Former Kisauni MP Ali Menza Mbogo has signaled that he could dump the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and join Jubilee Party ahead of the 2027 General Election, saying his decision will depend on the party’s commitment to conducting free, fair and transparent nominations.

Mbogo, who chairs the Lapset Development Authority and has declared his interest in the Mombasa governor’s seat, said he has already engaged Jubilee’s top leadership but is wary of repeating what he termed the political betrayal that denied him an opportunity to contest the Mombasa governorship in the 2022 elections.

Speaking during a meeting with Jubilee officials and aspirants at the party’s Coast regional headquarters in Kizingo, Mombasa, on Sunday July 26, 2026, Mbogo said he was impressed by the reception he received and would only make a final decision after receiving firm assurances from the party leadership.

“I am happy to be here because I have met many people, some of whom I have worked with before. I have also had an opportunity to engage the party leadership, and I am ready to work with anyone who is committed to changing Mombasa,” he said.

The former UDA ally has in recent months distanced himself from the ruling party amid speculation that UDA could support incumbent Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir under the broad-based political cooperation between President William Ruto and ODM party leader Oburu Odinga.

Talks with Fred Matiang’i

Mbogo disclosed that he had held discussions with Jubilee deputy party leader Fred Matiang’i, where he presented conditions that would determine whether he formally joins the former ruling party.

He insisted that his gubernatorial ambition remains non-negotiable regardless of the political party he eventually contests under.

“Our mission is to send the current governor home. Even if I stand alone, I will fight until that happens,” he said, while criticizing the county administration over what he described as poor service delivery.

Should he join Jubilee, Mbogo is expected to seek the party’s gubernatorial ticket within the opposition coalition, setting up a potentially competitive nomination race.

Among those who have already declared interest in the seat is Nyali MP Mohammed Ali, who has announced he will contest on a Wiper Democratic Movement ticket.

Jubilee’s Mombasa County chairman Richard Barake said the party is rebuilding its grassroots structures across all six constituencies as part of preparations for the 2027 elections.

Barake pledged transparent party nominations, saying Jubilee intends to provide a level playing field for all aspirants while strengthening its presence in the county.

“Our focus is to rebuild Jubilee and ensure everyone is accommodated. We want transparent nominations because politics is about the people’s interests,” he said.

He expressed confidence that attracting influential leaders such as Mbogo would bolster Jubilee’s chances in Mombasa, adding that the party is targeting victories in positions ranging from the presidency to county assembly seats in the next General Election.