Njuki pledges unity, better service as he takes CoG leadership

Newly elected chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), Muthomi Njuki. /HANDOUT

Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has pledged unity and collective leadership after being elected chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), promising to work with his colleagues to advance devolution and improve service delivery.

Njuki, who will lead the council for approximately eight months, thanked fellow governors for entrusting him with the responsibility, saying the election reflected the principle that any of Kenya’s 47 county chiefs could lead the institution.

“From the onset, with a lot of humility and a profound sense of responsibility, I accept the privilege that has been given by my fellow governors this afternoon. I accept to be the chairperson of the Council of Governors,” he said shortly after his election.

Njuki acknowledged the responsibilities awaiting the new leadership, promising to work collectively with other governors to deliver on the council’s mandate.

“I agree with our responsibilities for eight or so months. I agree with my colleagues that we shall work together to deliver them,” he said.

He thanked the governors for their confidence in him, noting that the leadership opportunity was open to all county chiefs.

“My fellow governors, I thank you with a lot of humility, realising that anyone among the 47 governors can lead the council,” Njuki said.

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka was elected vice-chairperson, while Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi was chosen as the council’s whip, completing the executive leadership for the 2026–2027 period.

Several governors were also appointed to head the council’s committees covering key sectors of devolution.

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru was named to lead the development committee, while Busia Governor Paul Otwoma will head the blue economy committee.

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai was appointed to the education committee, while Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo will oversee the environment, forestry and climate change committee.

Nandi Governor Stephen Sang was assigned the resource mobilisation committee, while Garissa Governor Nathif Adam will serve on another committee whose specific portfolio was not clearly legible in the announcement.

Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma was named to lead the youth, sports, culture and social services committee, while Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga will head the human resources, labour and social affairs committee.

Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika was appointed to the land, housing and urban development committee, while Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko will lead the legal and constitutional affairs committee.

Samburu Governor Jonathan Lati Lelelit was named to the security and foreign affairs committee, while Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu will head the tourism and wildlife committee.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was appointed to lead the transport, infrastructure and energy committee, while Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu will head the water and natural resource management committee.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki congratulated Njuki, describing his election as recognition of his commitment to devolution and the council’s objectives.

“Congratulations Governor Muthomi Njuki on your ascension to the esteemed office of Chairman of the Council of Governors,” Kindiki said.

He expressed optimism about working with the new leadership, including Lusaka and the various committee chairpersons, to advance the council’s agenda.

“Your election speaks to your dedication and commitment to devolution and your ability to deliver on the vision and mission of the Council of Governors and its stakeholders,” he added.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale also congratulated Njuki, linking the new leadership to the government’s healthcare agenda.

“Congratulations Governor Muthomi for being elected as the chair of Council of Governors (CoG). Together we accelerate the implementation of Universal Health Coverage,” Duale said.

The new leadership takes office as counties continue to deliver devolved services, including healthcare and education, while engaging the national government on funding and the implementation of their constitutional mandates.