The name George Natembeya once echoed across Kenya with admiration, especially from the public sector and civil service enthusiasts. A former Regional Commissioner turned governor, his journey from law enforcement to politics was seen as a breath of fresh air—an icon of discipline, reform, and grit. But in May 2025, the same man once hailed as a beacon of change found himself at the center of a storm: arrested, charged, and humiliated in front of a nation that had once pinned its hopes on him. This is the story of the rise, fall, and current fight of Governor George Natembeya.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!From Civil Service to County Leadership: A Promising Start
George Natembeya’s career began in Kenya’s provincial administration, where he served diligently as a District Officer, then as County Commissioner, and finally rising to the position of Regional Commissioner. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Natembeya became a household name during his tenure as Rift Valley Regional Commissioner, especially for his role in confronting land cartels and illegal logging in Mau Forest.
His transition into politics was seamless. In 2022, running under the Democratic Action Party – Kenya (DAP-K), Natembeya won the Trans Nzoia gubernatorial seat, defeating seasoned politicians. His campaign was rooted in the promise of clean governance, transparency, and service delivery. He promised to turn Trans Nzoia into a model county, free from corruption and inefficiency.
And for a while, it seemed he was doing just that. He launched initiatives to digitize county services, improve road networks, streamline health care, and prioritize youth employment. His leadership was praised for being hands-on, visible, and direct.
But behind the public image, storm clouds were gathering.
The Shock of May 19: Arrest and Allegations
On the morning of May 19, 2025, Trans Nzoia residents awoke to shocking news: their governor had been arrested by officers from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). A high-profile raid was conducted at his Kitale residence, where officers reportedly confiscated documents, electronics, and bank records. Videos surfaced online of supporters clashing with the officers, and the atmosphere was chaotic. Two journalists were assaulted during the fracas, further stoking tensions.
Natembeya was swiftly transported to Nairobi and presented at the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court the following day, where the full scale of the accusations came to light.
The Charges: Conflict of Interest and Unlawful Gains
According to the EACC, Governor Natembeya is facing three major charges:
- Conflict of Interest (Two Counts)
The prosecution alleges that between January 2023 and April 2025, the governor directly benefited from payments made by the Trans Nzoia County Government to companies in which he has vested interests. These include Lyma Agro Science Limited and Easterly Winds Limited, both of which are reportedly linked to individuals close to Natembeya. - Unlawful Acquisition of Public Property (One Count)
The state contends that Natembeya received over KSh 3.25 million through proxies, funds allegedly channeled to him in return for county tenders and favorable treatment.
Documents presented to the court included payment receipts, bank transfers, and procurement records. It’s alleged that Lyma Agro Science Limited paid Natembeya KSh 1.1 million via its director Mercy Chelangat, while KSh 2.1 million was deposited by Emmanuel Wafula Masungo, associated with Easterly Winds Limited.
The prosecution’s case hinges on proving that these were not legitimate transactions but rather a sophisticated kickback scheme involving county suppliers.
A Governor’s Defense: Political Persecution?
Standing before the court in a navy-blue suit and visibly defiant, Natembeya pleaded not guilty to all charges. His legal team, led by lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, argued that the entire process was a “witch hunt” orchestrated by political forces threatened by Natembeya’s outspoken nature and rising influence.
Njiru pointed to the lack of a formal summons before the arrest and claimed that his client was denied access to legal counsel during interrogation. “This is not justice; it is political warfare,” Njiru told the court.
Indeed, Natembeya has been a vocal critic of President William Ruto’s administration, frequently challenging national policies and accusing the central government of neglecting counties like Trans Nzoia. His friction with the national executive may have painted a target on his back, according to his allies.
Opposition Rallies Behind Natembeya
As the legal storm unfolded, political figures rallied to Natembeya’s side. Former Defence CS Eugene Wamalwa, a senior DAP-K figure, held a press conference decrying the arrest as “a politically motivated attempt to silence reformist voices.” He was joined by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who accused the state of weaponizing anti-corruption agencies.
“These charges are not about justice; they are about intimidation,” Kalonzo said. “Natembeya is being punished for speaking truth to power.”
Others pointed to a disturbing trend: the increasing use of state machinery to muzzle opposition voices. Since early 2024, several governors and senators affiliated with opposition parties have faced investigations, most of which have ended without convictions. Critics argue that this pattern suggests a coordinated political purge rather than a genuine anti-corruption crusade.
EACC’s Position: Rule of Law Must Prevail
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, for its part, has maintained that its actions are guided by evidence, not politics. In a press release, EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi said, “We want to reassure Kenyans that the commission operates independently and only moves when sufficient evidence has been gathered. No one is above the law.”
Ngumbi revealed that investigations into the Trans Nzoia procurement system began in 2023 following whistleblower tips and irregularities in financial audits. He added that the evidence against Governor Natembeya had been presented to the Director of Public Prosecutions, who approved the charges.
The Bail Battle
The court proceedings on May 20 quickly shifted focus to the question of bail. The prosecution vehemently opposed releasing Natembeya, arguing that key witnesses were county employees under his authority and therefore susceptible to intimidation or coercion. They also cited the violent disruptions during his arrest as evidence of a potentially hostile environment for investigators.
