Two-time presidential candidate Mohammed Abduba Dida has recently made headlines for reasons that are far from his previous political endeavors. He is currently serving a seven-year sentence at the Big Muddy Correctional Centre in Illinois for stalking and intimidating an unidentified individual.
Dida, known for his candid approach during the 2013 elections, entered the presidential race with much fanfare. Despite his failed attempts to secure the presidency in two elections, he briefly captured public attention with his unconventional campaign tactics. After his unsuccessful presidential bids, Dida retreated from the limelight, with occasional updates posted on his X account.
As of 2024, the 49-year-old is serving a two-year sentence for stalking and a five-year sentence for violating a restraining order, both of which stem from his conviction in November 2022.
Born in Wajir Town in 1975, Dida initially made his mark as a teacher, instructing English literature and Religion at Dadaab Secondary School and later at Lenana School in Nairobi. In 2009, he left teaching to explore business opportunities. Four years later, he launched his presidential bid on the Alliance for Real Change (ARC) party ticket, focusing on anti-corruption and good governance.
Though he did not win, he managed to outperform established politicians such as Martha Karua and Paul Muite. Dida ran for president again in 2017, advocating for widespread change but finished fourth with 38,093 votes, or 0.25% of the total.
Years after his political pursuits, Dida faced legal troubles in Illinois. Since his conviction, he has filed petitions complaining about a lack of medical care and limited access to educational and vocational programs.
In a ruling on May 29, 2024, United States Magistrate Judge Gilbert Sison ordered a probe to be carried out to establish whether Dida’s claims were valid.
The court, however, dismissed his allegations, citing that his claims were not supported by the law.
