Boost for UDA as Wiper’s Sirat Drops Out of Garissa Township Parliamentary Race

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has received a major boost ahead of the Garissa Township by-election set for January 5, 2023.

The seat fell vacant following Aden Duale’s appointment as Cabinet Secretary for Defense by President William Ruto.

Wiper party’s Abdirizak Sirat who was set to run for the seat has dropped out of the race in favor of Mohamed Barrow Dekow of the UDA.

Sirati defended his decision to drop out of the race by stating that Dekow had the backing of his Abduwak clan.

Read: Duale Backs Brother-in-law Dekow For Garissa Township MP Seat

“By today I was to clear with Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (IEBC) to vie for MP, but because of family affairs and its unity, I have decided to step down,” he said.

“I declare my support to Mohammed Barrow Dekow and I wish him favour that he clinches the seat.” 

The clan welcomed the decision noting that it was in the best interest of the community.

“Sirat has decided to shelve his political ambitions, and we are now united behind Barrow,” said a clan member.

Read Also: Duale in Parliament as MPs Debate Motion to Approve His Nomination as Defense CS

Dekow on his part, thanked Sirat for stepping down.

“I want to sincerely thank my brother Sirat for stepping down and supporting my candidature.”

Last week, the Defense CS publicly endorsed Dekow for the seat. It was later revealed that the candidate is the minister’s brother-in-law.

“I first and foremost want to use this opportunity to sincerely thank the great people of Garissa Township from the bottom of my heart for the overwhelming support you offered me. You overwhelmingly voted for me four consecutive times on different parties. I am truly humbled,” said Duale.

Read Also: Kandara, Garissa, Elgeyo Marakwet By-elections To be Held in January 2023

He added: “Now as I exit the stage and move to serve Kenyans in a different capacity, I want to humbly request that you accord Mr Dekow the same support in the by-election. He is one very capable leader that I have no doubt will deliver.”

Other candidates from the same Abduwak clan include; Mr Abdikarim Osman, a former Fafi MP, Ms Mulki Warsane, who lost her bid for Woman Rep in the August polls, and Mr Mohamed Gabow.

By-elections will also be held in Kandara and Elgeyo Marakwet.