Ahmed Sheikh Ibrahim Muhumed, alias Doti, 70, has described 2027 Garissa gubernatorial candidate Amb. Muktar Shidiye as the Awlyahan community’s preferred political choice. He warned against what he termed “the misuse of traditional leadership for political mobilisation.”
Mr Muhumed criticised a “fake Sultan” who, he alleged, had sold the voice of the people for political interests. Any declaration or purported nomination under those circumstances, he said, was “null and void” and did not represent the genuine position of the Awlyahan.
The traditional leadership recognised across the Horn of Africa, he said, supports Shidiye.
“The traditional leadership of Garissa supports Amb. Shidiye by all means and ways. He is the supreme preferred choice as political leader of our people,” he wrote.
He accused the Sultan Hamud-led faction of the Awlyahan of using mobilisation, intimidation and propaganda to influence residents. “Such tactics should not be allowed to undermine the community’s dignity, authority and cultural values,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and reject efforts to “sell” their dignity, ability and authority for political gain. Political competition, he added, should not come at the expense of community cohesion, Islamic values or cultural norms.
Mr Muhumed framed the 2027 General Election as a chance for residents to set Garissa County’s political direction and a potential “victory for 2027.” He called on them to back leadership capable of delivering change and uniting residents, rather than exploiting divisions.
In an interview at RTG studios in Garissa, the elder and political analyst argued for politics rooted in unity, social responsibility and respect for religious and cultural values. Residents, he said, should weigh leaders’ records, character and suitability before choosing.
He appealed for support of what he called a tested and known leadership option and said the community should focus on the change it wants. Citing Islamic teachings and Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, he said political leadership should promote peace, justice, unity and development while protecting the community’s religious and cultural identity.
He urged residents to reject intimidation and propaganda and unite behind the best political choice for the county.
