Wamuzi News Ke
In a closely watched election held today, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi has been re-elected as the Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), solidifying his influence in the intergovernmental body that coordinates county administrations across Kenya.
The election, conducted in Nairobi, reaffirmed Abdullahi’s leadership at a time when county chiefs are demanding greater autonomy and increased funding from the national government.
His re-election signals confidence among governors in his ability to steer intergovernmental relations amid rising tensions over delayed disbursements and policy disagreements with President William Ruto’s administration.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga retained his position as Vice Chairperson, underscoring a vote of continuity in the council’s top leadership. The outcome reflects a delicate balance between political loyalty and regional representation within the council.
Sources at the meeting disclosed that Abdullahi’s victory was nearly unanimous, with several governors citing his steady leadership and strategic diplomacy with the national government.
“The Council needs stability and firm leadership, and Governor Abdullahi has demonstrated both,” said one senior county chief familiar with the deliberations. Abdullahi’s return to office comes as the CoG intensifies its push for increased county allocations in the upcoming financial year.
He is expected to lead fresh negotiations on equitable revenue sharing and oversee reforms to strengthen devolution structures.Political observers believe Abdullahi’s win cements the northern region’s growing clout in national politics, especially in shaping devolution-related policies.
His re-election also comes amid renewed calls for unity among governors, following months of internal divisions and accusations of political interference in county affairs.
Governor Kahiga, in his acceptance remarks, emphasized teamwork and collaboration, noting that the council must prioritize service delivery over political alignment.
The new CoG leadership now faces the immediate task of engaging the Treasury over delayed county disbursements, with several devolved units warning of service disruptions if the matter is not addressed promptly.
