A section of Isiolo County Assembly Members (MCAs) has come out strongly to defend the approval of the county’s Ksh 7 billion budget for the 2025–2026 financial year, terming allegations of irregularities as politically motivated and baseless.
Led by Deputy Speaker David Lemantile, who represents Oldonyiro Ward, the MCAs asserted that the budget approval process strictly followed all legal and procedural requirements. Lemantile dismissed claims that the budget was fraudulently passed, accusing political detractors of spreading falsehoods to destabilize peace and disrupt service delivery in the county.
“The budget process followed the law to the letter,” Lemantile stated. “Let no one mislead the people of Isiolo for their own selfish political gain. We must remain united and focused on development.”
The response comes after a rival faction of MCAs allied to ousted Speaker Mohamed Roba Qoto alleged that the budget was passed irregularly by pro-Governor Abdi Guyo legislators. The group, which has been critical of Governor Guyo’s administration, claimed that due process was not observed in the budget approval.
However, Lemantile and his allies rubbished the allegations as mere propaganda designed to paint the county government as dysfunctional. He urged Isiolo residents not to be swayed by misinformation intended to create unrest.
“We do not have another county to run to. If there are grievances, let them be addressed through the proper legal channels,” he advised.
Rehema Abdikadir, vice chairperson of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, supported Lemantile’s remarks, confirming that the budget underwent a lawful and transparent review. “I want to assure the people of Isiolo that there were no shortcuts. The process was legal and accountable,” she said.
Nominated MCA Francis Letimalo also defended the Assembly’s actions, stating that the quorum — nine out of 18 MCAs — was met, exceeding the legal requirement of six. He emphasized that the committee sessions and plenary proceedings were valid and fully compliant with Assembly regulations.
The MCAs maintained that the 2025 Appropriation Act is now in effect, allowing the county executive to implement the budget as planned.
