A section of grassroots leaders and residents from Isiolo County are urging President William Ruto to step in and mediate a growing political crisis between Governor Abdi Guyo and Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), warning that the impasse is hurting service delivery and causing unrest.
The standoff has escalated following Sericho MCA Abubakar Godana’s tabling of a notice of motion seeking Governor Guyo’s impeachment on grounds of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and violations of the Constitution and leadership ethics. The motion has received the backing of all 18 MCAs and triggered a public participation process led by Speaker Mohamed Roba.
As tensions rise, Isiolo Somali Council of Elders Secretary General Abdila Hassan pleaded for dialogue, stating, “No need for war. All is possible through dialogue. We ask, in particular, the president to come in and solve this issue.”
Local leaders convened meetings in their wards on Friday to discuss the crisis. Bula Pesa ward leader Lydia Ntinyari warned that the impeachment process threatens to destabilize the county. “I urge the president to personally intervene and make sure this issue is solved for our sake,” she said.
Residents echoed these sentiments, with Stephene Ngatia urging the county leadership to prioritize development and job creation instead of political wrangles. Emmanuel Mzungu called on MCAs to consult the public before moving forward with impeachment proceedings.
Police were recently forced to fire warning shots to disperse a crowd of residents who attempted to storm the county assembly in protest against the motion.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that some MCAs have retreated to a hotel in Nakuru and switched off their phones, allegedly to avoid external influence or pressure ahead of the motion’s deliberation.
Community leader Joseline Kagendo emphasized unity, saying, “Let us talk as leaders and solve any pending standoff. We need unity.”
With the clock ticking on Governor Guyo’s seven-day response window, the county waits anxiously for a resolution that could shape Isiolo’s political and development future.
