By MKT Reporter
Former Garissa Governor Ali Bunow Korane defected from the Jubilee Party to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) as he prepares to contest the county’s top seat in the 2027 General Elections.
Korane was formally received into the party at an event held at Mnara Primary School in Garissa, attended by UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar, Deputy Party Leader Issa Timamy, and Chairperson Cecile Mbarire, among other officials.
During the gathering, Korane also received an endorsement from clan elders, led by Abudwak Grand Council of Elders who selected him as their preferred candidate from among four individuals who had expressed interest in the gubernatorial race.
In his remarks, the former governor said the endorsement and his decision to join UDA where he was also issued with the party’s Silver membership certificate would strengthen his campaign, pledging to focus on unity and inclusive leadership in Garissa.
Senior UDA leaders present at the event welcomed his move, saying it would boost the party’s presence in Northern Kenya. They also highlighted ongoing government programmes in the region, including infrastructure projects and reforms to identification processes.
Korane served as Garissa governor from 2017 to 2022 before losing to the incumbent, Governor Nathif Jama, in the last general election. His latest move sets the stage for a fresh contest as he seeks a return to office in 2027.
Other leaders who attended the event included Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana, Belgut MP Nelson Koech, Mbalambala MP Abdi Omar Shurie, Tana River Woman Representative Amina Dika, EALA MP Falhada Iman, Lamu Deputy Governor Dr Mbarak Mohamed, and Nakuru MCA Hassan Duale.
Korane thanked residents of Garissa County for showing confidence in his leadership saying he would not let them down.