The race for Wajir’s political future may have quietly begun.
For the first time, Wajir Governor and Council of Governors Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi has publicly hinted that he could contest the Wajir Senate seat in the 2027 General Election, while at the same time dismissing speculation that he is actively seeking a Cabinet position in President William Ruto’s administration.
Speaking during an interview on the Geedfadhi podcast, the second-term governor offered his clearest indication yet of where his political journey could be headed once his constitutional tenure as governor comes to an end.His remarks are already generating debate across Wajir’s political circles, where discussions over the county’s post-2027 leadership succession have increasingly gathered momentum.
“Many Wajir people are suggesting to me to go for the Senate seat and jokingly I always say if I vie for Senate I will win it… I can feel it. But for now I have not made the decision. I will make it at the end of the year. For now, I need to work for my remaining term.” He saidAlthough delivered in a light-hearted tone, the statement has been widely interpreted as more than a joke.
For seasoned political observers, politicians rarely speak publicly about electoral possibilities unless they intend to test public opinion. Ahmed Abdullahi’s comments appear to do exactly that introducing the possibility of a Senate bid without formally declaring his candidacy.By saying, “I can feel it,” the governor projected confidence in his political standing while carefully avoiding making a firm commitment.
The statement also reveals a politician keen on balancing future ambitions with present responsibilities. Instead of launching into campaign mode, Ahmed emphasized that his priority remains delivering on the mandate entrusted to him by Wajir residents during his second and final term. That message may resonate with voters who often criticize leaders for abandoning service delivery in favour of early political campaigns.
For months, speculation has persisted that Ahmed Abdullahi could be rewarded with a Cabinet Secretary position should President William Ruto secure a second term in office. As Chairperson of the Council of Governors, Ahmed has become one of the country’s most visible county leaders, regularly engaging the national government on matters of devolution and intergovernmental relations.
His close working relationship with President Ruto has only fuelled speculation that he could eventually transition into national executive leadership.However, the governor sought to pour cold water on those reports.
“The Cabinet Secretary appointment always belongs to the President and I have never given the President a condition on appointment to a ministerial post.”Those words carry significant political weight. Rather than appearing to lobby for a Cabinet position, Ahmed portrayed himself as a loyal political ally who does not expect rewards in return for his support.
He instead framed his relationship with President Ruto around trust and political partnership rather than personal ambition.He added:
“I only promised him that I will vote for him this term due to what he has done for our region and the respect he gave me… Whatever happens, I promised him I will be behind him this term.”
Senate Bid or Cabinet Appointment? Ahmed Abdullahi’s Political Future Comes into Focus
The governor’s remarks reinforce his position as one of President William Ruto’s most dependable allies in the North Eastern region.
At a time when national political alliances continue to shift, his declaration sends a clear signal that he intends to remain firmly within the President’s political camp heading into the next election cycle.At the same time, his comments have opened two possible political paths after 2027.
The first is a bid for the Wajir Senate seat. Such a move would allow him to remain an influential figure in county politics while taking up a constitutional role focused on protecting devolution and representing county interests at the national level.
Given his experience as governor and current leadership of the Council of Governors, many analysts believe the Senate would provide a natural continuation of his political career. His experience navigating county governance and national policy discussions could strengthen his credentials as a legislator with a deep understanding of devolution.
The second possibility remains an appointment to President Ruto’s Cabinet. While Ahmed himself insisted that Cabinet appointments rest solely with the President, his national profile continues to grow. As Council of Governors Chairperson, he has built relationships across counties and national institutions, making him one of Kenya’s most recognizable governors.
Should President Ruto return to State House after the 2027 elections, Ahmed’s administrative experience, national visibility and political loyalty could still place him among the names considered for senior government appointments.
For now, however, the governor appears keen to avoid giving the impression that he is campaigning for either position. Instead, he has deliberately left both options open while insisting that his immediate focus remains fulfilling the promises he made to the people of Wajir.Although Ahmed Abdullahi says he will make his decision later this year, his latest remarks have undoubtedly reshaped conversations surrounding Wajir’s political landscape.
If he ultimately chooses to contest the Senate seat, the race would instantly become one of the most closely watched contests in North Eastern Kenya. His entry would likely influence calculations among other aspiring leaders seeking countywide positions, including those eyeing the governorship and parliamentary seats.
At the same time, continued speculation about a possible Cabinet role means Ahmed’s political future may ultimately depend not only on local electoral dynamics but also on national political developments after the 2027 General Election.One thing, however, is becoming increasingly clear.
Ahmed Abdullahi is preparing for life beyond the governor’s office.
Whether that journey leads him to the Senate chambers or into President William Ruto’s Cabinet, his remarks on the Geedfadhi podcast have ignited what could become one of Wajir’s biggest political conversations ahead of the 2027 General Election.
For now, the governor says the decision has not been made. But in politics, even a hint can be enough to set the stage for the next battle.