Elders in Mandera are split over whether to back senior Devolution ministry administrator Hassan Noor's bid for governor.
Noor was among three candidates endorsed by elders from his local Garre clan for the top county sear currently held by Ali Roba.
But allegations linking Noor to the Sh791 million NYS scandal has led to a turn of events.
“Another meeting is being planned for discussion on the new developments,” said an elder privy to the information.
Roba has been urged by elders from his sub-clan and supporters to defend his seat.
Last week, EACC summoned Noor for questioning over his dealings with NYS.
“Noor is wanted by the commission to clarify issues over procurement of consultancy services at the ministry,” Yassin Amaro, EACC spokesman, said.
The anti-graft agency also wants the former powerful Provincial Commissioner to explain how he handled a sensitization programme to enable women and youth access of 30 per cent of government tenders.
Noor was the chairman of the ministerial tender committee when the NYS scandal was unearthed and his role was to approve tenders and services awarded by the ministry.
Roba has since conducted a series of meetings in the county with supporters urging him to defy the elders and run for a second term due to his development record.
The elders’ verdict also affects five MPs and 18 ward representatives in the border county.
Senator Billow Kerrow has however agreed to abide by the elders decision.
Endorsement by elders in North Eastern is a critical aspect of negotiated democracy and though many politicians among them incumbents say the move infringes on the rights of voters, its a plus for those cleared.