Borana elders led by mzee Gollo Boru addressing the press/HANDOUTBorana elders from six clans in Isiolo County have dismissed threats by a
section of local leaders to abandon President William Ruto’s government,
terming the remarks as political blackmail driven by selfish interests.
The elders said those issuing threats are attempting to pressure the
President to intervene in county politics by forcing Governor Abdi Guyo to
retain officials who backed an unsuccessful impeachment motion against him.
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 said the Borana community remains firmly
aligned with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
He insisted they would not be swayed by individuals “pursuing personal gain
at the expense of Isiolo’s development.”
The elders accused the dissenting leaders of acting under the influence of
politicians from Marsabit and Mandera counties, alleging that their plan is to
destabilize Governor Guyo after failing to oust him through impeachment.
They claimed the interference is meant to advance the interests of the
United Democratic Movement (UDM) party and weaken the ruling United Democratic
Alliance (UDA), in which Governor Guyo plays a key role ahead of the 2027
elections.
They urged President Ruto to disregard individuals seeking State House
meetings while claiming to speak on behalf of the Borana community.
“As a community, we have not sent any delegation to the State House. Those who
have gone there are only chasing personal political gain,” said Waqo.
Elder Gollo Boru Dida said the Borana people are peaceful and only want
improved service delivery from elected leaders. He urged politicians to stop
“daily political drama meant to sabotage government programs” and instead focus
on development.
Another elder, Boru Golicha, commended Governor Guyo for reconciling with 13
of the 18 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) who supported the impeachment
motion. He encouraged the remaining five MCAs to join in efforts to unite
Isiolo’s leadership.
The elders dismissed claims that the Borana, the majority pastoralist
community in Isiolo, are planning to shift their political allegiance to the
opposition. They described such threats as “baseless and unfounded.”
They further noted that under President Ruto’s leadership, members of the
Borana community have secured senior government positions for the first time
since independence. These include three Principal Secretaries and an ambassador
from Isiolo, Marsabit, and Tana River counties.
The elders reiterated their support for the national government and urged
leaders to prioritize unity, stability, and development over political rivalry.
