RUTO TAKES ON NATEMBEYA IN TRANS NZOIA AS 2027 RIVALRY HEATS UP
Ruto criticises Governor George Natembeya during a Trans Nzoia tour, deepening a political rivalry ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Watch Getembe TV Live
Broadcast Getembe TV Live Stream
Listen Getembe FM Live
Tune in to Getembe FM Live Broadcast
President William Ruto's tour of Trans Nzoia County has taken a political turn, with the Head of State criticising Governor George Natembeya and intensifying the rivalry ahead of the 2027 General Election.
During his visit on October 10, 2026, Ruto challenged Natembeya's political approach while defending his administration's development agenda in the region.
The President reportedly accused the governor of opposing national government projects and criticised his political movement, Tawe, which has gained attention in Western Kenya.
Ruto also highlighted development initiatives targeting roads, healthcare facilities, markets and affordable housing, presenting them as part of his administration's efforts to improve living conditions for residents.
The tour has also drawn attention to the approaching Trans Nzoia gubernatorial contest, with several political figures reportedly emerging as potential challengers to Natembeya.
Among those mentioned are Kiminini MP Maurice Bisau, former MP Chris Wamalwa and former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha.
Although the President's remarks have fuelled speculation about efforts to challenge Natembeya's leadership, the political significance of the visit should be distinguished from any formal declaration of a campaign against the governor.
Natembeya, on his part, has criticised what he views as the use of national development projects for political purposes, maintaining that county leadership should respect the mandate given to elected governors.
The disagreement reflects broader political competition in Western Kenya, where national leaders and local political figures are positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 polls.
Trans Nzoia remains politically significant because of its agricultural economy and influence in the wider Western Kenya region.
As the next general election approaches, the exchanges between Ruto and Natembeya are likely to keep development, political alliances and county leadership at the centre of public debate.
The key question is whether the growing political confrontation will translate into a direct contest for the Trans Nzoia governorship or remain part of the wider national political battle ahead of 2027.
ADVERTISEMENT
Watch Getembe TV Live
Broadcast Getembe TV Live Stream
Listen Getembe FM Live
Tune in to Getembe FM Live Broadcast
How do you feel about this article?
Let us know by choosing a reaction below.
Written by Anne Moses
Reporter and staff writer at Getembe News.
Comments 0
Please log in to participate in the comments section.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Stories
Have a news tip?
Do you have an investigation, local story or news event you think we should cover? Contact our newsroom directly.
Submit Tip
Mobile App
Download Getembe Digital App Today
Download Getembe Digital App today for live news updates, breaking notifications, and seamless live streaming.