Isiolo elders have apologized to President William Ruto following the chaos that erupted during his recent development tour. Speaking at a press briefing on Today, they accused Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali of orchestrating the disruptions. They claimed external political forces aimed to tarnish Isiolo’s image and overshadow the President’s visit.
The elders insisted that Isiolo residents were ready to receive the President peacefully and benefit from the multi-billion projects he launched. They called for investigations and urged leaders to set aside political rivalries for development.
Their statement followed Friday’s visit, where chaos erupted as leaders attempted to address the crowd. The elders condemned the disruptions, blaming individuals aligned with the senator and those opposing the county leadership. Tensions escalated when the crowd turned against Dullo, chanting “Dullo Must Go!” as she struggled to continue.
Meanwhile, supporters of Governor Guyo cheered him, chanting “G4G” in support of his leadership. Videos of the incident quickly went viral, fueling debate over Isiolo’s political landscape.
Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo condemned the disruptions, calling for unity and a focus on development. He described the President’s visit as a turning point for Isiolo, thanking him for launching key projects worth billions.
Among them was the Isiolo Modern Abattoir, where Ruto pledged full operationalization. He also commissioned the Isiolo-Mandera Road under the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project, valued at Ksh 40 billion. Additionally, the President launched the Isiolo Accident and Emergency Centre, committing Ksh 500 million for its equipping.
Ruto also promised Ksh 400 million for new hostels at the Isiolo KMTC campus. The move aims to improve student accommodation and boost training in the county.
Isiolo elders, drawn from all communities, expressed deep frustration over what they called deliberate political sabotage. They accused Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali of fueling the chaos. According to them, his allies infiltrated the gathering to disrupt the event.
The elders lamented that such actions embarrassed the county and could derail the projects Ruto had pledged. They urged local leaders to put aside political differences and work together for the county’s progress.
Despite the political drama, President Ruto remained focused on his agenda. While speaking in Garbatulla, he reaffirmed his commitment to making Isiolo a resort city by 2030.
He also pledged Ksh 650 million to improve electricity access in the county. The move is expected to boost local businesses and attract more investment.
Ruto later toured the Isiolo Affordable Housing Project, where 200 units are nearing completion. He also broke ground for the Isiolo County Aggregation and Industrial Park, a Ksh 500 million investment aimed at boosting agro-processing.
Meanwhile, the heckling of Senator Dullo highlighted growing frustrations among residents. Many feel neglected by local leadership and demand better representation.
With elders blaming Marsabit’s governor while his allies deny involvement, the true source of the chaos remains unclear. However, one thing is certain—Isiolo’s leaders must put politics aside to turn Ruto’s Ksh
