Former Deputy Speaker Farah Maalim has sparked conversation after declaring that the Somali community in Kenya only gained true freedom when President William Ruto took office in 2022.
Speaking at a public event, Maalim said that for over six decades, the Somali people felt marginalized and excluded from full participation in national affairs. However, he claimed that things changed after Ruto’s election, marking what he described as a new era of inclusion and recognition.
“Sisi Wasomali tumepata Uhuru siku Ruto amekuwa president. For 62 years hatukuwa na Uhuru kwa hii nchi. Sisi independence yetu tutakuwa tunasema tulipata 2022,” Maalim said.
His remarks have drawn mixed reactions across the political divide. Supporters of President Ruto praised the statement, saying it reflected the government’s commitment to equality and regional balance. Critics, however, argued that Maalim’s comments were politically motivated and exaggerated.
Maalim, a veteran politician from Garissa County, has been a vocal advocate for the rights and development of marginalized regions, often pushing for greater representation and inclusion of communities from northern Kenya.
