By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
August 9, 2026 - In the wake of devolution, councils of elders have played a powerful role in Garissa's political affairs, helping shape alliances, broker consensus and influence key decisions through what has come to be known as "negotiated democracy."
But that tradition is now facing an unprecedented rebellion, as growing dissent challenges the elders' influence and raises questions about whether the region's long-standing political model is beginning to lose its grip.
In Garissa, three Ogaden sub-clans each have a council of elders led by a sultan, or Ugaas, with its own "cabinet" , locally known as a Sagale , representing sub-clans. These councils are often the decision-making organ for the community.
While councils of elders have traditionally been involved in conflict resolution and other customary matters, in recent years they have become heavily involved in local politics.
Politicians appeal to the elders, who are then expected to select a flag bearer for the gubernatorial seat and negotiate with clan elders to form coalitions.
It is now becoming apparent that elders are facing unprecedented rebellion from disgruntled political leaders who claim the councils have been unfair and have betrayed their trust, and who say they will no longer follow their verdict.
For instance, disgruntled elders from Samawathal inaugurated another sultan, Mohamed Abdi Samad, complete with his Sagale, after the traditional council of elders endorsed Abdul Haji for the gubernatorial seat.
Ijara Member of Parliament Ahmed Ibrahim Abass, who is also eyeing the Garissa gubernatorial seat, led dissatisfied locals during the unveiling of the new sultan. Haji said the move was equal to killing the current Sultan.
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Haji also claimed the inauguration of the new elder was sponsored by current Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, alleging that some people are unhappy with the coalition between his Samawathal clan and Aulihan.
The Aulihan council of elders, one of the three dominant Ogaden sub-clans, is also facing massive rebellion, with residents protesting the elders' open support for Abdul Haji for the gubernatorial seat against Mohamed Muktar Shidiye, who hails from the Aulihan clan.
On Wednesday, supporters of former Lagdera Member of Parliament Mohamed Shidiye took to the streets against their own council of elders for supporting the current Garissa senator for the gubernatorial seat. They insisted that the winner of the race will be determined by the ballot rather than by elders.
The elders had, the previous day, claimed that they had sought out Shidiye in a bid to persuade him to drop his ambition, but that he failed to show up. However, Shidiye, in a quick rejoinder, said there had been no such consultations, adding that no one can decide his political future except the people of Garissa.
Former Governor Ali Korane, former Principal Secretary Abdiqani Duabt and Mould Shurie are among other candidates who have declared their gubernatorial bid for Garissa County in the coming general election.
Garissa is dominated by three Ogaden sub-clans , namely Abduwak, Samawathal and Aulihan , though there is also a substantial number of other Kenyans from across the country.