After months of courtroom battles that climaxed in a contentious Supreme Court ruling, Wajir Governor Abdi Mohamud will today have a homecoming ceremony at Orahey Grounds in Wajir town.
Plans for the party paint an elaborate event that is perhaps meant to show Wajir residents that the man they elected to office still has the political clout and ability that propelled him to office after a year in which his academic qualifications were questioned.
Top on the invite list is Somali-born music sensation Farxiya Fiska who will be curtain raised by a host of local artistes. Insiders say the artiste, who has been holed up at a top Nairobi hotel, will be paid a handsome amount, while the entire budget for the event is said to stand at about Sh40 million.
By yesterday, the organisers were making the final plans after erecting a main dais for guests and smaller tents for locals. Security was enhanced as police patrolled the venue and stationed patrol vehicles.
Least budget
Asked about the budget, the County Director of Communications, Ahmed Hussein, was hesitant. When hard pressed, he termed it as a “least budget meant for facilitation”.
He denied claims that apart from Farxiya, more performers have been flown into the country.
“That’s not true. People are coming to celebrate,” Hussein said without more details.
He said the event dubbed ‘Wajir Thanks Giving and Building Bridges Ceremony’ will be attended by many leaders, including seven governors, three Cabinet Secretaries and over 30 MPs. The chief guest will be Council of Governors Chairman Wycliffe Oparanya.
He said the governor and his deputy Ahmed Ali Mukhtar will use the platform to thank the people of Wajir for their prayers and tolerance while awaiting the Supreme Court verdict.
