Natembeya Accuses Mudavadi and Wetang’ula of Relying on Ruto for Political Survival
Speaking on Sunday, August 17, during a church service, he accused the two of lacking political independence.
“They Survive on Ruto’s Goodwill”
Natembeya warned that the two leaders were only relevant because President William Ruto had given them powerful seats.
“Wetang’ula is employed by Ruto; he has a payslip. Mudavadi is employed by Ruto; he has a payslip. If Ruto decides to sack them today, they will go home, and no one will shed a tear,” Natembeya said.
The outspoken governor argued that this reliance on government appointments could backfire. He noted that communities represented by Mudavadi and Wetang’ula risked losing direction if the two lost favor with the president.
Citing Raila as a Model
Natembeya compared them with ODM leader Raila Odinga, whom he described as politically grounded despite holding no government post.
“Raila is not in government, yet he is with the government. He has no payslip, but look at how many development projects are going to his region because of the votes he commands. Why shouldn’t we also organise ourselves in the same way for the benefit of our people?” he asked.
The governor stressed that political strength must come from people, not appointments. He urged Western Kenya leaders to emulate Raila’s grassroots influence rather than depending on state favors.
Party Wrangles Deepen
Natembeya’s fiery remarks come at a time of turbulence within his own party, the Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP–K). For weeks, he has clashed with party leader Eugene Wamalwa. He has accused external forces of frustrating his reform agenda.
He claimed Ford Kenya, Wetang’ula’s party, was behind internal disputes aimed at blocking his rise within DAP–K. His allies also alleged that rival camps were plotting to edge him out.
Earlier this month, DAP–K Secretary General Eseli Simiyu confirmed that the disputes had been handed to the Internal Disputes Resolution Committee. However, cracks remain visible, and the public wrangles continue to intensify.
A Growing Rift in Western Politics
Natembeya’s bold attack has sparked debate in Western Kenya’s political circles. Supporters say he is speaking hard truths about dependency politics. Critics, however, accuse him of hypocrisy since his own party is in turmoil.
Regardless, his remarks underline the growing divisions among Western leaders and the struggle for political dominance. As the 2027 race looms, these battles are expected to shape the region’s political future.
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Natembeya Accuses Mudavadi and Wetang’ula of Relying on Ruto for Political Survival
