By Abdihakim Siyad
Wajir Governor Ahmed has broken his silence in a fiery county address, defending his two-year track record while launching a fierce counterattack on his political rivals, especially Eldas MP Adan Keynan.
Speaking during a countywide public address through local radio stations, the governor outlined his administration’s achievements in health and education, dismissed accusations of political misconduct, and boldly stated that while he may not run in 2027, he remains a central figure in Wajir’s political landscape.
Health Sector: From Collapse to Revival
Governor Ahmed began highlighting his administration strides in healthcare.
“When I assumed office, 73 hospitals had been shut down and were non-operational,” he said. “We reopened them, expanded several, and we are now in the final stages of opening a Level Five hospital, which I believe will be up and running in the coming months.”
In addition to restoring healthcare facilities, the governor announced that his administration had hired 212 health workers to fill critical staffing gaps and ensure better service delivery. “We are committed to ensuring that no resident is denied medical care due to lack of staff or services,” he affirmed.
Education and Bursaries: Investing in the Future
On education, Governor Ahmed outlined his efforts to build a stronger foundation for Wajir’s children.
“We have constructed several ECD (Early Childhood Development) classrooms across the county, and we plan to build 60 more within the next year,” he said. He emphasized the importance of early education, noting that it is the cornerstone of long-term development.
The governor also addressed bursary distribution — a long-contested issue in Wajir politics.
“The total amount we have spent on bursaries in the last two years — including the next disbursement — surpasses what the previous administration issued in five years,” he stated. This, he said, reflects a new era of accountability and people-centered leadership.
MCA Abduction Allegations: “A Politically Motivated Plot”
Governor Ahmed didn’t hold back from controversy, especially recent claims by Dela Anole Ward MCA Yusuf Ahmed Tolfiyow, who alleged that the governor was behind his abduction.
Dismissing the allegations, the governor said, “This is purely political. Yusuf is being used by a certain politician whose career has already collapsed. Even other MCAs have told me that Yusuf admitted he’s being manipulated to damage my reputation.”
He added, “If that individual had the courage, he should face me directly instead of using Tolfiyow as a pawn. I would know exactly how to deal with him politically.”
Defiance Against Eldas MP Adan Keynan
The governor then turned his attention to Eldas MP Adan Keynan, who recently accused him of being ungrateful to Eldas residents.
“Adan Keynan didn’t vote for me — the people of Eldas did, and I remain forever grateful to them,” said the governor.
He accused the MP of using smear campaigns as a launchpad for a future gubernatorial bid.
“He should stop beating around the bush and declare whether he is running or not. This politics of shadows must come to an end.” said Abdullahi.
Ahmed recalled that during the 2022 elections, Keynan had told him he wouldn’t even win an MCA seat.
“But it’s the people who had the final say, and they chose me — not him. Now he clings to my name in a desperate attempt to stay relevant.”
Pending Bills and Corruption Allegations
Governor Ahmed also addressed the pending bills crisis, which he said has severely paralyzed county operations and strained local businesses.
“This matter is being politicized by the very leaders who benefitted from the misappropriation of KSh 1.6 billion disbursed in the final two months of Governor Weerar’s term.” he alleged. “Those money were meant to clear genuine pending bills but were instead diverted. Now, these same individuals attempt to shift blame and mislead the public.”
The governor’s remarks follow a recent thanksgiving held in Wajir town and Eldas attended by MP Adan Keynan and Dela Ward MCA Yussuf Hussein Tolfiyow which many political analysts interpret as a direct challenge to his leadership.