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Shortly after being nominated by the Orange Democratic Movement for deputy party leader, alongside others, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has declared himself “ready to serve”.

The new role, previously held by Hassan Ali Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, who have joined President William Ruto’s Cabinet, marks a significant milestone in Nassir’s political journey.

Stepping into the shoes of his predecessor Joho, Nassir views his new position as a substantial political achievement – a strong rebuttal to critics and rivals who doubted his leadership capabilities.  Yet, this elevation has not come without challenges. Before the announcement, Nassir (pictured)had to weather a storm of political attacks from within Mombasa’s leadership.

Persistent critic

Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi led the charge, fiercely criticising the governor’s administration. Mwinyi, a persistent critic, has often questioned Nassir’s ability to govern effectively.

Long before the 2022 elections, Mwinyi dismissed Nassir as a “project who cannot stand on his own”, casting doubt on his suitability for the Mombasa governorship. His skepticism extended to Nassir’s bid for ODM deputy party leader, declaring openly that Nassir was not fit to unite the people.

“My Mombasa governor wants that seat. As Omar Mwinyi, I do not hate him, but he cannot be. Why? Because in Mombasa, three-quarters of the leaders have a problem with him,” Mwinyi said.

But Nassir fired back in his trademark style, downplaying the attacks as desperate attempts to gain political attention. He believes his growing popularity has made him a target for those seeking to advance their own agenda. “Many feel they cannot sell their own policies and names without mentioning Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir. Every day, it’s Abdulswamad Nassir,” he asserted when launched road projects in Ziwa la Ng’ombe ward, Nyali constituency.

Fierce resistance

Nassir’s political journey has been marked by fierce resistance, notably from rivals like former Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo and businessman Suleiman Shahbal (now an East African Legislative Assembly MP), who questioned his academic credentials.

Yet, Nassir’s response has remained consistent – he refuses to engage in petty squabbles, preferring instead to let his work speak for itself.

Nassir’s recent campaign against muguka, a popular stimulant, partly raised his political profile, as the campaign grabbed the nation’s attention. His firm stance on the issue resonated with many, further solidifying his position in the public eye.

Insiders hint that Nassir, now poised to assume the ODM deputy party leader position, plans to introduce sweeping reforms in the party, focusing on transparency and unity among its Coast leaders.

“You will see major changes, especially in how things are done in the region. The office will be active. Party meetings will no longer be held at the county assembly as some have been doing,” one of his close aides revealed shortly after the announcement.