By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
June 22, 2026 - Former Fafi MP Abdikarim Osman has urged residents to fully support the re-election of President William Ruto, citing heavy government investment in the Northeastern region.
Speaking in Abaqdera, the former lawmaker highlighted the recent construction of Wajir Stadium, the Garissa–Tana River bridge, and the removal of vetting for ID applications as key achievements of the Ruto administration.
The MP said that during his time in parliament, his constituents faced severe difficulties applying for identity cards. He noted that people were subjected to discrimination and lengthy vetting processes, often forced to pay bribes to obtain the documents.
"These days, with the removal of vetting, an ID card is free. It only takes the chief and national registration officials to process the application. This has been done by President William Ruto," the former lawmaker said.
He added that the Ruto government is investing heavily in the LAPSSET project, which he said will open up the region to various economic opportunities.
Abdikarim also noted that during former President Uhuru Kenyatta's tenure, the passport office in Garissa was closed and operations moved to Nairobi. The current administration, he said, re-opened the Garissa office.
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"Our people no longer have to travel to Nairobi for a passport. Recently, our elders going for Hajj collected their passports right here in Garissa. Is that not wonderful?" he said.
The former MP said President Ruto is facing backlash and persecution because of his support for the Muslim and Somali communities. He argued that it is now time for the region and the wider Muslim community to rally behind the president's re-election bid.
He further said the president had demonstrated his commitment to the region by holding the national Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County. At the same time, he disparaged opposition leaders, saying they have no agenda for the country.
During his tour to Abaqdera, the former MP also shared his vision for the constituency and appealed for support in his parliamentary bid.