Clerics Endorse Former Governor’s Leadership Vision, Support Strengthened Religious Affairs, Madrasa Education, Peacebuilding and Continuity of National Development Agenda.
GARISSA, Kenya – Former Garissa Governor Ali Korane has received a major political boost after more than 2,000 Islamic clerics (Ulamaa) from across Garissa County endorsed his bid to reclaim the county’s top seat while pledging their support for the re-election of President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.
President William Ruto addresses Kenyans during the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations held at Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium in Wajir County/ASAL POST
The endorsement was announced during a consultative meeting held in Garissa Town, where religious leaders deliberated on the future development agenda of Garissa County and the wider political direction of the region.
The Religious leaders (Ulama), who are respected voices within communities across Garissa and the North Eastern region, said their decision was guided by their assessment of leadership, development priorities and the need for continuity in initiatives aimed at transforming the region.
During the meeting, the clerics unanimously endorsed Korane’s gubernatorial candidature and also declared their support for President William Ruto’s bid to secure a second term in office.
The religious leaders cited what they described as the national government’s commitment to accelerating development in North Eastern Kenya, including investments in infrastructure, economic empowerment programmes and policies aimed at improving livelihoods in the region.
They said the region’s development requires strong collaboration between national and county governments, adding that political stability and effective leadership are key to achieving long-term transformation.
Led by Sheikh Abdullahi Ali, the Ulamaa praised Korane’s previous administration, particularly his engagement with religious institutions and establishment of the Directorate of Religious Affairs, which they described as a significant step in strengthening cooperation between government and faith leaders.
“Having worked with him before, I can confidently say that he has our support,” Sheikh Abdullahi said, noting that Korane remained committed to supporting religious institutions during his tenure.
Another clerics, Sheikh Ismail Bashir and Sheikh Ibrahim Gele, said the endorsement of Ali Korane’s gubernatorial bid was reached after extensive consultations among religious leaders and represented a collective decision by the Ulamaa across Garissa County.
Sheikh Ismail Bashir emphasized that religious leaders do not make such decisions without careful deliberation, noting that their position reflects the views of the wider Ulamaa community.
“As religious leaders, we are known to be straightforward people, and whenever we take a stand on any issue, it is after we have deliberated amongst ourselves. Our gathering today is a clear indication that we have reached a collective decision,” Sheikh Ismail Bashir said.
Sheikh Ibrahim Gele added that the endorsement was guided by the need to support leadership that prioritizes unity, development and the welfare of the people of Garissa County.
“We have come together after thorough consultations because we believe in supporting leaders who understand the needs of our communities. Our role as religious leaders is to promote peace, unity and the progress of our people,” Sheikh Ibrahim Gele said.
He further noted that the Ulamaa would continue engaging leaders and communities in promoting peaceful participation in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Korane Pledges Stronger Support for Religious Affairs and Education
Addressing the gathering, Korane thanked the religious leaders for their continued role in promoting peace, unity and social cohesion across Garissa County.
He described Ulamaa as important partners in development, saying their role extends beyond spiritual guidance to include peacebuilding, community engagement and supporting socio-economic progress.
“Religious leaders are not merely custodians of our mosques and spiritual guides to our communities; they are indispensable partners in development, peacebuilding and the socio-economic transformation of our county,” Korane said.
Korane pledged that if elected, he would elevate the Directorate of Religious Affairs into a fully-fledged department to improve coordination and expand services to religious institutions and communities.
MCAs Rally Support for Korane’s 2027 Bid, Urge Ulamaa to Stand with His Leadership Vision
Several Members of the Garissa County Assembly who accompanied former Governor H.E. Ali Bunow Korane during his engagement with Islamic scholars (Ulamaa) have appealed for continued support from religious leaders as Korane seeks to reclaim the Garissa gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.
The MCAs praised the role of Ulamaa in guiding communities and shaping conversations on leadership, peace and development, urging them to continue supporting leaders who prioritize unity, inclusivity and the interests of Garissa residents.
They said their backing of Korane is based on his previous leadership record, engagement with religious institutions and commitment to strengthening development partnerships across the county.
