The commission said the unrest followed an attempted impeachment, sparking violence, vandalism, and ethnic incitement.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has raised the alarm over escalating political and ethnic hostilities in Isiolo County.
In a statement issued on Friday, NCIC Chairman Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia warned that the county was facing “a profound breakdown of political order—one that threatens the fragile social cohesion fabric, peace, and cohesion among the various ethnic groups.”
It cautioned that what is unfolding “is not a sheer expression of political contestation” but a threat that could destabilise both Isiolo and neighbouring counties.
NCIC expressed concern over “credible reports of illegal firearms infiltrating the region, the alleged involvement of external mercenaries, the mobilisation of criminal gangs, and the misuse of public resources to finance politically motivated violence.”
The chairman warned that without urgent and decisive action, the situation “may escalate into full-blown conflict with devastating consequences.”
The commission urged leaders, communities, and residents to exercise restraint. “NCIC calls upon all leaders, communities, and residents of Isiolo County to exercise restraint, uphold the rule of law, and refrain from any form of violence, incitement, or hate speech,” the statement read.
The body also called for regional dialogue, saying leaders must “foster mutual understanding, promote non-interference in governance processes, and encourage peaceful coexistence.”
NCIC further recommended enhanced security in the county. It called on the national government to mount “a coordinated, multi-agency security operation under a unified command” that would prioritise protection of lives and property.
The commission commended Isiolo County Commissioner Charles Kiprop and the security team for apprehending a suspect linked to the arson attack on the County Assembly and the Office of the County Secretary.
The statement urged investigators to fast-track inquiries into “allegations of gang arming, illegal firearm infiltration, and misuse of devolved funds for political purposes.”
NCIC announced plans to lead intra- and inter-community peace forums to build a long-term Community Peace Framework for Isiolo. These initiatives will be carried out in collaboration with elders, civil society, interfaith leaders, and government officials.
“As custodian of peace and cohesion among Kenyans, we reiterate our steadfast commitment to ensuring that Isiolo County remains a united and harmonious county,” said Rev. Dr. Kobia.
He urged residents to rise above divisions. “Let us rise above our political and ethnic fault lines and walk together—like threads woven into a single cloth—to forge a peaceful, just, and united Kenya.”
