Nairobi: Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi has been re-elected as the Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG) following a consensus vote during a full council meeting held at the CoG headquarters in Nairobi. Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga retained his position as Vice Chairperson, while Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki was appointed as the Council Whip, taking over from Nandi Governor Stephen Sang.
According to Kenya News Agency, Abdullahi expressed gratitude to his colleagues for the renewed confidence in his leadership, describing his re-election as a profound honor and a reaffirmation of the trust and unity among county leaders. ‘Our focus remains clear, to strengthen the mandate of the Council, safeguard the principles of devolution, and deliver better services to Kenyans at the grassroots,’ said Abdullahi.
The Chairperson outlined key priorities for his new term, which include operationalizing the Devolution Training Institute, implementing the CoG Strategic Plan (2022-2027), finalizing the transfer and costing of devolved functions, and expanding membership and support for the Ugatuzi Sacco. He reaffirmed the Council’s stance on the ongoing procurement debate, noting that counties will continue using both electronic and manual procurement systems as permitted by law. ‘We moved to court and the ruling was clear; counties have the liberty to use either system. What matters is compliance and accountability in service delivery,’ he stated.
The council also ratified leadership changes across its technical committees to ensure balanced regional representation and experience. Notable appointments include: Abdulswamad Nassir (Mombasa) as Chair of Health, Simba Arati (Kisii) as Chair of Security and Foreign Affairs, Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay) as Chair of Human Resources, Labour and Welfare, Stephen Sang (Nandi) as Chair of Resource Mobilisation and Partnerships, Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu) as Chair of Land, Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Erick Mutai (Kericho) as Chair of Education, and Simon Kachapin (West Pokot) as Chair of Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture and Social Services.
Vice Chairperson Kahiga commended the spirit of cooperation among county leaders, describing the transition as a testament to a mature and united council. ‘This leadership team represents inclusivity, balance, and a shared vision. We are ready to continue advocating for the welfare of counties and the people we serve,’ he said.
Abdullahi’s re-election is widely viewed as an endorsement of his steady leadership and his efforts to foster stronger ties between the national and county governments. His tenure has been marked by policy reforms, fiscal accountability, and coordinated engagement to empower county administrations. As the council embarks on its new term, expectations remain high that the leadership will prioritize strengthening devolution, enhancing service delivery, and addressing fiscal challenges affecting county operations nationwide.
