Nairobi
Tuesday,11 June 2024
By Teddy Makori
In an unprecedented move, the Senate Standing Committee on Health has taken a hard stance against Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo, calling for his arrest and prosecution after he repeatedly failed to honor their summons.
The committee, chaired by Senator Jackson Mandago, has requested that Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome and Director of Public Prosecution Renson Ingonga take immediate action against Guyo for contempt.
The committee’s frustration stems from Governor Guyo’s refusal to appear before them to discuss pressing issues concerning the health sector in Isiolo, particularly the status of the Isiolo County Referral Hospital’s morgue.
Despite being given multiple opportunities over a span of six months, Guyo’s continued absence has led the committee to deem his actions as highly contemptuous.
Senator Mandago emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We are left with no other choice other than to ask the IG and the DPP to arrest and prosecute the Governor.
Having given him the opportunity to respond to the issues that have taken more than six months, and refused to appear, he has exhibited the highest contempt to the Senate and this committee.” Mandago stated.
The committee is exercising its authority under the Parliamentary Powers and Privileges Act, which allows for the arrest of individuals who fail to honor parliamentary summons.
The Act further stipulates that those who defy such summons can face fines up to Sh500,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
Uasin Gishu Senator Mandago also called on the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate Governor Guyo’s conduct, highlighting concerns about the leadership and integrity of state officers.
The committee is also scrutinizing the public statements made by the Isiolo County Assembly Speaker.
Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo, who initiated the inquiry into the county hospital’s status, expressed deep concerns over the lack of oversight in Isiolo.
“I will recommend that the budget going to Isiolo should be stopped after all it is not helping the people of Isiolo.
We are suffering. I will bring a statement on the floor of the House to stop the budget until they respect the Senate,” she stated.
The sentiment was echoed by Garissa Senator Abdul Haji, who urged the committee to adopt stringent measures.
“It is high time we stop acting as toothless dogs who just bark and there is no bite.
I want to guide the legal person, do not give us the most lenient route to take.
Tell us the most extreme route that we can take to deal with this governor,” Haji asserted.
In response, Governor Guyo defended his actions, stating his willingness to be accountable to the people of Isiolo and relevant oversight bodies.
He accused Senator Dullo of attempting to intimidate and blackmail him, suggesting that she should direct her complaints to the appropriate investigative agencies.
Guyo clarified that his administration had already handed over the hospital morgue site for refurbishment, and the facility would be completed and handed over to the county upon finalization of the works.
Governor Guyo remarked, “I will not succumb to intimidation and blackmail of one senator. If my senator feels there is malpractice, she knows the right agencies to petition to investigate me.
She should not lie about our county.”As tensions escalate, the situation highlights a growing conflict between county and national oversight authorities, raising questions about governance, accountability, and the delivery of essential services to the citizens of Isiolo.