Muthomi Njuki takes over as Council of Governors chair, Lusaka named deputy
The Council of Governors has elected Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki as its new chairperson, with Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka named deputy, following a full council meeting in Nairobi on Monday.
Njuki takes over from Ahmed Abdullahi
Njuki succeeds Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, who has led the Council of Governors since 2024 and completed two consecutive one-year terms. Njuki previously served as the CoG vice-chairperson.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi retained the position of chief whip.
Leadership elections held in Nairobi
The elections took place during a full meeting of Kenya’s 47 county governors on October 12, 2026. Under Section 19 of the Intergovernmental Relations Act, the chairperson and vice-chairperson are chosen from among the governors and serve one-year terms, renewable once.
Consensus reaches on top positions
Some reports indicated that both Njuki and Lusaka had expressed interest in the chairperson role. Governors settled on a consensus arrangement that preserved unity within the council. Lusaka later confirmed the outcome, noting that the interests of devolution should take precedence over individual ambitions.
Technical committee chairs also elected
Governors further elected chairs of the various technical committees. Among those named were:
- Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa – Finance, Planning and Economic Affairs
- Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir – Health
- Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru – Agriculture
Other committees covering environment, disaster management, education, ICT, land and housing, and related sectors also received new chairs. Outgoing chairperson Abdullahi was appointed to head the Disaster Management committee.
Why the CoG leadership change matters
The Council of Governors remains the main platform through which county leaders coordinate shared interests, engage the national government and advance devolution. The new leadership assumes office as counties continue to press for timely release of the equitable share of revenue, settlement of outstanding bills and stronger coordination on devolved functions.
Background on Governor Muthomi Njuki
Njuki is serving his second term as Tharaka Nithi governor. He first entered elective politics as Member of Parliament for Chuka/Igambang’ombe in 2013 before winning the governorship in 2017 and retaining the seat in the 2022 General Election.
The new CoG executive is expected to continue advocating for the interests of county governments and the strengthening of devolution across Kenya.
Other News: Environment PS Festus Ng’eno Survives Kericho Helicopter Crash-Landing
