Abdulswamad’s Week-Long Campaign Delivers Landslide for ODM in Magarini By-Election

Mombasa Governor’s week-long campaign delivers landslide win for Harrison Kombe, showcasing growing political influence beyond Coast

KILIFI – Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shareef Nassir has reinforced his credentials as a formidable political force within the Orange Democratic Movement, leading a successful campaign that delivered a decisive victory for ODM candidate Harrison Kombe in the Magarini parliamentary by-election.

The win, achieved after Governor Abdulswamad dedicated an entire week to campaigning across the constituency, has elevated his status from ceremonial deputy party leader to a genuine power broker whose influence extends far beyond Mombasa County into the broader Coast region and national political landscape.

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Week-Long Campaign Pays Off

Governor Abdulswamad threw his full weight behind Kombe’s candidacy, crisscrossing Magarini Constituency throughout the campaign’s final week. His intensive ground mobilization, coupled with strategic messaging and resource deployment, proved instrumental in securing what observers are describing as a landslide victory for the ODM candidate.

The result demonstrates the governor’s capacity to translate his Mombasa political base into regional influence, a critical asset for any leader aspiring to play a kingmaker role in future electoral contests.

Victory Celebration and Message to Supporters

Following the declaration of results, Governor Abdulswamad joined Kilifi Governor Gideon Mungaro, who serves as the county’s ODM chairman, along with other party leaders in celebrating what he termed an “emphatic victory” for Kombe.

In a statement posted on social media, the Mombasa governor congratulated the people of Magarini for their decisive choice, praising their determination to defend their democratic rights.

“To the people of Magarini, hongera na asanteni sana. You have spoken loudly and clearly. You stood firm, defended your democratic will, and delivered a resounding victory for our movement,” Abdulswamad wrote.

He framed the outcome as transcending ordinary party politics, positioning it as a broader vindication of principles over personalities.

“This win is not just for ODM; it is a win for every mwananchi who believes in justice, development, and a leadership that truly listens. Magarini has reaffirmed its place at the heart of our party’s history and future,” the governor stated.

Strategic Implications for Coast Politics

The Magarini result carries significant implications for the political configuration of Coast region, where ODM has historically enjoyed strong support but faced increasing competition from rival formations in recent elections.

Governor Abdulswamad’s successful mobilization demonstrates his ability to energize the party’s grassroots machinery and deliver results in competitive contests. This capability positions him as an indispensable figure in ODM’s regional strategy and enhances his leverage within the party’s national decision-making structures.

Political analysts note that the deputy party leader role, often seen as largely ceremonial, has been transformed by Abdulswamad into a platform for demonstrating tangible political muscle. His hands-on approach to campaigning contrasts with the more distant posture adopted by some national leaders.

Message to the Victor

In his congratulatory message to Harrison Kombe, Governor Abdulswamad signaled that ODM’s engagement with Magarini would continue beyond the election victory.

“Congratulations Hon. Harrison Kombe. The work begins now, and we stand with you every step of the way. ODM remains the home of the people, powered by the people,” he wrote, committing party support for the incoming MP’s legislative agenda.

Rising Star in National Politics

The Magarini campaign success adds to Governor Abdulswamad’s growing reputation as one of ODM’s most effective political operators. His combination of grassroots appeal, organizational capacity, and willingness to invest time and resources in party campaigns has not gone unnoticed by the party leadership.

As ODM recalibrates its strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections, governors who can deliver electoral victories in their regions become increasingly valuable assets. Abdulswamad’s performance in Magarini suggests he has evolved from a promising young leader into a political heavyweight whose influence commands respect across Kenya’s political landscape.

What’s Next for the Governor

Having demonstrated his capacity to swing results beyond his home county, Governor Abdulswamad is likely to play an expanded role in ODM’s campaign efforts in other parts of the country. His success in Magarini provides a template for the kind of intensive, leader-led mobilization that delivers results in competitive by-elections.

For Mombasa’s governor, the Magarini victory represents more than just another win for his party. It confirms his emergence as a political force to be reckoned with, not merely a deputy leader in title, but a genuine influencer whose endorsement and campaign presence can determine electoral outcomes.

As Kenya’s political landscape continues to shift ahead of 2027, leaders who can consistently deliver victories for their parties gain outsized influence in shaping strategy and candidate selection. Governor Abdulswamad has just added another significant entry to his political resume.

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