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LAPSSET chair calls for 'purposeful' Coast coalition amid unity talks

LAPSSET Chairman Ali Mbogo. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

By Farhiya Hussein | 23 Apr 2024

This comes days after UDA and ODM leaders in the coastal region called for unity despite their different political affiliations.

The Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor project Chairman Ali Mbogo has voiced concerns about the motives behind calls for unity among political leaders in the coastal region.

The former Kisauni MP noted it is common for politicians to prioritise their interests over those of the people they represent, noting it is reasonable to question the sincerity of such calls.

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This comes days after UDA and ODM leaders in the coastal region called for unity despite their different political affiliations.

Amid the ongoing political discussions, Ali urged for a coalition with a clear and noble purpose.

"We have seen leaders lately talking and engaging in conversations here and there, with leaders suggesting they desire unity. But the reality is, everyone truly wants unity,” Ali said.

Ali questioned the real essence of unity and its intended outcomes.

"The question is simple, why unite? Are we uniting for political expediency or to genuinely uplift the ordinary citizen who craves more support?" he posed.

"If we are talking about uniting based on what is politically advantageous or convenient at the moment then that is a good reason. Let us unite to help the locals, who need bursaries, access to clean water, financial empowerment for small-scale entrepreneurs, and resolving land disputes that plague our communities."

Grassroots needs

Ali said a coalition should transcend mere political manoeuvring and addressing grassroots needs.

"If it is about uniting to vie for political positions, count me out," he said, insisting that the coalition should have a clear mandate for societal betterment.

As the political landscape braces for the upcoming UDA elections, Ali issued a plea to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Hassan Omar against premature endorsements and advocated for a fair and transparent electoral process.

"Let the battle be fought on the merit of ideas and capabilities, do not endorse anybody," he noted.

Two weeks ago, leaders representing both the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) at the Coast stressed the significance of giving priority to the region's issues, regardless of their political affiliations.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi encouraged the leaders to reconsider the necessity of forming a political party as a means to promote unity among coastal residents.