Fists and stones at center stage as Wetangula, Natembeya supremacy battle turns violent
Political tempers in Western Kenya have erupted, with fights between supporters of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and those allied with Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya reaching a boiling point on Friday, March 22.
The feud, which had been brewing for weeks, broke into physical conflict when stone flinging marred a funeral gathering in Goseta, Trans Nzoia. Wetangula had attended the funeral when his followers clashed with those loyal to Natembeya.
This confrontation began with President William Ruto’s order last month to evict illegal settlers occupying Kitale prison territory in Trans Nzoia County, which sparked a new political tempest in the region.
Governor Natembeya, a proponent of reclaiming the 2,700-acre area, is at war with Kenya Kwanza officials, particularly Speaker Wetang’ula, who is passionately opposed to the imminent evictions and accuses Natembeya of encouraging the action.
In response, Natembeya stated that the expulsion was the result of a presidential decision, claiming it was a national government affair.
“I want to tell Kenya Kwanza leaders to leave me alone,” he expressed, refuting allegations that he influenced the President’s decision. “I am not an advisor of the Head of State,” the governor emphasised.
Natembeya, a member of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party, denied making any personal profits from the property issue, instead advocated for the development of affordable housing units.
“I do not stand to gain from this land,” he reiterated, underscoring the importance of addressing housing needs in the region.
While admitting criticism, Natembeya defended his position, citing respect for leaders such as Wetang’ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
“Those criticising me for pointing out political mistakes of top western Kenya leaders are not genuine,” Natembeya remarked during a burial ceremony in Bungoma county.
However, his words did not quiet the wrath of regional lawmakers, who accused Natembeya of insulting Wetang’ula and Mudavadi.
They attacked Natembeya’s conduct, led by Sirisia MP John Waluke, chairman of the Western MPs Caucus, calling him a stumbling block to their efforts to build support for the two leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.
“We know who Natembeya is working for by his persistent attacks on Wetang’ula, and soon we shall name his master,” declared Waluke during a gathering at St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Malava, where Speaker Wetang’ula was present as the chief guest.
As the battle for domination heats up, the threat of bloodshed looms large, casting a pall over the political leaders.
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Fists and stones at center stage as Wetangula, Natembeya supremacy battle turns violent
