Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya (left) shares a light moment with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen during a courtesy call at the governor’s office in Kitale on July 28, 2025. (GN,FB).
By Daisy Okiring
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has emphatically denied speculation that he plans to join the Kenya Kwanza government, following his hospitality towards Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on July 28, 2025, asserting the meeting was purely procedural.
“It was protocol, pure and simple,” Natembeya said of the courtesy call from CS Murkomen, who had travelled to the county for the 22nd Jukwaa La Usalama security forum
He emphasised that hosting a senior national official when visiting a county is mandatory under existing protocol—and not a signal of shifting political allegiance.
Meeting rooted in county security and land issues
Natembeya and Murkomen discussed urgent regional concerns, especially long‑standing cases of land grabbing in Trans Nzoia.
“The issue of land grabbing has persisted, threatening public and private property,” Natembeya remarked, stressing the need for joint national and county collaboration to curb illegal acquisitions
Also Read: Raila moves to calm ODM storm over Ruto alliance
Both leaders endorsed a coordinated task force approach to fast‑track land audits and ensure enforcement of property rights aligned with rule of law principles.
Natembeya reaffirms opposition stance
Responding to swirling reports that the meeting could mark a political realignment, Natembeya firmly rejected such interpretations.
“I’ve got no business joining the government in any capacity,” he said. “I am an elected governor… If you offer me a CS slot, what would it achieve? Nothing”
Natembeya reaffirmed his ongoing commitment to the Azimio coalition, distancing himself from the ruling Kenya Kwanza faction despite occasional functional engagements.
Integrity over position
The governor also dismissed rumours that he was angling for a Cabinet portfolio.
“I left government service to serve the people who elected me,” he explained. “A CS position would add no value to my mandate in Trans Nzoia”
He promised to continue calling out governance issues within the national leadership, stating his criticism comes at personal cost but is rooted in a conviction to speak truth to power.
In hosting CS Murkomen, George Natembeya says he was serving the duties of his office—not changing political teams. His denial of any intention to join Kenya Kwanza is clear and unequivocal. At the same time, his opposition-aligned convictions remain intact, and his purpose continues to be serving the people of Trans Nzoia.
About the Author
