Isiolo leaders urged to end disputes by elders as service delivery stalls
Balafu Darimo highlighted how political disagreements have triggered violence and insecurity, recalling clashes that occurred in June 2025 during the impeachment motion.
Elders and residents of Isiolo County have urged a halt to political disputes among county leaders, warning that ongoing tensions are paralyzing service delivery and creating insecurity. Their call follows the failed impeachment attempt against Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo, which has deepened divisions within the county leadership.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, the Borana Council of Elders and other community representatives appealed to Chief Justice Martha Koome, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to protect residents from the fallout of political instability.
Borana Council of Elders Vice Chairman Mohamed Ali expressed frustration over the lack of tangible results despite Isiolo receiving more than Sh21 billion in the past financial year. “Our people are yet to see any meaningful development from all this money. The law must take its course so that accountability can be restored,” he said.
Luke Mithika criticized county officials for fostering corruption, pointing to the controversial Sh7 billion budget that was passed without involving residents. “Public participation is a constitutional requirement meant to give residents a voice in resource allocation. This was ignored, and corruption has taken root,” Mithika said.
Balafu Darimo highlighted how political disagreements have triggered violence and insecurity, recalling clashes that occurred in June 2025 during the impeachment motion.
“This confusion has thrown our county into disorder. Services have stalled, and the lives of ordinary people are being disrupted,” she said, noting that two rival assembly camps have emerged, one operating in the official chambers and another in a tent at Ol Donyiro Ward.
Some residents expressed doubts about the impartiality of the judiciary in handling Isiolo’s political disputes. “We need the Chief Justice to ensure justice is done without delay. Isiolo cannot continue in this limbo,” said David Kimathi.
Mugambi Mugabe accused certain judicial officers of interfering in governance cases, citing social media photos showing them with Governor Guyo. “Justice delayed is justice denied. The perception of compromised officers has eroded trust. Isiolo people deserve transparency and fairness,” he said.
The current crisis stems from the June impeachment motion against Governor Abdi Hassan Guyo, who faced allegations of abuse of office, gross misconduct, and mismanagement of public funds. While some Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) supported his removal, others defended him, leading to the creation of two separate assembly factions.
One group remained in the official chambers, while the other set up a makeshift assembly at Ol Donyiro Ward, complete with its own speaker and clerk. The standoff has halted legislative processes, with conflicting decisions worsening instability.
Hussein Abduba, former Isiolo County Council chairman and Garbatulla councillor, who led the elders’ briefing, said the prolonged wrangles cannot continue. “There are many burning issues affecting Isiolo since the attempted impeachment of Governor Guyo. The law must be allowed to take its course so that services can resume,” he said.
The elders emphasized that political leaders must prioritize residents’ welfare over personal interests, warning that extended instability could further undermine peace and development in Isiolo County.
