Mohammed Ali: Leadership in Mombasa is earned not given
In a statement on August 17, 2025, the MP insisted that the county’s future must be anchored on diversity and service rather than lineage or birth.“The truth hurts, especially when you have been busy dividing instead of delivering,” Ali said, aiming at leaders who, he claimed, thrive on exclusion and identity politics.
“Every resident in Mombasa knows the beauty of our diversity in religion, race, and ethnicity. It is the core of our shared values and principles – and that is why leaders must refrain from sidelining those who appreciate and represent this diversity,” he added.
He emphasised that Mombasa’s strength lies in its blend of religion, race, and ethnicity, values that should unite rather than divide.
“You Don’t Have to Be Born Here to Lead Here. Those you call “ wabara” can equally serve Mombasa, and if you can serve Mombasa, you can lead Mombasa, because leadership knows no borders, and Mombasa is open to all,” he stated.
Ali warned against political gatekeeping and dynastic entitlement, insisting that the people of Mombasa deserve leaders chosen on merit, integrity, and vision.
“Most importantly, leadership is earned, not inherited. This Time Round, There Will Be No Gatekeeping.”
Mombasa
This comes a few weeks after he reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the people of Mombasa, stating that no political party or individual can dictate his path as the country heads toward the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Saturday, August 2, 2025, Ali emphasised that his political journey has always been shaped by the will of the people, not party affiliations.
“Nobody can control me. My name is Mohammed Ali. I came to Nyali without a party. I came independent, and people chose me for who I am,” he stated.
Ali reminded the public of his political evolution, noting that in the 2022 elections, he returned under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket and secured victory with an increased margin of 10,000 more votes.
However, he made it clear that his allegiance remains firmly with the people of Mombasa.
“I came back with a party, UDA, and they chose me with an extra 10,000 votes. And if I want to go forward, I will decide on which way and which path I will not walk—my path. I will go with the will of the people of Mombasa; what they want is what my heart wants,” he stated.