Mandera Governor Khalif hands over power to deputy as he leaves for Hajj pilgrimage

Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif has formally handed over the county’s top office to his deputy, Dr. Ali Maalim Mohamud, for a period of three weeks as he departs for the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

The handover was confirmed through a signed letter dated May 28, 2025 that states: “Whereas Article 179(5) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 provides that when the County Governor is absent, the Deputy Governor shall act as the Governor…I, Mohamed Adan Khalif, the Governor of Mandera County, will be temporarily away from the County/Republic of Kenya from May 28, 2025 to June 17, 2025 for performance of Hajj rituals.”

“I do hereby designate Dr. Ali Maalim Mohamud, the Deputy Governor of Mandera County, to act as the County Governor during my absence, with effect from May 28, 2025, until my return and resumption of duties.”

Governor Khalif was careful to note the legal framework guiding the handover, underscoring limits to the acting Governor’s powers, such as county appointments and dismissals.

He added that the move was to ensure “administrative continuity and to facilitate the smooth running of county affairs” during his absence.

The Deputy Governor consequently acknowledged the delegation of authority, committing to adhere to the law in the administration of the Governor’s duties.

The rare show of trust displayed by the Mandera County chief sets him apart from other Governors, similar to a high-level handover when former President Uhuru Kenyatta, on his way to the Hague in 2020, entrusted instruments of power to his then deputy, William Ruto.