The Council of Governors (CoG) has re-elected Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi as its chairperson.

The announcement was made on Monday, October 6, 2025, after an election at the CoG offices in Delta Centre, Westlands. Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga retained his position as vice chair, while Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki joined the Executive Committee as the new whip, replacing Nandi Governor Stephen Sang.

Abdullahi’s re-election signals continuity in the council’s leadership and ongoing efforts to strengthen county governments amid rising concerns over national policies affecting devolution. The decision to retain the current leadership was reached without contest.

Abdullahi first assumed the CoG chair in October 2024, after serving as vice chair under Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru. His leadership has been marked by frequent calls for greater coordination between county and national governments, particularly on budget allocations and service delivery systems.

Abdullahi prioritises county reforms

Last week, during the 28th Ordinary Session of the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC) in Nairobi, Abdullahi criticised the government’s rollout of the electronic procurement system (e-GP). He said the system had disrupted county operations, delayed payments, and slowed essential services.

“This quarter has been disastrous. We have not been able to spend money at all on account of the challenges that we’ve had,” Abdullahi said at the meeting attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.

He warned that the system’s rushed implementation had left counties unable to buy critical supplies or pay staff on time. Hospitals, fuel suppliers, and sanitation departments have reportedly been among the most affected.

Abdullahi urged the national government to review the e-procurement system and ensure proper training before full implementation. He also emphasised the need for counties to have a say in decisions that directly affect their operations.

With his re-election, Abdullahi is expected to push for improved intergovernmental relations and reforms that ease service delivery challenges at the county level.