Muthomi Njuki Succeeds Ahmed Abdullahi as Governors’ Council Chair
Njuki was elected on Monday, October 12, during a full council meeting in Nairobi. He previously served as the council’s vice chairperson and will lead the governors’ organisation for an initial one-year term.
The elections mark a change in leadership at the body that brings together Kenya’s 47 county governors to coordinate county governments, engage the national government and address issues affecting devolution.
Abdullahi Hands Over After Two Terms
Abdullahi leaves the chairperson’s position after serving two terms, during which he worked with fellow governors on matters concerning county administration and relations between the two levels of government.
In his farewell remarks, the outgoing chair thanked his colleagues for giving him the opportunity to lead the council and urged them to support his successor.
“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.
His appeal highlighted the importance of cooperation among governors as the council prepares to work under its new leadership.
Lusaka Pledges Support to New Chair
Lusaka, who also contested for the chairperson’s position, congratulated Njuki following the election and pledged to support the incoming leadership.
He said the outcome should not divide governors, stressing that unity within the council was more important than individual political ambitions.
“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.
His remarks signalled a commitment to working with Njuki despite the contest for the top position.
The chairperson and deputy are eligible for re-election for another year under the council’s leadership arrangements. However, both Njuki and Lusaka are serving their second terms as governors and are expected to leave office after the 2027 General Election, limiting their opportunity to serve beyond their current county terms.
Governors Elect New Committee Leaders
Monday’s elections also reshaped leadership across several Council of Governors committees, which oversee key policy areas affecting county administrations.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was elected chairperson of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee, while Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika will lead the Land, Housing and Urban Development Committee.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga was elected to head the Human Resources, Labour and Social Welfare Committee. Samburu Governor Jonathan Lati will chair the Security and Foreign Affairs Committee.
Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu was elected to lead the Tourism and Wildlife Committee, while Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha will head the Trade Committee.
Cheboi’s retention of the whip position provides continuity within the council’s leadership structure as the newly elected officials begin their terms.
Focus Turns to Devolution Priorities
Njuki’s election comes as county governments continue to face pressure to improve service delivery, manage limited resources and strengthen cooperation with the national government.
As Njuki takes over from Abdullahi, the immediate task will be building consensus among governors and ensuring the council remains an effective platform for addressing shared challenges across Kenya’s 47 counties.
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Muthomi Njuki Succeeds Ahmed Abdullahi as Governors’ Council Chair
