Politrack ranks highest performing governors in 2024

A strong push is underway for governors to receive their share of revenue from the National Government to stimulate development. A new poll by POLITRACK AFRICA indicates that many underperforming governors are hindered by a lack of development initiatives.

This recent poll, which surveyed 3,211 respondents nationwide and evaluated 20 of the top-performing governors from November 10 to 17, 2024, revealed minimal investment in development across the counties. It also noted that those counties that had made investments often negatively impacted other sectors, particularly due to having a lean workforce.

“Its (the survey) execution was motivated by the need to have insight on the current political landscape and assess the approval of the county leaders from the vantage of public perception,” the research firm stated

According to the latest Politrack Africa poll, Kakamega’s Fernandez Baraza was ranked highest, achieving a 76.5% approval rating. He was followed by Tharaka Nithi’s Muthomi Njuki with 75.1%, and Narok’s Patrick Ole Ntutu, who secured third place with a 73.2% approval rating.

Council of Governors (COG) Chairperson and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdulahi ranked fourth with an approval rating of 70.7%. Nandi’s Stephen Sang, recognized for his contributions to sports development and agricultural value addition, rounded out the top five governors with 68.9%.

Homa Bay’s Gladys Wanga (68.2%) and Meru’s Kawira Mwangaza (67.5%), both first-time female governors, secured the sixth and seventh positions, respectively, further diversifying the list of the top ten governors.

“The performance of the county is being determined by the leadership within that county. The manifestos that were shared out were the ones shared by the governors. They are moving towards fulfilling this agenda. The performance of each and every county is heavily reliant on how the governor is ensuring that various policies and agenda they had for the people is being implemented,” noted Emmanuel Kutosi, data analyst at Politrack Africa

The poll also highlighted a significant correlation between development success and re-election prospects, urging governors to prioritize public needs over self-initiated projects.

“If this trend continues, approximately half of the governors maybe in a favourable position for re-election while the other half may face significant challenges in seeking re-election,” Kutosi remarked