The Ogaden community in Wajir has declared unity following a two-day consultative meeting that sought to establish a common political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
A communique issued at the conclusion of the September 5–6 meeting was read on Sunday by Abdisalam Sheikh Mohamed, with leaders pledging to work together on political, social and economic matters affecting the community.
The gathering was convened to deliberate on the community’s “unity, political direction, social cohesion, economic well-being and future,” according to the communique.
The meeting culminated in what leaders described as a “solemn declaration of the unity of the Ogaden Community.”
Under the new arrangement, the Wajir Ogaden Council committee will be reduced from 31 to 16 members, with youth set to be incorporated into the council.
The council will play a central role in determining community-endorsed candidates for leadership positions in Wajir County.
The community also declared its support for the reelection of President William Ruto in the 2027 presidential election.
The communique said the Ogaden community would pursue county leadership positions under the direction of the Wajir Ogaden Council, signalling an effort to consolidate its political influence ahead of the polls.
“The strength, dignity and future of the community depends upon its ability to stand together and pursue its interests collectively,” the leaders said.
The declaration comes amid intensified political consultations in Wajir, with community elders and political leaders engaging over potential candidates, alliances and the distribution of political positions ahead of the 2027 elections.
The leaders emphasised the need for a common political strategy while also prioritising social cohesion and the economic wellbeing of the community.
The two day meeting could reshape political calculations in Wajir, where clan consultations, community endorsements and negotiated political arrangements have historically influenced electoral outcomes.
