Public remarks made during the Jamhuri Day celebrations in Trans Nzoia painted a picture of deep frustration from the county’s top leadership. Instead of focusing on the usual themes of unity and progress associated with the national holiday, Governor George Natembeya used the platform to express what he described as personal and political persecution by the state.
He told residents that the day held little meaning for him under the current circumstances.
The governor said that the national government has not reinstated his official driver and security officers, a move he described as deliberate and meant to intimidate him.
According to Natembeya, these actions are directly linked to his public criticism of the government. He framed his situation as one of restriction and constant pressure, claiming that his freedom has been reduced despite holding an elected office.
“I am a walking prisoner; my security and driver were withdrawn because I am talking truth to power,” the governor claimed.
He argued that the withdrawal of his security details was not a routine administrative issue but punishment for refusing to remain silent.
Natembeya told the crowd that this experience has shaped how he now views national celebrations, saying he felt disconnected from the spirit of Jamhuri Day.
Even as he spoke about these challenges, the governor insisted that history would judge him differently from those he accused of oppressing him.
He said he was at peace with the difficulties he is facing and suggested that standing with ordinary citizens mattered more than personal comfort or political safety.
“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,” Natembeya claimed.
He added that those responsible for his troubles would leave office without leaving any meaningful legacy behind.
Natembeya also turned his criticism toward fellow governors, accusing them of lacking courage when dealing with President William Ruto.
Referring to the 12th National Government and County Governments Coordinating Summit held on December 10, 2025, at State House, he claimed that governors failed to raise important issues directly with the president.
He alleged that after the meeting, governors discussed their frustrations in a WhatsApp group instead of addressing them openly during the summit.
“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 claimed.
On local matters, the governor repeated his opposition to the eviction of Ikolomani residents from land where gold has recently been discovered. He said the land belongs to the local community and should not be taken away under the guise of development or mining interests.
Natembeya further alleged that some individuals posing as foreigners are involved in harvesting the gold while genuine residents are pushed aside.
The governor has continued to position himself as a dissenting voice in the Western region, openly challenging the political influence of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula.
His statements during the celebrations reinforced his image as a leader willing to confront both national and regional power structures, even as he claims to face personal consequences for doing so.
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