Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and President William Ruto's aide, Farouk Kibet. Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Reporter
The political tussle between Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and President William Ruto’s aide, Farouk Kibet, has escalated into a war of words, deepening political divisions in the region.
The latest spat erupted when Kibet, a key figure in Kenya Kwanza’s inner circles, launched a direct attack on Natembeya after the governor criticized his influence in the western region. While addressing a political gathering in Malava Constituency, Kakamega County, on Friday, March 28, Kibet took a swipe at Natembeya’s remarks about his presence in the area.
Kibet challenges Natembeya
“Natembeya says that I should not visit Malava. Is it possible?” Kibet posed defiantly, questioning the governor’s authority to dictate his political movements. His statement ignited a heated exchange, with Natembeya firing back, accusing the Kenya Kwanza administration of failing to address critical issues affecting Kenyans.
Natembeya’s criticism of the government
“The Social Health Insurance Fund is not working. President Ruto has appointed three Health Cabinet Secretaries—first Susan Nakhumicha, and now, Aden Duale. We are faced with a lot of challenges as a country. When you say this, no one wants to hear,” Natembeya retorted.
Read more: IDs vetting furore: Kalonzo, Natembeya under fire
The Trans Nzoia Governor did not hold back, further stating that criticizing the government should not be seen as a crime. “It is not a crime to criticize the government,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for accountability in governance.
A call for a direct confrontation
Natembeya also warned Kibet against leveraging his proximity to the President to intimidate political opponents. “Don’t use your closeness to the President to lecture people. Don’t speak from the periphery. Come and face me directly,” he charged, signaling an open political battle.
What next for the two?
The exchange highlights the deepening rift between the two leaders, with Natembeya positioning himself as a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
On the other hand, Kibet’s response underscores his influence in Western Kenya’s political landscape, where the UDA government seeks to consolidate its support.
Read more: Natembeya slams Ruto’s controversial order on ID vetting
As the war of words intensifies, political analysts believe the ongoing conflict could shape the political realignments in the region ahead of the 2027 elections.
Whether this battle will escalate further remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—neither Natembeya nor Kibet is backing down anytime soon.
