Former Ijara MP Sophia Abdi Noor has been endorsed to seek the seat again. The decision followed three days of talks. Family and community views were also considered. The backing was described as a vote of confidence.
It now places Ms Abdi Noor at the centre of the 2027 race.
A historic first was made
Ms Abdi Noor made history in 2017. She became the first woman elected from Ijara. She also became the first Somali woman to enter the National Assembly from the seat. Her election was seen as a major step.
It came from a region long marked by male dominance in politics. She defeated the sitting MP, Ahmed Ibrahim Abass. She won 6,001 votes against his 5,705.
Support is urged for her bid
Other hopefuls have now been urged to accept the decision. They have also been asked to back her campaign. The appeal was framed as a call for unity. No details were given on whether all potential candidates had accepted the endorsement.
The 2027 contest is therefore likely to remain open.
The road to 2027 begins
Ms Abdi Noor will now seek a return to Parliament. Her previous term ran from 2017 to 2022. She was listed by Parliament among women directly elected to the National Assembly during that term.
The latest endorsement gives her campaign an early boost. But the final outcome will be decided by voters. For now, the focus is on building support in Ijara.
And the race is only beginning.
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