Ex-Garissa Governor Ali Korane joins UDA, secures clan backing for 2027 gubernatorial race

Addressing his supporters, Ali promised to unite Garissa County under a banner of progressive leadership and inclusive governance.
Former Garissa Governor Ali Korane has secured the endorsement of clan elders in his bid for the 2027 gubernatorial election.
Ali has also defected from the Jubilee party to join the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), where he was officially welcomed by senior party officials, including Secretary General Hassan Omar, Deputy Party Leader Issa Timamy, and Party Chairperson Cecile Mbarire.
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The event, held at Mnara Primary School in Garissa, attracted hundreds of supporters and political leaders, signalling Ali’s strategic shift to the ruling party.
Addressing his supporters, Ali promised to unite Garissa County under a banner of progressive leadership and inclusive governance.
“The clan endorsement is a common practice before one is accepted by the diverse communities in the county. This is already a springboard for my bid and the party. Together, we will succeed,” he said to loud cheers.
UDA officials praised the former governor’s entry, saying it would strengthen grassroots support in the region.

Party Chairperson Cecile Mbarire described Ali’s move as a turning point in consolidating progressive leadership in Northern Kenya, aligning with President William Ruto’s vision of building a national party that will outlive its founders.
Secretary General Hassan Omar urged residents to reject divisive politics and instead embrace development, dignity, and inclusivity.
“Let us collectively shun any political agenda that undermines cohesion and hinders meaningful development,” he said.
He further commended President Ruto for abolishing the discriminatory ID vetting process, expanding road infrastructure, and improving service delivery in the region.
Deputy Party Leader Issa Timamy appealed to residents to rally behind UDA, noting that this was the first time in Kenya’s history that a sitting government was prioritising equitable programmes and investments in Garissa.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot emphasised the party’s commitment to a people-centred political culture in which all Kenyans, regardless of faith, have an equal voice in shaping the country’s future.
During a symbolic coronation, Ali was selected from among three other community candidates who had expressed interest in the governorship.
Ali, who lost the last general election to incumbent Governor Nathif Jama, is now making a fresh attempt for a second term.
Other leaders who addressed the gathering included Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana; MPs Nelson Koech (Belgut), Abdi Omar Shurie (Mbalambala), Amina Dika (Tana River Woman Representative), and Falhada Iman (EALA); Lamu Deputy Governor Dr Mbarak Mohamed; Nakuru MCA Hassan Duale; and NEC member and Whip of the UDA MCAs Caucus.
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