LEADER

New governors should change people's lives

Embu Governor-elect Cecily Mbarire and deputy governor-elect Justus Kinyua are sworn on Thursday August 25,2022
Image by BENJAMIN NYAGAH
In Summary
  • This is the third generation of governors since the introduction of devolution.
  • Out of the 45, at least 30 are newcomers, some being first-time county bosses

Forty-five governors elected on August 9 took the oath of office on Thursday across the country.

This is the third generation of governors since the introduction of devolution. They have a big chance to build on the gains already made.

Out of the 45, at least 30 are newcomers, some being first-time county bosses, while others are making a comeback after one term in the cold.

Governors command real power. They generally have staffers numbering in the dozens and lead thousands of state employees. They have a say in all the operations of the county – education, healthcare, roads and all the rest key sectors.

They should use these powers to change the lives of their people.

A governor’s priorities can quickly be converted into action, often without requiring legislative approval. The new team should realise they have no time to waste and the earlier they hit the road the better.

Governors know they’re going to get credit or blame for whatever they may or may not be able to control, from the economy to the weather.

When disasters strike, they are expected to respond, showing they, as leaders, are in charge and acting as consolers to those who are suffering.

They have a five-year mandate. They should deliver for their people.

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