The defense argued that Natembeya was not a flight risk and that denying him bail would be a violation of his constitutional rights.
The court deferred its ruling on the bail application to May 21, a decision that will likely shape the next chapter of this saga.
Public Reaction: A County Divided
In Kitale and across Trans Nzoia, the mood is tense. Some residents have taken to the streets in protest, waving placards with slogans like “Hands off our Governor” and “EACC is being used.” Others have expressed disappointment, especially those who voted for Natembeya based on his promises of clean governance.
Local political analyst Moses Kibet said, “Trans Nzoia is deeply divided. On one side are the loyalists who believe this is political. On the other are citizens who are beginning to question whether Natembeya was truly the reformer he claimed to be.”
A Broader Pattern? The Politicization of Anti-Corruption
The Natembeya case is not occurring in a vacuum. Over the past year, several opposition-aligned leaders have faced charges, including governors from Kisii, Kakamega, and Machakos. While the state insists these are legitimate prosecutions, civil society groups are increasingly raising concerns about selective justice.
In April 2025, Transparency International issued a report warning that Kenya’s anti-corruption fight was becoming dangerously politicized. “When justice is applied selectively, it ceases to be justice,” the report stated.
If the Natembeya case is perceived as political retribution rather than lawful prosecution, it could damage public trust in key institutions.
What Next for George Natembeya?
Regardless of the outcome, George Natembeya’s political career stands at a critical crossroads. If convicted, he could be forced out of office, lose his political rights, and face jail time. If acquitted, he could emerge stronger—seen as a victim of persecution and a hero for standing his ground.
But even an acquittal won’t erase the damage. The court of public opinion is often harsher than any legal tribunal. His legacy, once defined by courage and reform, now hangs in a precarious balance.
Natembeya will need more than legal arguments to reclaim public trust. He will need to demonstrate transparency, rebuild confidence in his leadership, and answer hard questions from both his constituents and political allies.
Conclusion: A Test for Kenya’s Democracy
The George Natembeya saga is more than just a corruption case—it is a test of Kenya’s democratic institutions. It challenges the independence of the judiciary, the impartiality of investigative bodies, and the resilience of county governance.
If the process is fair, transparent, and grounded in law, it could signal a new chapter in Kenya’s fight against corruption. But if it devolves into a political witch hunt, it could further erode faith in a system already viewed with skepticism.
As Kenyans watch this case unfold, they are not just witnessing the fate of one man—they are watching the fate of justice itself.
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The Rise, Fall, and Fight of George Natembeya: A Governor Under Siege
The name George Natembeya once echoed across Kenya with admiration, especially from the public sector and civil service enthusiasts. A former Regional Commissioner turned governor, his journey from law enforcement to politics was seen as a breath of fresh air—an icon of discipline, reform, and grit. But in May 2025, the same man once hailed as a beacon of change found himself at the center of a storm: arrested, charged, and humiliated in front of a nation that had once pinned its hopes on him. This is the story of the rise, fall, and current fight of Governor George Natembeya.
From Civil Service to County Leadership: A Promising Start
George Natembeya’s career began in Kenya’s provincial administration, where he served diligently as a District Officer, then as County Commissioner, and finally rising to the position of Regional Commissioner. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Natembeya became a household name during his tenure as Rift Valley Regional Commissioner, especially for his role in confronting land cartels and illegal logging in Mau Forest.
His transition into politics was seamless. In 2022, running under the Democratic Action Party – Kenya (DAP-K), Natembeya won the Trans Nzoia gubernatorial seat, defeating seasoned politicians. His campaign was rooted in the promise of clean governance, transparency, and service delivery. He promised to turn Trans Nzoia into a model county, free from corruption and inefficiency.
And for a while, it seemed he was doing just that. He launched initiatives to digitize county services, improve road networks, streamline health care, and prioritize youth employment. His leadership was praised for being hands-on, visible, and direct.
But behind the public image, storm clouds were gathering.
The Shock of May 19: Arrest and Allegations
On the morning of May 19, 2025, Trans Nzoia residents awoke to shocking news: their governor had been arrested by officers from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). A high-profile raid was conducted at his Kitale residence, where officers reportedly confiscated documents, electronics, and bank records. Videos surfaced online of supporters clashing with the officers, and the atmosphere was chaotic. Two journalists were assaulted during the fracas, further stoking tensions.
Natembeya was swiftly transported to Nairobi and presented at the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court the following day, where the full scale of the accusations came to light.
The Charges: Conflict of Interest and Unlawful Gains
According to the EACC, Governor Natembeya is facing three major charges:
Conflict of Interest (Two Counts)
The prosecution alleges that between January 2023 and April 2025, the governor directly benefited from payments made by the Trans Nzoia County Government to companies in which he has vested interests. These include Lyma Agro Science Limited and Easterly Winds Limited, both of which are reportedly linked to individuals close to Natembeya.
Unlawful Acquisition of Public Property (One Count)
The state contends that Natembeya received over KSh 3.25 million through proxies, funds allegedly channeled to him in return for county tenders and favorable treatment.
