Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has suffered a political blow after Members of Parliament from his county publicly rejected his 2027 presidential ambitions.
The legislators have instead pledged their unwavering support for President William Ruto’s bid for a second term, citing his performance and progress in steering national development since assuming office.
Led by Kiminini MP Maurice Kakai Bisau, the lawmakers praised President Ruto’s leadership and said their endorsement is based on his commitment to improving the economy, creating jobs, and empowering farmers through key government programs.
They dismissed Natembeya’s growing political influence, insisting that the people of Trans Nzoia and the larger Western region have benefited greatly from Ruto’s administration and will continue to rally behind him.
Governor Natembeya has been positioning himself as a major political figure in Western Kenya, spearheading what he calls a regional political awakening.
Through his “Tawe Movement,” he seeks to unite the Luhya community into a powerful voting bloc capable of reshaping Kenya’s political landscape.
His movement has focused on voter registration drives and public rallies aimed at encouraging residents to break away from traditional political allegiances.
However, Natembeya’s aggressive approach and open criticism of established Luhya leaders have sparked tension. He has repeatedly accused some of them—particularly Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi—of exploiting the community for personal political gain.
His recent installation as an elder in Vihiga County, Mudavadi’s political stronghold, has intensified speculation that Natembeya is eyeing a national role that extends far beyond Trans Nzoia.
Despite the resistance from MPs, Natembeya remains defiant, warning that the opposition will not stay quiet as the government allegedly tries to weaken their ranks by sponsoring rival politicians.
He vowed that attempts to divide the opposition will not succeed, promising that the public will soon know the truth about such political maneuvers.
Political analysts say the latest developments reflect growing competition for control of Western Kenya’s political direction ahead of the 2027 elections.
While Ruto’s allies are consolidating their support base, Natembeya’s push for a new political identity continues to gain traction among youth and reform-minded voters.
Whether his Tawe Movement can withstand the mounting pressure from pro-government forces remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Western Kenya’s political battleground is heating up as 2027 draws closer.
By Nairobi