NCIC: Crisis is Isiolo County risks spilling over to neighbouring counties if unchecked

National Cohesion and Integration Commission Chairperson Samuel Kobia at a past event. (Photo: NCIC)

By Rachael Mutabasi
Friday, August 29, 2025

Kobia likened the unrest to “a crack in the foundation of a house,” warning that it could undermine governance, community trust, and peace across the region.

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has sounded the alarm over rising political and ethnic hostilities in Isiolo County, warning that the recent unrest following an attempted impeachment of Governor Abdi Guyo could spiral into widespread violence if left unchecked.

In a statement released on Friday, NCIC Chairman Samuel Kobia said the situation goes beyond normal political contestation, describing it as a breakdown of political order that threatens the county’s fragile social cohesion.

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He likened the unrest to “a crack in the foundation of a house,” warning that it could undermine governance, community trust, and peace across the region.

"What is unfolding in Isiolo is not a sheer expression of political contestation. It is a profound breakdown of political order, one that threatens the fragile social cohesion fabric, peace, and cohesion among the various ethnic groups in this county," said Kobia.

The Commission expressed alarm over credible reports indicating that illegal firearms were infiltrating the region, the possible involvement of external mercenaries, and the mobilisation of criminal gangs.

There are also concerns over the misuse of public resources to fund politically motivated violence. NCIC cautioned that if these issues are not swiftly addressed, the consequences could extend beyond Isiolo to neighbouring counties.

"Sadly, if these developments are not urgently and decisively addressed, they may escalate into full-blown conflict with devastating consequences not only for Isiolo County but also for its neighbouring counties," the commission warned.

To address the crisis, NCIC called for restraint from all leaders, communities, and residents, urging adherence to the rule of law and a ban on hate speech and incitement.

The Commission also recommended convening regional dialogues to foster mutual understanding, non-interference in governance, and peaceful coexistence.

Security has been a central concern, with NCIC urging the national government to coordinate multi-agency operations under a unified command to protect lives and property while ensuring accountability for perpetrators.

“The NCIC urges the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and other law enforcement agencies to urgently investigate allegations of gang arming, illegal firearm infiltration, and misuse of devolved funds for political purposes,” said Kobia.

The Commission commended the Isiolo County Security Team, led by County Commissioner Charles Kiprop, for apprehending a suspect linked to recent arson attacks on the County Assembly and the Office of the County Secretary.

Furthermore, NCIC plans to lead community-focused peacebuilding initiatives, including intra- and inter-community dialogue forums, in partnership with government officials, civil society, elders, and faith leaders.