Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has publicly locked horns with President William Ruto’s long-time aide, Farouk Kibet, over what he describes as the neglect of Western Kenya in terms of development.
The governor, known for his vocal criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration, did not mince his words as he challenged Farouk to confront him directly rather than speaking from the sidelines.
“Do not think that because you are close to the President, you can lecture us. I do not fear you; come and face me. Do not speak from the periphery. It is as simple as that,” Natembeya said during a public event over the weekend.
Respect, Not Fear for Leadership
Natembeya urged Kenyans to respect those in leadership but cautioned against fear, arguing that such attitudes breed dictatorship. He emphasized that President Ruto is just like any other Kenyan and should not be elevated to a position beyond scrutiny.
“I was taught by my mother to respect people and leaders, for that matter. And I respect President William Ruto, but I do not fear him because he is also a human being,” he stated.
“When we start fearing leadership, we are bringing dictatorship to our country.”
The governor further reiterated that Kenya belongs to all citizens and should not be dominated by a select few.
“The President eats ugali and sour milk just like me, he sleeps just like me, he has bad and good dreams just like me, and he was born by a woman just like me. Why should we fear each other, yet Kenya belongs to all of us?” he posed.
Farouk Kibet Fires Back
Earlier, while addressing a gathering in Malava, Kakamega County, Farouk Kibet accused Natembeya of being an obstacle to development in Western Kenya. He dismissed claims that he was interfering in the region and insisted that he had the right to visit and engage with locals.
“I heard a complaint, and I want to ask you something. Natembeya is saying I should not visit Malava; is that possible?” Farouk questioned.
The exchange between the two leaders follows Natembeya’s criticism of Ruto’s recent tour of Western Kenya. The governor has consistently argued that the region has been sidelined in terms of infrastructure and development projects. He blamed Ruto’s inner circle for misleading him about the real needs of Western Kenya.
Call for Development and Fair Representation
Natembeya urged the President to reconsider his circle of advisors, claiming that they were not relaying the true concerns of the people. He emphasized the need for equitable development and better infrastructure in Western Kenya, similar to what other regions receive.
“Western Kenya deserves the same level of development as any other part of the country. We should not be treated as second-class citizens in our own country,” he asserted.
The ongoing war of words between Natembeya and Ruto’s allies highlights the growing political tensions in Western Kenya as leaders jostle for influence and development priorities.
The governor’s remarks underscore the frustration among some regional leaders who feel their concerns are not being addressed at the national level. Whether this verbal battle will lead to tangible action in favor of Western Kenya remains to be seen.
