Mandera Deputy Governor Maalim to contest for parliamentary seat

Mandera Deputy Governor Omar Mohamed Maalim will vie for the Mandera East parliamentary seat in the August 8 elections.

In an interview with Nation, Mr Maalim said will square it out with incumbent MP Abdulaziz Farah.

“I have decided to go for this seat to offer services that are not devolved to the people,” he said.
The former police officer says he wants to convince the national government through parliament to provide a lasting solution to the insecurity in Mandera.

“Mandera East constituency bears the brunt of insecurity and something has to be done that is why I need to be in parliament close loopholes by introducing favourable bills,” he said.

He said he has attained what was needed at the county level including improved health services, infrastructure, provision of clean water, supporting agriculture and livestock production.

“We have done quite well at the county level but there is a gap in terms of functions that remained at the national government which are needed by our people,” he said.

Mr Maalim has since been nominated for the position by his clan council of elders.

“I have the support of my Murulle clan council of elders and this will boost my election so that I can attain my goal as the area Mp,” he said.

The deputy governor warned those opposing political decisions of council of elders in Mandera to continue doing it at their own peril.

“Council of elders is an institution that deserves respect and those opposing it know the consequences,” said Mr Maalim.

The trained cop said his relationship with Governor Ali Roba is on the
verge of collapse since Garre Council of elders passed a decree barring him (Mr Roba) from seeking re-election.

“Everything came to a standstill immediately the council of elders made their shocking announcement in August 2016 and my boss has been busy engaging in roadside politics,” he said.

He advised governor Roba to revisit 2013 history when a section of politicians defied a similar directive and lost at the ballot.

He said he has enjoyed working with Governor Roba but their relationship was taking a different shape with the governor engaging in divisive politics.

“Those defying can continue doing so but the council of elders is the will of the people and their word is final in the society,” he said.

Mr Maalim vehemently denied sponsoring rowdy youths to humiliate MP Farah on Sunday at a political rally.

“His allegations are last kicks of a dying horse and he can accuse me of anything which is cheap politics that I don’t entertain,” he said.

Mr Maalim will be facing Mandera Assembly Speaker Abdikadir Sheikh, area MP Abdulaz Farah and nominated MCA Jimaldin Mohamed in the Jubilee Party nomination.

“I want my governor to allow us finish our business of serving our people because many are suffering due to ravaging drought while he is busy fighting a losing battle,” Mr Maalim said.