Azimio leader Raila Odinga’s aide, Makau Mutua, has praised former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho, declaring that he has proven himself to be a self-made man. Commenting on Joho’s performance during the vetting by the National Assembly Committee on Appointments, Mutua noted that the former governor displayed composure and intelligence.
He highlighted Joho’s strong grasp of factual information during the vetting process and emphasized that Joho exemplifies passion, perseverance, and academic resilience.
“My dear friend, the incomparable Hassan Ali Joho, showed us today why he’s the quintessential self-made man — erudite, composed, brilliant. In command of facts. A shining example of grit, determination, and academic resilience. Let’s go Waziri. Respect,” he said
During the vetting process, the Mining Cabinet Secretary nominee revealed that he received a D- in his KCSE exams but has since “turned it around” by earning two degrees. The former Mombasa governor shared his career journey, stating that he is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree at the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
Joho mentioned that due to his challenging background, he began working before returning to school. He explained that he started with a bridging course in 2006 as part of his quest to obtain his first degree.
“I did a bridging course to enable me to join university. I did a diploma in 2007 which enabled me to join Kampala University and eventually graduated in 2013,” he said.
Joho mentioned that he drew his inspiration from a renowned scholar, Prof Ali Mazrui who did not have an easy beginning but still made it in life.
“It’s common for people to have doubts about those from the Coast region, but we are just as qualified as any other Kenyan. Some of us come from a poor background. I did not grow up in an environment that allowed me to prosper in terms of education,” he said.
“I drew my inspiration from Prof Ali Mazrui…he did not succeed in his Cambridge examination to be admitted to the university for the first degree. I want Kenyans to know that historical struggles are real. Someone should never imagine that if they come from a place of comfort, there will be a levelled playground for everyone,” he said.
