Mandera
Ahmed Ali Madey Seeks Elders’ Nod for 2027 Mandera East
MANDERA – Ahmed Ali Madey has formally submitted his application to be the community’s flag bearer for the Mandera East Constituency seat in the 2027 elections. The application was received by elders in Mandera town on Wednesday, marking the beginning of his bid to secure the constituency’s leadership.
Mandera’s political landscape is heavily influenced by elders from various clans, who play a crucial role in determining who gets elected.
Mr. Madey, a seasoned administrator with a long history of public service, is positioning himself as the ideal candidate to represent the constituency.
Madey previously served as the County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Water, Sanitation, Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources from 2013 to 2015.
He later held the Roads, Public Works, and Transport docket from 2015 to 2018.
His career in public administration extended further when Mandera Governor Captain Ali Roba appointed him as the Head of the Delivery Unit in the Office of the Governor from 2018 to 2022.
His successor, Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif, reappointed him to the same role in 2023, a position he currently holds.
Community members attend a meeting as Madey Submits Candidacy Application for Mandera East 2027. Photo/ Yunis Dekow
Beyond government service, Mr. Madey has an extensive background in humanitarian work, having worked with various non-governmental organizations in the 1990s for over a decade.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master’s degree in Governance and Ethics.
During his meeting with elders from a section of the Abkey Ali Sharmarke sub-clan, Madey emphasized his commitment to community-driven governance and participatory development.
He expressed his desire to ensure all communities have a voice in Mandera’s leadership.
The elders, who hold significant sway in local politics, acknowledged his leadership experience and commitment to service.
Mr. Abdullahi Ahmed, a resident of Mandera said Mr. Madey has demonstrated dedication to public service over the years.
“His experience in governance and his ability to deliver on mandates make him a strong candidate for the Mandera East seat,” he said.
He added, “we will carefully evaluate his request alongside others who will come forward. Our decision will be guided by the community’s best interests.”
The political landscape of Mandera is taking shape ahead of the 2027 elections.
The application of Mr. Madey for the position signals the start of intense consultations among elders, political leaders, and the community at large.
The decision of the elders will ultimately shape the race for the Mandera East Constituency seat and other elective positions.
Mandera County had 217,030 registered voters in the 2022 general elections. The county, located in northeastern Kenya, has a political landscape heavily influenced by clan-based decision-making, with elders playing a key role in selecting candidates for leadership positions.
Mandera East is one of the constituencies in Mandera County. It serves as the county’s administrative and economic hub, with Mandera town as the main urban center.
Mohamed Abdi, a political commentator in Mandera said voter registration is now the most crucial aspect of political participation.
“This is why local leaders and aspirants are engaging local communities to increase chances of winning,” he told Kulan Post.
Mr. Abdi said given Mandera’s clan-based politics, voter preferences are often shaped by community consultations rather than party affiliations.
“The upcoming 2027 elections are expected to follow the same pattern, with elders and community leaders influencing electoral outcomes.”
Sheikh Abdiweli Mohamed said, Madey’s track record speaks for itself. He has served in different capacities and has always prioritized service delivery,” he added
