Embu Governor Martin Wambora has been elected the new chairperson of the Council of Governors in elections held at Movenpick Hotel in Nairobi on Friday.

Wambora defeated his counterparts, Kitui’s Charity Ngilu and Dhadho Godhana of Tana River, in the poll and will be deputised by Kisii Governor James Ongwae.

He is taking over at the helm of the critical governors’ council from Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya who has served two one-year terms, the maximum permitted.

Wycliffe Oparanya.

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Ongwae is taking over from Murang’a Governor Mwangi wa Iria who has declared his interest in vying for the presidency in the 2022 General Election after serving two terms as county boss.

Many of the Governors who are serving their second and final terms decided not to vie for the top seats in the COG with many seeing State House as their next destination.

Among county bosses serving final terms include Makueni’s Kivutha Kibwana, Machakos’ Alfred Mutua and Mombasa’s Hassan Joho, who have all declared interests in the presidency in 2022.

Others in the final terms are Ali Roba of Mandera, Jackson Mandago of Uasin Gishu, Anne Waiguru of Kirinyaga and Salim Mvurya of Kwale.

Past COG chairs since its formation in 2013 are Isaac Ruto, Peter Munya and Josphat Nanok.

Isaac Ruto, Josphat Nanok and Peter Munya. 

Others who were elected are Elgeiyo Marakwet Governor Alex Tolgos as Whip as well as committee chairpersons; Anyang Nyong’o (Health), James Nyoro (Agriculture), John Lonyangapuo (ASALs) and Mutahi Kahiga (Education).