The Governor of Kisii, Paul Simba Arati, and the Principal Secretary, State Department for Interior and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, have been ranked among the top for strong performance in their roles, based on service delivery and accountability in leadership.
Governor Arati and Ps Omollo received the recognition at the STARLEADERS Awards 2026, organized by Politrack Africa in Nairobi on April 1, where leaders across national and county governments were assessed on service delivery, leadership effectiveness, innovation, and integrity.
The ceremony brought together governors, cabinet secretaries, principal secretaries, and members of Parliament, as Politrack Africa renewed its call for the adoption of data‑driven governance ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Politrack Africa Chief Executive Officer John Benson said accountability should be anchored on credible data, adding that leadership is judged through consistent performance rather than public praise.
“Leadership is not about being celebrated tonight; it is about being accountable every day. Accountability begins with listening, and listening in the 21st century begins with data,” Benson said.
He added that digital tools and real‑time data systems are vital for leaders to respond effectively to citizens’ needs. During the ceremony, Politrack Africa announced the appointment of Professor Chris Mutembei as head of its research division to strengthen data analysis and policy assessment.
Simba Arati was ranked the best‑performing governor, with Anne Waiguru and Wavinya Ndeti tied for second place, while Ahmed Abdullahi and Patrick Ole Ntutu shared third position. The Kisii Governor is credited with infrastructural transformation, including tarmacking of roads.
Additionally, Arati was feted for his investment in the healthcare system, including the equipping and modernization of Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) elected governor has also ensured that the county has the state-of-the-art county headquarters.
Among Principal Secretaries, Raymond Omollo took the top position. Elisha Mwangi followed in second place, while Alex Wachira and Julius Bitok shared third place.
In the Cabinet Secretaries category, John Mbadi and Geoffrey Ruku shared first place. Kipchumba Murkomen ranked second, followed by Opiyo Wandayi in third position.
National Assembly rankings saw Babu Owino take the top spot, with Patrick Makau second and Ndindi Nyoro third.
Among the women representatives, Rahab Mukami was ranked first, Beatrice Adagala second, and Betty Maina third.
After receiving the top governor’s award, Simba Arati said the recognition reflected efforts to improve service delivery and accountability at the county level.
“The focus remains on delivering tangible results to our residents and using public resources responsibly,” Arati said.
Top-ranked MP Babu Owino said the award reflected a commitment to people-focused leadership, development, and oversight.
“This recognition speaks to the importance of leadership that responds to the real needs of the people,” he said.
Politrack Africa said the STARLEADERS Awards are informed by assessments of core mandate delivery, strategic leadership, innovation, digital transformation, and integrity.
The organization also used the platform to advocate for real-time governance tools, such as geo-mapping and live response tracking, to improve transparency and decision-making.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, the organization said leaders who rely on credible data will be better positioned to meet citizen expectations and strengthen public trust.
