Governor Natembeya Declares Himself a “General” in Continued Pushback Against Government
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has reiterated his commitment to openly challenge government actions following his release from custody on May 20, 2025. Speaking in Kakamega on Monday, May 26, Natembeya emphasized his constitutional right to free speech, despite recent legal troubles.
Natembeya was arrested on May 19 by officers from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and charged with graft. He was released on a Ksh1 million bond or a cash bail of Ksh500,000 by the Milimani Law Courts. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) alleges that between January 1, 2023, and April 30, 2025, Natembeya unlawfully acquired Ksh3.25 million in public funds through payments made by the Trans Nzoia county government amid conflicts of interest. Additional charges include two counts of conflict of interest under the Anti-Graft and Economic Crimes Act, 2003, relating to indirect financial benefits totaling Ksh4.2 million from businesses trading with the county government.
In his first public address since his release, Governor Natembeya described himself as a “general” and “commando,” affirming his determination to speak out on issues such as the leasing of four sugar factories in Western Kenya and the shortage of job opportunities for local youth. “Our constitution allows people to speak, and I won’t fear because I’m protected by the constitution,” he said. He criticized the government for allegedly marginalizing educated residents from Trans Nzoia in public employment and accused it of neglecting local sugar factories, including Nzoia Sugar Factory.
During the court hearing, Natembeya denied all charges, while the prosecution maintained the financial benefits he allegedly received were linked to county tenders. Principal Magistrate Charles Ondiek barred the governor from accessing his office for 60 days and prohibited him from interfering with witnesses. Additionally, Natembeya was restricted from traveling abroad without court permission.
This development marks a significant chapter in the ongoing scrutiny of governance in Trans Nzoia County and may influence local political dynamics and government accountability efforts. Updates on the case and any further statements from Governor Natembeya or relevant authorities are expected in the coming weeks.
Also Read: Kalonzo Calls for Opposition Emergency Meeting Over Juja MP George Koimburi Alleged Abduction
Governor Natembeya Declares Himself a “General” in Continued Pushback Against Government