Joho: Being in opposition is not a death sentence

Speaking in Mombasa after Governor Abdulswamad Nassir was sworn into office, Joho said that he received a clip by an MP allied to UDA, entailing comments he made at a past campaign rally. He said that the MP ridiculed him for what he said in the video.

In his rejoinder, Joho noted that being in the opposition poses no harm, adding that he cannot be threatened by junior players in politics.

"There is a UDA member who sent me a video of what I was saying during the campaign telling to now say something. I want to tell you that being in the opposition is not a death sentence my friend. And I told him to look for a foolish man to threaten but not me. And I told him that he is my junior and he cannot say anything to me. There are people who can be threatened and people who cannot.

Joho further noted that they are strong in the opposition and will be firm to put the government in check whenever they fail to deliver the promises they gave to Kenyans.

"We are strong, when the government comes in, it has responsibilities. We must look at it and criticize it where they are wrong. And today I am happy because the port is back but we want to see it working," said Joho. 

"Yesterday I asked the people of the port if they have started the order they were given by the president the other day and they said they are not aware of formal communication. We are watching them carefully."

Joho further lauded his successor Abdulswamad for his win, exuding confidence that he will bring the needed reforms to Mombasa.

He added that he will not meddle into affairs of the incumbent government and that his successor will work independently without coercion.

"I pass over the button to tm my brother Abdulswamaad. I am confident that you will continue what we have done and bring even better than what we have done. I pray to God to give you wisdom, wisdom, ability and courage to manage people in terms of wealth," noted Joho.

"I am happy to give this leadership to my brother and my friend. I have faith in him and I will not interfere in his government in any way. The government is now his and he should work alone and from today I have become the former governor of Mombasa. Let me rest now."