By Okoth Otieno
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has accused the government of attempting to sabotage his political ambitions due to his criticism of its policies.
While addressing residents in Kakamega, Natembeya asked the government not to woo those with varying opinions or those trying to criticize the government.
His visit brought Kakamega town to a standstill, with a police escort leading his convoy as he addressed his supporters.
Referring to the 2010 Constitution of Kenya, Natembeya emphasized the need for the government to respect freedom of speech, noting that as human beings, we have varying opinions.
“We can’t all be saying the same thing. If I say something that the government finds beneficial, it can use it. If they think it has no value, then they can ignore it. But don’t get so angry to the extent of wanting to silence those ‘government critics’,” said Natembeya.
Governor Natembeya encouraged the public not to remain silent and called on those in power to listen to their critics instead of resorting to bullying. He acknowledged that the journey ahead would be challenging but insisted that it was essential for the people and the country stating“we are going to walk the talk.”
Identifying himself as a ‘field person,’ Governor Natembeya noted that he still delivers his duties as the governor of Trans Nzoia County, having only been denied access to his office space.
“The restriction is about… the office where I sit, is where I cannot access for the next 54 days or so, but I can still operate from anywhere,” said the governor.
The governor’s remarks come following his arrest by the EACC on May 19, 2025, over a Ksh. 1.4 billion alleged corruption scandal.