Isiolo town on brink of chaos as armed groups roam freely - MP Mumina Bonaya

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki (centre) with Isiolo Governor Abdi Hassan Guyo and Isiolo Woman Rep Mumina Bonaya on November 13, 2024. (Photo: DPCS)

By Lucy Mumbi
Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Mumina told the National Assembly that the growing insecurity, fueled by political tensions, made everyday life increasingly dangerous, particularly in Isiolo town. She attributed the surge in violence to recent political upheavals in the county, particularly the attempt to impeach Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo.

Isiolo County is “on the brink of descending into chaos, with the streets flooded with seemingly unregistered firearms,” Isiolo Woman Rep Mumina Bonaya has said.

Mumina warned that residents are living in constant fear as armed individuals roam freely, threatening public safety.

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Speaking during a session on Tuesday, Mumina told the National Assembly that the growing insecurity, fueled by political tensions, made everyday life increasingly dangerous, particularly in Isiolo town.

She attributed the surge in violence to recent political upheavals in the county, particularly the attempt to impeach Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo.

“It has deepened divisions within the county government and emboldened armed groups, leading to more brazen and violent incidents,” she said.

“The wave of insecurity is not accidental but worsened by the political class, especially those linked to the recent attempt to impeach the Governor of Isiolo County. The charged political atmosphere has emboldened armed elements, leading to more violent incidents, whose consequences are becoming grave,” she said.

The MP cited a recent attack on Somali Council of Elders Secretary General Idle Hassan Ibrahim, who was allegedly shot and seriously injured in what she described as “a targeted act meant to intimidate and undermine public confidence in security agencies.”

The MP has now sought a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, pursuant to Standing Order 44(2)(c), expressing deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Isiolo Town.

She has demanded immediate action on the disarmament of individuals in Isiolo town who are in possession of illegal firearms. She also called on the Committee on Administration and Internal Security to clearly outline specific measures the government is taking to curb the surge in insecurity.

She further insisted that those responsible for the attack on Idle must be arrested and prosecuted without delay to restore public trust and safety in the region.

According to eyewitnesses, Idle was shot multiple times near Jamia Mosque on August 7, 2025, at around 8:00 pm shortly after leaving evening prayers. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and remains under close medical supervision. The incident, however, left the community deeply unsettled.

While the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, Governor Abdi linked the attack to Idle’s vocal opposition to a recent failed impeachment bid against him. In a statement, the Governor condemned the “brazen and cowardly act,” saying it appeared to be connected to Idle’s firm stance against the impeachment process.

Governor Abdi also raised concerns about the presence of suspected Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) operatives in Isiolo. He said their aim was to instil fear and undermine the peace that the community has maintained for over two decades.

He called on security agencies to intensify their investigations and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

“I urge our security agencies to move swiftly and decisively to investigate this heinous crime, bring the perpetrators to justice, and reassure the people of Isiolo of their safety and protection,” he said.