Optimism as Coast leaders sign yet another unity pact

Coast Counties Governors John Mruttu (right), Taita Taveta, Salim Mvurya (second right), Kwale, Amason Kingi (third right) Kilifi, Hassan Ali Joho (third left), Hussein Dado (second left), Tana River and Mombasa Women Representative Mishi Mboko (left) arrive at the Fort Jesus for the launch of the Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani,  June 14, 2015. The six governors signed an agreement of coperation for one unity. [PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU/STANDARD].

Leaders in the six counties of the Coast have signed yet another pact meant to bolster the region's economic prosperity and political unity.

The signing, done in Mombasa on Saturday night, was spearheaded by the area's six governors.

The fete was, however, snubbed by all the six senators and a majority of area MPs even as the governors assured the locals that the much-touted Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani (JKP) was not a political tool for individual politicians.

The leadership of JKP, launched in November 16, last year, frantically fought off a wave of resistance from opponents led by Kilifi North MP Gideon Mung'aro.

NOT INVITED

Some MPs said they were not invited to the launch and cast questions on the proponents' assertion that the consultation prior to the launch was inclusive.

"I have attended two JKP meetings since November 16 when the idea was first floated to us but I was not invited for the launch," said Lamu East MP Athman Sharif Ali who did not attend the launch.

The launch was marked at the historic Fort Jesus Museum with the signing of a co-operation agreement by the governors amid pomp and colour.

"We have hard challenges and even after today's signing, it will not be a walk in the park because we will be fought even more and we should sharpen our resolve," said Kilifi Governor Amason Kingi.

The governors have also been forced to deny claims that JKP is wing of secessionist Mombasa Republican Council with Mr Kingi saying JKP had no plan to secede and that "it was a case of giving a dog a bad name before killing it."

He said the initiative was facing stiff resistance from "selfish leaders in the region" and history will judge them as the people who stood against the region's quest to unite.

Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho said the unity will give the region a platform to fight for its space at the national politics and negotiate for the national cake.

"This is a historic moment. This is a group led by professionals and our aim is to make sure that it remains strong and becomes stronger even after our political life," said Mr Joho.

JKP Chairman Salim Mvurya claimed some individuals in the national government were against the formation of the economic bloc because they viewed it as a threat to their political dreams as residents were now speaking with one voice.