Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo is facing intense scrutiny after it emerged that his administration hired 36 advisors, more than eight times the number recommended by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). The SRC caps the number of advisors at four per county, making Isiolo’s appointments the highest in the country and in direct violation of established guidelines.
The revelations were made in a report presented before the Senate County Public Accounts Committee, which also highlighted that nearly half, 47%, of Isiolo County’s budget is being consumed by wages. According to the Auditor General, this has severely hampered the county’s ability to deliver essential services and development to its residents.
Governor Guyo also came under fire for hiring 31 chief officers, far above the approved ceiling of 18. Shockingly, each County Executive Committee (CEC) member had five chief officers under them, each drawing a monthly salary of Ksh255,000. Senators raised concerns over the sustainability of such a bloated administrative structure.
The audit further flagged 35 issues in the Isiolo County Government’s financial statements for the 2023/2024 financial year. Although the county has responded to 18 of those issues, accountability concerns remain unresolved.
The committee session, chaired by Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang, was briefly interrupted following a heated exchange between Governor Guyo and Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo, after the governor denied all allegations.
Additionally, the committee has recommended that the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) investigate a controversial Ksh98.5 million contract for developing the Isiolo County spatial plan. The lowest bidder, who had quoted Ksh62.1 million, was disqualified for allegedly underquoting, raising questions about procurement irregularities.
Governor Guyo was also fined Ksh500,000 for repeatedly failing to appear before various Senate committees.
The unfolding scandal has put the governor’s leadership under sharp national focus, with calls growing for greater accountability and adherence to public service regulations.
There's no story that cannot be told. We cover the stories that others don't want to be told, we bring you all the news you need. If you have tips, exposes or any story you need to be told bluntly and all queries write to us [email protected] also find us on Telegram
