Yvonne Okwara Concedes Defeat after Losing KEG Presidential Election to Kananu

Celebrated Media personality Yvonne Okwara conceded defeat after losing the 2025 Kenya Editors’ Guild Presidential Election to KTN’s Zubeida Kananu.

Kananu successfully defended the seat she had been holding by securing 72 votes against Okwara’s 58. She will be deputized by Radio Africa’s Francis Openda.

Okwara said that even though the outcome was not what she hoped for, she remains proud of the message of renewal her team carried.

“Today, I concede the election for President of the Kenya Editors’ Guild, with a full heart and with deep respect for the democratic will of the membership.”

Okwara said that she had mounted a spirited campaign, but fellow editors made their decision to give Kananu second term, a result which she accepted wholeheartedly.

“This has been a spirited campaign, and while I had hoped for a different outcome, I accept the result with grace, and I remain proud of the message we carried – one of renewal, credibility, and collective purpose,” she said.

“To the incoming leadership: I extend my sincere congratulations. You have a big task ahead of you- to unite the guild and restore trust in our shared institution. I wish you wisdom, clarity, and courage in this journey,” she added.

“To those who supported me, thank you for your belief, not just in me, but in the possibility of a better Guild. Our work doesn’t end here. I remain committed to the values that got me into this race: integrity, transparency, and the strengthening of our editorial independence in Kenya.”

Kananu appreciated all who believed in her mission after securing a second term as president of the Kenya Editors’ Guild (KEG).

In a statement said her re-election is an endorsement of the values the Guild shares of a stronger and more resilient industry.

“I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful for the trust you have placed in me by electing me to serve a second term as President of our Guild,” she said.

“This renewed mandate is more than a personal milestone—it is a collective endorsement of the values we uphold and the vision we share for a stronger, more resilient, and independent media industry in Kenya. Thank you for your confidence, your belief in our mission, and your steadfast support.”

Kananu reaffirmed her commitment to continue building on the gains from her first term as KEG president.

“As we begin this new chapter, I reaffirm my commitment to continue building on the progress we’ve made—with courage, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication. I am committed to working with each and every one of you, regardless of our backgrounds, affiliations, or viewpoints, because the strength of this Guild lies in our unity and shared resolve,” she said.

“I also extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the newly elected council members. I look forward to working closely with each of you as we strive to move the Guild forward.”

The KEG president hailed her main challenger, Citizen TV’s Yvonne Okwara, for running a spirited and dignified campaign, adding that she looks forward to working with her to make KEG better.

She promised to work with all as the Guild’s strength relies on their unity.

Agnes Mwangangi was elected as Member for Radio, Julius Bosire as member for academia, Mildred Awuor television representative, Linda Bach print representative, while Kenfrey Kiberenge was elected as online/digital representative.

Others were Martin Masai, Ruth Nesoba and Mbugua Ng’ang’a,  who were picked as trustees.