Youth, professionals defend Governor Natembeya

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya addressing a huge crowd in Kitale Town on May 26, 2025. [Martin Ndiema, Standard]

A section of leaders, youth, and professionals in Trans Nzoia County have thrown their weight behind Governor George Natembeya.

Speaking under the banner “A Call for Respect, Fairness & Development, Not Witch Hunts,” Eliud Tormoi, a professional, condemned what he described as “coordinated political persecution” against Governor Natembeya.

A group of Kalenjin leaders and proffesionals from Trans Nzoia county. June 5, 2025. [Martin Ndiema, Standard]

Tormoi accused certain politicians from the North Rift Valley and state agencies of orchestrating a prolonged campaign of sabotage against the governor.

“We supported President Ruto and Kenya Kwanza wholeheartedly. In return, all we have received are thanksgiving rallies, Harambee events, and sermons,” Tormoi stated.

In an honest admission, Tormoi acknowledged that while they did not vote for Natembeya, he has been more inclusive and effective than expected.

“He has appointed three Kalenjin Chief Executive Committee members, one Chief Executive Officer, and over ten directors from our community. He has brought us roads, health services, bursaries, improved water supply, and enhanced food security,” Tormoi added.

Community elder Job Sang praised Natembeya’s government as “professional and inclusive,” contrasting it with what they described as “regime mouthpieces” from Kenya Kwanza, who, instead of delivering results, “attack anyone who dares to say no.”

They specifically criticised Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei and Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi for “promoting tribal narratives” and interfering in the affairs of Trans Nzoia.

“They do not represent us. They do not speak for us. This is not oversight; it is political slaughter masquerading as accountability,” remarked Johnathan Keter.

The community further accused investigative agencies, particularly the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), of being weaponized to hinder Natembeya’s development agenda through prolonged legal harassment.

They cited delayed court cases and strategic extensions, describing what they believe to be “a deliberate attempt to paint guilt through process rather than through facts.”

Peter Chemoygut, another professional, accused the national government of neglecting the Rift Valley, the very region that gave President Ruto his strongest mandate.

“There are no new tarmacked roads, no agro-processing plants, and no industrial projects emerging in this region, unlike in other parts of the country. Just Harambee events and empty promises,” Chemoygut lamented.

He expressed frustration that, while other regions have experienced presidential visits and development tours, Trans Nzoia and much of the Rift Valley have been relegated to mere symbolic gestures and political sermons.

In what could be interpreted as a political warning, the community demanded a direct meeting with President Ruto, stating they would no longer tolerate intermediaries or “outsider proxies.”

“We are Kalenjins of Trans Nzoia. We know how to speak for ourselves. Our diversity is our heritage,” declared Naomi Mulwa.

Former councilor Samuel Ng’eny warned that if the targeting of Natembeya continues and their development concerns remain unaddressed, they are prepared to “reconsider their political direction.”

“This marks a shift from blind loyalty to conditional support. It is a clear signal that even traditional strongholds are growing impatient,” Ng’eny concluded.