Governor George Natembeya on Tuesday skipped Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s tour of Trans Nzoia County, saying attempts by his political opponents to sideline him would fail.
Kindiki was in the county to inspect development programmes and was received by Kiminini MP Kakai Bissau and other local leaders.
Speaking at a separate event, Natembeya said he would not be sidelined in local political affairs.
Natembeya made the remarks during a visit to the Matumbei area, where he distributed maize seeds to farmers as part of an initiative to address poverty and hunger. He urged residents to prioritise agriculture as a pathway to economic empowerment.
Meanwhile, Kindiki was received in the areas he visited, with some residents chanting ‘two-term’ in support of President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.
The Deputy President said the government has paid Sh177 billion in pending road sector bills, paving the way for the resumption of construction on 6,000 kilometres of stalled roads, as well as the launch of new projects.
He added that road projects worth Sh38 billion are underway in Trans Nzoia County, including the upgrading of 326 kilometres of roads to bitumen standards.
Natembeya recently reiterated that he will defend his seat in next year’s general election while supporting the opposition.
Natembeya said his priority is to complete ongoing projects and deliver on his agenda to address poverty, disease and other challenges affecting residents.
“As we head into next year’s elections, God willing, I will continue working with the people of Trans Nzoia,” he added.
He also criticised his political rivals.
“I don’t want to name them because they do not deserve the publicity,” Natembeya said.
The county has recently seen increased political activity, with several aspirants declaring interest in the gubernatorial seat.
The aspirants have accused Natembeya of prioritising politics over development since taking office.
However, the governor maintains that he has launched and completed several projects and cautioned residents against being misled by opponents.
“Prepare to vote wisely next year,” he said.
