Natembeya Slams ‘Reckless’ Remarks Questioning His Nationality, Urges Unity Over Hate

TRANS-NZOIA, April 24, 2025 — Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has issued a strongly worded statement condemning recent remarks by unnamed politicians who questioned his nationality and suggested he should be expelled from Kenya. Describing the comments as “reckless” and “deeply troubling,” Natembeya said such claims not only insult his identity but also endanger national cohesion.

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“I was born in Kenya, raised in Kenya, educated in Kenya, and have served this country with devotion,” Natembeya affirmed. “No individual—political opponent or otherwise—possesses the moral or legal authority to question my Kenyan identity or strip any citizen of their birthright.”

The Governor, known for his direct approach to national security issues, linked the attack to his recent calls for the reinstatement of stringent vetting procedures for national identity cards in North Eastern Kenya. He argued that the measures were necessary to address unique security threats in border regions.

“Every responsible leader must raise the alarm when processes meant to protect our people are weakened,” he said. “To brand this duty-driven appeal as discrimination is a distortion of both fact and intent.”

Natembeya expressed shock at what he termed “genocidal tropes” used by his critics, referencing dangerous analogies such as “the Rwanda way” and “the DRC way.” He condemned the rhetoric, warning that it invoked memories of historical atrocities that have no place in Kenya’s political discourse.

“To justify punitive actions using such language is abhorrent,” Natembeya stated. “We must never allow our politics to descend into threats, hate, or dehumanization.”

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The Governor further called on leaders and citizens alike to uphold the values of truth, justice, and unity. He reiterated his commitment to speaking boldly on issues of governance, leading with fairness, and serving with transparency.

“I will not be silenced by threats or derailed by fear-driven politics,” he declared. “I stand firm in my pledge to put Kenya—and all her people—ahead of partisan interests.”

The statement comes at a time when political tensions in certain regions are rising, with tribal undertones creeping into national debates. Analysts say such discourse, if unchecked, could strain Kenya’s long-standing efforts toward peace and integration.

Civil society leaders and political observers have rallied behind Natembeya, praising his stance. “This is leadership that speaks truth to power,” said Caroline Mukhongo, a governance expert. “Governor Natembeya is right to condemn this kind of rhetoric before it festers.”

Residents in Trans-Nzoia also voiced their support. “He is one of us. He’s always stood for the people,” said Moses Wamalwa, a farmer from Kitale. “What matters is what you do for the people—not where someone claims you come from.”

In concluding his statement, Natembeya urged all Kenyans to reject hate speech and divisive narratives. “Let us be guided by truth, facts, and the spirit of unity,” he said. “Together, we can build a safer and more inclusive Kenya.”

Governor Natembeya signed off the statement with a powerful declaration of identity: “Proud Kenyan. Always.”