East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Suleiman Shahbal has distanced himself from the politics of Lamu County, saying his political interests remain firmly rooted in Mombasa.

Speaking during an interview with a local podcast, Shahbal said he is closely following the ongoing divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) but warned that he would not tolerate what he described as a lack of democracy within the party.

"I have nothing to do with Lamu politics. My heart and interest is in Mombasa," Shahbal said.

He noted that while he is observing both factions within ODM, the party must uphold its democratic ideals if it hopes to retain the confidence of its members.

"I'm currently watching both sides of the factions in ODM, but I'm definitely not going to accept the lack of democracy that we have seen in the party. So it's either they live up to the ideals of the party or we will look for another option."

Shahbal said the people of Mombasa deserve a new political direction, citing unemployment and other long-standing socio-economic challenges facing the county.

"Change must come to Mombasa. We cannot let things continue the way they are currently, with lack of employment and other things. Change must come."

His remarks come at a time when internal debates over ODM's leadership and future direction continue to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, with several party leaders calling for reforms and greater internal democracy.