Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya continues to face sustained political criticism from figures allied to the Kenya Kwanza coalition as he prepares to seek re-election, competing against several aspirants who are already laying ground to challenge him.
Heated politics could make Trans Nzoia one of the regions to watch as the next elections approach.
Natembeya, who has also expressed interest in national politics, retains significant support in Trans Nzoia even as Kenya Kwanza allies led by President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet allege he promotes tribal politics through his Tawe Movement.
“The people of Trans Nzoia know me very well, and most of those coming here to criticise us politically are the real tribalists who don’t like independent minds,” he said.
Farouk and several MPs who visited Cheranganyi a week ago claimed Natembeya is unfit to lead, alleging he spreads hate and tribalism.
“We believe he formed the so-called Tawe Movement to undermine development and sideline one community in Trans Nzoia, but that will not work,” Farouk said.
Natembeya responded that his administration employs people from all communities, including spouses of some political rivals, and said those criticising him come from neighbouring Uasin Gishu county, where, he claimed, other communities receive limited job opportunities.
Natembeya, ranked last year among the top three performing governors in a national survey, maintains that his record is clear and that the people of Trans Nzoia will stand with him.
Former Health CS Susan Nakhumicha is the latest to announce she will run against Natembeya in the next general election.
Natembeya, elected on a DAP-K ticket, defeated Ford Kenya’s Chris Wamalwa, who is also reported to be preparing for another contest, as is MP Kakai Bisau among others.
“I will offer myself to vie for the governor seat because I believe the people of Trans Nzoia deserve better leadership,” Nakhumicha said.
Natembeya says Kenya is a democratic country and that his opponents have the right to vie. “The people of Trans Nzoia will decide at the end of the day and they will not be misled by those who have been misusing the county,” he said.
The road to the 2027 election appears challenging for the governor as he seeks to retain his seat or expand his role in national politics.
Natembeya is also navigating political disputes with prominent Luhya leaders including Ford Kenya boss Moses Wetang’ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, while contending with leaders allied to Kenya Kwanza.
He is further involved in a leadership tussle within the DAP-K party with former CS Eugene Wamalwa, alongside competition from those seeking to unseat him in Trans Nzoia.
