Borana elders from six clans in Isiolo County have strongly dismissed threats by a section of local leaders to abandon President William Ruto’s government, describing the move as political blackmail motivated by personal interests.
Speaking on behalf of the Wajirda, Karayu, Digalu Matari, Dambe Nono, Fulele, and Hawatu clans, Borana Governing Council member and JIMA Secretary-General Ahmed Waqo Happi reaffirmed the community’s firm support for the Kenya Kwanza administration. He accused dissenting leaders of attempting to use political pressure to influence President Ruto to intervene in Isiolo’s local politics.
According to Waqo, the threats are linked to an effort to force Governor Abdi Guyo to retain officials who backed an unsuccessful impeachment motion against him. He further alleged that the dissenting leaders are being influenced by politicians from Marsabit and Mandera counties with a wider plan to weaken the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in favor of the United Democratic Movement (UDM) ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The Borana community remains firmly behind President Ruto. Those issuing statements on our behalf are only pursuing personal gain, not community interests,” said Waqo.
Elder Gollo Boru Dida called on local leaders to focus on service delivery rather than engaging in daily political drama that distracts development efforts. He emphasized that the Borana are a peaceful community that values unity and progress.
Another elder, Boru Golicha, commended Governor Guyo for reconciling with 13 out of 18 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) who had supported his impeachment, urging the remaining five to join in fostering unity.
The elders dismissed as baseless claims that the Borana community intends to shift political allegiance to the opposition, noting that under President Ruto’s leadership, Borana professionals have secured key national positions including three Principal Secretaries and an ambassador for the first time since independence.
