Natembeya Dismisses Malala’s Allegations as Political Witch-Hunt Ahead of Kisa East By-Election

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has sharply dismissed allegations by DAP–K Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala that he is receiving state funding to destabilize opposition politics in Western Kenya, calling the claims baseless, defamatory, and part of a wider scheme to derail his political momentum in the region.

 Natembeya said the accusations were a calculated attempt to smear his name and paint him as a government puppet. The governor insisted he has “never been given any money by the government of the day,” adding that he will not be intimidated or distracted from what he described as his mission to liberate and unify the Luhya community politically.

Malala earlier accused the governor of being a “state-sponsored saboteur,” alleging that Natembeya was receiving government backing to interfere with the Democratic Congress Party (DCP) and DAP–Kenya operations in Kisa East ward ahead of the November 27 by-election. He claimed Natembeya’s insistence that DAP–K must field its own candidate—despite an internal agreement within the United Opposition to support the DCP contender—was a deliberate move to weaken the coalition from within.

According to Malala, the governor’s refusal to honour the pact undermines the coalition’s broader strategy and signals an attempt to fragment the opposition in a region seen as crucial in shaping political alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election. He warned that such actions could cost the opposition critical seats in upcoming polls if not addressed.

But Natembeya pushed back strongly, saying he has acted in good faith and has a democratic right to support a candidate of his choosing. He accused Malala of engaging in petty politics instead of focusing on strengthening the coalition at the grassroots.

“I will not bow to political blackmail. My commitment is to the people, not to secret deals made in boardrooms,” Natembeya said, maintaining that any decision about candidates should reflect the will of the voters and not party elites.

The escalating feud has exposed growing tensions within the United Opposition, raising concerns about its preparedness and unity ahead of the by-elections. Political analysts note that the rift, if unresolved, could offer an advantage to rival parties looking to make inroads in Western Kenya.