In a strongly worded post on X, the former Nairobi Senator and vocal critic of national leadership accused opponents of fabricating quotes and avoiding direct confrontation.
"They would rather put words in my mouth than face me head-on," Ali declared.
"You can Not fool a population that has AWAKENED. Mombasa People will not be deceived by lies and manipulation this time round."
The controversy stems from a viral image circulating online, stamped with a bold "Fake News " overlay by The Kenya Times dated January 19, 2026.
The purported quote attributed to Ali reads: "The Kikuyu will be the ones to get me through to the Mombasa governorship because they are many.
As for the other communities, I don't care. They will just split their support among the other candidates.
"Ali branded the statement a complete fabrication, designed to inflame ethnic tensions in Coast region politics and undermine his growing support base.
By allegedly pitting coastal communities against the significant Kikuyu population in Mombasa, critics appear intent on portraying him as divisive and anti-local interests a narrative he vehemently rejects.
The former TV journalist-turned-politician, who has built a reputation for blunt anti-corruption rhetoric and grassroots mobilization, emphasized that Mombasa voters are now "awakened" and immune to such tactics.
His message signals confidence in a broad, issue-based coalition rather than ethnic arithmetic.
As the race for Mombasa Governor heats up, with incumbents, former leaders, and new entrants jostling for position, Ali's rebuttal underscores the high stakes of disinformation in Kenya's polarized political landscape.
Whether the "fake quote" originates from rivals within UDA, ODM factions, or independent players remains unclear, but it has already sparked heated online debates.
With 2027 approaching, Ali's defiance could galvanize his supporters while forcing opponents to engage him directly or risk further backlash from an increasingly skeptical electorate.
Social Plugin