By Salah Abdi Sheikh
For over six decades, Kenyan Somalis have been the silent custodians of a system that has failed us. We have endured systemic neglect, political exclusion, and economic marginalization, yet our leaders have consistently chosen complacency over courage. They have guarded the status quo, prioritizing their personal safety and comfort over the aspirations of our people. This manifesto is a call for a complete political reorientation. It is a demand for bold, visionary leadership and an urgent action plan to reclaim our future, starting with the 2027 elections.
The Crisis of Leadership
Kenyan Somali leaders have become synonymous with sycophancy. They do not lead; they obey. Their political careers are defined by an unwavering loyalty to regimes that have systematically disenfranchised our community. This is not leadership; it is survivalism. Our politicians play characters in a poorly written play, mouthing lines that serve those in power while ignoring the needs of their people. When their careers end, they leave no legacy. No policies. No progress. No impact. They are placeholders, not trailblazers.
This failure of leadership has had dire consequences for our community. Despite being one of Kenya’s largest ethnic groups, the Somali community remains politically and economically sidelined. The systemic discrimination we face is deeply rooted in history, from the Shifta War’s devastating impact to decades of state policies that treat us as outsiders. Our leaders’ unwillingness to challenge this status quo has left our people vulnerable and voiceless.
Historical Injustices and Marginalization
The historical mistreatment of Kenyan Somalis is well-documented. During the Shifta War (1963-1967), the Kenyan government’s response to Somali secessionist demands was brutal and dehumanizing. Entire communities were subjected to collective punishment, forced into detention camps, and denied basic rights. The scars of that era remain unhealed, yet our leaders have failed to advocate for justice or even acknowledge this painful history.
In the years that followed, the marginalization continued. Economic development in Somali-dominated regions such as North Eastern Kenya has been deliberately stifled. Infrastructure is virtually non-existent, schools are underfunded, and healthcare facilities are inadequate. Meanwhile, the government’s perception of Somali identity remains rooted in suspicion, as seen in policies such as the vetting of Somali Kenyans for citizenship documents. These injustices are compounded by the lack of political will among our leaders to demand systemic change.
The Fear-Driven Mentality
At the heart of our leadership crisis is fear. Somali politicians operate from a mindset of survival, not service. They fear exclusion from the ruling regime and imagine life outside power as an existential threat. This fear has created a culture of political appeasement, where our leaders prioritize staying in the good graces of those in power rather than advocating for their constituents. It is this fear-driven mentality that has turned Kenyan Somalis into natural home guards for a broken system.
But this mentality is a trap. It perpetuates a cycle of dependency and disempowerment. By aligning themselves with regimes that offer no meaningful reforms, our leaders have become complicit in our community’s marginalization. This must end. We cannot afford another generation of leaders who prioritize their personal survival over the collective good.
The Way Forward: A Call for Political Reawakening
The 2027 elections present a critical opportunity for Kenyan Somalis to chart a new course. We must reject the politics of fear and sycophancy and demand leadership that is bold, visionary, and accountable. Here is our roadmap for change:
1. Retire the Current Leadership
The current crop of Somali politicians has failed us. They have proven incapable of challenging the system or delivering meaningful change. It is time to push them into retirement and replace them with leaders who are committed to our community’s aspirations. This is not just a political necessity; it is a moral imperative.
2. Demand Accountability
We must hold our leaders accountable for their actions—or lack thereof. Accountability begins with transparency. Somali politicians must be required to report on their achievements, justify their decisions, and answer to their constituents. No more empty promises. No more meaningless speeches. We demand results.
3. Prioritize Economic Empowerment
Economic marginalization is one of the biggest challenges facing Kenyan Somalis. To address this, we need leaders who will advocate for equitable resource allocation, investment in infrastructure, and support for local businesses. Economic empowerment is the foundation of political and social progress.
4. Advocate for Justice and Inclusion
Our community’s historical grievances must be addressed. This includes seeking justice for the atrocities committed during the Separatist Independence War, historical massacres and challenging discriminatory policies that treat Somali Kenyans as second-class citizens. We must also deserve greater and meaningful representation in national decision-making processes including playing the opposition role to the regimes in power. The current tokens in government are embarrassingly inadequate.
5. Invest in Education and Youth Leadership
The future of our community lies in the hands of our youth. We must invest in education to equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge they need to lead. At the same time, we must create opportunities for young leaders to emerge and take on positions of responsibility. The old guard has had its chance; it is time for fresh perspectives and new ideas.
6. Build a Unified Front
For too long, divisions within the Somali community have weakened our political influence. We must prioritize unity and solidarity to amplify our collective voice. This means setting aside petty rivalries and working together to achieve common goals. This also means avoiding the ethnic community trap by collaborating with all citizens of this country to achieve a just political system.
The Role of the 2027 Elections
The 2027 elections are our moment of reckoning. They are our chance to reject the politics of the past and embrace a new vision for the future. To achieve this, we must mobilize our community to participate actively in the electoral process. This includes:
1. Registering to vote in large numbers.
2. Supporting candidates who align with our vision for change.
3. Rejecting candidates who have failed to deliver.
5. Rejecting the clan consensus and negotiated democracy.
4. Holding elected officials accountable after the elections.
The 2027 elections are not just about choosing leaders; they are about defining our destiny as a community. We cannot afford to sit on the sidelines. Action is not optional; it is essential.
A Vision for the Future
Our vision is simple yet profound: a future where Kenyan Somalis are no longer marginalized but are active participants in shaping the nation’s destiny. A future where our leaders are fearless advocates for justice and progress. A future where our children have access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities to thrive. A future where our community’s contributions are recognized and valued.
This vision is achievable, but it requires courage, determination, and unity. It requires us to confront our fears, reject complacency, and demand better from ourselves and our leaders. Most importantly, it requires action—starting now.
Conclusion
The time for change is now. Kenyan Somalis cannot afford another decade of political irrelevance and economic stagnation. We must retire the old guard, hold our leaders accountable, and invest in a new generation of fearless, visionary leaders. The 2027 elections are our opportunity to reclaim our future and redefine our place in the nation.
This manifesto is a call to action. It is a demand for justice, progress, and dignity. Let us rise to the challenge and build a future that our children will be proud to inherit. Together, we can create the change we seek. Together, we can secure our rightful place in Kenya’s future. The time is now. Let’s act.
Print this manifesto and post it on every post and pole in your village.
The Writer is Finance and Management Consultant.
