The winds of continuity are blowing through Kenya’s devolved governance structure after Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi was re-elected as the Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG). The unanimous decision by the 47 county chiefs underscored a renewed sense of unity and purpose among governors as they navigate complex challenges facing devolution from delayed disbursement of county funds to the full transfer of devolved functions.
Governor Abdullahi’s re-election is seen as both a vote of confidence and a call to action, as he steps into a second term tasked with safeguarding the independence of counties and ensuring that the spirit of devolution remains alive and effective.
Highlights
- Governor Ahmed Abdullahi of Wajir County re-elected as Chairperson of the Council of Governors.
- His re-election was by consensus, reflecting harmony among governors across political divides.
- Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga retained his position as Vice-Chairperson.
- Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki elected as Chief Whip, replacing Nandi Governor Stephen Sang.
- Abdullahi promises to prioritize timely county funding, transfer of devolved functions, and improved service delivery.
Main Story
The atmosphere inside the Council of Governors headquarters in Westlands, Nairobi, was charged with optimism as the 47 governors gathered for the annual leadership election. Unlike previous years when the race for the CoG chair was fiercely contested, this year’s vote was marked by rare unity.
Governor Ahmed Abdullahi’s re-election was sealed through a consensus agreement, signalling the governors’ desire for stability and continuity at a time when counties are grappling with financial and administrative pressures.
In his acceptance remarks, Abdullahi thanked his colleagues for their trust, pledging to use his renewed mandate to champion the interests of county governments with even greater vigor.
“This re-election is not just a personal victory but a statement of collective resolve — that we, as governors, will defend devolution and work together for the prosperity of all counties,” he said.
Kenya’s devolution system, established under the 2010 Constitution, remains one of the country’s most transformative governance reforms. However, fifteen years later, many of its promises are still unfolding.
Governor Abdullahi’s second term comes at a critical juncture when county governments are demanding a larger share of national revenue, more autonomy in managing local affairs, and faster transfers of devolved functions such as health, agriculture, and housing.
Over the past year, Abdullahi has positioned himself as a vocal advocate for counties, frequently engaging with the National Treasury to push for timely disbursement of county allocations. Delays in exchequer releases have often forced counties to suspend key development projects, delay salary payments, and cut back on essential services.
As he takes on another term, Abdullahi is expected to intensify these engagements, calling for a predictable, transparent, and accountable system of intergovernmental fiscal relations.
One of the hallmark achievements of Abdullahi’s first term was reinforcing the Council of Governors as a strong, unified voice for the 47 county administrations.
He emphasized consensus-building, often bringing together governors across political and ethnic lines. Under his leadership, CoG successfully mediated several disputes between counties and national government ministries, ensuring that devolution remained on course.
During his re-election speech, Abdullahi reaffirmed his commitment to dialogue over confrontation. He promised to sustain cooperation with national leaders while safeguarding county interests.
“Devolution is not about competition but collaboration. We must work hand in hand with national institutions to ensure services reach the people where they live,” he noted.
The reconstituted Council leadership retained Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga as Vice-Chairperson a move seen as maintaining political balance between the northern and central regions. Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki, known for his administrative discipline, took over as Chief Whip, while Nandi Governor Stephen Sang gracefully exited the role, pledging continued support.
The team represents a diverse blend of political experience and regional representation, signaling an intention to build a broad-based coalition of county leadership. This inclusivity is expected to strengthen CoG’s lobbying power, especially in negotiations over funding and legislative reforms.
While Abdullahi’s re-election brings continuity, it also comes with heightened expectations. The Council faces several pressing challenges:
- Delayed County Funds
Many counties have suffered from erratic disbursement of national revenue. Abdullahi has made it clear that addressing this issue remains his top priority, calling for constitutional adherence to the equitable share schedule. - Transfer of Functions
Key devolved functions like health and agriculture remain partially managed by national agencies. Governors have repeatedly called for a clear framework that allows counties full control of these sectors, alongside the necessary resources. - Accountability and Transparency
With devolution under scrutiny, Abdullahi has emphasized the need for improved governance standards. He has urged governors to uphold financial discipline, embrace e-governance, and ensure public participation in county decision-making. - Economic Empowerment through Devolution
The chairperson has also championed the idea that devolution must not only deliver services but also drive local economic transformation. He has encouraged counties to explore investments in agriculture, renewable energy, and digital innovation to create jobs and reduce dependency on the exchequer.
One of Abdullahi’s strengths as CoG Chair has been his ability to maintain neutrality amid Kenya’s shifting political dynamics. Despite the diverse political affiliations of governors, Abdullahi has managed to keep the council above partisan politics, focusing instead on the shared vision of strengthening county governments.
His leadership has been described as calm but firm, combining diplomacy with strategic assertiveness. During intergovernmental meetings, he is known for his structured, data-driven arguments often relying on figures to demonstrate the fiscal gaps affecting counties.
His re-election therefore reflects not just popularity but trust in his ability to navigate the complexities of national politics while keeping the devolution agenda alive.
Several governors spoke after the re-election, praising Abdullahi’s leadership style. Many described him as pragmatic, unifying, and deeply committed to the principles of devolution.
They credited him for spearheading dialogue between CoG and the National Treasury, facilitating inter-county learning exchanges, and enhancing county visibility on national platforms.
“Governor Abdullahi has proven to be a team player who listens and leads with integrity. His re-election assures us of stability as we continue advocating for stronger counties,” one governor remarked during the event.
The sense of camaraderie in the room reflected a rare moment of unity in Kenya’s political space a testament to the growing maturity of devolved leadership.
Looking ahead, Abdullahi outlined an ambitious agenda for his second term as CoG Chair. His roadmap includes:
- Strengthening county health systems through collective bargaining with the national government and donor partners.
- Accelerating digital transformation across county administrations.
- Pushing for legislation that guarantees county governments’ fiscal independence.
- Promoting youth innovation and entrepreneurship through county-based talent and incubation hubs.
He also reaffirmed CoG’s commitment to gender inclusion, calling for more women and youth participation in county leadership and policy-making.
As the dust settles on the Council of Governors election, one thing is clear Ahmed Abdullahi’s re-election marks a pivotal moment for Kenya’s devolved system. His leadership will be central in determining how counties evolve over the next few years, especially as the country faces economic constraints and shifting political priorities.
For many Kenyans, devolution remains a symbol of hope the idea that decisions and resources should be closer to the people. Abdullahi’s renewed mandate is therefore not just about administrative leadership but a reaffirmation of that vision.
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Leadership, Abdullahi reminded his colleagues, “is not about titles but about trust.” His re-election is more than political continuity it’s a statement of faith in devolution’s promise, and a challenge to every governor to make it work for the people it was meant to serve.
