ENVIRONMENT minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere has urged Coast residents to support the Jubilee coalition saying it will address marginalisation.

The Matuga MP said the coalition enjoys support from all regions and therefore has priority of harmonising development across the nation.

Mwakwere was speaking in Ukunda after visiting Kwale for the first time since the formation of the coalition that has brought together Eldoret North MP William Ruto's URP, Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta's TNA and Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi's UDF.

"We have carefully selected our partners ahead of the formation of the next government. What remains is for all Coast people to vote as a block for Jubilee coalition so that we are not locked out of government if our misery is to come an end," he said.

Mwakwere said this will only be realised if the residents unite irrespective of their ethnic background because the region has accommodated people from all parts of Kenya.

He called for patience and consistent support from the residents as the coalition tries to settle on who between Uhuru and Mudavadi becomes the presidential flag-bearer.

"We are soon going to roll out our campaign programme to drum up support for our cause. I want to assure you that victory is on our side," Mwakwere said.

A key leader in the Jubilee coalition alongside Mvita MP Najib Balala, Mwakwere said he will soon embark on a meet-the-Coast-people tour to woo voters.

He is banking on the support of Gender minister Naomi Shaban from Taita Taveta, Lands assistant minister Gonzi Rai, Medical Services assistant minister Kazungu Kambi and Garsen MP Danson Mungatana.