WAJIR — Leaders from North Eastern Province (NEP) have converged at Shalete Primary School in Wajir County on Sunday for the coronation of Sultan Abdirahman Sultan Hussein, the new leader of the Bahgeri sub-clan. The ceremony, attended by thousands, underscored the enduring role of traditional institutions in fostering unity and progress amid Kenya’s evolving socio-political landscape.
Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Duale flanked by Eldas MP Adan Keynan joined a constellation of prominent figures including Mandera North MP Maj. (Rtd) Bashir Abdullahi, Wajir South MP Mohammed Adow, Lafey MP Abdirahman Mohamed Abdi, Nominated MP Abdisiirat Ali, and former Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Gedi.
The event was hosted by Wajir leaders led Deputy Governor H.E. Ahmed Muhumed Abdi, alongside other dignitaries such as former MP Hon. Nasri Sahal, KMA Chair Hon. Ahmed Kolosh, ex-Wajir Senator Hon. Abdirahman Ali Hassan, UNHCR Ambassador Mohamed Abdi Affey, and Dr. Hassan Mohamed Adam of Nairobi South Hospital.
In his address, CS Duale hailed the coronation as a pivotal moment shaping the community’s future. “As Chief Guest, I joined the Bahgeri sub-clan… for the coronation of their new leader, Sultan Abdirahman Sultan Hussein,” Duale noted.
Duale urged residents to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA) to access affordable healthcare, eliminating out-of-pocket burdens. Duale also called for voter registration to bolster President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election, citing Ruto’s reforms like ending citizenship document vetting and accelerating infrastructure and health projects in the region.
As Chief Guest, I joined the Bahgeri sub-clan at Shalete Primary School in Wajir County for the coronation of their new leader, Sultan Abdirahman Sultan Hussein, an important moment that will shape the community’s socio-political path.
In my remarks, I encouraged residents of… pic.twitter.com/msShC2YlIN
— Hon. Aden Duale, EGH (@HonAdenDuale) November 16, 2025
Eldas MP Adan Keynan echoed the sentiment, describing the event as a “remarkable celebration of heritage, identity, and community leadership.”
MP Keynan emphasized its unifying power: “This coronation was not just a cultural rite but a powerful reminder of the unifying role traditional institutions continue to play… Such events are essential in promoting unity… and reinforcing our collective commitment to harmony and regional development.” He congratulated Sultan Abdirahman and praised the Bahgeri for preserving traditions that “bind us together in purpose and progress.”
The colorful proceedings featured traditional attire, rhythmic drumming, and communal feasts, drawing crowds from across Wajir. Several clan elders and fellow Sultans welcomed the new leader, imploring him to prioritize integrity and sub-clan cohesion. Religious leaders invoked Islamic teachings on exemplary leadership, stressing patience and divine trusteeship.
Joined colleague leaders from across the region including Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale, religious scholars, community leaders, elders and the people of Wajir County for the historic coronation of Sultan Abdurahman Sultan Hussein Sultan Sugal Sultan Iman of the Bahgeri… pic.twitter.com/sNdf7rkPEb
— Hon. (Dr.) Adan Keynan, CBS (@HonAdanKeynan) November 16, 2025
In his acceptance speech, Sultan Abdirahman pledged consultative governance. “I promise to offer good leadership based on wide consultation with community elders, local leaders, and religious leaders,” he affirmed, vowing to navigate challenges through dialogue and inclusivity.
The coronation arrives at a time when North Eastern Kenya grapples with arid conditions, security concerns, and developmental needs. Observers view it as a beacon for inter-clan harmony, potentially easing tensions in a region long marked by resource scarcity. As the Bahgeri community rallies behind their sultan, the event signals a renewed push for collaborative growth under Ruto’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
With NEP’s political heavyweights in attendance, the gathering also hinted at strategic alignments ahead of the 2027 polls, blending tradition with modern governance imperatives. For the Bahgeri, it’s a fresh chapter of empowerment; for Wajir, a step toward enduring peace.
