Isiolo, Kenya — Police in Isiolo have launched investigations into a shooting incident and acts of vandalism that occurred at the Isiolo County Assembly on Thursday following the impeachment motion against Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo.
The incident left 26-year-old Barack Abdullahi nursing a gunshot wound to his ankle. Abdullahi, currently receiving treatment at Almasi Medical Centre in Isiolo, alleges he was shot by the Speaker of the County Assembly as a convoy exited the assembly premises.
Confirming the incident, Isiolo Sub-County Police Commander Joseph Mwendwa stated that officers are investigating both the shooting and the vandalism, which saw two vehicles damaged, windows smashed, and furniture and other items stolen from the assembly.
Regarding the shooting, Mwendwa urged caution, noting that an official report filed by a relative of the injured man described the shooter as an “unknown individual.” He added that police are yet to record a formal statement from Abdullahi, which is crucial to advancing the investigation.
Despite the official police position, Abdullahi’s family members have publicly accused the Speaker of the Isiolo County Assembly, alleging he was responsible for the shooting.
Narrating his ordeal, Abdullahi claimed he was standing outside the assembly when he spotted the Speaker inside a vehicle bearing a county flag. He alleges the Speaker brandished a firearm and opened fire, hitting him in the ankle as he attempted to flee. Abdullahi said he later regained consciousness at the hospital.
His sister, Asley Salad Mohamed, has called for a swift, impartial investigation to ensure accountability.
A medical report from Dr. Abdikadir Mohamud, a surgeon at Almasi Medical Centre, confirmed that Abdullahi underwent surgery to remove a bullet lodged in his ankle bone. Preliminary examination suggests the injury was caused by a small-calibre firearm discharged at close range.
Contacted for comment via his official WhatsApp line, Speaker Mohamed Roba dismissed the accusations, saying:
“The burden of proof lies with the accuser. Let the police do their job.”
Police say investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
By Were Kelly
