Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya addresses the public at St. Andrews Kaggwa Catholic Church in Kwanza Constituency during a previous public event. (Image | Courtesy )
In Summary:
- Ford-Kenya leaders in Western Kenya have accused Trans Nzoia Governor Natembeya of undermining Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula.
- The leaders, speaking at a funeral service in Bungoma County, criticized Natembeya for his remarks, warning that they could derail the region’s political aspirations.
A brewing storm in Western Kenya has heightened tensions as Ford-Kenya leaders point fingers at Trans Nzoia Governor Natembeya, accusing him of undermining the political stature of Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula.
At a funeral service in Bungoma County, the leaders voiced their concerns, cautioning the Governor about his rhetoric and its potential to impede the region’s political progress.
They emphasized that Natembeya’s persistent criticism of the two senior leaders and Ford-Kenya members overall was disrespectful and unbecoming of his role as a community leader.
The leaders stressed the importance of mutual respect and urged Natembeya to refrain from casting negative aspersions on their leadership.
They highlighted Ford-Kenya’s historical significance as the second-oldest party in Kenya, asserting its right to recognition and dignity from leaders like Natembeya.
ALSO READ: CCTV Reveals How 19-Year-Old Lawrence Gitonga and Companion Checked Into Kasarani Apartment At 3am
However, amidst the tensions, some leaders issued a stern warning, expressing their readiness to confront any attempts to undermine their leadership.
In his defense, Governor Natembeya justified his critique of Western leaders, arguing that it was imperative to address any perceived misdirection within the community.
He emphasized the importance of constructive criticism, stating that his intentions were not rooted in disrespect but in steering the community towards the right path.
‘When we say that is not the direction, that is not lack of respect,’ Natembeya asserted. ‘I will not accept us to be led blindly, because if I say we are not moving in the right direction I will be accused of disrespecting.’
The friction escalated further as MCAs aligned with the Governor clashed with those from the Ford-Kenya Party over the ongoing dispute.
While the Governor’s supporters accused Ford-Kenya of sabotaging his leadership, the party members accused Natembeya of disregarding and belittling Moses Wetangula, their leader.
Earlier statements from Natembeya had sparked controversy, suggesting that Ford-Kenya’s leadership was unfit to guide the Luhya community.
These sentiments have intensified the rifts within the community, with conflicting factions steadfastly defending their positions amidst the growing discord.