The county assembly of Garissa has welcomed newly elected MCA for Fafi ward Hassan Kalosho, who formally took the oath of office on Wednesday.
The swearing-in ceremony, presided over by speaker Abdi Gure, was conducted in line with Article 74 of the Constitution, which requires every MCA to take the oath before assuming the functions of the office.
Kalosho returns to the assembly after having served for about a year before his 2022 election was nullified by the courts.
In his remarks, speaker Gure warmly welcomed Kolosho back to the House and confirmed the conclusion of the November 27 by-election in Fafi ward.
Kolosho was introduced to the chamber by several MCAs as he proceeded to take the oath of office.
Among them were Dekaharja MCA Ahmed Aden, Abdullahi Sigat (Nanighi), Ahmed Sheikh (Liboi), Marian Hassan, Abdikadir Dubat and Khatra Sigat.
Speaking later to supporters and family members in the assembly precincts, Kolosho expressed gratitude for their continued confidence in his leadership and pledged to effectively champion their concerns in the assembly.
Kolosho, who contested on a Ford Kenya ticket, secured 1,414 votes, defeating his closest rival, Diriye Maalim of UDA, who garnered 967 votes, while ODM’s Feisal Mohamed received 859 votes.
“Today, as I took the oath of office at the Garissa assembly, my heart was filled with gratitude and humility,” he said.
"I can't thank you enough. I stand here because of your unwavering support, your trust and your belief in our shared vision for a better Fafi.
“Two years ago when my election was nullified, you stood firmly by my side. You did not waver. You did not give up. You walked with me through every step of that journey, and for that, I am forever grateful.”
He assured his electorates that he will work tirelessly, with dedication and integrity, to serve and deliver on the promises he made to them.
“Though the term ahead is short, I will strive to make every day count. Our focus remains development, equity and progress for all the people of Fafi,” he said.
"Your solidarity and resilience have reminded me that leadership is not just about holding office, it is about serving a people who believe in you even in the toughest moments."
During the campaigns, various leaders camped in the area to campaign for Kalosho. They include National Assembly Speaker and Ford Kenya chairman Moses Wetangula and several MPs, including Fafi's Salah Yakub.
