Former Deputy President and DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua (left) Jubilee Party Deputy Leader Fred Matiang’i and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka at a past function in Nairobi.

📋 Breaking It Down

The 2027 Mombasa gubernatorial race is shaping up as a test of whether the opposition’s push for a united front against President William Ruto can withstand competing ambitions for control of key county seats.

Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i has announced that the party will field candidates for all elective positions across the Coast in the 2027 General Election, even as opposition parties negotiate a possible joint presidential ticket.

The move puts Jubilee on a potential collision course in Mombasa with Wiper, where Nyali MP Mohamed Ali is eyeing the Mombasa governorship on the party’s ticket. Former Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo is also seeking to unseat Governor Abdulswamad Nassir of ODM on a Jubilee ticket.

📌 What You Need to Know

Meanwhile, Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua had earlier declared his support for Mr Ali, regardless of whether he contests the seat on a DCP or Wiper ticket.

The party's Coast strategy comes as rival opposition formations seek to build alliances ahead of the 2027 election, with Jubilee already engaging Kadu Asili and other Coast-based parties over possible cooperation.

Dr Matiang’i said the party already has aspirants for various positions in the region but would not disclose some of their names because they are still serving in government and could face political pressure if they were identified before resigning.

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i speaks during the handover of leadership of the Jubilee Party at the party headquarters in Nairobi on September 22, 2026.

“We have many candidates. In each area, we have three, so we will do nominations to pick the best candidate. I have met our aspirants. Some have declared, while others still working in government are waiting. If we announce them now, they will be hunted by the State,” he said.

The former Interior Cabinet Secretary was speaking in Mombasa during his Coast tour as he seeks to strengthen Jubilee's grassroots structures ahead of the 2027 election.

📰 Source: Nation Africa