Clan declares intent to keep Governor seat

By Boniface Ongeri

The Degodia Clan in Wajir County has resolved to retain both Governor and women representative seats in the next General Election.

This follows a three-day meeting where the clan decided to share other elective seats but hold the two, adding that it formed the majority in the county.

The clan, however, said it would equitably share the remaining seats with other clans in the area.

The meeting, held at Desheg Location on the northern periphery of Wajir town, came to a close with members declaring that they will seek county positions in Mandera County, including the newly created Banisa and Mandera parliamentary seats.

The Desheg declaration was signed by Minister for Northern Kenya Development and Wajir East MP Mohammed Elmi, Mandera Central MP Abdikadir Mohammed and Wajir West MP Adan Keynan, among others.

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Council of elders

The caucus also resolved to form a Degodia council of elders that will work closely with all groups to “vigorously defend the clan’s rights and interests”.

The Degodia council of elders will be mandated to ensure the resolutions are met and shared with other clans in the county.

“The unity of Degodia is paramount irrespective of physical and political boundaries. We shall not shy from agitating for our rights but we shall safeguard and respect the rights of those living with us,” the declaration reads.

The meeting brought together elders, religious leaders, professionals, women, the youth and political leaders.

Ahmed Abdullahi, Mohammed Abdi, Abdirahaman Abass and Mohammed Omar who have expressed interest in the Governor’s seat were present.

Elsewhere in Mandera, Abdikadir Adan Chitto, an aspirant for the post of Governor has cautioned candidates against subjecting Kenyans to early campaigns.

“Anyone wanting a county or parliamentary seat in Mandera should do so in a consultative manner at the moment and avoid holding public rallies. This is creating tension before the official campaign period,” he said.

He said there would not be clan dominance for the seats in the county, adding that all communities will discuss to ensure future peace.