Mohammed Haji Bullow Abduwali Issues Public Apology to Somali Leaders, Defects from DCP to UDA

By Irene Mwende 

Mohammed Haji Bullow Abduwali has publicly apologized to the Somali community and several senior Somali leaders over past remarks he now describes as politically motivated and regrettable, while simultaneously announcing his defection from the DCP party to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Speaking during a press briefing attended by community elders, Abduwali said his earlier denunciation of fellow Keynan Mohammed Haji Bullow Abduwali was not personal but a product of “a political game,” admitting that his actions unfairly deprived individuals of their constitutional rights as Kenyans. He offered an unreserved apology to the Somali community and its leadership, stating that his remarks went against Somali cultural values that emphasize respect and dignity.

Abduwali also extended apologies to prominent Somali leaders, including long-serving parliamentarians Farah Maalim and  CS Aden Duale, as well as other senior figures he had previously criticized through a press release. He acknowledged their standing and influence within the community, noting that disrespecting them was inconsistent with Somali norms. He further sought forgiveness from Allah, emphasizing that his apology was sincere and voluntary, not prompted by threats or political pressure.

“I have served as a civil servant for many years and command respect in my community. No one forced me to do this. This apology comes from my heart,” he said, responding to questions from journalists.

In the same address, Abduwali announced his resignation from the DCP party, where he served as an eminent member from the North Eastern region and as an organizing secretary within a disability league. He accused the party of lacking a clear agenda for Kenyans and instead engaging in abusive politics, personal attacks, and inflammatory rhetoric that, he claimed, risked destabilizing the country.

After what he described as a careful assessment of the political landscape in Northern Kenya—including Marsabit, Isiolo, Moyale, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu—Abduwali said DCP had “no realistic chance of winning even a single seat” in the region. He called on Northerners still affiliated with DCB to defect to UDA, arguing that political parties should reflect the will and support of the people they seek to represent.

Symbolically, Abduwali handed over his DCP membership card to respected community elders, including Sultan Sheikh Muhammad Sadiq Sa’id, marking his formal exit from the party. He thanked clan elders and community leaders for their counsel and support, revealing that his political stance had even caused strain within his family, including disapproval from his elderly mother.

Concluding his remarks, Abduwali expressed gratitude to family members and associates who supported the reconciliation process and the press briefing, reaffirming his commitment to national unity. “God bless Kenya,” he said. “My decision is for the sake of peace, respect, and the future of our country.”