Documents presented to the court included payment receipts, bank transfers, and procurement records. It’s alleged that Lyma Agro Science Limited paid Natembeya KSh 1.1 million via its director Mercy Chelangat, while KSh 2.1 million was deposited by Emmanuel Wafula Masungo, associated with Easterly Winds Limited.
The prosecution’s case hinges on proving that these were not legitimate transactions but rather a sophisticated kickback scheme involving county suppliers.
A Governor’s Defense: Political Persecution?
Standing before the court in a navy-blue suit and visibly defiant, Natembeya pleaded not guilty to all charges. His legal team, led by lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, argued that the entire process was a “witch hunt” orchestrated by political forces threatened by Natembeya’s outspoken nature and rising influence.
Njiru pointed to the lack of a formal summons before the arrest and claimed that his client was denied access to legal counsel during interrogation. “This is not justice; it is political warfare,” Njiru told the court.
Indeed, Natembeya has been a vocal critic of President William Ruto’s administration, frequently challenging national policies and accusing the central government of neglecting counties like Trans Nzoia. His friction with the national executive may have painted a target on his back, according to his allies.
Opposition Rallies Behind Natembeya
As the legal storm unfolded, political figures rallied to Natembeya’s side. Former Defence CS Eugene Wamalwa, a senior DAP-K figure, held a press conference decrying the arrest as “a politically motivated attempt to silence reformist voices.” He was joined by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who accused the state of weaponizing anti-corruption agencies.
“These charges are not about justice; they are about intimidation,” Kalonzo said. “Natembeya is being punished for speaking truth to power.”
Others pointed to a disturbing trend: the increasing use of state machinery to muzzle opposition voices. Since early 2024, several governors and senators affiliated with opposition parties have faced investigations, most of which have ended without convictions. Critics argue that this pattern suggests a coordinated political purge rather than a genuine anti-corruption crusade.
EACC’s Position: Rule of Law Must Prevail
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, for its part, has maintained that its actions are guided by evidence, not politics. In a press release, EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi said, “We want to reassure Kenyans that the commission operates independently and only moves when sufficient evidence has been gathered. No one is above the law.”
Ngumbi revealed that investigations into the Trans Nzoia procurement system began in 2023 following whistleblower tips and irregularities in financial audits. He added that the evidence against Governor Natembeya had been presented to the Director of Public Prosecutions, who approved the charges.
The Bail Battle
The court proceedings on May 20 quickly shifted focus to the question of bail. The prosecution vehemently opposed releasing Natembeya, arguing that key witnesses were county employees under his authority and therefore susceptible to intimidation or coercion. They also cited the violent disruptions during his arrest as evidence of a potentially hostile environment for investigators.
The defense argued that Natembeya was not a flight risk and that denying him bail would be a violation of his constitutional rights.
The court deferred its ruling on the bail application to May 21, a decision that will likely shape the next chapter of this saga.
Public Reaction: A County Divided
In Kitale and across Trans Nzoia, the mood is tense. Some residents have taken to the streets in protest, waving placards with slogans like “Hands off our Governor” and “EACC is being used.” Others have expressed disappointment, especially those who voted for Natembeya based on his promises of clean governance.
Local political analyst Moses Kibet said, “Trans Nzoia is deeply divided. On one side are the loyalists who believe this is political. On the other are citizens who are beginning to question whether Natembeya was truly the reformer he claimed to be.”
A Broader Pattern? The Politicization of Anti-Corruption
The Natembeya case is not occurring in a vacuum. Over the past year, several opposition-aligned leaders have faced charges, including governors from Kisii, Kakamega, and Machakos. While the state insists these are legitimate prosecutions, civil society groups are increasingly raising concerns about selective justice.
In April 2025, Transparency International issued a report warning that Kenya’s anti-corruption fight was becoming dangerously politicized. “When justice is applied selectively, it ceases to be justice,” the report stated.
If the Natembeya case is perceived as political retribution rather than lawful prosecution, it could damage public trust in key institutions.
What Next for George Natembeya?
Regardless of the outcome, George Natembeya’s political career stands at a critical crossroads. If convicted, he could be forced out of office, lose his political rights, and face jail time. If acquitted, he could emerge stronger—seen as a victim of persecution and a hero for standing his ground.
But even an acquittal won’t erase the damage. The court of public opinion is often harsher than any legal tribunal. His legacy, once defined by courage and reform, now hangs in a precarious balance.
Natembeya will need more than legal arguments to reclaim public trust. He will need to demonstrate transparency, rebuild confidence in his leadership, and answer hard questions from both his constituents and political allies.
Conclusion: A Test for Kenya’s Democracy
The George Natembeya saga is more than just a corruption case—it is a test of Kenya’s democratic institutions. It challenges the independence of the judiciary, the impartiality of investigative bodies, and the resilience of county governance.
If the process is fair, transparent, and grounded in law, it could signal a new chapter in Kenya’s fight against corruption. But if it devolves into a political witch hunt, it could further erode faith in a system already viewed with skepticism.
As Kenyans watch this case unfold, they are not just witnessing the fate of one man—they are watching the fate of justice itself.
