By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
July 11, 2026 - The planned coronation of another traditional leader on Sunday has sparked debate and outrage within the community, with some residents opposing the move and threatening to disrupt the ceremony.
The coronation of Mohamed Abdi Samad is fronted by a section of political leaders who are dissatisfied by the current Sultan’s decision to endorse current Garissa Senator Abdul Haji for Gubernatorial seat.
They claimed the current council of elders as constituted have been biased and unilaterally endorsed a candidate, the commendation they allege was hurriedly done without awareness of former speaker Ahmed Ibrahim Abass who equally showed interest for the seat.
The endorsement by such a high traditional leader is seen as to give the candidate credibility to seek other coalitions from other Ogaden sub-clans who are predominant in Garissa County.
Since the inception of devolution, the council of elders have been deeply involved in politics as they give greenlight to candidates while persuading others to step down in favour of other candidates.
Sultan Hassan Omar Shurie who was officially crowned in May 2016, the position according to elders is hereditary as it was held by his late father who was the sultan (traditional king) before he was killed for opposing secession.
There has been tension building up with close relatives of the current Sultan saying they are going to disrupt the meeting as the position is hereditary and no one else should be crowned.
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The conveners confirmed that the planned coronation of the new traditional elder is in place and they anticipate the locals to turn up in large numbers.
Those expected to grace the events includes Garissa Gubernatorial aspirant Ahmed Ibrahim Abass and Chief Executive Officer for Ethics and Anti- Corruption Commission (EACC) Abdi Ahmed Mohamud, National Council for Nomadic Education in Kenya (NACONEK) CEO Harun Mohamed, the area Member of parliament Abdi Ali Abdi, and current for former ward representatives.
Omar Nasteh who is amongst the team leaders assured residents that all efforts have been put in place to make the occasion memorable.
“We expect our guests to be peaceful and grace this occasion which will be historic,” he said.
Reached for comment Masalani OCPD Zaccheus kotut also assured residents that the police will be doing their usual duties downplaying any tensions in the town.