Mining CS Hassan Joho Announces Presidential Ambition

Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has reaffirmed his aspiration to run for Kenya’s presidency, despite currently enjoying a cordial working relationship with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration.

Joho made the statement on Saturday, June 21, during the funeral of John Thoya Karisa, son of the late Karisa Maitha. Speaking in Mombasa, Joho expressed his desire to be the first president from Kenya's coastal region.

He said the late Maitha had the best chance of being the first coastal native to become Head of State, and now he believes he is the most suitable candidate for that role.

> "There was a time I saw someone from the Coast who could become president," Joho told the mourners. "I still hold onto that dream. I believe the Coast will one day produce a president."

While speaking, Joho also appeared to allude to fellow coastal leader Salim Mvurya — CS for Youth Affairs, Sports, and Creative Economy — suggesting that Mvurya may also be considering a presidential bid. However, Joho asserted he is better positioned for the presidency, citing his preparation and strategy.

Although he confirmed his intent to run, Joho did not reveal when he plans to contest. With the 2027 general elections approaching in under three years, political speculation is likely to intensify.

This is not the first time Joho has expressed his presidential ambition. In 2024, before his appointment to the Mining docket, he publicly declared a shift away from local politics.

> “People wanted me to seek another seat in Mombasa, but I’ve moved on from local politics. I’m now focused on national leadership,” Joho said.

At the time, ODM party leader Raila Odinga also acknowledged the possibility of Joho running for president under the ODM banner, emphasizing that leadership positions in the party are open to competition.

> “No one should assume that I’m automatically the party leader or candidate. ODM is democratic — members choose their leaders,” Raila stated in February 2024.

As things stand ahead of the 2027 elections, President Ruto retains strong backing from Kenya Kwanza loyalists, including Joho. However, a new opposition coalition — led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka — poses a growing challenge.

Though the opposition has yet to announce a presidential candidate, Gachagua and his allies insist they will remain united in their mission to challenge the Kenya Kwanza regime.