In a significant legal victory for the Isiolo County Government, the High Court in Isiolo has issued a pivotal ruling that upholds the relocation of county government offices and assembly sittings to Oldonyiro.
The decision, delivered on September 1, 2025, by Lady Justice Chirchir Sophie Chebet, blocks the revocation of Gazette Notice No. 11384, ensuring that the county’s administrative and legislative operations continue at their newly designated location.
This ruling marks a critical moment in the ongoing legal and administrative saga surrounding the relocation of Isiolo County’s governance hub, reinforcing the legal validity of the county’s decision to decentralize its operations.
Background: A Battle Over Relocation
The case, Hassan Bonaya v. State Law Office & the Clerk, County Assembly of Isiolo & another (HCCHRPET/E009/2025), centers on the contentious issue of relocating Isiolo County Government offices and assembly sittings to Oldonyiro, as mandated by Gazette Notice No. 11384.
This notice, issued earlier, directed the county government to shift its operations from the county headquarters to Oldonyiro, a move aimed at improving accessibility and fostering equitable development across the region.
However, the relocation faced opposition, culminating in Gazette Notice No. 11451, which sought to nullify the earlier directive.
This revocation attempt sparked a legal challenge, with petitioner Hassan Bonaya arguing that the move to Oldonyiro was lawful and essential for the county’s administrative efficiency and public engagement.
The High Court’s intervention has now put a temporary halt to the revocation, preserving the status quo until the matter is fully resolved.
The Court’s Ruling: A Stay on Revocation
In her ruling, Justice Chirchir Sophie Chebet issued a stay on Gazette Notice No. 11451, effectively blocking the attempt to nullify the relocation directive.
The court affirmed that Gazette Notice No. 11384, which established Oldonyiro as the venue for County Assembly sittings, remains legally binding until the petition is heard in full on September 23, 2025.
This decision ensures that the innovative Bunge Mashinani sessions—grassroots legislative sittings designed to bring governance closer to the people—will proceed uninterrupted at Oldonyiro.
Justice Chebet’s ruling also outlined a clear timeline for the legal process. The respondents, including the State Law Office and the Clerk of the Isiolo County Assembly, have been directed to file their responses within seven days. The petitioner, in turn, has three days thereafter to submit rejoinders.
This structured approach underscores the court’s commitment to a thorough and expeditious resolution of the dispute, ensuring all parties have an opportunity to present their arguments.
Implications for Isiolo County
The High Court’s decision has far-reaching implications for Isiolo County’s governance structure.
By upholding the relocation to Oldonyiro, the ruling supports the county’s efforts to decentralize administrative and legislative functions, a move that proponents argue will enhance public participation and address regional disparities in service delivery.
The Bunge Mashinani initiative, in particular, has been lauded for its innovative approach to grassroots governance, allowing residents in remote areas to engage directly with their elected representatives.
The continuation of assembly sittings at Oldonyiro also reinforces the county’s commitment to inclusive governance.
By bringing legislative proceedings to underserved areas, Isiolo County aims to bridge the gap between the government and its citizens, fostering transparency and accountability.
The court’s ruling ensures that these efforts will not be derailed by administrative or legal challenges, at least until the matter is fully adjudicated.
The Road Ahead: What to Expect
The inter partes hearing scheduled for September 23, 2025, will be a critical juncture in this legal battle.
Both sides are expected to present detailed arguments, with the petitioner defending the relocation’s legality and necessity, while the respondents will likely challenge the move’s procedural or administrative validity.
The outcome of this hearing could set a precedent for how county governments across Kenya navigate similar relocations, particularly in regions with complex socio-political dynamics.
Legal analysts suggest that the case could also have broader implications for the balance of power between county assemblies, state institutions, and the judiciary.
By stepping in to preserve the status quo, the High Court has reaffirmed its role as a neutral arbiter in disputes involving devolved governance, ensuring that administrative decisions align with legal and constitutional frameworks.
Community and Stakeholder Reactions
The ruling has sparked varied reactions among Isiolo residents and stakeholders. Supporters of the relocation argue that Oldonyiro’s selection as the new administrative hub is a step toward equitable development, particularly for marginalized communities in the county’s northern regions.
Critics, however, contend that the move could strain resources and disrupt established administrative processes at the county headquarters.
Local leaders have called for calm and constructive dialogue as the legal process unfolds.
“This ruling is a win for the people of Isiolo who want their voices heard,” said a community leader from Oldonyiro, who requested anonymity. “We hope the court’s final decision will prioritize the interests of all residents and promote unity.”
The case also highlights broader themes of decentralization, grassroots governance, and judicial oversight in Kenya’s county system, making it a topic of national significance.
As the September 23 hearing approaches, all eyes will be on the High Court to determine the fate of Isiolo County’s bold relocation plan.
For now, the Bunge Mashinani sessions will continue to bring governance closer to the people, with the full backing of the law.
Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story, as Isiolo County navigates the complex interplay of law, governance, and community aspirations.
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