Trans Nzoia: George Natembeya, Susan Nakhumicha Clash in Heated Verbal Exchange

Trans Nzoia: George Natembeya, Susan Nakhumicha Clash in Heated Verbal Exchange

A sharp political confrontation has erupted in Trans Nzoia County between Governor George Natembeya and former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha, exposing deep divisions ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Nakhumicha, who currently serves as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat in Nairobi, has declared her intention to challenge Natembeya for the gubernatorial seat on August 10, 2027. The rivalry spilled into the open during a public engagement in Motosiet, Cherangany Constituency, on Friday, March 20, 2026.

In a fiery address, Nakhumicha accused the governor of persistently attacking President William Ruto and undermining national leadership, vowing to defend the Head of State.

“I have heard that you have been insulting my president, William Ruto. There is no way I am going to sit back and watch as you spoil my fortunes,” she said, drawing loud reactions from the crowd.

She attributed several development projects in the county to her proximity to the president, arguing that her relationship with the national government had delivered tangible benefits to residents. Citing infrastructure and institutional funding, she defended criticism that she was outspoken.

“Yes, I have been told I have a big mouth — and it is this same mouth that has brought a KSh 400 million hostel to Saboti, KSh 50 million to Kabuyefwe, KSh 50 million to Sikhendu, and funding to KMTC Kitale,” she stated, urging residents to support her leadership ambitions.

Nakhumicha framed her candidacy as a chance for Trans Nzoia to gain a leader capable of working closely with the national government to secure resources and accelerate development. She also appealed to women voters, suggesting that female leadership could offer a more organized and responsive approach to governance.

Meanwhile, Governor Natembeya dismissed the criticism and defended his stance as part of his constitutional duty to hold the national government accountable. Speaking during separate engagements in Namwichula-Matumbei and Kapkomboi wards, the governor maintained that leadership requires speaking out on behalf of citizens.

“We must elect leaders who understand the problems of Kenyans. One day Natembeya will be president. We have said Ruto is serving his first and last term,” he declared, asserting that economic hardships had worsened under the current administration.

Natembeya further accused senior government officials of corruption and neglect, alleging that national leaders were focused on political campaigns rather than governance.

“He spends time on car rooftops campaigning while those in government continue to plunder resources,” the governor claimed, without providing specific evidence.

The county chief insisted his priority remains protecting local interests, rejecting accusations of tribal politics and emphasizing his role as a watchdog over national policies affecting residents.

Nakhumicha, however, countered by painting a bleak picture of service delivery under Natembeya’s administration. She cited deteriorating roads, drug shortages in hospitals, and incomplete development projects as evidence of failed leadership.

“I have looked at this year’s county budget and seen huge allocations, yet there is nothing tangible on the ground,” she argued, urging voters to elect a governor who would actively engage the presidency to unlock funding.

She also challenged the governor to list completed projects, claiming that some flagship developments attributed to his administration were initiated by his predecessor, former Governor Patrick Khaemba.

While not naming Nakhumicha directly, Natembeya accused pro-government figures of touring the county to undermine him politically.

“I found Trans Nzoia in a pit and have been working to lift it. Those who want to become governors should first show what they have done for the people,” he said.

Political analysts say the exchange signals an early and potentially intense gubernatorial contest in 2027, with national politics likely to play a central role in local campaigns.

As both leaders continue mobilizing support, residents of Trans Nzoia are bracing for a prolonged political showdown that could reshape the county’s leadership landscape in the coming election cycle.

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Trans Nzoia: George Natembeya, Susan Nakhumicha Clash in Heated Verbal Exchange