Weheliye unveils 2027 Wajir gubernatorial manifesto, calls for shift from clan-based politics

Former Wajir gubernatorial aspirant Hassan Weheliye Khalid has unveiled his 2027 campaign manifesto, dubbed The Wajir Agenda, advocating for issue-based politics and leadership anchored on development, accountability and service delivery.

Weheliye said Wajir's political leadership should move away from clan-based political bargaining and endorsements, arguing that electoral competition should be determined by candidates' policies, leadership credentials and ability to address residents' needs.

The manifesto launch brought together former, serving and aspiring political leaders, including former Wajir Governor Mohamed Abdi Mohamud, the county's first Senator Abdirahman Ali Olow and several gubernatorial aspirants.

Speaking during the event, Weheliye declared his intention to contest the county's top seat in the 2027 General Election, expressing confidence in his ability to provide leadership and address challenges facing residents.

He said The Wajir Agenda would provide a development blueprint for the county, outlining proposals across various sectors while prioritising the aspirations and needs of local communities.

The launch also provided a platform for discussions on the influence of clan affiliations in shaping political alliances and electoral outcomes in Wajir and the wider northern Kenya region.

Professor Abdi Guliye challenged the traditional reliance on clan-based political endorsements, calling for a shift towards evaluating candidates on the strength of their ideas and development commitments.

He urged residents to scrutinise the policies presented by those seeking elective positions rather than allowing clan considerations to determine their political choices.

Similarly, Professor Salah Abdi Sheikh called for a fundamental change in the region's political culture, advocating for elections driven by public policy, accountability and service delivery.

He said political competition should focus on practical solutions to challenges affecting communities rather than clan affiliations