KISUMU, February 2026 – The Kisumu Journalists Network (KJN) has ushered in a new-look leadership following a successful election, with the newly installed officials pledging to safeguard the group’s objectives and steer it toward a prosperous and member-focused future.
The election, conducted on Saturday, February 28th, in Kisumu City, saw Rushdie Oudia of the Nation Media Group duly elected as Chairman. He will be deputised by Harold Odhiambo of the Standard Media Group. Chris Mahandaria of the Kenya News Agency (KNA) secured the position of Secretary General, while Maureen Odiwuor was elected unopposed as the Treasurer.
Speaking to the Eyes Watch immediately after the smooth and transparent exercise, Mr Oudia, who is embarking on his second stint at the helm, outlined the network’s immediate priorities. He emphasised that a key task will be to align the group’s constitution with current government regulations to ensure compliance and stability.
“In recent years, we have had our challenges, but this move heralds a new beginning for members to chart their way forward, united with a purpose,” assured Oudia, who previously led KJN from 2018 to 2023. He expressed strong optimism about the future, promising to spearhead projects that are genuinely member-centric.
“We will undertake initiatives focused on empowering our members, primarily through enhanced training and capacity-building programs,” he added.
The polls were overseen by Lilian Ongwosi, the Social Services Official, who also played a key role in enlightening the hybrid Annual General Meeting. She guided members through nine strategic modules designed to effectively steer KJN’s operations and governance in the coming years.
The training session was met with widespread acclaim from members, who described it as an “eye-opener and timely” intervention on how they can collectively strengthen and improve the group.
The newly elected officials are set to serve a three-year term, with Oudia’s return to leadership marking another chapter in the group’s history, following in the footsteps of its pioneer Chairman, Dickson Odhiambo (currently of Citizen Voice).
Oudia’s previous tenure (2018-2023) was succeeded by the late Dickens Wasonga (2023-2024). Ms Doreen Magak (Nation Media) and Josphat Odhiambo (Royal Media) also had a brief stint in charge during the transition.
Concluding his address, Oudia rallied the members with a message of hope and ambition. “The future is bright. Let us make a bold step as members and seize the opportunities that come our way.”
