Former Garissa Governor Ali Bunow Korane has stepped up his political re-engagement ahead of the 2027 General Election, urging residents to overcome clan divisions and rally behind a common development agenda as he seeks a return to county leadership.
Korane made the appeal during a fundraising event for Nanighi Mosque and Tahfidh Madrasa in Garissa County, where he called for peaceful political competition and greater cooperation among communities.
The former governor, who lost the seat to Nathif Jama in the 2022 elections, also urged eligible residents to register as voters, signalling the importance of grassroots mobilisation as political campaigns gradually gather momentum.
Beyond his county ambitions, Korane endorsed President William Ruto’s bid for a second term, claiming that the Kenya Kwanza administration had delivered more development projects to Garissa and the wider region than previous governments.
Should he reclaim the governorship, Korane said his priorities would include improving healthcare services, expanding access to education and creating economic opportunities for young people.
He argued that youth empowerment should extend beyond public-sector employment, with a focus on helping young people build sustainable livelihoods and become financially independent.
Korane’s campaign is likely to draw attention to his record during his 2017–2022 tenure, when his administration pursued projects in healthcare, education and water provision.
Among the initiatives highlighted by his administration was the operationalisation of intensive care and renal units at Garissa Referral Hospital. The facilities were intended to improve access to specialised treatment locally and reduce the need for patients to travel to Nairobi for certain medical services.
Read: Korane Secures Abudwak Clan Endorsement for Garissa Governor 2027 Race as Shurie Steps Down
His government also invested in early childhood development education through the construction of ECDE classrooms and the recruitment of teachers. In the water sector, the administration implemented the Kasha Water Supply project, with support from UNICEF, to improve access to clean water in Kasha and surrounding settlements.
On governance, Korane’s emphasis on inclusivity echoes arrangements made during his first term. It was reported in 2021 that senior county government positions had been shared among different clans following consultations with community elders.
However, his bid for a second term will require him to convince voters that he has addressed the shortcomings of his previous administration. Korane has previously acknowledged lessons from his first term and indicated that they would shape his approach if returned to office.
In an interview with The Star, he also outlined plans to strengthen referral and sub-county hospitals while expanding opportunities for young people outside county government employment.
With the 2027 elections approaching, Korane faces the task of rebuilding political support and presenting a compelling case for his return. His latest message places unity, service delivery and economic empowerment at the centre of his renewed push for the Garissa governorship.
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