Sonko's NEDP gains defectors from UDA, ODM, Wiper in Mombasa

The defections include Changamwe parliamentary aspirant Abdi Dahib, formerly of UDA, who was unveiled as the party's candidate for the constituency, alongside several MCA aspirants, former party officials and grassroots mobilisers.

Among those who joined NEDP are MCA aspirants Asha Abdala and Shamza Mohamed (Port Reitz Ward), Sophia Bonaya (Kipevu Ward), Fatma Zadin and Michael Nato (Airport and Chaani wards respectively), all formerly of UDA. Gina Bernard (Airport Ward) defected from Wiper, while Gordon Opiyo (Airport Ward) crossed over from ODM.

The party also announced the defection of several former grassroots officials, including ex-UDA Changamwe Sub-County Chairlady Jane Mwadembo, former UDA Airport Ward Youth Leader William Njoroge, former Wiper Airport Ward Secretary Enos Mulama, former UDA Changamwe Sub-County Youth Leader Saida Abdala, former Jubilee Changamwe Organising Secretary Faira Kikuyu, former Wiper Mama County Coordinator Vicky Mwendwa and former Wiper Deputy Women Leader Aisha Kasin.

Addressing the new members, Sonko described the defections as a sign of growing confidence in the party's agenda.

"Our vision is to build a united, prosperous and inclusive Kenya by creating opportunities for the youth, fighting unemployment, restoring hope and transforming communities," Sonko said.

He welcomed the new members, saying their decision to join NEDP was a vote of confidence in the party's agenda and pledged to continue expanding its presence across the country.

The latest defections come as political parties intensify grassroots mobilisation and recruitment of aspirants ahead of the 2027 General Election, with Mombasa expected to be among the key political battlegrounds.