Story Behind Isiolo Leaders’ Audience with President Ruto at State House After Tupi Victory
In recent months, President William Ruto has hosted several delegations from Isiolo County with the frequency of such meetings notably increasing before and after the failed impeachment attempt against Governor Abdi Guyo. These meetings have repeatedly stirred curiosity and political speculation — and yesterday’s meeting was no different.
Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo, Mohamed Liban Principal Secretary for the State Department for Petroleum, Nuh Ibrahim (Mohamed) CEO sports Art and Social Development Fund, Joseph Samal MP Isiolo North,Mohamed Tupi Isiolo South, Isiolo Women Rep Mumina Bonaya, Josphine Elegae the Director of the International Development Partnership Coordination Unit, Former Isiolo governor Godana Doyo Chairperson of the National Environmental Complaints Committee (NECC) and Abdulahi Banticha the Speaker Isiolo County Assembly.
The meeting as usual sparked speculation across social media, with political bloggers rushing to frame the gathering as a win for the political factions that they support.
However, Chemichemi News sought to establish the real story behind the meeting.
The meeting came only days after the recently concluded Isiolo South Constituency by-election, where Tubi Mohamed Tubi, a candidate from the United Democratic Alliance, secured a landslide victory. Tubi — the son of the late MP Mohamed Tupi — won after an intense campaign backed by local elders, political leaders, and representatives of the President.
Sources say the primary purpose of the meeting was to formally introduce the newly elected MP to the President. Attendance was reportedly limited to a small official delegation consisting of elected leaders and senior government appointees from the county. However, a few additional political allies accompanied some leaders, which sources described as common in such political engagements.
During the meeting, President Ruto thanked the people of Isiolo for supporting the ruling party in the recent by-election despite internal political divisions within the county. He also cautioned local leaders against persistent infighting, noting that such disputes can slow down national government efforts to deliver development projects.
The President emphasized that stronger cooperation among county leaders would make it easier for the national government to support development initiatives in the region, many of which have reportedly stagnated due to ongoing political rivalry.
Several development priorities affecting Isiolo were discussed during the meeting. Leaders raised concerns about delays in completing works at Isiolo International Airport, and President Ruto reportedly directed the relevant authorities to expedite the completion of the runway so that the facility can become fully operational.
Water infrastructure also featured prominently in the discussions. Leaders highlighted the proposed Kubi Qallo Dam and Crocodile Jaw Dam as key projects that could help address the region’s recurring water shortages.
On road development, the long-requested Isiolo–Merti Road did not receive an immediate commitment. However, the President indicated that the Isiolo–Sericho Road could be considered as part of future infrastructure plans.
Delays in the construction of Isiolo Stadium were also discussed. The President was informed that the project had stalled due to a court case filed by the county government. He reportedly urged the county leadership to see to it the case is withdrawn to allow construction to proceed without further delays.
Another stalled project, Kina Market, was also raised. Leaders told the President that the project had stopped after a court case was filed by the late area MP. The newly elected legislator, Tubi Mohamed Tubi, was reportedly asked to withdraw the case so that construction could resume.
Leaders also proposed the establishment of a university in Garba Tula. While President Ruto initially indicated that setting up a new university might not be an immediate priority, he agreed to consider the proposal after strong support from leaders present. The proposal could gain momentum as the Ministry of Education (Kenya) has already begun public participation processes toward establishing a university in the area.
Other issues discussed included plans for a dry port between Kulamawe and Isiolo, with the county government asked to identify land for the project. Leaders were also informed that Kina Sub-County and Ngaremara Sub-County are expected to become operational by July.
The meeting ended with President Ruto indicating that he plans to host a larger delegation of residents from Isiolo County at State House in the near future.
Despite expectations of intense political maneuvering, sources say the meeting largely focused on development issues. Leaders present reaffirmed their support for the President while acknowledging that local political rivalries within the county remain.
Some notable leaders who were absent from the meeting, including the county senator, whose invitation status remained unclear. Another senior leader from the county was reportedly out of the country Rehema Jaldesa Chairperson of the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) and Abdi Bahari member of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
