In a pivotal development for Kenya’s political landscape, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has officially cleared United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Tubi Mohamed Tubi, popularly known as Tubi Junior, to vie for the Isiolo South parliamentary seat in the highly anticipated by-election scheduled for February 26, 2026.
This clearance marks a significant milestone, not only paving the way for Tubi Junior’s campaign but also igniting a wave of community endorsements that underscore themes of continuity, unity, and inclusive development in one of Kenya’s most diverse constituencies.
The clearance process unfolded at Garbatulla High School in the heart of Garbatulla Town, a venue that symbolized the grassroots connection Tubi Junior maintains with his constituents. As the son of the late Mohamed Tubi, whose legacy of service left an indelible mark on Isiolo South, Tubi Junior’s entry into the race represents a seamless transition aimed at building upon established foundations while injecting fresh energy into local governance.
Political observers note that this by-election, triggered by unforeseen circumstances, comes at a time when Isiolo County is grappling with key issues such as infrastructure development, resource allocation, and inter-community harmony—challenges that Tubi Junior has pledged to address head-on.
Governor Guyo’s Strong Endorsement Signals Commitment to Sustained Growth
Isiolo Governor Abdi Ibrahim Hassan, widely referred to as Governor Guyo, wasted no time in confirming the IEBC’s decision and framing Tubi Junior’s candidature as a beacon of hope for the region. Speaking with conviction at the clearance event, Governor Guyo described the young aspirant as embodying continuity, commitment, and unity for Isiolo South Constituency.
He highlighted how Tubi Junior is poised to honor his father’s storied legacy of leadership and public service, all while steering the constituency toward renewed developmental priorities.
“Tubi Junior is not just a candidate; he is a symbol of our shared aspirations,” Governor Guyo emphasized, urging residents to embrace this opportunity for progress. He called on the people of Isiolo South to demonstrate their solidarity by turning out in large numbers on election day, stressing that a united front is essential for achieving sustained and inclusive development.
In a region where ethnic and clan dynamics often influence politics, Governor Guyo’s remarks served as a rallying cry against fragmentation, positioning Tubi Junior’s campaign as a unifying force that transcends individual ambitions.
Adding weight to this narrative, former Isiolo South MP Abdi Koropu echoed the governor’s sentiments in a pointed statement. “If the only thing you want is to support Tubi Mohamed Tubi, why argue? The focus should be on his victory in this by-election,” Koropu declared, reinforcing the idea that the current electoral contest should prioritize collective advancement over divisive debates.
Community Elders Champion Solidarity and Reject Divisiveness
The momentum behind Tubi Junior’s bid gained further traction from a chorus of respected community elders, who gathered in Garbatulla to voice their unwavering support for the UDA candidate.
Representing the diverse tapestry of Isiolo’s communities—including Borana, Somali, Meru, and Turkana groups—the elders articulated a compelling case for community solidarity and leadership continuity. They portrayed Tubi Junior as the natural successor to his late father, who had previously enjoyed broad, unanimous backing from local stakeholders.
“Our focus should be solely on Tubi Mohamed Tubi, the son of the late Mohamed Tubi,” the elders proclaimed in a unified address. They implored residents to shelve any competing political ambitions until the 2027 general elections, arguing that premature rivalries could fracture the fragile bonds of harmony that define Isiolo South.
Expressing profound gratitude to supporters like Governor Guyo, the elders warned against the perils of divisive politics, which they said could erode the constituency’s social fabric and hinder long-term progress.
Halakhe Dida Wako, a prominent figure with a storied career as the former CEO of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and a past contender for Isiolo County governor, lent his influential voice to the cause. “We must stop divisive politics and support Tubi Junior,” Wako asserted, drawing on his experience in public service to highlight the dangers of internal discord.
His endorsement resonated deeply, as it bridged the gap between institutional integrity and grassroots advocacy, further solidifying the narrative of unity.
Governor Guyo, reiterating his stance on Thursday during the post-clearance gatherings, once again urged Isiolo South residents to rally behind Tubi Junior.
His repeated calls for cohesion reflect a broader strategy within the UDA party to consolidate support in northern Kenya, where electoral outcomes often hinge on community alliances and historical legacies.
Broader Implications for Isiolo’s Political Future
This by-election holds profound implications for Isiolo County and beyond, as it tests the resilience of UDA’s influence in a region known for its strategic importance in national politics.
Tubi Junior’s campaign, now officially underway, is expected to focus on key areas such as water resource management, education infrastructure, and economic empowerment—issues that have long plagued the arid constituency.
By emphasizing his father’s achievements while promising innovative solutions, Tubi Junior aims to appeal to both traditional voters and a younger demographic eager for change.
As the February 26, 2026, polling date approaches, the collective endorsements from political leaders, elders, and former officials paint a picture of a constituency poised for transformation.
Yet, the true test will lie in voter turnout and the ability to maintain the unity so fervently advocated.
For residents of Isiolo South, this election is more than a contest for a parliamentary seat; it is an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to a shared vision of prosperity, free from the shadows of division.
In the words of the community elders, the path forward is clear: support Tubi Junior today to secure a brighter tomorrow for Isiolo South.
As campaigns intensify, all eyes will be on this northeastern Kenyan hotspot, where legacy meets ambition in the pursuit of enduring progress.
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