Residents of Gichagi Village in Ngong Ward, Kajiado North Subcounty, have elected five Village Council members to represent the village’s five clusters in local governance matters.
The exercise was conducted at the Gichagi Assistant Chief’s office as part of the ongoing recruitment of village council elders across Kajiado County.
The election follows provisions of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, the County Governments Act 2012, and the Kajiado County Village Delineation Act 2022, which provide for the establishment of village councils to enhance public participation and grassroots governance.
The exercise was overseen by Ngong Ward MCA Mbiriri Mwaura and Village Administrator Solomon Sosstei.
Village Council members are tasked with coordinating public participation in governance, monitoring implementation of policies and development programs, advising ward and sub-county administrators on village matters, and promoting effective administration at the village level.
Speaking during the exercise, Mwaura said similar elections were being conducted in Gichagi and Mathare villages within Ngong Ward.
“Today’s elections have been conducted fairly, giving qualified candidates an opportunity to represent residents from the five clusters within Gichagi Village. I urge the elected council members to prioritize the interests of the people they represent,” he said.
Village Administrator Solomon Sosstei said his office would work closely with the elected council to ensure residents’ concerns are effectively communicated and addressed through the appropriate administrative channels.
One of the newly elected council members, David Karanja, thanked residents for entrusting him with the leadership role.
“I am grateful to the residents for their confidence in me. I understand the challenges facing the community and will work with fellow council members to improve governance and service delivery in the village,” he said.
Former Village Council Chairman Evans Kiare commended the electoral process, describing it as transparent and peaceful.
“The elections were conducted fairly. I encourage the incoming committee to work closely with residents and other stakeholders because serving the community requires commitment and teamwork,” he said.
Observers noted that the elections were conducted without bias and that all elected members met the required qualifications, including attaining the minimum age of 35 years, complying with Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity, and meeting other legal requirements stipulated under the County Governments Act.
The elected committee will work closely with village and ward administrators on matters affecting residents, a move aimed at strengthening grassroots governance and bringing public services closer to the people.
By Peter Muteti
