By James Mutua
Mohamed Haji Bullow, also known as Kahiye, has issued a public apology to several senior Somali leaders and announced his defection from the DCP party to the United Democratic Alliance, saying the move was driven by political and community considerations.
Speaking during a press address, Bullow apologized for earlier remarks he said unfairly targeted an individual with a similar name to another person he had intended to reference. He acknowledged that his statements deprived the individual of his dignity and rights as a Kenyan and described the incident as a political misstep rather than a personal grievance.
“I am apologizing publicly for denouncing him and depriving him of his right as a Kenyan,” Bullow said, repeating his regret and stating that he had no personal hostility toward the individual, who comes from his home area.
He also extended an apology to prominent Somali political figures including Farah Maalim and Aden Keynan, as well as other senior leaders he had criticized in an earlier press release. Bullow said he regretted using vulgar language and emphasized the cultural importance of respecting elders and influential figures within the Somali community.
“They are important to the Somali community and command a lot of respect,” he said, adding that disrespecting them goes against Somali cultural values. He asked both the leaders and the wider community for forgiveness.
Bullow, who described himself as a former DCP member and regional organizer within a disability league affiliated to the party, formally announced his resignation from DCP and his decision to join UDA. He accused his former party of lacking a constructive agenda and focusing instead on personal attacks against political rivals.
According to Bullow, his decision followed what he called a close assessment of the political landscape in northern Kenya, including Marsabit, Isiolo, Moyale, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Lamu. He claimed DCP had minimal support in the region and urged its northern members to defect to UDA.
“For the sake of the country and the stability of Kenya, I decided to defect,” he said.
He symbolically handed over his DCP membership card to community elders present at the event, including religious and clan leaders, whom he thanked for persuading him to reconsider his political position. Bullow said tensions arising from his previous affiliation had strained personal relationships, including within his family.
Responding to questions from journalists, he denied acting under political pressure, insisting his apology and defection were voluntary.
“I had no threat and nobody has threatened me. It is out of my sincere conviction,” he said, adding that political parties must command genuine support in their home regions to remain viable.
Bullow concluded his remarks by thanking supporters and family members who assisted in organizing the press conference and called for unity among Kenyans.
