Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has been elected the new chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), taking over from Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
Njuki was elected on Monday, October 12, during a full council meeting in Nairobi, where governors also selected new leaders to oversee the council and its various committees.
The new chairperson previously served as the council’s vice chairperson. He will serve an initial one-year term, succeeding Abdullahi, who has completed two terms in the position.
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka was elected vice chairperson, becoming Njuki’s deputy for the next year.
While the chairperson and vice chairperson are eligible for re-election for a second year, neither Njuki nor Lusaka can seek another term because both are serving their second and final terms as governors. Their tenures are expected to end in August 2027.
In his farewell remarks, Abdullahi expressed gratitude to fellow governors for their support throughout his leadership and called on them to extend similar cooperation to the incoming team.
“As I exit this role, I just want to thank all my colleagues who I've served with in this term. It wouldn't have been possible without them. I want to thank them for giving me that opportunity. I want to ask you to support the next chair the very way you supported me,” Abdullahi said.
Lusaka, who had also vied for the chairperson’s position, congratulated Njuki on his election and pledged to work with him, insisting that he would not create divisions within the council for personal interests.
“My colleague, Governor Muthomi Njuki of Tharaka Nithi, will serve as chair, while I take up the position of vice chair. I could never divide an otherwise cohesive group for personal gain,” Lusaka said.
Elsewhere, Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi retained his position as the council’s whip during Monday’s elections.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was elected chairperson of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee, while Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika will head the Land, Housing and Urban Development Committee.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga was elected to lead the Human Resources, Labour and Social Welfare Committee, with Samburu Governor Jonathan Lati taking charge of the Security and Foreign Affairs Committee.
Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu will oversee the Tourism and Wildlife Committee, while Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha was elected chairperson of the Trade Committee.
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wesley Rotich was appointed head of the ICT Committee, completing the changes to the CoG’s leadership and committee structure.
