Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo has once again resorted to political theatrics by questioning the implementation of Equalization Fund projects in the county. Critics argue that she has a history of obstructionist politics that do little to advance development.
Dullo has repeatedly used the Senate to make frivolous statements and baseless accusations. Instead of lobbying for more resources or pushing for policy improvements, she often undermines ongoing projects.
Recently, she questioned a 2-kilometer cabro road project, even though it was still in the early stages. Only 5% of the work had been completed, yet she quickly raised alarm over alleged financial mismanagement.
Her focus on minor issues extends beyond infrastructure. In past Senate sessions, she spent time scrutinizing small administrative expenses while ignoring larger, more impactful budget allocations. When other senators fought to protect the Equalization Fund from drastic cuts, Dullo remained absent. Now, her sudden interest in its implementation raises questions about her true intentions.
In 2024, Dullo played a key role in efforts to block Isiolo County’s funds. She and other senators cited accountability concerns as they pushed to withhold allocations, disrupting crucial development projects. The standoff escalated when she called for the arrest of Governor Abdi Hassan Guyo, accusing him of financial mismanagement due to his absence from Senate sessions. However, the High Court ruled that the Senate lacks the mandate to control independent institutions, nullifying her attempt to withhold funds.
In 2023, Dullo opposed an increase in county allocations. She aligned with Kenya Kwanza senators to block amendments that would have granted counties an additional KSh 37 billion. Former Jubilee senators joined her in voting to retain the allocation at KSh 385 billion. This move, widely criticized, deprived counties of much-needed resources and slowed progress on key projects.
Critics say Dullo uses Senate procedures to appear active while failing to deliver real benefits to Isiolo residents. Instead of pushing for more resources, she focuses on discrediting those implementing development projects.
The Equalization Fund, managed by an independent advisory board, reports directly to the Cabinet Secretary. Dullo’s request for project details ignores the fact that this information is already public. This further supports claims that she prioritizes political grandstanding over meaningful oversight.
“Where was she when we were fighting to protect this fund? Now she wants to act like a champion of accountability? This is just political posturing,” a senior legislator remarked.
Many Isiolo residents and leaders have grown tired of her tactics. Calls for her to shift from political fights to actual representation continue to grow. As Senate debates her latest statement request, one thing remains clear—Fatuma Dullo’s politics rely more on obstruction and theatrics than on delivering progress for Isiolo.
