By Caroline Katana
Supporters of Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani have publicly declared their support for her re-election bid, praising her leadership as inclusive, transparent and grounded in public participation.
Speaking during an exclusive media interview on the sidelines of a public participation forum on the County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CFSP) held at Tsimba social hall, residents said Achani’s administration has strengthened accountability and ensured grassroots involvement in development planning.
Mackenzie Mohamed Renny, a resident, noted that the political season is underway and every citizen has constitutional rights.
“We are in a political season and every Kenyan has political rights under Article 38 of the Constitution and freedom of expression under Article 33. That is why I am openly expressing my political views,” Renny said.
While acknowledging that other aspirants have declared interest in contesting the 2027 gubernatorial seat, he maintained that they are constitutionally entitled to do so.
Kwale resident, Mackenzie Mohamed Renny
“Others have come forward to vie for the seat. It is their right and we do not deny them. But we believe the one currently in office — and who will still be there after the 2027 General Election — is Fatuma Achani,” he stated.
Renny urged youth to avoid spreading unverified information on social media, warning that misinformation could mislead voters.
“Many young people are sharing information they have not verified. We must share accurate information so that others can analyze it critically,” he added.
He cited transparency and accountability as key reasons for supporting the governor, noting that development processes involve citizens from sub-county to village level.
“There is no project implemented without public involvement. Government information is accessible even at the grassroots. That is accountability,” he said.
Fatuma Chaunga, a political mobilizer in the county, described Achani’s leadership as a milestone for women in Kwale politics.
“Since independence, Kwale had only one female leader, Marere wa Mwachai, and she did not return after serving one term. It was not until devolution that we saw another woman rise to top leadership,” she said.
Under Kenya’s devolved system introduced by the 2010 Constitution, Achani first served as Deputy Governor before being elected Governor in 2022, succeeding her predecessor Salim Mvurya.
Chaunga noted that Achani faced cultural and religious stereotypes as a Muslim woman from the Digo community.
“There were perceptions that Islam does not allow women to lead. But leadership and religion are separate matters,” she said.
Political mobilizer, Fatuma Chaunga
She further credited the governor for empowering women economically through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), which she said have since evolved into structured business entities enabling women to access county tenders.
Chaunga also pointed to key development projects, including the completion of Kwale Stadium, as indicators of continued progress under Achani’s administration.
“We ask the people of Kwale to stand firm and support our governor. Let us practice peaceful politics. We believe in her leadership,” she concluded.
