By Violet Auma ||violetmedia8@gmail.com
A fresh political storm is brewing in Western Kenya, as a section of leaders and supporters of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya mount a strong defense against what they term as “orchestrated intimidation” by allies of President William Ruto.
The leaders, drawn from Kakamega County, have come out guns blazing following public remarks by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei and Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, who recently accused Natembeya of undermining the Kenya Kwanza administration through his continued criticism.
Their statements have been interpreted by many in the region as part of a wider plot to have the vocal governor ousted an idea that has sparked outrage and a spirited pushback from both grassroots supporters and elected officials across the Western region.
Led by DAP-K Member of County Assembly Joel Okwako, the leaders convened a press conference in Kakamega town where they vehemently condemned the remarks by Cherargei and Mandago, describing them as a “direct attack on democracy and regional freedom of expression.”
“We will not sit back and watch as our governor is harassed for speaking out on national issues that affect all Kenyans,” Okwako declared.
“Governor Natembeya was elected by the people of Trans Nzoia, and only they have the mandate to decide his fate. He is a visionary leader, a true son of the Mulembe nation and Western Kenya is proud to stand firmly behind him.”
Okwako accused Ruto’s allies of trying to silence dissenting voices rather than focusing on issues affecting ordinary Kenyans.
“Instead of responding to the challenges of the high cost of living, struggling health care reforms, or the uproar over university funding, they are busy targeting individuals who raise uncomfortable truths,” he added.
Governor Natembeya, a former Rift Valley Regional Commissioner turned politician, has become one of the most outspoken governors in the country, a trait that has earned him both praise and criticism.
In recent months, he has publicly criticized the Kenya Kwanza government over what he terms as the mishandling of reforms in key sectors, including education, health, and agriculture.
His statements, often unapologetic and fiery, have gained traction among many Kenyans who feel left out by the current administration.
However, his boldness has also made him a target for political backlash with some of Ruto’s loyalists labeling him “a rebel governor” who is out to derail government agenda.
But leaders from his home turf insist that Natembeya is simply doing what a governor should, speaking for the people and defending their interests.
“Some of our leaders have been in government, yet Western Kenya continues to face marginalization in national politics,” said Victoria Zillah, a nominated Member of County Assembly under the DAP-K party.
“It is unfortunate that certain leaders feel threatened by the movement Governor Natembeya has initiated to unite the Mulembe nation and push for greater representation from our region.”
During the press conference in Kakamega, speaker after speaker warned that any attempt to impeach Natembeya or isolate him politically would be met with strong resistance.
“To Trans Nzoia MCAs, we beseech you, do not be intimidated,” said Samuel Sechero, MCA for Isukha West. “This is no longer just about one man, it’s about silencing an entire region.”
The leaders dismissed any talk of impeachment as “wishful thinking” and accused Ruto’s allies of trying to destabilize Western Kenya’s growing political cohesion.
According to Okwako, Natembeya has been instrumental in initiating conversations around Luhya unity and representation, efforts that now seem to have rattled some within the national political setup.
“This is clearly political sabotage,” Okwako said. “The more Natembeya speaks about regional development, the more enemies he seems to attract. But we won’t be cowed.”
Beyond the political theatrics, observers say the unfolding tensions are a reflection of deeper undercurrents in the Western region, which has been trying to consolidate its voice in national politics for decades.
Despite its population size and economic contribution, Western Kenya has often found itself fragmented during elections with leaders pulling in different directions.
“Governor Natembeya is trying to change that,” said Robert Makhanu, DAP-K MCA for Kongoni Ward.
“He’s championing a unified voice for our people. Those calling for his impeachment have clearly lost their way. Natembeya is our hero, and as the Mulembe nation, we are proud to stand with him.”
Makhanu adds that the impeachment noise is a smokescreen to divert attention from more pressing national matters.
“We’re talking about a time when parents are protesting CBC costs, hospitals are running out of drugs, and the youth are unemployed. Instead of solutions, we’re seeing character assassination,” he said.
Some residents in western Kenya have threatened to hold peaceful demonstrations if the impeachment motion gains traction.
So far, no formal motion to impeach the governor has been tabled but whether it gains traction or fades away remains to be seen.
