Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has responded to critics who chastised him during the burial of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s mother, claiming that he “told them the truth”.
The Governor, who was attacked by numerous leaders after speaking at the funeral, criticized the insults that have since become a topic of conversation in the country.
“I was the subject of severe verbal attacks by some political leaders through the litany of insults and profanity towards my persona,” Natembeya said.
In his remarks, Natembeya disagreed with several of the politicians there about abductions, setting the stage for a vehement response from National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.
It all started when Cotu boss Francis Atwoli claimed that certain Kenyans were kidnapping themselves to obtain cash from civil society organizations.
On abductions, I work with many organizations across the world, some people are abducting themselves so that they can get money from some organizations,” Atwoli said.
In response, Natembeya described Atwoli’s words as terrible, demanding that those abducted be set free to give their families peace of mind.
“I say this with a very heavy heart. For a leader to stand here and say people are abducting and killing themselves, is unfortunate. It is not for this hallowed grounds,” he said.
Ichung’wah appeared to be offended by Natembeya’s statements, and he responded.
“You are an officer; if you know people are being abducted, share the information with the police but do not come here to shout at Atwoli (COTU boss),” he stated.
Ichung’wah also mentioned that Natembeya was a regional commissioner during the previous regime, which was also accused of abductions and extrajudicial killings.
Natembeya vehemently defended himself against questions about his character while serving as regional commissioner.“…Let it be known that George Natembeya served as a diligent, honest, and truthful servant to the people of Kenya.
A position I earned through merit and hard work. I resigned as The Regional Commissioner without any stain or scandal,” he said.“
My commitment as a Regional Commissioner endeared me to the esteemed people of Trans Nzoia, who nurtured me to be their second governor.
“I want my fellow Kenyans to know that the reason some political leaders saw it worth insulting me was because I boldly told the President to order the end of abductions and command the release of the abducted youths.”
Natembeya went on to remark that the families of these abducted teenagers are going through untold pain since they do not know where their children are.He went on to stress that criticizing extrajudicial abductions does not imply undermining the President.
“We all have a duty to remind state organs to adhere to the rule of law and our constitution’s principles. I will continue speaking boldly, without fear,” he said.
“Kenyans want an end to extrajudicial abductions of our young people. Abductions must decisively and courageously be condemned. Kenyans are looking up to leaders to speak for them.”
