Obuya, a veteran parliamentary journalist, secured the Secretary General position unopposed after leading in early support, prompting his challengers to withdraw before the final vote.
In his acceptance speech, Obuya expressed gratitude to members of the association, terming his election as a vote of confidence.
“I appreciate the faith and trust that you have shown in allowing me to serve this great association. That I got the mandate unopposed is a great show of confidence, and I assure you I will endeavor to serve you in the best way possible,” he said.
He further called for unity among KPJA members, urging them to work collectively to improve the welfare and standing of the association.
Emmanuel Too, who declared his candidacy for Organizing Secretary early in the campaign period, also went unchallenged throughout. Following his declaration as winner, Too pledged to serve with dedication and humility.
“Thank you to everyone who believed in me and supported my candidacy. I’m deeply humbled by the trust you’ve placed in me, and I’m excited to work tirelessly to fulfill our shared vision,” he said, later reiterating on his social media: “Ready to serve with humility.”
In other contested races, The Star newspaper’s Moses Ogada clinched the presidency after garnering 34 votes, defeating Daily Nation’s David Mwere, who received 14 votes.
Capital FM’s Irene Mwangi emerged victorious in the Vice Chairperson race, overcoming Kamche Menza of KBC, while Elizabeth Mutuku of TV47 narrowly beat Edward Kabasa, also of KBC, to become the association’s new Treasurer.
Nation Media Group’s Collins Omullo was elected Deputy Secretary General after defeating colleague Mary Wangare, while The Standard’s Josephat Thiong’o secured the Liaison Officer role.
Outgoing Chairman Duncan Khaemba of NTV steps down after serving at the helm of KPJA for five years. The elections were overseen by James Macharia, who was seconded from the Office of the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, and served as the Returning Officer.
The newly elected KPJA officials will serve a two-year term, running through to 2027. KPJA is the official welfare body representing journalists covering Kenya’s bicameral Parliament.
