Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali makes U-turn on retiring from active politics

Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali has signaled a possibility of staying in active politics, suggesting a U-turn after his prior announcement of early retirement.

While addressing Moyale residents on Tuesday during the 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations, Governor Ali said deliberations on whether he will retire after his second term ends or possibly opt to vie for the senatorial position are subject to further discussion with community elders and his supporters.

On October 2, 2023, the county boss formally announced his plan to retire from active politics during a consultative forum with 140 Borana Council of Elders.

“Many of you have asked me about my next move after my term expires. Let me dispel any rumors – you will not see me near any elective post come 2027,” Ali said back then.

“I can’t be a Governor for ten years then lower myself to vie for a senatorial position. It is naturally unlikely for an elder to become a kid, that is impossible.”

But in a new twist, time will tell whether he will join the already crowded field or focus on national politics.

“Kama nyinyi wenyewe mnasema nikuwe seneta wenu 2027, hawa politicians wengine wanasumbuliwa na nini? Si muda ukifika tutaulizana kuhusu wazo hilo hivi karibuni?’ Said Governor Ali during the Mashujaa Day fete.

The Governor, who is currently facing intense scrutiny from local politicians and a split Council of Elders over his role in the Borana community’s succession politics, has stood firm ahead of the November 14 meeting, aimed at bringing together all gubernatorial aspirants.

Initially, the meeting was scheduled for October 10th but was later postponed, sparking public outrage over political interference, which led to the resignation of some Borana Council of Elders members citing frustrations and undue pressure.

“Mkutano wa Novemba 14 ni ya kujadili mustakabali wa jamii, si ya kujadili mambo yangu ya useneta. So, wenyewe tayari wameingiza baridi na kutishia kutohudhuria, msihujumu mambo ya jamii mkidhani ni yangu,” said Ali.

He also downplayed allegations of advancing conmanship-politics, saying: “Mimi sina mtu yeyote ambaye napendelea. Kwa wakati huu ambapo bado mimi ni gavana, sina any preferred person – mimi ni baba wa wote.”

While visibly agitated, he also unleashed a scathing attack on Uran ward MCA Halkano Konso after they fell out and urged his supporters to ignore naysayers.

For Governor Ali, who has failed to keep his own political covenant, the “retirement” announcement was never a farewell, but rather merely a strategic pause to wait for a more advantageous tide ahead of 2027 polls.