reflected on Maitha’s legacy and the political future of the Coast.

Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho described the late Karisa Maitha as a visionary who could have become Kenya’s president.

“If there was anyone I believed could become president, it was Karisa Maitha. One day, the Coast region will produce a president of this country. We must not allow ourselves to be drawn into fighting other people’s battles,” said Joho.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya noted that the Coast had historically lacked political coherence but said recent efforts to promote inclusivity could pave the way for cooperation.

“The Coast region has often struggled politically, finding itself scattered. However, because of the President’s broad-based approach and commitment to national unity, a platform has been created that enables us to work together across political parties,” he said.

Ganze MP Kenneth Tungule lamented the disintegration of regional unity since Maitha’s death.

“Karisa Maitha brought the coastal people together. Twenty years on, we have not achieved that unity again. Political processes are happening in various places, but as Coast people, we are seated quietly, uncertain about our political direction in the coming years,” he said.

Several leaders paid tribute to the late Thoya, remembering him as a humble and cheerful man.

Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro described him as “a kind and caring person who loved others”.

Kilifi Senator Stewart Madzayo said, “We knew John as an engineer. We hope those he has left behind will excel and go on to achieve great things.”

Thoya’s father, Karisa Maitha, was a towering figure in Coast politics, having risen from a clinical officer to hold multiple Cabinet positions in the late former President Mwai Kibaki’s government.

He began his political journey in 1979 as a councillor for Mwakirunge Ward and became the Member of Parliament for Kisauni in 1992.

Maitha later served as Minister for Tourism and Wildlife before his death while on official duty in Germany after suffering a massive heart attack.

Other Topics To Read

• Coast
• Salim Mvurya
• Coast politics
• karisa maitha
• Ali Hassan Joho
• Thoya Karisa
• Call for political unity in Coast region as leaders reflect on Karisa Maitha’s legacy
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