A group of Isiolo leaders has accused the United Democratic Movement (UDM) leadership and certain politicians from neighbouring counties of being behind rising political tensions and attempts to destabilize governance in the county.

Speaking during a press conference in Nairobi on Monday, Woman Representative Mumina Bonaya and former Governor Godana Doyo, alongside other prominent figures, accused a section of UDM leaders of interfering in Isiolo’s affairs and backing efforts to disrupt local leadership.

They claimed that the unrest in Isiolo is not homegrown but is being driven by outside political interests.

Bonaya claimed the unrest is being sponsored by one of the Governors of the Northern counties, whom she accused of having undisclosed interests in Isiolo.

“I know what his interest is in Isiolo. He is still involved today, sponsoring chaos in our county. He must come out and tell us what his intentions are,” she said.

Bonaya further alleged that the UDM party was trying to force Isiolo residents into joining the party, despite their support for the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

“You can’t force us to be in UDM. You can’t impeach our governor because we don’t want to join your party,” she stated.

The Woman Rep went on to claim that UDM had backed the recent failed impeachment attempt against Governor Abdi Guyo by supporting some Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) who had reportedly left the county ahead of the motion.

“They were taking care of their bills, their upkeep—everything. That is shameful for a party that claims to have a national outlook,” Bonaya said.

She further claimed that nominated MCAs who supported reconciliation efforts with Governor Guyo were being threatened with expulsion from the party.

Bonaya also mentioned several senior government officials who, according to her, were taking part in partisan politics instead of fulfilling their mandates.

“These are people appointed by the President, and we thank him. But unfortunately, they are not doing their job. They are busy sponsoring impeachment efforts and political chaos in Isiolo,” she noted.

In addition, Bonaya called on President William Ruto to take action against the officials, whom she accused of promoting ethnic division and political instability in the region.

“We will not allow our people to be incited against each other. Isiolo is home to all 42 tribes. We will not fight because of a few individuals with tribal interests. We will maintain peace and follow the law,” she said.

These statements follow heightened political tension in the county after an unsuccessful bid to impeach Governor Guyo.

Speaker Banticha dismissed suggestions that the Borana community was considering withdrawing its support for the President.

He reaffirmed the community’s loyalty to the Kenya Kwanza administration, pointing out that the Borana people are represented in Isiolo by Governor Guyo, Bonaya, and former Governor Doyo.

The Speaker also cited leaders from Marsabit and Tana River counties of interfering with Isiolo county.

“I want to assure the President that the Borana community, led by Governor Guyo, Hon. Rasso, and Hussein Dado, is with him,” Banticha said.