Elders from the Warsu clan have endorsed former Permanent Secretary for Petroleum Mohamed Liban as their preferred candidate for the Isiolo gubernatorial race ahead of the Borana community’s negotiated democracy process.
The endorsement sets the stage for consultations by the Borana Council of Elders (BCE), which will oversee the community’s traditional process of selecting a consensus candidate to carry its political interests in the 2027 Isiolo governor race.
The Borana community, which consists of seven sub-clans and forms a significant population in Isiolo and Marsabit counties, has maintained the practice of negotiated democracy, where elders consult before settling on candidates for key elective positions.
The system is aimed at promoting unity, preventing divisive political contests and ensuring the community presents a united candidate during elections.
Speaking during the endorsement meeting, Warsu clan chairperson Mohamed Kancora said Liban had the experience and leadership background needed to lead Isiolo County.
Kancora said Liban was the most experienced among those who have declared interest in the seat, citing his years in public service and government administration.
Other leaders who have expressed interest in the Isiolo governorship race include former Isiolo County Assembly Speaker Mohamed Roba and Abdul Bahari, both from the Karrayyu clan, as well as Sports Fund Chief Executive Officer Nuh Ibrahim from the Dambenono clan.
Kancora said Liban had contributed to development initiatives in Isiolo during his time in government, including supporting water and electricity projects in underserved areas.
“His record speaks for itself. He has worked to improve the lives of residents even while serving in national government positions,” Kancora said.
He added that the endorsement reflected the clan’s confidence in Liban’s ability to provide leadership and advance development in the county.
Nuria Gollo, a Marsabit resident and member of the Warsu community, said clan members had supported the elders’ decision, expressing confidence in Liban’s leadership credentials.
In his acceptance speech, Liban called for unity among members of the Borana community as preparations for the election period continue.
He pledged to respect the outcome of the negotiated democracy process and support whoever is eventually selected by the Borana Council of Elders to represent the community in the gubernatorial race.
Liban also called on residents to support President William Ruto’s bid for a second term, a position backed by Kello Harsama, the Principal Secretary in the State Department for Petroleum.
Harsama described Liban as among the most qualified aspirants for the seat, citing his experience in public service and understanding of government operations.
He urged residents of Isiolo and the wider Northern Kenya region to continue supporting the current administration, saying pastoralist communities remained part of the government’s development agenda.
The Borana Council of Elders is expected to begin consultations in the coming months as the community moves to identify a consensus candidate for the 2027 Isiolo gubernatorial contest.
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