Mining Cabinet Secretary and former Mombasa Governor Hassan Ali Joho has announced his intention to contest the presidency in 2032, while throwing his weight behind President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.
Speaking during the Likoni Constituency Economic Empowerment Forum on Saturday, Joho declared his long-term political ambition, expressing confidence that he will one day lead the country. “When I look into the future, I see that one day I want to be the President of Kenya,” he said, adding, “There is a day I am meant to be president.”
Joho urged Kenyans to support Ruto’s second term in office, framing it as a stepping stone toward unity and inclusive leadership. “Let Ruto return for a second term and join hands with Raila [Odinga] to bring fairness. When 2032 comes, the President of Kenya will be Hassan Ali Joho,” he stated.
His remarks signal a dramatic political realignment, as Joho — a key ODM figure — not only praised Ruto’s administration but also proposed a potential alliance between Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Highlighting his credentials, Joho cited his intervention in land disputes in Mtongwe as an example of his impact in government. “As a CS, I called the county commissioner and ensured that people will not be chased away from their shambas. Would I have been able to do that if I was not a minister?” he asked.
Joho applauded President Ruto’s development agenda, pointing to projects such as the Affordable Housing Programme, the Social Health Authority (SHA), and youth empowerment efforts. “There are two terms for Ruto,” he declared emphatically.
In a show of political theatrics, Joho led the crowd in singing “Ngoma Itambae” by Susumila featuring Chikuzee, modifying the lyrics to glorify Ruto: “Wakichoma wanachomeka kule, wacha Ruto atambae.”
He also criticised opposition leaders who have held senior government positions before, questioning their ability to offer new solutions. “If they didn’t deliver then, what new ideas can they possibly offer now?” he challenged.
Joho’s latest remarks are likely to stir debate within ODM and the broader Kenyan political landscape as the 2027 and 2032 elections approach.
