DG Muhumed calls for unity, stronger representation for Wajir’s future at WOP forum
Wajir Deputy Governor highlighted three central themes: unity, representation, and political direction as the pillars that will determine the community’s progress in the coming years.
The 18th edition of the Wajir Ogaden Professionals (WOP) Forum on Saturday evening featured a passionate call for unity and renewed political strategy from Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed Caato.
He emphasized the importance of cohesion in shaping the future of Wajir County’s leadership.
Wajir Deputy Governor highlighted three central themes: unity, representation, and political direction as the pillars that will determine the community’s progress in the coming years.
Caato revisited his 2014 initiative, the Ogaden Community Unity Course, which sought to rally the community behind a collective political vision.
He noted that lessons from the 2017 and 2022 general elections had shown that without unity, the Governor’s seat would remain elusive.
“Unity is not just about coming together for a single campaign. It’s about building a sustainable, cohesive movement that carries us forward in every election and in every decision we make,” he told the forum.
On representation, Caato decried the stagnation of Wajir South Constituency, which has remained a single electoral unit since independence, unlike other constituencies that have been subdivided over the decades.
He attributed this to internal disunity rather than external political pressure.
“This isn’t about blaming our neighbors. It’s about our own actions and inactions,” he said.
Caato revealed that during his tenure as Deputy Governor, he worked with the sitting MP for Wajir South to push for constituency boundary reviews, underscoring his commitment to enhancing representation.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Caato called for a re-examination of the mandate of the Ogaden Select Committee (OSC).
Currently, the OSC limits itself to selecting candidates for Governor, Women Representative, and Township MCA.
Caato urged for a broader approach that considers all elective positions, including Senator and Deputy Governor.
He stressed the need for a community “Champion” who embodies courage, vision, and unity to secure the Governor’s seat in 2027.
“The Governor’s seat is within our reach, but it will require unity, strength, and vision,” he declared.
While optimistic about capturing the county’s top seat, Caato also hinted at alternative strategies should the governorship remain out of reach.
He promised to share these options in future forums, but emphasized that unity must remain the guiding principle.
“Together, we can transform our future. Let us not forget: the path to success lies in our unity,” he underscored.
The WOP Forum continues to serve as a key platform for dialogue on Wajir’s political and developmental trajectory.
It brings together leaders, professionals, and community members to chart a common course.
