The embattled Meru Governor, Kawira Mwangaza, has been named among the top 10 best-performing governors in Kenya for 2024.
The ranking, released by Politrack Africa on Monday, assessed the performance of governors at approximately the mid-point of their current terms.
Governor Mwangaza secured the 7th position with a performance rating of 68.2%, standing out among the 47 elected governors in the country.
Leading the list was Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, who achieved an approval score of 76.5%.
He was followed by Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki with 75.1%, while Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntuntu and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi secured third and fourth positions with scores of 73.2% and 70.7%, respectively.
Other notable mentions included Nandi Governor Stephen Sang and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, both tied at 68.9%, with Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, Isiolo Governor Abdi Ibrahim Hassan, and Siaya Governor James Orengo completing the top 10.
The evaluation by Politrack Africa considered several factors, including public satisfaction with governor performance, public participation in governance, and adherence to county planning regulations as stipulated under the County Governments Act 2012.
ALSO READ: We have no apologies for giving money to the church – President Ruto
Additionally, the survey examined the implementation and transparency of automated revenue collection systems. Data was collected from 3,211 respondents across the country, supplemented by reports from the Office of the Controller of Budget and the Auditor General.
The survey highlighted the challenges of maintaining high approval ratings, noting that political approval often declines over time.
The national mean approval rating was 55.8%, suggesting room for improvement for most governors. The report observed that governors with ratings above the median of 50% stand a better chance of re-election, while those below this threshold may face significant hurdles in convincing the electorate.
Politrack Africa emphasized that the poll was self-funded to ensure impartiality and independence in reporting public opinion. The results underscored the varying levels of performance among governors, with some significantly outperforming others.
This disparity may increase competition and pressure on governors with lower approval ratings to improve their governance.
The findings also called for enhanced transparency and communication by county governments to build trust with citizens. Furthermore, the national government was urged to provide additional support to counties facing leadership challenges.
As governors approach the second half of their terms, the rankings are expected to intensify focus on their performance and push for improved service delivery in counties across the country.
