Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has accused the government of targeting him over his outspoken criticism, saying his driver and security personnel have yet to be reinstated. Speaking during the county’s Jamhuri Day events, Natembeya said the national celebration offered him no joy.
"I am a walking prisoner; my security and driver were withdrawn because I am talking truth to power," he told the gathering, describing his treatment as punishment for confronting the authorities.
Despite the challenges, Natembeya said he finds pride in his struggle and believes his stand for the people will be remembered long after. "One day, when we are all long gone, you will call a Jamhuri Day to celebrate that there was once a man by the name Natembeya in this world," he said, warning that those enforcing oppression will be forgotten.
The governor also criticized fellow county leaders, accusing them of avoiding confrontation with President Ruto during the 12th National Government and County Governments Coordinating Summit at State House on December 10, 2025.
"There was a meeting of governors with the president. When they left the meeting, they started discussing in the WhatsApp group what they should have discussed with the president because none of them could stand and say the truth," Natembeya said.
Natembeya further opposed the displacement of Ikolomani residents from their ancestral land, which has recently been found to contain gold. He warned that some individuals are posing as foreigners to exploit the resources, sidelining local communities.
As a prominent opposition figure in Western Kenya, Natembeya has positioned himself against the rising influence of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula.
