Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has congratulated the new Council of Governors (CoG) leadership following the election of Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki as chairperson, succeeding Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
In a message posted on X, Waiguru welcomed Njuki and his new team, expressing optimism that the leadership would strengthen devolution and improve the lives of Kenyans across the 47 counties.
“A new chapter dawns for the Council of Governors. Warmest congratulations to Governors Muthomi Njuki (Tharaka Nithi), Kenneth Lusaka (Bungoma), and Benjamin Cheboi (Baringo) as you step into your roles as Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Whip,” Waiguru said.
She also congratulated fellow technical committee chairs and called for a collective effort to advance the interests of county governments.
Waiguru paid tribute to outgoing chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi, thanking him for his service and leadership at the council.
“With gratitude, I honour Governor Ahmed Abdullahi (Wajir) for his steadfast service and distinguished leadership. Welcome to the Chair Emeriti Club, my brother,” she added.
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka was elected vice-chairperson, while Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi took the position of whip.
Governor Waiguru was elected to lead the Agriculture and Livestock Development Committee, Nandi Governor Stephen Sang will chair Resource Mobilisation and Partnerships, while Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir will head the Health Committee.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was elected chairperson of the Transport, Infrastructure and Energy Committee, while Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika will lead Lands, Housing and Urban Development.
Samburu Governor Jonathan Lati Leleliit will chair Security and Foreign Affairs, Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu will oversee Tourism and Wildlife, while Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko will head Legal and Constitutional Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations.
Other governors elected to lead committees include Vihiga’s Wilber Otichilo, Garissa’s Nathif Jama, Busia’s Paul Otuoma, Kericho’s Erick Mutai, Meru’s Isaac Mutuma, Nyeri’s Mutahi Kahiga, Elgeyo Marakwet’s Wesley Rotich, Nyandarua’s Moses Badilisha, and Laikipia’s Joshua Irungu.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula also congratulated Lusaka, describing his election as recognition of his leadership, experience and commitment to devolution.
Wetang’ula expressed confidence that Lusaka’s experience would help strengthen relations between the national and county governments, promote collaboration among counties and improve service delivery.
The Council of Governors brings together leaders of Kenya’s 47 counties and provides a platform for consultation, coordination and collective engagement with the national government on matters affecting devolution.
The new leadership takes office as county governments continue to push for adequate funding, improved intergovernmental relations and greater efficiency in delivering essential services to residents.
