Isiolo, Kenya| In a powerful address that blended calls for political reconciliation, social responsibility, and cultural preservation, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has positioned himself as a mediator in Isiolo County‘s lingering leadership disputes while sounding the alarm on pressing community challenges.
The remarks came during the opening of the annual Waso Ulamaa League religious Da’awa conference, a significant three-day gathering held at Ayyo Village in Isiolo County under the inspiring theme ‘Unity, Peace and Development through Faith and Cooperation.’
The event drew esteemed Islamic scholars from Kenya and abroad, including Sheikh Noordin Kishki from Tanzania, Sheikh Abu Hamza from Mombasa, and Sheikh Jamaludin Osman from Nairobi, highlighting the pivotal role of faith in building harmony and progress.
Established in 2008, the Waso Ulamaa League has long been a cornerstone in promoting Islamic education, moral values, and social cohesion across Isiolo, Marsabit, and Moyale regions.
Hosted by League Chairman Sheikh Abdulaziz Yussuf and Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohammed Liban, among other leaders, the conference provided a fitting platform for Duale to urge both religious and political figures in Isiolo to transcend divisions.
Duale expressed deep concern over the fractious public disputes among county leaders, particularly those played out on social media platforms.
He described such behavior as “shameful and unproductive,” diverting valuable public resources and attention away from critical development and service delivery needs.
Instead, he advocated for constructive dialogue, emphasizing that unity is essential for advancing Isiolo’s future.
In a direct offer of intervention, the Cabinet Secretary declared his readiness to facilitate reconciliation at any moment—even immediately.
“I am prepared to bring leaders together and resolve these political differences for the sake of the county,” he stated, underscoring the need for moral responsibility and effective leadership to permanently address Isiolo’s challenges.
Turning to social issues, Duale highlighted the escalating drug and substance abuse crisis ravaging the county’s youth and increasingly impacting women.
He warned that this menace is eroding lives and families, calling for urgent, coordinated efforts involving parents, community stakeholders, and authorities to protect vulnerable generations through guidance, prevention, and collective intervention.
On cultural and religious grounds, Duale cautioned residents against participating in events like “Borana Night,” “Somali Night,” and “Sakuye Night,” arguing that such celebrations often promote practices incompatible with core Islamic teachings.
He encouraged a steadfast commitment to upholding Islamic values as a foundation for personal and communal integrity.
Responding to personal criticism, Duale remained resolute and philosophical. “People of Isiolo, even if you criticize or speak ill of me, I have no problem with it—it will only cleanse my sins,” he remarked, demonstrating a commitment to service above personal affronts.
As the conference continues, attendees will engage in enlightening lectures and discussions aimed at reinforcing faith-driven unity.
Duale’s intervention comes at a crucial time for Isiolo, a multi-ethnic county where political harmony, moral leadership, and proactive measures against social vices are vital for sustainable peace and development.
His message resonates as a clarion call for leaders and residents alike to prioritize collective progress over division.
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