Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa Attacks Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya

Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa has launched a sharp political attack against George Natembeya, accusing the county boss and his allies of attempting to undermine his growing political influence in the Western Kenya region.

Speaking during a political gathering, Barasa dismissed claims that his recent public meetings were sponsored or directed by external political forces. The outspoken legislator said he had been engaging residents across Bungoma County since 2022 and questioned why critics were linking his political activities to other leaders.

“I was elected to Parliament in 2017. I have been holding meetings across Bungoma alone since 2022,” Barasa said. “What makes you think I was commanded by someone to do this, or that I was given money before I hold a meeting?”

The MP also appeared to mock leaders he described as political “cowards,” claiming some politicians only organize public meetings after prominent leaders visit their counties. He argued that attendance at political rallies ultimately depends on the choices made by local residents.

Barasa further escalated the political war of words by declaring that he would soon take his political outreach activities to Trans Nzoia County, Natembeya’s political backyard.

“I am coming to Trans Nzoia. I am the real Commando. You are the fake one,” he said, in remarks widely interpreted as a direct challenge to the governor.

The legislator also made bold claims about his political standing, suggesting that if he were to join the opposition, he would automatically emerge as the coalition’s presidential candidate, with Ndindi Nyoro as his running mate. However, he predicted that such a ticket would still lose to William Ruto, after which he would become the Leader of the Opposition.

The remarks are the latest sign of growing political tensions between leaders aligned to different camps as the country's political landscape begins to take shape ahead of future elections.