List of all the 47 Elected Governors in Kenya and their Parties (2024 Update)
Learn about the responsibilities and impact of Kenya's 47 elected county governors from the 2022 election.
The year 2022 witnessed a pivotal moment in Kenya's political history as millions of citizens from its 47 counties exercised their democratic rights in the general elections. These elections determined the leaders who would hold key positions, including the presidency, senators, MPs, and MCAs. Among these influential figures, county governors play a crucial role in shaping the nation's governance at the grassroots level.
This comprehensive article presents a detailed account of the 47 elected governors in Kenya for the year 2022. As these governors assume their roles, they become integral in steering their respective counties toward development and progress. This article seeks to provide a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the political dynamics of Kenya, shedding light on the affiliations of these governors and the broader context in which they operate.
The County Governors Elected in 2022
As the dust settled on the 2022 general elections in Kenya, the nation eagerly awaited the declaration of results for the coveted position of county governor. These elected leaders hold the reins of power at the county level, ranging from policy-making to representing their constituents on national and international platforms. Here is a comprehensive list of all the 47 elected governors in Kenya for the year 2023:
| Number | Governor | County | Party |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gideon Mung'aro | Kilifi | ODM |
| 2 | Dhadho Godhana | Tana River | ODM |
| 3 | Ahmed Abdullahi Jiir | Wajir | ODM |
| 4 | George Natembeya | Trans-Nzoia | DAP-K |
| 5 | Gladys Wanga | Homa Bay | ODM |
| 6 | James Orengo | Siaya | ODM |
| 7 | Jeremiah Lomurkai | Turkana | ODM |
| 8 | Joseph Jama Ole Lenku | Kajiado | ODM |
| 9 | Mohamed Adan Khalif | Mandera | UDM |
| 10 | Mohamud Ali | Marsabit | UDM |
| 11 | Abdullswamad Nassir | Mombasa | ODM |
| 12 | Nathif Jama | Garissa | ODM |
| 13 | Abdi Guyo | Isiolo | Jubilee |
| 14 | Julius Malombe | Kitui | Wiper |
| 15 | Wavinya Ndeti | Machakos | Wiper Democratic Alliance (Wiper) |
| 16 | Mutula Kilonzo Jr | Makueni | Wiper |
| 17 | Fernandes Odinga Barasa | Kakamega | ODM |
| 18 | Dr. Wilber Ottichilo | Vihiga | ODM |
| 19 | Paul Otuoma | Busia | ODM |
| 20 | Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o | Kisumu | ODM |
| 21 | Achilo Ayacko | Migori | ODM |
| 22 | Simba Arati | Kisii | ODM |
| 23 | Amos Kimwomi Nyaribo | Nyamira | UPA (United Progressive Alliance) |
| 24 | Fatuma Mohamed Achani | Kwale | UDA |
| 25 | Issa Timamy | Lamu | ANC |
| 26 | Onesmus Muthomi Njuki | Tharaka Nithi | UDA |
| 27 | Cecily Mbarire | Embu | UDA |
| 28 | Moses Badilisha Kiarie | Nyandarua | UDA |
| 29 | Mutahi Kahiga | Nyeri | UDA |
| 30 | Anne Mumbi Waiguru | Kirinyaga | UDA |
| 31 | Irungu Kangata | Murang’a | UDA |
| 32 | Kimani Wamatangi | Kiambu | UDA |
| 33 | Simon Kachapin | West Pokot | UDA |
| 34 | Jonathan Lati Leleliit | Samburu | UDA |
| 35 | Jonathan Bii | Uasin Gishu | UDA |
| 36 | Wesley Rotich | Elgeyo-Marakwet | UDA |
| 37 | Stephen Sang | Nandi | UDA |
| 38 | Benjamin Cheboi | Baringo | UDA |
| 39 | Joshua Irungu | Laikipia | UDA |
| 40 | Susan Kihika | Nakuru | UDA |
| 41 | Patrick Ntutu | Narok | UDA |
| 42 | Dr Erick Kipkoech Mutai | Kericho | UDA |
| 43 | Hillary Barchok | Bomet | UDA |
| 44 | Johnson Sakaja | Nairobi | UDA |
| 45 | Ken Lusaka | Bungoma | Ford-Kenya |
| 46 | Andrew Mwadime | Taita-Taveta | Independent |
| 47 | Kawira Mwangaza | Meru | Independent |
The Responsibilities of the Elected Governors
The role of a county governor in Kenya is multifaceted and crucial in the country's governance structure. As these elected officials take the helm of their respective counties, they are entrusted with various responsibilities defined by the Kenyan Constitution. Here are the essential functions and duties that elected governors are expected to fulfill:
- Leadership of the County Executive: Elected governors are tasked with appointing county executive committee members, including county executive officers. They also serve as the chairpersons of these committees. This leadership role involves overseeing and coordinating the functions of the county executive to ensure the effective delivery of services to the residents.
- Representation of the County: Governors serve as their counties' primary representatives in national and international forums. This includes intergovernmental relations with the national government, other counties, and international entities. They play a pivotal role in advocating for their counties' interests and development needs.
- Making, Approving, and Implementing County Policies: Governors are responsible for initiating and developing county policies, plans, and strategies that address their regions' unique needs and challenges. These proposals are then presented to the county assembly for approval. Once approved, governors oversee the implementation of these policies through the county executive committee.
- Performing State Functions: In specific instances and consultation with the President, county governors may perform certain state functions. These functions typically relate to managing public resources, infrastructure development, and other areas of county governance that require collaboration with the national government.
It's worth noting that county governors are limited by law to serving a maximum of two five-year terms, as outlined in Article 180 (7) of the Kenyan Constitution. This term limit ensures regular turnover in leadership and promotes accountability.
The role of a county governor is significant, as it directly impacts the lives of residents at the grassroots level. These elected officials play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of their counties, from economic development to social services and infrastructure projects. Their decisions and actions hold the potential to positively influence the trajectory of Kenya's political and economic landscape over the coming years.
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Conclusion
The 2022 election highlighted the political inclinations of Kenya's 47 counties, with the elected governors providing a snapshot of the current political landscape. While each governor has a mandate to serve their respective counties, their collective actions and decisions will significantly impact the direction of Kenya's political and economic trajectory over the next few years.
