Abdullahi Jaldesa has officially been gazetted as the new speaker of the Isiolo County assembly, replacing Mohamed Roba at a time when the county continues to grapple with political unrest.

''It is notified for the information of the general public that Abdullahi Banticha Jaldesa has been duly elected as the Speaker of the County Assembly and Chairman of the Isiolo County Assembly Service Board on June 26,'' the notice read in part.

The changes come hours after the High Court in Meru nullified the impeachment of Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo, citing disregard for court orders by the County Assembly.

The court found that the Assembly, under Qoto’s leadership, had proceeded with the impeachment motion despite an active conservatory order barring the process.

Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo meeting adelegation from the World Bank, the North Eastern Development Initiative (NEDI), and KeNHA, May 23, 2025.

Photo

Abdi Guyo

Qoto, who had been at the centre of Governor Abdi Guyo's impeachment drive, was accused of contempt of court and ordered to appear in person to explain why he defied judicial instructions.

His actions, along with those of the Assembly Clerk, were widely condemned as unconstitutional and reckless.

"Having been cited for contempt of court, the first respondent and the contemnor are hereby ordered to appear in person and be accompanied by a counsel of your choice to respond to the alleged contempt of the orders sought on Monday, June 30 at 9 am," the justice ruled.

In the wake of this chaos, Jaldesa's appointment is viewed as a stabilising move aimed at restoring order and credibility to the Assembly.

In his congratulatory message, Governor Guyo urged the new speaker to lead with diligence and commitment. Guyo noted that the role of the county assembly is critical in the county's leadership.

''As you assume this honourable position, we urge you to lead with diligence, fairness, and a deep commitment to the people you serve. The Assembly plays a critical role in shaping policies, oversight, and representing the aspirations of Isiolo residents,'' Guyo said.

Guyo expressed confidence that under the new speaker, the county will uphold the values of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability.

''May your tenure be marked by unity, progress, and meaningful development for the people of Isiolo,'' Guyo said.

Isiolo governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo signing official documents after being sworn in at Isiolo on August 25, 2022

Kenyans.co.ke