The Bungoma County Fourth Estate (BUCOFE) Secretariat has announced that the tenure of Acting Chairperson Renson Mauka of Tandao TV has officially come to an end, paving the way for a fresh leadership contest within the media fraternity.

In a statement dated September 17, 2025, the Secretariat said Mauka’s role was an interim arrangement meant to provide continuity after the resignation of Eric Lumbasi of West TV, who previously held the position.

“The Acting Chairperson has been serving in an interim capacity to provide leadership and continuity during a transitional period after Eric Lumbasi of West TV resigned. We sincerely thank him for his dedication, commitment and service to BUCOFE during his tenure,” read the statement issued by the BUCOFE Secretariat.

The Secretariat made it clear that Mauka no longer holds authority to act or transact on behalf of the association.

“Effective immediately, the Acting Chairperson is no longer authorized to transact or represent BUCOFE in any official capacity. All members and stakeholders are advised to cease any engagements with him on matters concerning BUCOFE until further notice,” the Secretariat emphasized.

The development marks a critical turning point for BUCOFE, a county-based body that brings together media practitioners and stakeholders in Bungoma.

The association plays a vital role in advancing the interests of journalists, promoting professional standards and advocating for media freedoms at the county level.

With Mauka’s tenure concluded, the Secretariat has now turned attention to ushering in a substantive office bearer.

To ensure transparency, members have been invited to express interest in vying for the top leadership position, alongside other elective posts that may be open.

“In line with our principles of transparency and inclusivity, the Secretariat hereby invites all interested and eligible members to express their interest in vying for the position of BUCOFE Chairperson and other positions. A detailed notice outlining the application process, eligibility criteria and timelines will be communicated after seven days,” the statement added.

The Secretariat further called for unity and professionalism among members during this transition period, urging all stakeholders to maintain decorum and mutual respect as the organization prepares for the next phase of leadership.

“We call upon all members to uphold professionalism, unity and mutual respect as we smoothly navigate this leadership transition,” the Secretariat appealed.

The announcement now shifts the focus to BUCOFE’s internal processes and the dynamics of its leadership race, with speculation likely to rise on who may step forward to contest for the chairmanship.

The call for inclusivity and transparency signals an attempt by the Secretariat to consolidate trust and cohesion among members amid the leadership vacuum.

Ends