Former Garissa Governor Ali Bunow Korane when former Water Resources Authority CEO Mohammed Shurie endorsed him for the top county seat/HANDOUTFormer Garissa Governor Ali Bunow Korane’s bid to reclaim the county’s top seat in 2027 has received a boost after former Water Resources Authority CEO Mohammed Shurie endorsed his candidature.
Shurie has stepped aside from the governor race and declared his support for Korane, in a move that could reshape the political contest as aspirants intensify efforts to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The endorsement brings together two politicians who had expressed interest in the same seat, potentially opening the way for a joint campaign to rally supporters behind Korane.
Korane welcomed the decision, describing it as a demonstration of unity and a shared commitment to the development of Garissa County.
“I warmly welcome my colleague’s decision to step down from the gubernatorial race and support my bid. This is a demonstration of unity and a shared commitment to the development of our county,” Korane said.
“I am grateful for the confidence and support, and I pledge to work with all leaders to deliver on the aspirations of our people.”
Korane served as Garissa’s second governor from August 2017 to August 2022 before losing the seat to Nathif Jama Adam in the 2022 elections.
Jama, who was the county’s pioneer governor from 2013 to 2017, returned to office after defeating Korane in the last General Election.
Korane’s renewed bid comes after his defection from Jubilee to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), where he was welcomed by senior party officials, including Secretary-General Hassan Omar, Deputy Party Leader Issa Timamy and Chairperson Cecile Mbarire.
The endorsement by Shurie could strengthen Korane’s political mobilisation by bringing together supporters who might otherwise have backed separate candidates.
It also signals the possibility of broader alliances as political leaders position themselves for the contest, with aspirants seeking to build support across the county.
Korane said the decision would provide an opportunity to build a united team with a common vision for Garissa.
“I sincerely thank my fellow aspirant for putting the interests of our county above personal ambition and joining our campaign,” he said.
“This is a significant step towards building a united team with a common vision for our county. I assure our supporters that we will work together to bring the change and leadership our people deserve.”
The emerging alliance comes as issues such as security, employment, access to essential services and development remain central to the county’s political debate.
For residents, the focus will be on whether the partnership translates into a shared agenda that addresses the needs of communities across Garissa.
While Shurie’s endorsement gives Korane an opportunity to expand his support base, the gubernatorial contest remains open, with other aspirants expected to continue pursuing their own political ambitions.
The eventual outcome will depend on how the competing candidates organise their campaigns, build alliances and present their plans to voters ahead of the 2027 elections.
