Natembeya faults state over silence on youth protests

 TransNzoia Governor George Natembeya/X

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has criticised the national government, claiming it is ignoring citizens' grievances and resorting to silencing dissent.

Speaking during an interview on Spice FM, Natembeya said Kenyans are raising serious issues, but the government appears unwilling to engage.

“Kenyans are raising very pertinent issues, but the government is not willing to listen. When you raise these issues, instead of responding, they choose to silence you,” he said.

Natembeya also addressed previous allegations against him, including claims of conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public property, which he believes were meant to intimidate him.

“They were just meant to silence me. They come to your house, search everything, and take even the smallest papers. Then you’re taken in, questioned, and suddenly told you’ll be in court the next day,” he said.

He further noted that many young people have taken to the streets not out of rebellion but frustration with joblessness and the high cost of living. He questioned the government’s approach to youth protests.

“Power is with the people. They are criticising certain things, but we are deaf—we are not listening,” Natembeya said.

He challenged the Cabinet to take a hard look at the country’s economic situation.

“Let the Cabinet sit. This Cabinet is completely clueless. They should sit down and acknowledge that the biggest issue facing Kenyans is the economy. If the economy grows, youth will get jobs, people will be self-employed, and many of these problems will be solved,” he said.

Natembeya's remarks come amid ongoing national conversations on youth unrest, economic hardship, and governance.