Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi elected new Council of Governors Chairperson

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi was on Monday chosen by fellow county chiefs to lead their caucus, referred to as the Council of Governors.

The soft-spoken county chief with a background in accounting and economics is succeeding Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru who served as the council's chairperson for two terms.

In a unanimous decision following a prolonged meeting, Abdullahi has been named with respect to factors such as regional balance, politics and seniority.

The announcement came after over five hours of deliberations, as the 47 county heads met behind closed doors to discuss key issues, including the rotation of leadership between the Kenya Kwanza and Azimio coalitions.

Governor Abdullahi’s election reflects the council’s commitment to maintaining balance and consensus between the political coalitions. The rotational leadership structure has been a significant factor in ensuring representation from both sides of the political divide.

Waiguru urged Abdullahi to serve all the counties equally, urging him to be steadfast.

"I believe my successor will be successful in the tasks before him. I urge him to serve diligently by looking at all devolved units as equal," said Waiguru.

Waiguru said the tasks requires determination because of the numerous challenges that comes with it.

In the same meeting, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga was selected as the new Vice Chair. Governor Kahiga, who has been recognised for his strong leadership in Nyeri County, will now assist Abdullahi in steering the council forward.

The Council of Governors plays a pivotal role in representing county interests at the national level, and this new leadership team is expected to bring fresh energy to the council’s agenda.

The meeting was graced by Chief Justice Martha Koome among other dignitaries.

The race had initially brought together five county chiefs who jostled for the position including Wajir County Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Nyeri counterpart Mutahi Kahiga, Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki, Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.