Former Nyali MP blasts Mombasa leaders over flood crisis

Former Nyali MP and Mombasa businessman Hezron Awiti has taken a swipe at the county’s leadership, accusing them of neglecting the persistent drainage problems that have resulted in widespread flooding across Mombasa.

Addressing the media from the waterlogged Beachmart area in Nyali Sub-County, Awiti expressed disappointment over what he termed as the silence and inaction of local leaders, even as residents continue to suffer the consequences of inadequate drainage infrastructure.

"It’s as if Mombasa’s entire leadership has been silenced while the county drowns," Awiti remarked.

He criticized Governor Abdulswamad Nassir for allegedly shifting blame to the national government regarding the persistent flooding on Links Road.

"How can a sitting governor watch helplessly as residents suffer and still claim it’s not his responsibility? That kind of leadership is unacceptable — it shows he has no business holding that office," he said.

Awiti, who chairs the Vibrant Democratic Party (VDP), also pointed out that the floods have taken a toll on businesses not just in Mombasa, but across the country.

Awiti recalled a recent incident where a tour van stalled along Links Road, leaving tourists stranded — and even his own vehicle was caught in the floodwaters.

"Schools haven’t been spared either. I get daily calls from residents desperately asking for help," he said.

The situation has worsened in recent weeks, with Nyali emerging as one of the most severely affected areas.

Rashid Gona, a Beachmart resident, described the flooding as a long-standing issue that’s yet to be addressed.

Another resident, Vivian Otieno, raised concerns over the safety of children and the looming threat of disease outbreaks.

"Kids can’t make it to school. The roads have turned into rivers, and the stagnant, waste-filled water is a major health hazard," she said.