Hundreds of supporters of former Garissa Governor Ali Bunow Korane took to the streets in celebration after gubernatorial aspirant Engineer Mohamed Mowlid Shurie announced that he would withdraw from the 2027 race and back Mr Korane.
The announcement was made at a colourful gathering attended by thousands of residents, political leaders and supporters at the Sultan Dekow M. Sambul Palace. The move is expected to strengthen Mr Korane’s bid to reclaim the Garissa governor’s seat.
Engineer Shurie said the decision was driven by the need to promote unity and avoid splitting votes within his political base.
“For the sake of unity, I have decided to be above self. I respect the decision by our council of elders who endorsed Ali Korane as the sole contender from the Abduwak community, which decided to front a candidate for the 2027 Garissa County gubernatorial race,” Mr Shurie said.
The announcement was met with loud cheers and applause. Supporters hailed the decision as a step towards consolidating the community’s political voice ahead of the elections.
Mr Korane welcomed the announcement and thanked Mr Shurie for what he described as a sacrifice made in his favour. The former governor has been holding discussions with Mr Shurie in an effort to avoid a division of votes in their political stronghold as both men sought to consolidate support.
Council of elders and political leaders who addressed the gathering commended Mr Shurie for stepping aside, saying the decision was aimed at promoting political unity.
The development comes as politicians in Garissa intensify preparations for the 2027 elections, with aspirants and political groupings seeking to lock in support ahead of the gubernatorial contest.
The Abduwak (also spelled Abudwak/Abduwaq) is one of the county’s largest voting blocs and comprises several sub-clans, including Rer Yahya, from which Mr Korane hails, and Rer Gulled, from which Mr Shurie comes. Clan elders had earlier endorsed Mr Korane as the community’s preferred candidate, though some sub-clan leaders had previously expressed reservations.
Other figures already linked to the 2027 race include Senator Abdulkadir Haji, former Lagdera MP Mohamed Shidiye and former Ijara MP Ibrahim Abass, among others. Analysts say clan alignments, party tickets and outreach beyond traditional strongholds will shape what is expected to be a closely watched contest.
