Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has once again sparked a national debate after shedding light on governance challenges facing Northern Kenya.
Legal expert Ahmednasir Abdullahi has amplified the conversation, questioning the role of political leadership in the region’s persistent underdevelopment. In a tweet on Saturday, Abdullahi urged Kenyans to scrutinize the impact of the poor educational background of Northern Kenya’s leaders, from governors and Senators to MPs, women representatives, and MCAs, on local governance and public welfare.
“Now that H.E. Rigathi Gachagua has lifted the opaque veil enveloping Northern Kenya and shredded it into smithereens, let us interrogate another important secret that informs the current crisis,” Abdullahi wrote.
He further highlighted that less than 1% of elected leaders from Northern Kenya have a university degree, raising questions about their ability to prioritise education and social welfare.
“If you come from Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo, or Marsabit, please take a pen and paper and do this homework,” Abdullahi said, urging regional leaders to reflect on how political decisions may have contributed to the underdevelopment of their counties.
Abdullahi’s remarks have intensified scrutiny on political leadership in Northern Kenya, a region long plagued by limited educational opportunities, corruption, and stalled development projects.
He emphasized that improving governance starts with ensuring leaders are well-educated and accountable to the communities they serve.
Political analysts suggest that addressing these systemic challenges is crucial if the region is to achieve meaningful progress and bridge the gap in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

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