2022 election nullification: His 2022 win was legally challenged by his main competitor, and the courts — including at Supreme Court level — nullified the result citing irregularities, leading to the 2025 by-election.

Use of technical school background as critic fodder: In some media commentary, critics point to his lack of university-level education and technical-school background to question his legislative depth and capacity — though supporters argue it provides grassroots credibility.

High expectations from constituents after comeback: Given the political drama and repeated contests, many residents expect quick delivery on promises — a challenge in a coastal constituency with long-standing development gaps.

Security and election-day tensions during the 2025 by-election: On voting day, Kombe alleged that some of his polling agents were barred from entering certain stations — raising concerns about electoral fairness even before the final tallies.