The Mijikenda people face serious challenges at the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) in Mombasa, rooted in the actions of Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho.
Initially celebrated as a champion for coastal communities, Joho’s recent maneuvers suggest a different agenda.
The suspension of Director General Martin Munga and looming threats to KMA chairman Khamis Mwaguya highlight a troubling power struggle.
As conflicts escalate, many suspect Joho is orchestrating a takeover to marginalize Mijikenda interests, raising questions about loyalty and representation in the government’s handling of maritime affairs.
CS Joho Blamed for Mijikenda Struggles Within Kenya Maritime Authority
The Mijikenda people face serious issues at the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) in Mombasa. These problems originate from the office of Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Joho.
This revelation contradicts the belief held by many Kenyans, especially those from the Coast region, that President William Ruto appointed Joho to support their interests.
Initial Hopes Turned Sour
When Ruto appointed Joho, the coastal communities celebrated, thinking they had a representative in government.
They expected Joho to advocate for their development. However, recent events at KMA show a different picture.
The management struggles have led to the suspension of Director General Martin Munga, placed on leave under unclear circumstances. Many view this as part of Joho’s plan to marginalize Mijikenda within the agency.
Internal Conflict at KMA
Reports suggest Joho is instigating conflicts at KMA to control board members and senior managers from the Mijikenda community.
After Munga’s suspension, KMA chairman Khamis Mwaguya, a Digo, is now facing possible dismissal, following claims of corruption. Joho has allegedly replaced Munga with a close associate.
Confidential documents have emerged, revealing accusations against Mwaguya and Munga, further fueling the crisis. This leak seems intended to intimidate them into resigning, paving the way for Joho’s cronies—most of whom are not Mijikenda.
Despite Joho’s claims of being Mijikenda, he is often recognized more as Arab and Swahili, reflecting his preference for those identities.
Joho’s strategy appears to involve replacing the current KMA board with his supporters, allowing him to exert full control over the agency.
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