KEG Election: Zubeidah Koome Re-Elected Kenya Editors' Guild President

• Zubeidah Kananu Koome secured re-election as Kenya Editors' Guild president in the polls that were held on Saturday, May 24
• Kananu was facing off against first-time contender Yvonne Okwara whom she defeated with approximately 14 votes
• She pledged unity, inclusivity, and continued dedication to press freedom and editorial independence in her second term

Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya

A duel in the Kenya Editors' Guild that pitted two seasoned broadcast journalists has ended with the incumbent president retaining her seat.

KTN's Zubeidah Kananu sought to retain the seat against Citizen TV's Yvonne Okwara who was seeking the guild's presidency for the first time.

The vote on Saturday, May 24, ended in victory for Zubeidah, who edged out Okwara with 14 votes.

Zubeidah received 72 votes against Okwara who garnered 58 votes.

Francis Openda was elected vice president unopposed. Julius Bosire was elected as the council member for academia, while Agnes Mwangangi was elected as the radio council member.

Linda Bach was elected as the print media member, Kenfrey Kiberenge as the online media representative, and Millicent Owuor as the television representative.

Trustee council members include Martin Masai, Ruth Nesoba and Mbugua Ng'ang'a.

What was Kananu's message after re-election?

Upon her re-election, Kananu thanked members for their trust and support, which helped her secure a second term.

"I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful for the trust you have placed in me by electing me to serve a second term as President of our Guild. This renewed mandate is more than a personal milestone—it is a collective endorsement of the values we uphold and the vision we share for a stronger, more resilient, and independent media industry in Kenya. Thank you for your confidence, your belief in our mission, and your steadfast support," she said.

Kananu reaffirmed her commitment to building on the progress made in her first tenure with courage, inclusivity, and dedication.

She pledged to work with everyone, regardless of background or views, saying the guild’s strength lies in unity.

She also congratulated those elected alongside her and said she looks forward to working closely with them.

"I also extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the newly elected council members. I look forward to working closely with each of you as we strive to move the Guild forward. To my friend and worthy opponent, Yvonne Okwara—thank you for running a spirited and dignified campaign. Your participation reflects the strength of our democratic values and the passion we all share for the future of our profession," Kananu said.

Kananu's achievements in previous tenure

While launching her re-election bid, Kananu expressed excitement about the opportunity to serve at the editor’s guild.

She highlighted her track record, including defending press freedom and standing firm against threats to editorial independence.

"It has been an honour to serve as your President at the Kenya Editors Guild—a responsibility I have carried with humility, purpose, and relentless dedication. As I present myself for re-election, I do so with a clear vision, a proven track record, and an even deeper resolve to take the Guild to greater heights," she said.

Over the past two years, together we have mentored the next generation of journalists, with a deliberate focus on young, female, and regional editors. Engaged policymakers and partners to ensure journalism in Kenya remains ethical, vibrant, and sustainable," she added.

When was Kananu first elected as KEG president?

Kananu was first elected president of the KEG in April 2023, taking over from seasoned editor Churchill Otieno.

She secured the position by winning 72 votes, beating Sammy Muraya of Journalists for Human Rights, who received 36 votes.

Kananu expressed gratitude to the Kenya Editors' Guild community for their confidence in her leadership and shared her enthusiasm about the win.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke