Isiolo, Kenya| In a powerful display of unity and resolve, the Council of Elders from all communities in Isiolo County convened today to celebrate the Senate’s dismissal of an impeachment motion against Governor Abdi Guyo.
The gathering, marked by calls for peace, harmony, and constructive dialogue, also served as a platform to issue a stern warning to Mandera Senator Ali Roba and Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali, accusing them of meddling in Isiolo’s internal affairs and attempting to destabilize the county’s leadership.
The elders, representing a diverse cross-section of Isiolo’s communities, expressed gratitude to the Senate for upholding Governor Guyo’s leadership, viewing the decision as a victory for stability and development in the county.
They echoed Senate Speaker Amason Kingi’s call for dialogue, urging Governor Guyo, Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), and Senator Fatuma Dullo to engage constructively to address any grievances and foster unity.
However, the tone of the meeting shifted to one of defiance as the elders addressed what they described as “external interference” in Isiolo’s governance.
Accusations Against Senator Roba and Governor Mohamud
At the heart of the elders’ grievances were allegations that Senator Ali Roba, the party leader of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), and his deputy, Governor Mohamud Ali of Marsabit County, orchestrated the recent failed impeachment attempt against Governor Guyo.
The elders accused the duo of leveraging party politics to sow discord in Isiolo, with the aim of undermining the governor’s mandate and destabilizing the county.
“We are sending a clear message to Senator Ali Roba and Governor Mohamud Ali: keep off Isiolo’s affairs!” declared Elder Hassan Muriithi, a respected community leader. “Our governor was elected to serve the people of Isiolo, and we will not allow outsiders with political agendas to distract him from delivering on his promises.”
The elders claimed that Senator Roba, using his influence as UDM party leader, has been attempting to exert control over Isiolo’s political landscape, a move they described as an affront to the county’s autonomy.
They further criticized Governor Mohamud for allegedly neglecting unresolved issues in Marsabit County, including insecurity and underdevelopment, while interfering in Isiolo’s leadership.
“Governor Mohamud should focus on solving the problems in Marsabit before poking his nose into our county,” said Elder Fatuma Halake. “Isiolo is not a playground for external politicians to test their influence.”
A Call for Unity and Development
The elders reaffirmed their unwavering support for Governor Guyo and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, emphasizing that his leadership has been pivotal in driving development projects and fostering unity among Isiolo’s diverse communities.
They called on residents to rally behind the governor and reject divisive politics that threaten the county’s progress.
“Isiolo is a county of peace-loving people who value unity and development,” said Elder Abdullahi Shaban. “We will not allow outsiders to destabilize our county or derail the transformative agenda of our governor. Let us work together to build a prosperous Isiolo.”
The elders also urged politicians from neighboring counties to respect Isiolo’s sovereignty and refrain from introducing party politics that could inflame tensions.
They emphasized that the northern region, which includes Isiolo, Mandera, and Marsabit, should prioritize mutual respect and collaboration to address shared challenges such as insecurity, drought, and economic marginalization.
Senate Ruling Sparks Celebration
The Senate’s decision to dismiss the impeachment motion against Governor Guyo was met with jubilation across Isiolo.
The elders described the ruling as a testament to the governor’s commitment to serving his constituents and a rejection of what they called “politically motivated” attempts to unseat him. They praised the Senate for upholding justice and ensuring that the will of Isiolo’s voters was respected.
The impeachment motion, which was tabled by a section of MCAs, had accused Governor Guyo of various administrative shortcomings. However, the elders dismissed these claims as baseless and orchestrated by external forces seeking to undermine the governor’s leadership.
A Broader Call for Peace
Beyond addressing the impeachment saga, the elders used the gathering to advocate for peace and harmony among Isiolo’s communities, which include the Borana, Somali, Turkana, Meru, and other groups.
They called on residents to shun divisive rhetoric and work together to address pressing issues such as water scarcity, infrastructure development, and youth unemployment.
The elders also appealed to the national government to support Isiolo’s development agenda by allocating more resources to the county. They highlighted the need for improved security along the Isiolo-Marsabit and Isiolo-Mandera borders, which have been plagued by occasional conflicts over resources and boundaries.
Political Tensions in the Northern Region
The elders’ warning to Senator Roba and Governor Mohamud comes amid growing political tensions in Kenya’s northern region, where counties like Isiolo, Mandera, and Marsabit share complex ethnic, cultural, and political dynamics.
The influence of party politics, particularly the rivalry between UDM and UDA, has occasionally strained relations between counties, with leaders accused of using their positions to advance partisan interests.
Analysts suggest that the elders’ statement could have far-reaching implications for regional politics, signaling a growing resistance to external interference in county affairs.
“The elders are asserting Isiolo’s autonomy and sending a message that they will not tolerate political manipulation,” said Dr. Amina Hussein, a political analyst based in Nairobi. “This could set a precedent for other counties facing similar challenges.”
Looking Ahead
As Isiolo moves forward, the elders emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration among local leaders.
They urged Governor Guyo to continue engaging with MCAs and the senator to resolve any outstanding issues and ensure that the county remains focused on its development goals.
The elders also called on the youth to play an active role in promoting peace and unity, encouraging them to participate in community initiatives and resist being used as tools for political division.
“We are one Isiolo, and we stand united,” said Elder Muriithi in closing. “Let us protect our county, support our governor, and work together for a brighter future.”
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