D-Day for Isiolo governor as Senate debates his impeachment

The Senate of Kenya has started a special session to discuss the impeachment of Isiolo Governor Abdi Ibrahim Hassan Guyo.

This follows his removal by the Isiolo County Assembly on Thursday, June 26, 2025, after serious claims were made against him, including gross misconduct and abuse of office.

The motion to impeach Governor Guyo was presented by Sericho MCA Abubakar Godana, who accused the governor of several leadership failures. These include not delivering the annual state of the county address for the past three years, as required by Section 30(2)(k) of the County Governments Act.

Governor Guyo is also accused of violating Articles 201(d) and 201(e) of the Constitution of Kenya by employing a large number of staff in the Governor’s Office. The Assembly says he hired 36 advisors and 31 chief officers, even though Isiolo County only has six departments. He also appointed two deputy county secretaries, which the Assembly argues is unlawful. This has reportedly led to a wage bill of 46% of the county’s annual revenue, which is much higher than the legal limit.

In total, 16 out of 18 MCAs voted in favour of the impeachment motion, with two abstaining and none opposing. Governor Guyo did not attend the session to defend himself, despite being invited.

Senate to decide fate

Following this, the Senate convened a special sitting on Monday, June 30, 2025, to officially receive and discuss the charges.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi said the House will either form an 11-member committee to investigate the matter or proceed with a full hearing in plenary. The Governor will have a chance to defend himself or appoint a lawyer to do so.

Governor Guyo’s impeachment comes amid ongoing legal battles. A court order had tried to block the County Assembly from debating the motion, but the Assembly moved the proceedings to Nakuru and later to Machakos.

If the Senate upholds any of the charges, Governor Guyo will be removed from office immediately. If the charges are dismissed, he will stay in office, and the Assembly will have to wait three months before bringing another impeachment motion.

The case mirrors past high-profile impeachments, such as those of former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and Kiambu’s Ferdinand Waititu. All eyes are now on the Senate to see what decision they will make.