Gachagua’s Banisa Candidate Drops Out Amid Political Pressure

Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) candidate Adan Mohamed has withdrawn from the Banisa Constituency by-election, just days before the nomination deadline.

Mohamed, commonly known as Kiongozi, said he stepped down following consultations with local elders and senior political figures, including Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif and President William Ruto. He said that his decision was influenced by the wishes of his community, which supports Ahmed Maalim Hassan, the brother of the late MP Kullow Maalim Hassan.

“I have listened to my community, who have asked me to shelve my ambition and allow the late MP’s brother to run. I believe it is the right decision,” Mohamed said.

He denied receiving any financial inducement, amid widespread speculation of a Sh100 million payout to facilitate his withdrawal. He maintained that his decision was made in good faith and with assurances of future political backing.

The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has now nominated Ahmed Hassan, who recently defected from the United Democratic Movement (UDM). Governor Khalif has called for unity behind Hassan and expressed a desire for an uncontested race, saying, “We want our candidate to go unopposed.”

DCP Secretary-General Hezron Obaga criticised the development, accusing State House of exerting undue pressure on opposition candidates. He said Mohamed’s exit supported claims of interference. 

“Our aspirants are under immense pressure to step down. If Mr Mohamed has withdrawn, it confirms the scheme,” Obaga said. 

He also claimed that reports of financial incentives continued to emerge. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set 2 October as the deadline for nomination submissions. With Mohamed out of the race, three candidates remain: Ahmed Hassan (UDA), Nurdin Dalato (United Progressive Party), and Issack Malele (People Progressive Party).