Sports CS Salim Mvurya has urged Coast residents to capitalise on increased government inclusion and development opportunities, citing over 106 appointments and visible projects across the region.
He called for unity amid rising political tensions, warning against divisive leaders and stressing that the Coast must strategically position itself to demand greater development ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking on Monday during the funeral of Mama Dorothy Baya Mweri, mother of Kilifi North MP Owen Baya, Mvurya emphasised the need for unity and strategic engagement with government programmes to maximise benefits for the region.
He said the Coast is now central to national development plans, noting that no part of the region has been left behind under President William Ruto’s administration.
“There is no part of the Coast that has been left behind by the government of President William Ruto in terms of development, appointments and inclusivity,” Mvurya said.
He pointed to visible projects across the region, stretching from Vanga to Kiunga, saying residents can “count the projects” as evidence that the Coast has been placed at the heart of Kenya’s national development agenda.
According to Mvurya, the region is experiencing an unprecedented level of inclusion within government structures, particularly among young people.
“This is the first time we have so many of our youth in government, and the first time we have more than 106 appointments from the region,” he said.
The CS framed this inclusion as an opportunity that residents should actively leverage, especially in the lead-up to future political cycles.
He urged the public to move beyond divisive politics and instead focus on consolidating gains made through what he described as a broad-based government.
“We want to ask our fellow Coast residents that sometimes politics becomes heated, but let us take advantage of the fact that we are included in government,” he said.
Mvurya added that such inclusion places the region in a stronger position to negotiate for more development priorities in future, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general election.
“So that when 2027 comes, our vote is counted in a place where we can demand more development as a priority in this region,” he said.
At the same time, he cautioned against leaders who incite the public for political gain, warning that such figures often lack tangible achievements.
Mvurya stressed that leadership should be measured by delivery and impact rather than rhetoric, urging residents to remain vigilant and focused on development-oriented leadership.
While acknowledging that political competition is inevitable, he maintained that unity is essential for ensuring that the Coast’s interests are effectively represented at the national level.
He reaffirmed that a divided region risks missing out on opportunities, while a united front enhances its bargaining power within government structures.
The remarks come at a time when the government is seeking to deepen engagement with regions historically perceived to be marginalised, with a focus on infrastructure, economic empowerment and youth employment.
Mvurya’s message signals a broader push by the administration to encourage regional blocs to align with national development priorities, while also positioning themselves strategically for future political influence.
By highlighting both development achievements and increased representation, the CS sought to reassure residents that the Coast is on a path of transformation, provided that unity and constructive engagement are maintained.
His call reflects an ongoing narrative within government circles that inclusivity and participation are key drivers of equitable development, particularly in regions with significant youth populations.
As political temperatures gradually rise ahead of the next election cycle, Mvurya’s remarks point to a balancing act between political expression and developmental focus, with the Coast region positioned as a critical player in both arenas.
