Zubeidah Kananu has been elected the new President of the Kenya Editors’ Guild (KEG) following a tightly contested election held on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Koome garnered 72 votes, narrowly defeating fellow veteran journalist Yvonne Okwara-Matole, who secured 58 votes in a race that drew significant interest within the media fraternity.
The election, conducted electronically, recorded 130 valid votes for the presidential position.
In other contested positions, Agnes Mwangangi emerged victorious as the new Council Member representing radio with 65 votes, beating Toepista Nabusoba who garnered 59 votes. Meanwhile, in the academia category, Dr. Julius Ombui Bosire was elected Council Member after obtaining 73 votes against Nathan Nayere Masambu’s 48.
The Guild also confirmed unopposed candidates for several positions:
-
Vice President: Francis Openda
-
Council Member (Print Media): Linda Bach
-
Council Member (Online Media): Kenfrey Kiberenge
-
Council Member (Television): Milicent Awuor
-
Trustees: Martin Masai, Ruth Nesoba, and Mbugua Ng’ang’a
The elections were supervised by Returning Officer Sophie Kaibiria, an advocate, who declared the results on Sunday, May 25, stating the process was free, fair, and conducted in accordance with KEG regulations.
The new leadership now takes charge at a critical time for the Kenyan media industry, as it navigates digital disruption, press freedom challenges, and demands for higher ethical standards and accountability in journalism.
Koome, a seasoned editor with decades of experience, is expected to champion issues of media independence, support for journalists’ welfare, and inclusive leadership within the Guild.
