Somali Council of Elders Secretary General survives assassination attempt in Isiolo

Police in Isiolo town have launched a manhunt for three assailants who shot and injured Idle Hassan, Secretary General of the Isiolo Somali Council of Elders, on Thursday evening outside Jamia Mosque.

Hassan, a key advocate for dialogue among Isiolo leaders after a divisive impeachment row between the county executive and MCAs, was attacked by three men on a motorcycle.

The incident has sparked concern among residents, who are demanding swift arrests as Hassan recovers in a hospital in Meru.

It was around 8 PM on Thursday when Hassan was heading to the mosque for evening prayers. Suddenly, a motorbike carrying three assailants blocked his path just before he could enter.

They opened fire, hitting Hassan and damaging nearby parked vehicles. The attackers then fled quickly on the motorbike, which had its number plates concealed.

Osman Sharif, a relative, said: “Alipata jeraha ya risasi na alipata huduma ya kwanza Isiolo na baadaye akaletwa hapa Lifecare although saa hii he is out of danger lakini ako na majeraha ya risasi.”

The family has condemned what they describe as a second attempt on Hassan’s life.

Hassan has been outspoken about the need for dialogue amid months of tension between the Isiolo County Executive and the MCAs.

In June, Isiolo MCAs voted to impeach Governor Abdi Guyo, but the Senate later overturned the move and urged the Governor to seek peace with other leaders.

"Wafanye uchunguzi wa kina na watuelezee na si hiyo tukio ya saa hii tu bali tukio la hapo awali na watuelezee ni nani wanahusika na uhalifu Isiolo, viongozi pia watoe matamshi inayotoa jumbe za uwiano na ushirikiano,” Sharif stated.

Residents and leaders have condemned the attack, urging police to ensure their security and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Police who recovered six cartridges from the scene say they are pursuing the three assailants.