Natembeya Hosts Kisii Elders, Rallies Multi-Ethnic Support as 2027 Political Battle Intensifies

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya on Tuesday hosted a delegation of the Kisii Council of Elders in Kitale, using the meeting to strengthen ties between communities living in the cosmopolitan county while intensifying his political messaging ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during the meeting, Natembeya said peaceful coexistence and unity among the county's diverse communities remain essential for sustainable development and inclusive governance. He noted that equitable distribution of resources and employment opportunities would ensure that no community feels marginalized.

The governor urged elders and community leaders to continue promoting harmony, moral values, and peaceful coexistence, saying development can only thrive where there is unity.

Beyond county affairs, Natembeya turned his attention to national politics, defending Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's presidential ambitions after recently declaring his support for the senator. He criticized leaders who have questioned Sifuna's suitability to run for the country's top seat, arguing that leadership should not be determined by financial strength.

He also took issue with recent remarks by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, calling on President William Ruto to dismiss him over comments that he said undermined national cohesion. Natembeya urged the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to take action against leaders engaging in ethnic profiling.

The governor maintained that the opposition would remain united ahead of the 2027 elections, saying the country was ready for an inclusive government that accommodates all communities regardless of ethnicity.

Drawing comparisons with international football competitions, Natembeya said political success would require teamwork and unity among opposition leaders rather than individual ambitions.

"We must remain united if we are to bring the change Kenyans are demanding," he told the gathering.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, who led the delegation of elders and community leaders, pledged the Kisii community's support for Natembeya's leadership and development agenda in Trans Nzoia.

Onyonka commended the governor for appointing members of the Kisii community to senior county government positions, including a County Executive Committee Member and a Chief Officer, saying the appointments reflected inclusive leadership.

The senator also criticized political leaders opposing Sifuna's presidential bid, insisting that leadership should be based on integrity and vision rather than wealth. He further condemned inflammatory political rhetoric, warning against any attempts to revive ethnic divisions experienced during the 2007/2008 post-election violence.

Community representatives, including women and youth leaders, reaffirmed their support for Natembeya's administration and urged residents to maintain peace as the country heads toward the 2027 elections.

Roads and Public Works CECM and other county officials called on residents to back Natembeya's re-election bid, while community leaders also endorsed several local aspirants seeking elective positions in the upcoming polls.

The meeting was attended by County Secretary Truphosa Amere, Deputy County Secretary George Kisaka, several County Executive Committee Members, Members of the County Assembly, and senior county officials.

Later, Natembeya also held separate meetings with delegations from the Luo, Luhya, Bukusu, and Turkana communities, who similarly pledged support for his leadership and re-election bid, underscoring his efforts to consolidate backing across Trans Nzoia's diverse ethnic communities.