By Issa Hussein
Hundreds of supporters of former Garissa Governor Ali Korane took to the streets in celebration after gubernatorial aspirant Mohamed Mowlid Shurie announced that he would withdraw from the 2027 race and support Mr Korane.
The announcement, made at a colourful gathering attended by thousands of residents, political leaders and supporters at the Sultan Dekow M Sambul Palace, is expected to give Mr Korane a boost as he seeks to reclaim the Garissa governor’s seat.
Engineer Shurie said his 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.
His announcement was met with loud cheers and applause from the gathering, with supporters hailing the decision as a move towards consolidating the community’s political voice ahead of the elections.
Mr Korane welcomed the decision 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 the two sought to consolidate support ahead of the gubernatorial contest.
Council of elders and political leaders who addressed the gathering also commended Mr Shurie for agreeing to step aside, describing the decision as one 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 consolidate support ahead of the gubernatorial contest.
The move is likely to alter the political alignments in the county, as leaders and supporters position themselves for what is expected to be a closely watched race for the governor’s seat.
