Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki and his Bungoma counterpart Kenneth Lusaka have emerged as some of the contenders for the chairmanship of the Council of Governors (CoG), with elections scheduled for today.
A source within the Council told The Star that the two governors are contenders for the position, which places its holder at the centre of negotiations between county governments and the national administration.
The winner will succeed Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, who has been serving as the CoG chairperson since 2024.
The election is part of a wider exercise to constitute the Council’s new executive leadership, including the vice-chairperson, whip and chairs of technical committees.
According to a communique released to the media, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki will be the chief guest at the event, where he is expected to unveil the new CoG chairperson and executive leadership at a hotel in Nairobi later in the day.
The Council said it would first hold a full Council meeting before proceeding to elect its new leadership.
“The Council of Governors (CoG) will hold a full Council meeting and thereafter undertake its elections for the new Executive Leadership,” the communique stated.
The contest comes as governors continue to push for greater consultation with the national government on matters affecting counties, including funding, service delivery and the implementation of devolved functions.
The CoG, established in 2013, brings together the governors of Kenya’s 47 counties and provides a platform for consultation and coordination on issues affecting county governments.
Its chairperson plays a central role in representing county interests in dealings with the national government and other institutions.
The position has previously been held by former governors Isaac Rutto (Bomet), Peter Munya (Meru), Turkana’s Josphat Nanok, Kakamega’s Wycliffe Oparanya, Embu’s Martin Wambora and Kirinyaga’s Anne Waiguru.
Abdullahi took over the leadership in 2024, succeeding Waiguru, who had served for two years.
The outcome of Monday’s election is expected to shape the Council’s leadership and priorities as counties navigate their financial and administrative challenges.
The outcome is also expected to shape the country’s political landscape ahead of 2027 general elections.
