Nyali Member of Parliament Mohammed Ali, also known as Moha Jicho Pevu, has once again fuelled speculation about his political future after being spotted in the company of key opposition leaders.

On Saturday, October 4, 2025, Ali shared a photo of himself with former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, principals in the united opposition.

The legislator posted the image on his X account with a cryptic message:

“Some things are better left unannounced, because they are meant to be discovered. Happy to be sipping tea in the company of great, wise men.”

Months of mixed signals

Only two months after Ali addressed rumours of his exit from UDA. Speaking to journalists in August, he stopped short of declaring his allegiance, instead insisting:

“I’m on the people’s side.”

He further suggested that his success as a politician did not depend on a political party, citing his first victory in 2017 when he was elected as an independent candidate.

When asked if he would join another political outfit, he sidestepped the question, keeping his stance unclear.

“When the Hour comes, it won’t be my voice alone; it will be the people’s roar they ignored for years. The ground beneath me is solid. I will always stand with the truth and by my people,” he told journalists.

Ali, who is serving his second term as Nyali MP, was once a vocal supporter of President William Ruto and was regularly seen at government functions. However, he has lately kept a distance from the administration’s activities, openly criticising the government’s handling of protests and police brutality.

His disagreements with UDA’s Secretary General Hassan Omar, who is also seen as a front-runner for the Mombasa governorship, have only deepened speculation about his next move.

Political watchers believe Ali is positioning himself for the 2027 Mombasa gubernatorial race, though it remains unclear whether he will run under UDA, the united opposition, or as an independent.

Opposition eyes Mombasa

Earlier in June, Gachagua and Kalonzo had announced that their coalition would front a new candidate for the Mombasa governorship in 2027. They accused ODM leader Raila Odinga of exploiting coastal voters for years without delivering meaningful change.

“Mombasa people, we’ll find a governor from our side to support,” Gachagua told residents speaking at a rally in Mombasa.

He further criticised Raila for using coastal votes during elections, only to abandon the region afterwards.

The remarks were reinforced by Kalonzo, who said the opposition would not only counter President William Ruto’s influence but also end ODM’s stronghold in the region. With over 600,000 registered voters, Mombasa remains a critical battleground in national politics.

Ali also explained earlier this year that a knee injury had kept him away from the political scene for several months. He underwent three surgeries and admitted that his silence created an impression that he had withdrawn from politics. He assured his supporters that his loyalty remained with “the truth and the people.”