Isiolo Woman Rep Mumina Bonaya (seated centre) and other leaders from the region in address journalists in Nairobi on July 21, 2025
The political fallout in Isiolo County has taken a fresh twist with a section of county leaders now accusing external forces of fuelling tensions in the troubled North Eastern region.
The devolved unit has witnessed ongoing political chaos following the unsuccessful impeachment of Governor Abdi Guyo. Last week, Governor Guyo extended an olive branch to his political rivals after surviving the impeachment motion at the Senate, calling for unity among county leaders.
Addressing journalists in Nairobi on Monday, a group of Isiolo leaders accused the United Democratic Movement (UDM) party leadership and politicians from neighbouring counties of sowing discord and instability in the county.
Led by Woman Representative Mumina Bonaya and former Governor Godana Doyo, the leaders pointed fingers at UDM party leader and Mandera Senator Ali Roba, as well as Marsabit Governor Mohamud Mohamed, accusing them of fuelling unrest.
Ms Bonaya alleged that the chaos being witnessed in the county was “sponsored” by external forces intent on destabilising the current administration.
She claimed that the UDM party was heavily involved in attempts to oust Governor Guyo, including allegedly financing Members of County Assembly (MCAs) who were part of the failed impeachment effort.
She also accused UDM of threatening nominated MCAs who supported reconciliation with the governor, warning them of expulsion from the party.
Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo when he appeared before the Senate Committee on Public Investments and Special Funds in Nairobi on May 15, 2025.
“You cannot force us to be in UDM. You cannot impeach our governor just because we do not want to join your party,” said Ms Bonaya. She went on to name several civil servants—some from Isiolo and others from neighbouring counties—whom she accused of engaging in partisan political activities instead of serving the public.
“These are people appointed by the President, and we thank him. But unfortunately, they are not doing their jobs. They are busy sponsoring impeachment motions and instigating political chaos in Isiolo,” she said.
Attempts to reach the named officials for comment were unsuccessful, as calls and text messages went unanswered.
The Woman Rep appealed to President William Ruto to rein in the officials.
“We will not fight because of a few individuals with tribal interests. We will maintain peace and follow the law. We will not allow our people to be incited against one another. Isiolo is home to all 42 tribes,” she said.
Also present at the press conference were Isiolo County Assembly Speaker Abdullahi Banticha, former Isiolo South MP Abdi Koropu, and several professionals representing various communities residing in Isiolo.
Mr Banticha said the Borana community was firmly behind Governor Guyo and President Ruto, dismissing claims that the community was planning to abandon the current administration. He said the Borana community—present in Isiolo, Tana River, and Marsabit counties—remains loyal to the Head of State.
Isiolo County Assembly Speaker Abdullahi Banticha Jaldesa addressing journalists in Nairobi on July 21, 2025
In Isiolo, he noted, the Borana were represented by Governor Guyo, Ms. Bonaya, and former Governor Doyo. In Marsabit, he cited Saku MP Dido Rasso, Moyale MP Jaldesa Guyo, and Senator Mohammed Chute. In Tana River, he named Senator Danson Mungatana, former Governor Hussein Dado, and County Assembly Speaker Osman Noor.
“I want to assure the President that the Borana community, led by Governor Guyo, MP Rasso, and Hussein Dado, stands with him,” said Mr Banticha.
