Evans Kapkea sworn in as Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor

Evans Kapkea takes oath during his swearing in as Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor on November 14. [Peter Ochieng, Standard]

Evans Kapkea, the immediate former Tembelio Ward MCA, has been sworn in as Uasin Gishu County's third Deputy Governor.

Kapkea, 34, pledged loyalty to Governor Jonathan Bii and expressed well-wishes for his predecessor, John Barorot.

Speaking during his swearing-in ceremony in Eldoret, Kapkea affirmed his commitment to serving as Bii's principal assistant. He promised to work closely with MCAs to implement county projects and policies.

Kapkea, elected as Tembelio Ward representative in 2022 and former chair of the Uasin Gishu County Assembly trade committee, said his appointment signals to young people that they, too, can ascend to senior county positions.

"I promise to be loyal to the governor, our shared vision, and the people of Uasin Gishu. My appointment is a message to young people that they can rise to top positions and serve," he said.

Kapkea succeeds Barorot, who resigned on August 19 to join an international ICT firm shortly after Eldoret was elevated to Kenya's fifth city.

"I acknowledge my predecessor's role in service delivery and wish him success in his international career," Kapkea added.

Reflecting on his journey, he thanked his family for their support since the loss of his parents in his youth. "The trust the people of Tembelio placed in me has propelled me to this position. I am committed to upholding the constitution and delivering quality service to the county."

Deputy Governors from the North Rift, including Grace Cheserek (Elgeyo Marakwet), Robert Komole (West Pokot), Philomena Kapkori (Trans Nzoia), and Yulita Cheruiyot (Nandi), attended the ceremony, alongside various Ward representatives.

Governor Bii expressed confidence in Kapkea's ability to fill the void left by Barorot, noting that Kapkea would support his administration's youth agenda and strengthen ties between the county executive and assembly. "

Your appointment will help us solidify our working relationship with the County Assembly. You will serve as the bridge between the executive and the assembly," Bii said.

Bii noted that Kapkea's understanding of devolution and Uasin Gishu's political landscape made him a suitable choice for the role.