In the arid landscapes of Kenya’s Isiolo County, where political allegiances often run as deep as ancestral ties, a fresh wave of intrigue has swept through the upcoming by-election for the Isiolo South parliamentary seat.
Isack Abduba Fayo, a seasoned local politician with a track record of grassroots leadership, has officially thrown his hat into the ring, becoming the third major candidate in what is shaping up to be one of the most captivating electoral contests of 2026.
Contesting under the banner of the newly minted National Economic Development Party (NEDP), Fayo’s entry not only intensifies the competition but also marks a historic milestone for the party led by former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko.
As the February 26, 2026, polling date approaches, this by-election—triggered by the untimely death of the incumbent MP—promises a blend of family rivalry, party ambitions, and community aspirations that could redefine the region’s political landscape.
The by-election was necessitated by the passing of Mohamed Tubi, the beloved Isiolo South MP who succumbed on November 12, 2025, leaving a void in a constituency known for its diverse ethnic tapestry and pressing development needs.
Tubi, elected in 2022, was a figure of unity in a area often grappling with issues like water scarcity, insecurity, and infrastructure deficits.
His death has thrust his family into the spotlight, with two of his children stepping forward to carry on his legacy, albeit on opposing political fronts.
This familial showdown has captured national attention, drawing parallels to rare instances where siblings vie for the same seat, turning personal bonds into public battles.
Leading the charge from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is Tubi Mohamed Tubi, the eldest son of the late MP.
Set to be cleared by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) on January 22, 2026, at the Garba Tula IEBC office, Tubi Mohamed is expected to receive his nomination certificate amid strong endorsements from local elders, family members, and Isiolo County Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo.
Positioned as a symbol of continuity, Tubi Mohamed has vowed to build upon his father’s achievements, emphasizing unity and development in a constituency that spans vast pastoralist communities.
His campaign, backed by the might of President William Ruto’s UDA, has already gained momentum, with calls for residents to rally behind him in large numbers to ensure sustained progress. 23 2 “LARGE”
Opposing him is his sister, Bina Mohamed Tubi, who is flying the flag of the Jubilee Party.
As the daughter of the late MP, Bina brings a fresh perspective to the race, focusing on inclusive governance and addressing the unique challenges faced by women and youth in Isiolo South.
Her nomination by Jubilee, a party with historical roots in Kenya’s multi-party era, adds a layer of ideological contrast to the contest.
Analysts note that this sibling rivalry could split family loyalties and clan votes, making the election a test of personal charisma over party machinery.
The IEBC’s clearance process, which began on January 22 and extends to January 23, has set the stage for official campaigns running until February 23, just 48 hours before polls open.
Into this charged arena steps Isack Abduba Fayo, a former Member of the County Assembly (MCA) for Kinna Ward and ex-Majority Leader in the Isiolo County Assembly.
Fayo’s political journey is rooted in local governance, where he earned a reputation for advocating economic empowerment and community-driven initiatives.
His decision to contest on the NEDP ticket positions him as an outsider challenger, unburdened by the family dynamics dominating the race but armed with experience in legislative oversight and constituency service.
At the nomination ceremony, attended by NEDP’s top brass including Chairman Dr. John Nyamu, Secretary General Ben Mulwa, and Executive Director Daniel Mokua, Fayo was hailed as the harbinger of a new political chapter for both the party and the constituency.
The NEDP itself is a fledgling force in Kenyan politics, having secured full registration from the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties in December 2025, making it the 92nd fully registered party in the country.
Under Sonko’s leadership—a charismatic figure known for his populist style and past tenure as Nairobi’s governor—the party emphasizes economic justice and shared prosperity, encapsulated in its slogan Uchumi Na Mwananchi.
Sonko has personally vowed to support Fayo’s campaign, declaring Isiolo South as NEDP’s inaugural major electoral test.
During the certificate issuance event, Sonko dismissed notions that NEDP is a mere political project, insisting it is a grassroots movement driven by ordinary Kenyans seeking real change.
This by-election represents NEDP’s debut on the national stage, with the party also fielding candidates in other concurrent polls, such as George Musini Mukhwana for West Kabras MCA in Kakamega County, and Cosmas Njeru and Martin Mukundi for Muminji and Evurore wards in Embu County’s Mbeere North.
As campaigns kick off, the Isiolo South race is poised to be closely monitored, not just for its family intrigue but for broader implications on party dynamics in Kenya’s northern frontier.
With issues like resource allocation, security, and economic development at the forefront, voters will weigh continuity against fresh ideas.
Fayo’s entry injects an element of unpredictability, potentially drawing support from those disillusioned with established parties.
Political observers predict a high-turnout election, where clan endorsements, youth mobilization, and national party influence could tip the scales.
In a constituency where every vote counts, the coming weeks will reveal whether family ties, party loyalty, or visionary leadership will prevail in shaping Isiolo South’s future.
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