Muthomi Njuki Takes Over as CoG Chair, Lusaka Becomes Deputy

Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has taken over as chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), with Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka elected as his deputy. The two were elected during a full council meeting held at a Nairobi hotel on Monday, October 12, 2026.

Njuki succeeds Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, who is leaving the position after completing two terms as the council’s chairperson. The new chairperson previously served as the council’s vice chairperson and will begin with a one-year term.

Leadership Change Comes Ahead of 2027

Njuki and Lusaka are expected to serve for one year because both governors are in their second terms in office. They are expected to leave their county positions by August 2027, making them ineligible for another term in the council’s top leadership roles.

Although the council allows its chairperson and deputy to seek re-election for an additional year, the two governors will not qualify under the circumstances outlined. Their tenure will therefore cover a key period before the next General Election.

Abdullahi Hands Over After Two Terms

In his farewell message, Abdullahi thanked fellow governors for giving him the opportunity to lead the council. He also asked them to support Njuki in the same way they had supported his leadership.

Abdullahi said cooperation from other governors had played an important role during his time in office. He expressed confidence in the incoming leadership and called for unity as the council continues its work.

Lusaka Promises Cooperation

Lusaka congratulated Njuki following the election and pledged to work with him in leading the council. He said he would not seek to divide the governors for personal gain, despite having contested for the chairperson position.

The new leadership will coordinate the governors’ shared interests and represent county governments on matters affecting devolution. Its work will take place as counties continue engaging the national government over funding, service delivery and the powers assigned to devolved units.