Why Nyali MP seat often attracts many greenhorns

Nyali MP Mohammed Ali / BRIAN OTIENO

Nelson Alfayo / BRIAN OTIENO

Said “Saido” Abdalla at Tamarind Hotel / BRIAN OTIENO

Nyali constituency has historically attracted a high number of candidates seeking the MP seat, and the 2027 race is already shaping up to be competitive, with about 19 months to the general election.

The seat traditionally draws both experienced politicians and newcomers entering politics for the first time.

This year, approximately six political newcomers have reportedly expressed interest in contesting the seat.

Among them are former Star journalist Jacob Elkana, former Malindi NG-CDF staff Nelson Alfayo, and businessmen Abdikadir Dekow and James Okeyo.

Abdulswamad Ali, who has previously worked with politicians Suleiman Shahbal and UDA secretary-general Hassan Omar, is also reportedly seeking the seat but has not previously vied for public office.

Stanley Gitonga, a businessman, has contested before and finished third in the 2022 elections with 1,135 votes, behind Said “Saido” Abdalla (18,642) and the winner Mohammed “Jicho Pevu” Ali (32,933).

Saido Abdalla is reportedly planning to contest again, aiming for his fourth attempt. Kadzandani MCA Fatma Kushe has also reportedly expressed interest.

Nyali had 124,253 registered voters in the 2022 general elections.

Political observers Daniel Delvis, also known as Osama, and Mwakuja Mrombo told The Star that Nyali continues to attract many candidates due to its unique demographic and perceived political opportunities.

Osama suggested the constituency may see the highest number of hopefuls in 2027 if incumbent Mohammed Ali pursues the governorship.

He also noted that Nyali’s status as a business hub makes it attractive for candidates seeking both political and economic influence.

“Nyali is home to many prominent individuals in Mombasa, making it a strategic constituency to control. Protecting its resources can help candidates build powerful networks,” he said.

Osama added that some candidates may view the seat as an opportunity to increase visibility and attract business partnerships.

Despite these dynamics, Osama believes experienced politicians are likely to dominate the race.

“According to Osama, it could be a two-way contest between Alfayo and Saido. With Ali reportedly not contesting, the seat may be more navigable for him,” he said.

Mrombo echoed this view, noting that if Ali seeks the governorship, Saido’s chances of winning could improve.

Mrombo highlighted Nyali’s unique demographic composition, including a significant upcountry population and a divided Luo vote, which tends to follow personalities rather than parties.

He also observed that financial resources play a role, as voters often consider candidates’ financial capacity a measure of their ability to manage resources effectively.

Mrombo said that the politics of Nyali are influenced by Kongowea Market, which has over 50,000 registered voters and impacts the daily choices of approximately 100,000 visitors.

The market includes various community vote blocs, such as Luo, Mijikenda, Akamba, and Gema foundations, which candidates often engage to mobilize support.

“All serious candidates engage with stakeholders at Kongowea Market to gain support and identify campaign leaders,” Mrombo said.

Bethwell Washington and Yasir Noor are also reportedly considering running for the seat, according to political observers.