Suleiman Shabhal steps down of Mombasa gubernatorial race in favour of Abdulswamad Nassir
Businessman Suleiman Shabhal has stepped down from the Mombasa County gubernatorial race in favour of Mvita MP Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir.
In a statement shared on its social media platforms, the ODM party stated that Shabhal dropped his bid due to the need to have a united front ahead of the forthcoming elections.
"He says his decision was informed by the fact that he believes in a United ODM in Mombasa. He says he will campaign for the party ahead of the 9/8 elections," the ODM party posted.
The party further stated that its party leader Raila Odinga expressed gratitude to the business mogul following his bold move. The Orange party has been holding protracted meetings geared at consensus building in the hotly contested race.
"Party Leader Raila Odinga thanked businessmen Suleiman Shabhal for his decision to step down & support Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir saying it was an act of bravery & loyalty to the party. “I want to thank Hon. Shabhal for taking this bold decision”. Deputy Party Leader Hassan Ali Joho & Hon. Junet Mohamed were present," the party added.
Abdulswamad will now face off with former Mombasa Senator Omar Hassan who was handed UDA's direct ticket.
