Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki Takes Helm of Council of Governors

Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has been elected chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), with Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka named vice-chairperson and Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi appointed council whip for the 2026–2027 term.

Njuki takes over at a time when county governments are seeking adequate funding, improved cooperation with the national government and better delivery of public services. Following his election, Njuki said he accepted the position with humility and a strong sense of responsibility. 

He described the outcome as a demonstration that leadership within the council was open to all 47 governors, regardless of their political affiliations or regions.

He pledged to work closely with his colleagues to advance the interests of county governments, emphasising the importance of unity and cooperation in carrying out the council's mandate.

The new leadership comes as governors continue to engage the national government over county funding, delayed disbursements and the implementation of functions assigned to devolved administrations under the Constitution. County governments are responsible for delivering essential services, including healthcare, early childhood education, local infrastructure and economic development. Their ability to meet these responsibilities depends partly on the availability of resources and effective coordination between the two levels of government.

Governors also reorganised the council's committees, appointing leaders to oversee different sectors and coordinate engagement on matters affecting counties. Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru was appointed chair of the development committee, while Busia Governor Paul Otwoma will lead the blue economy committee. 

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai was assigned education, and Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo will oversee environment, forestry and climate change. Nandi Governor Stephen Sang will lead resource mobilisation, while Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma will oversee youth, sports, culture and social services. Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga was appointed head of human resources, labour and social affairs.

Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika will lead the land, housing and urban development committee, while Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko will oversee legal and constitutional affairs. Samburu Governor Jonathan Lati Lelelit was appointed to head security and foreign affairs, while Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu will lead tourism and wildlife. 

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja will oversee transport, infrastructure and energy, and Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu will be responsible for water and natural resource management. The appointments received support from senior national government officials. 

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki congratulated Njuki, saying his election reflected confidence in his commitment to devolution and his ability to advance the council's objectives. Kindiki also expressed his willingness to work with the new leadership and committee chairs to address issues affecting county governments.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale welcomed the leadership changes, linking them to efforts to expand and strengthen Universal Health Coverage. His remarks highlighted the importance of cooperation between the national government and counties in implementing health policies, given the central role county administrations play in delivering healthcare services.