Mohammed Abduba Dida, a former Kenyan presidential candidate, has been released from prison in the United States after serving part of a seven-year sentence. Dida, known for his candidacy in Kenya’s 2013 and 2017 elections, was incarcerated at the Big Muddy Correctional Center in Illinois following his conviction on charges of stalking and transmitting threats. He was initially scheduled for release on April 3, 2029, but was granted early release on March 3, 2025, under a clemency arrangement that includes community service for the remainder of his sentence.
Dida’s legal troubles began in McLean County, Illinois, where he was found guilty of two counts: stalking and transmitting threats, resulting in a two-year sentence, and aggravated stalking and violation of a restraining order, leading to an additional five-year term . The offenses of were related to incidents involving his American wife, including violating a court-imposed restriction by attending a mosque near her residence, an act that led to his arrest.
During his incarceration, Dida filed a civil rights lawsuit alleging violations of his religious freedoms and inadequate medical care. He claimed that prison officials impeded his ability to practice Islam and denied him necessary medical attention for health issues, including pernicious anemia . While the court dismissed his claims regarding educational and vocational program access, it ordered an investigation into his allegations of medical negligence .
Before his legal issues, Dida gained national attention in Kenya for his unconventional campaign style and focus on education reform. He previously taught English Literature and Religion at Lenana School and Daadab Secondary School at the refugee camp. In the 2013 presidential election, he garnered 52,848 votes, representing 0.43% of the total votes, and in 2017, he received 38,004 votes, representing 0.25% of the total .
Dida’s early release marks a significant turn in his life, transitioning from a political figure in Kenya to a former inmate in the U.S. As he completes his sentence through community service, his future endeavors remain to be seen.
