Incumbent West Pokot Governor Prof John Lonyangapuo has conceded defeat in his bid to retain the county’s top seat.
Prof Lonyangapuo said although he was defeated by less than 2000 votes and since he loves peace, he has accepted the results.
He said that as a God fearing man he has done it from his heart.
Prof Lonyangapuo asked his supporters to accept his decision and support governor-elect Simon Kachapin who won on a UDA ticket.
He asked Kachapin to consult him on anything since he is ready to offer him support.
Lonyangapuo shook hands with his rival before the county leaders and the general public noted that he is ready to hand over power to his successor.
He asked the governor-elect to call for a meeting of all elected leaders from the county irrespective of their parties and set the agenda for the county.
He called for unity among the leaders.
He said that leaders should now shun incitement and insults and instead focus on development for the next five years.
He noted that West Pokot residents had faith in him after performing fairly well in his first term.
Simon Kachapin called for political tolerance adding that service delivery is key for a leader.
He lauded residents for reelecting him through a tight competition.
The leaders embraced each other and asked residents to pray for the new government.
Kachapin was declared the winner after bagging 86,476 votes.
Lonyangapuo came in second with slightly over 84,610 votes.
