Lawyer Elisha Ongoya Back in Senate to Defend Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo

 

By Janet Philip

Elisha Ongoya, a distinguished legal scholar and lecturer at Kabarak University, has returned to the Senate for yet another high-stakes impeachment hearing — this time, representing Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo.

Ongoya, who gained national prominence for his eloquent courtroom presence during the impeachment proceedings of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and ex-Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, now steps into the fray as lead defence counsel for Governor Guyo. The governor is facing impeachment following a vote of no confidence passed by the Isiolo County Assembly last month.

Renowned for turning legal proceedings into compelling public spectacles, Ongoya is expected to once again command national attention. His articulate and incisive legal style has earned him both admiration and widespread visibility, especially during his viral cross-examinations in previous high-profile hearings.

Governor Guyo faces several serious charges, including gross violation of the Constitution — particularly for failing to deliver an annual address to the County Assembly for the past three years. He is also accused of bloating the county workforce by appointing 36 advisors and other senior officials without involving the County Public Service Board. Allegations further claim that many of these appointments lack endorsement from the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).

In addition, the governor is under scrutiny for alleged mismanagement of the county bursary programme. More than Ksh30 million is reportedly unaccounted for, with accusations of non-transparent and unfair disbursement of funds.

Governor Guyo has denied all the allegations brought against him.

Ongoya leads a formidable defence team that includes former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Eric Theuri, Elias Mutuma, Tally Israel, Mercilino Leisagor, Miriam Rebbecca, and five other legal aides and assistants. Their opponent in this legal showdown is equally formidable — Dr. Ekuru Aukot, a respected constitutional lawyer and former presidential candidate, who is heading the legal team representing the Isiolo County Assembly.

The case promises to be a clash of titanic legal minds, drawing widespread public and media attention, much like Ongoya’s previous appearances. His heated exchanges with Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna Mutuse during Gachagua’s impeachment hearings had captivated Kenyans and dominated social media, spawning skits, memes, and viral TikTok parodies.

With the Senate scheduled to vote on Thursday, July 10, the final submissions are expected to be critical in determining whether Governor Guyo retains his seat or is removed from office.