By Alfred Mataza | July 23, 2026
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has launched a scathing attack on some senior political leaders from the Western Kenya region, accusing them of being driven by jealousy and self-interest instead of supporting emerging leaders from the community.
Speaking on the region’s political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election, Natembeya claimed that some veteran leaders possess what he described as a “Lucifer-like spirit” that prevents them from rallying behind younger politicians with national leadership potential.
According to the governor, the culture of political rivalry and internal sabotage has for years denied the Luhya community an opportunity to unite behind a single presidential candidate capable of competing at the national level.
Natembeya threw his weight behind Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s recently declared 2027 presidential bid, insisting that the senator has the charisma, leadership qualities and national appeal needed to lead the opposition against President William Ruto.
He argued that instead of undermining Sifuna’s ambitions, leaders from the region should unite behind him and give him an opportunity to build a formidable national political movement.
The governor, who has increasingly aligned himself with the Linda Mwananchi movement, said the country needs a new generation of leaders who are committed to accountability, good governance and inclusive leadership.
His remarks also appeared to challenge the long-standing dominance of veteran Western Kenya political figures, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, whom he suggested have failed to unite the region behind a common political agenda.
Natembeya maintained that Kenya’s political future should not be determined by a few established leaders but by the will of the people, adding that capable young leaders deserve support regardless of age or political background.
The governor’s comments come amid growing political realignments as opposition leaders continue to position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election, with several political movements seeking to build broad-based coalitions across the country.
His endorsement of Sifuna is expected to intensify political debate within the Western Kenya region, where leaders remain divided over who should spearhead the community’s political interests in the next general election.
The remarks also underscore the increasing competition for influence within the opposition, as various leaders seek to shape the political landscape and identify a candidate capable of mounting a strong challenge against the Kenya Kwanza administration in 2027.
