Wajir Deputy endorsed as UDA governor candidate

Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Ali Mukhtar has been endorsed as the United Democratic Alliance gubernatorial aspirant in the county.

“Congratulations Ahmed Ali Mukhtar on your endorsement as the UDA gubernatorial aspirant for Wajir county. You are in the winning team,” Deputy President William Ruto tweeted. 

Mukhtar was acting as Wajir governor after the now reinstated Governor Mohamed Abdi was impeached in May 17 last year. 

He was alleged to have abused his office.

On March 9, the High Court dismissed Mukhtar's petition to remain in office after Abdi’s reinstatement.

In 2017, the Ogaden clan rejected Mukhtar’s bid for governorship hence settling as Abdi’s deputy, which the elders endorsed.

The delegation was also attended by Kenya Kwanza leaders: ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi and Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetang'ula.

Also present during the endorsement were nominated MP Nasri Sahal Ibrahim, former senator Abdirahman Ali Hassan, Ogaden Supreme Council chairman Ahmed Hussein, as well as several elders.

“Earlier, I welcomed Omar Haji Salat who will carry the UDA flag for Eldas constituency in Wajir county,” Ruto said. 

Mukhtar will face the former governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Ugas Sheikh Mohamed, Nairobi South Hospital proprietor Hassan Mohamed and Environment CAS Mohamed Elmi, among others.

(edited by Amol Awuor)