Evans Kapkea has been officially sworn in as the new Deputy Governor of Uasin Gishu, succeeding John Barorot, who resigned more than three months ago. The swearing-in ceremony took place outside the county headquarters, with High Court Judge Robert Wananda and Deputy Registrar Carolyne Watimah presiding.
Among those present were Eldoret Presiding Judge Reuben Nyakundi, Justice Jane Onyango, and Chief Magistrate Dennis Mikoyani, along with other notable officials.
Kapkea expressed his gratitude to Governor Jonathan Bii for appointing him as deputy governor following Barorot’s resignation. “I am committed to serving you faithfully as your deputy and will support you in delivering the Nguzo Kumi agenda for our county,” said Kapkea.
The former MCA for Tembelio Ward pledged to dedicate himself to serving the people of Uasin Gishu, emphasizing that as a youthful leader, he would work hard to ensure quality services for the residents of the region.
Governor Bii voiced his confidence in Kapkea’s abilities. “I trust in your hard work and capacity, and I am sure we will work together as a strong team for the people of Uasin Gishu,” Bii stated.
The governor also highlighted their shared commitment to fostering peace and unity in the region, alongside continuing the implementation of development programs. He noted that his administration had already made significant strides under the Nguzo Kumi (ten-point) agenda, including improvements in local hospitals and an increased supply of medical essentials.
“We’ve also made considerable progress in the education sector, especially in Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE), where enrollment has risen and over 2,000 teachers have been hired on permanent contracts,” Bii added.
Kapkea’s swearing-in had been delayed for over a month due to issues with the gazettement of his appointment, which was held up by the absence of the IEBC. Governor Bii had to file a petition with Justice Nyakundi, who issued orders facilitating the gazettement of Kapkea’s name, allowing the swearing-in to proceed.
“We’ve been eagerly waiting for this moment, and we’re glad it has finally happened. Now we can focus on our work,” Governor Bii remarked.
Bii also took the opportunity to thank his former deputy, Barorot, for his contributions to the county before he moved on to pursue new opportunities in the ICT sector.
The event was attended by other deputy governors, including Yulita Mitei of Nandi, Phillomena Kapkory of Trans Nzoia, and Grace Cheserek of Elgeyo Marakwet.