Mvita Member of Parliament, Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, is the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Mombasa gubernatorial flagbearer.
Abdulswamad was given a direct nomination after his competitor, Suleiman Shabhal, stepped down in his favour following negotiations that were led by the ODM party leader, Raila Odinga.
The party stated that this was part of the ongoing consensus building in some areas.
"Party leader Raila Odinga thanked businessmen Suleiman Shabhal for his decision to step down and support Abdullswamad Nassir saying it was an act of bravery and loyalty to the party," a statement by ODM Party read in part.
Speaking to the press, Suleiman Shabhal stated that he will work closely with Abdulswamad to bring positive change to Mombasa County.
He noted that it is not a must for him to be at the helm of the county, rather stating he would support the good of the people of Mombasa and the party.
"I have been aspiring to be governor of Mombasa for the last 10 years. But the objective to be governor was not for Suleiman Shabhal. The objective was to bring change and development to the people of Mombasa.
"I believe that all those people who worked with me were hoping that we will make positive change in Mombasa. Today we have decided to work with Abdulswamad and we will work with him. I am 100 per cent for the future changes that we need to bring to Mombasa," he added.
Governor Hassan Ali Joho stated that both candidates mean well for the county and that is why they had put up a spirited fight. He acknowledged Shabhal for stepping aside and supporting Abdulswamad.
"Suleiman Shahbal is a worthy gubernatorial candidate but he made the decision to support Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir. We want to thank him. We will now merge our teams to form a great ODM team that will ensure the party carries all seats in Mombasa County." he stated.
Raila also announced that Mombasa Senator, Mohamed Faki, will defend his seat in the August elections on the ODM ticket.
