Hajir M. Dahiye Declares 2027 Garissa Gubernatorial Bid, Promises Inclusive Leadership and Bold Reforms

GARISSA – Mr. Hajir Mohamed Dahiye, Abakaile Ward Member of County Assembly and former Garissa County Executive Committee Member has formally announced his candidacy for the 2027 Garissa gubernatorial race.

Hajir made the announcement during a symbolic ceremony where he officially presented his application before the Wafate Council of Elders, representing the larger Mumin-Hassan Sub-Clan.

The declaration is the beginning of the leader’s grassroots-driven sensitization that promises transformation, inclusivity, and accountability.

During his meeting with elders from a section of the Wafate Council of Elders, Hajir emphasized his commitment to community-driven governance and participatory development.

He expressed his desire to ensure all communities have a voice in Garissa County Government.

Elders in the North Eastern region wield huge influence in local politics, with their endorsement often seen as crucial for any serious political contender.

They are respected for their role in uniting clans and guiding community decisions.

Somali elders remain key players in shaping leadership and ensuring political stability in the region.

In an exclusive interview with Kulan Post, Hajir M. Dahiye explained that his decision to run for governor is driven by “a deep desire to restore dignity to the county leadership.

He said he will expand opportunities for youth, and ensure essential services like healthcare and education reach every household in the devolved unit.

Mr. Hajir said his top three priority areas would be Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Healthcare and Education Reform, as well as Transparent, Accountable Leadership

“These priorities are not just campaign slogans; they are the lived experiences of the people of Garissa,” he said.

Mr. Hajir pledged to launch a County Youth Innovation and Enterprise Fund to support startups, skill development, and vocational training if elected.

He said he also plans to work closely with the private sector to create apprenticeship programs across various sectors including ICT, agriculture, livestock development and trade.

Mr. Hajir said his tenure will “decentralize health services” by equipping sub-county hospitals and dispensaries with adequate personnel and medicine.

He said his vision for education is “a county where every child has access to quality learning facilities and no child is left behind due to poverty or distance.”

He pledged to invest in digital learning infrastructure, particularly for Early Childhood Development (ECD) in rural schools.

He said his leadership would differ from past administrations that have run Garissa county since the inception of devolution.

“My government will be inclusive, transparent, and data-driven. We will end the culture of patronage and embrace professionalism in county appointments and service delivery,” said the lawmaker.

Despite being a national government role, the member of the county assembly said he recognizes Garissa’s fragile security landscape,

Mr. Hajir emphasized the need for community-led peacebuilding, improved collaboration with national security agencies, and investment in early warning and conflict resolution mechanisms.

Hajir said he is committed to ensuring at least 35% of his cabinet will be composed of women and representatives from marginalized communities.

“Inclusion is not a favor, it’s a right,” he said.

Mr. Hajir shared a robust plan for climate adaptation that includes water harvesting, construction of sand dams, and promotion of drought-resilient farming and pastoralism initiatives.

He told Kulan Post about his plans to collaborate with development partners to expand access to clean water in rural and arid zones.

While yet to confirm the specific party, Hajir said he is currently consulting widely with supporters and elders and “will announce his political platform in due course,” hinting at a potential independent or coalition-based bid.

“My message is simple: A better Garissa is possible. Together, we can usher in a new era of hope, service, and shared prosperity. I am not running for power, I am running for purpose,” Mr. Dahiye said.

Mr. Hajir will run under the TALASAME Alliance, a unity pact between Ijara in the South and Dadaab and Lagdera in the North of Garissa. The coalition is rooted in the Somali word Talasame, meaning “the good decision.”

Hajir is a product of devolution, having served as a County Executive Member (2013–2017), advisor to the county government (2017–2022), and now as an elected MCA.

His leadership blends experience, vision, and a deep connection to the people.

An alumni of Lenana School, Hajir holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Kenyatta University, an MBA from Mount Kenya University, and is currently pursuing a PhD.

The Wafate Council of Elders who attended the meeting acknowledged Mr. Hajir’s leadership experience and commitment to service.

Mr. Abdullahi Ahmed, a resident of Garissa and elder said Mr. Hajir 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 Garissa Gubernatorial seat,” he said.

He added, “we will carefully evaluate his request alongside others who will come.”