The legislators called on religious leaders to remain actively involved in promoting a leadership agenda that addresses community needs and advances the county’s social and economic transformation.
Hon. Abdirahman Boor – MCA Sankuri Ward
“The Ulamaa have always been a source of guidance and wisdom in our communities. We appeal to them to continue supporting leadership that promotes unity, development and peace.”
“H.E. Ali Bunow Korane has demonstrated commitment to working with religious leaders and communities. His vision for Garissa deserves the support of all stakeholders, and we encourage our Ulamaa to continue standing with this development agenda.”
Hon. Hussein M. Dagane – MCA Township Ward
“Religious leaders have a great responsibility in guiding society, and their voice carries immense respect among our people. We request the Ulamaa to support a leadership vision that prioritizes unity and service to the people.”
“Governor Korane understands the importance of partnership between government and religious institutions. His return to leadership will provide an opportunity to strengthen these partnerships for the benefit of Garissa residents.”
Hon. Abdullahi Sigat – MCA Nanighi Ward
“The support of our religious leaders is important in shaping the future of our county. We ask the Ulamaa to continue guiding our communities towards leaders who value peace, development and inclusivity.”
“Ali Bunow Korane has shown through his previous leadership that he values consultation and community engagement. We believe his experience will help move Garissa forward.”
Hon. Ahmed Noor – MCA Dekharja Ward
“Our Ulamaa have always been champions of peace and unity. As we prepare for the coming elections, we urge them to continue engaging communities and supporting leadership that puts people’s interests first.”
“We believe Governor Korane’s vision for Garissa reflects the aspirations of our residents. His commitment to development and partnership with communities remains a reason why we continue to support his candidature.”
Hon. Khatra Iman Sigat – Nominated MCA
“The voices of religious leaders are very important in our society. We appeal to the Ulamaa to continue encouraging peaceful participation and supporting leadership that promotes opportunities for all.”
“Governor Korane’s agenda focuses on inclusivity, education and community empowerment. We believe working together with religious leaders will help strengthen this vision for Garissa County.”
Hon. Fatuma Shide – Nominated MCA
“The Ulamaa have a special role in promoting unity and guiding communities. We encourage them to continue supporting leaders who have demonstrated commitment to serving the people.”
“Ali Bunow Korane’s leadership has always emphasized dialogue and partnership. We believe his vision for Garissa deserves the consideration and support of our religious leaders.”
Hon. Idriss Ismail Yarrow – MCA Danyere Ward
“Religious leaders remain trusted voices in our communities, and their guidance is essential as we move towards the 2027 elections. We appeal to them to support a leadership approach that promotes peace, unity and development.”
“H.E. Ali Bunow Korane has shown that he values consultation and works closely with communities. We are asking our Ulamaa to continue supporting this vision for a better Garissa County.”
Hon. Abdikadir Aden Dubat (Aynaash) – Nominated MCA
“Our Ulamaa have a crucial role in guiding our communities and promoting peace, unity and development. We appeal to them to continue supporting leadership that prioritizes the interests of the people.”
“H.E. Ali Bunow Korane has demonstrated commitment to inclusive leadership and community engagement. We believe his vision for Garissa deserves the support of all stakeholders as we move towards the 2027 General Election.”
Religious Leaders Call for Peace and Security
The former governor urged religious leaders to continue playing a leading role in promoting peace and helping address security challenges affecting residents.
He called for stronger cooperation between religious institutions, communities and government agencies in tackling local conflicts and insecurity, including concerns over knife-wielding gangs in parts of Garissa Town.
Korane emphasized that restoring security requires collective responsibility and collaboration among all stakeholders.
The meeting was attended by 13 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) and representatives from the Abudwak Grand Council of Elders, who reaffirmed their support for initiatives promoting unity, stability and development in Garissa County.
The endorsement adds political momentum to Korane’s efforts to return to the governor’s office after losing the seat in the 2022 General Election, while the backing of President Ruto’s re-election bid signals growing political activity among influential community leaders ahead of the 2027 polls.
