Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku on Thursday, April 18, received the honour of speaking on behalf of all Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) governors as well as the Council of Governors (CoG) during the party’s National Governing Council (NGC) 2024.
Ole Lenku spoke at a time when speculation is rife that he is set to succeed Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru as the next CoG chairperson.
Additionally, ODM Leader Raila Odinga specially recognised Ole Lenku for his contributions to the party noting that he was on par with former governors Wycliffe Oparanya (Kakamega) and Hassan Joho (Mombasa) to propel the political outfit to greater heights.
The Kajiado governor speaking during the NGC noted that not only was he speaking on behalf of the CoG, but also the Maa Community of which he is the current spokesperson.
As one of the senior-most governors in Kenya, Ole Lenku detailed how the county bosses had fought for devolution so as to accelerate grassroots development.
“As CoG, we will continue to stand with devolution which we know is a revolution in our governance structure and we know it is good for this country and despite its challenges, we will continue to soldier on so it remains strong,” Ole Lenku stated.
The governor further stated that he would use his position as Maa spokesperson to advocate for an inclusive country.
Ole Lenku enjoys a cordial relationship with President William Ruto as well as Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
He used that privilege to state that he would be at the forefront in calling for President Ruto and other top leaders to fully commit to supporting Raila’s bid for African Union Commission Chairperson.
Raila appreciating Ole Lenku’s role in strengthening not only ODM but the Azimio Coalition noted he wanted him at the forefront of ODM affairs.
“I want Ole Lenku here. He represents the face of the party. I do not want to hear people in the Coast region say they want Joho while those in Western say they want Oparanya,” Raila declared noting that the three political stalwarts had an equal chance of leading the party should he retire.
With the opposition and government in a cordial working relationship through a dialogue team, Ole Lenku being fronted by Raila as the next CoG chair would increase his odds of assuming the position.
The governors are expected to elect a new CoG chair in August 2024, after the lapse of Waiguru’s two terms.
