Governor Natembeya Slams Government Over Silence on Foreign Militia Presence in Mandera

 Trans Nzoia Governor Dr. George Natembeya has accused the national government of remaining silent and inactive in the face of what he termed as a threat to Kenya’s sovereignty by foreign militia operating in Mandera County.

Speaking during the funeral service of the late Madam Tabitha Andesia Okwach at Cherang’any Hills Secondary School in Sinyereri Ward on Tuesday, Governor Natembeya expressed concern over the free movement and operations of Jubaland forces—a foreign military group—within Kenyan territory.

“The presence of a militia group on our soil is not only dangerous, it is an outright invasion and a violation of our territorial integrity,” said Natembeya.

The governor said his earlier concerns about the irregular issuance of national identification cards to foreigners had been politicized and misinterpreted as targeting Kenyan Somalis. He claimed vindication, saying recent developments had confirmed his warnings.

“Some government functionaries made me a target, accusing me of being against the Somali community. But today, those same people can see what is happening right before their naked eyes,” he added.

Natembeya called on the government to act swiftly and decisively, warning that inaction would embolden threats to national security.

In his address, the governor also took aim at key government programs and digital systems, accusing them of being tools for corruption and undermining devolution.

He specifically criticized the Electronic Procurement System (EPG), alleging it is being used to siphon public funds.

“This system is a well-orchestrated scheme to kill devolution. Many counties are on their knees, workers including ward representatives have not received their salaries since June,” he said.

The Governor also took a swipe at the recently launched Social Health Authority (SHA), describing it as a “scam” and a ploy to swindle taxpayer money.

“SHA is the biggest scam. I want to assure Kenyans that when we send this Kenya Kwanza administration home in 2027, we will issue an Executive Order to revoke SHA, EPG, and all other unpopular decisions that have been forced down our throats,” Natembeya vowed.

He was accompanied at the event by Sinyereri Ward Representative John Chingi Makhanu, KNUT Trans Nzoia County Executive Secretary George Simiyu, Director of Communications Dr. Felix Sialo, Chief of Staff Dickson Wamocho, and Personal Assistant Emmanuel Wamalwa, along with other national and county government officials, church leaders, and professionals.

Governor Natembeya’s remarks come at a time of growing concern over security in Kenya’s border regions and rising criticism of the national government’s handling of devolution and public service delivery.