NAIROBI, Kenya – Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi has been re-elected as the Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG) for a second consecutive term, following a consensus-driven vote during a full council meeting held on Monday, October 6, 2025, in Nairobi.
The elections also saw Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga retain his position as Vice Chairperson.
At the same time, Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki was elected as the Chief Whip for the next year.
According to a statement issued by the CoG secretariat, the leadership selection was guided by consensus rather than a contested vote, in line with the Intergovernmental Relations Act, 2012, which emphasizes collaboration among county leaders.
“The Council’s elections are undertaken by consensus, and we unanimously agreed on the leadership that will steer the Council for the next one year,” the statement read.
Governor Abdullahi’s re-election reflects a vote of confidence in his leadership, especially his focus on devolution financing, county autonomy, and health sector reform.
Over the past year, the CoG under his tenure has advocated for the equitable allocation of national revenue, the timely disbursement of funds, and the establishment of stronger inter-county coordination mechanisms.
In his acceptance remarks, Abdullahi pledged to strengthen cooperation between counties and the national government while upholding the spirit of devolution.
“This council remains committed to defending devolution, promoting accountability, and ensuring that county governments deliver effectively to the people,” he said.
The council also unveiled an expanded list of governors heading key thematic committees:
- Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa will chair the Finance, Planning, and Economic Affairs Committee.
- Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir will lead the Health Committee.
- Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka will head the Agriculture and Livestock Development docket.
- Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo will oversee Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change.
- Nandi Governor Stephen Sang will chair the Resource Mobilisation and Partnerships Committee.
- Garissa Governor Nathif Jama Adam will lead the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands and Disaster Management docket.
- Busia Governor Paul Otuoma will take charge of the Blue Economy Committee.
- Kericho Governor Erick Mutai will head the Education Committee.
- West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin will oversee Gender, Youth, Sports, and Culture.
- Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga will chair the Human Resources, Labour and Social Welfare Committee.
- Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich will head the ICT and Knowledge Management docket, while Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o will lead the Land, Housing and Urban Development Committee.
The CoG, established under the 2010 Constitution, acts as a collective voice for the 47 county governments, ensuring coordinated engagement with the national government.
It plays a critical role in policy harmonization, devolution advocacy, and capacity building for county institutions.
Since its formation in 2013, the council has been led by prominent figures, including Isaac Ruto, Peter Munya, Josphat Nanok, Wycliffe Oparanya, Martin Wambora, and Anne Waiguru, before Abdullahi took over in 2024.
Analysts say Abdullahi’s re-election signals a period of continuity and stability in county leadership, particularly as counties push for greater fiscal independence and efficiency in service delivery.
The CoG’s renewed leadership is expected to steer intergovernmental dialogue on critical issues such as healthcare reforms, digital transformation, and equitable resource distribution.
