By John Mutiso
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya is facing renewed political heat after he quietly pulled down a combative video response aimed at Kericho Senator and Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot.
The governor had earlier reshared a clip posted on Uzalendo News in which Cheruiyot questioned his leadership record and mocked his role in the recently concluded Malava by election.
In the initial clip, Cheruiyot accused Natembeya of exaggerated bravado despite his DAP-K Party candidate Seth Panyako losing to UDA’s David Ndakwa, a contest marred by allegations of pre-election violence and voter bribery.
The senator dismissed Natembeya as a failed county boss presiding over a corruption riddled administration.
Natembeya hit back with a defiant message, claiming the government was unsettled by the opposition’s growing influence. He vowed a tougher political fight in 2027, declaring there would be “no escape route.”
The reaction, however, ignited a wave of insults and criticism online, with rival supporters telling him to accept the loss and some calling for his removal in the next election cycle. Hours later, the governor deleted his video.
The embattled county chief, once a powerful Regional Commissioner, has been under pressure since his arrest and arraignment on corruption charges earlier this year.
An EACC raid on the county headquarters turned chaotic after goons vandalized property and obstructed investigators.
Natembeya is aligned with the emerging united opposition faction that brings together Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Fred Matiangi, Mukhisa Kituyi, Eugene Wamalwa and other leaders.
Tensions escalated during the Malava campaign period when his rally was attacked by unknown groups, prompting gunfire and the torching of a vehicle belonging to DAPK Party leader Eugene Wamalwa. Police are probing whether Natembeya’s own security team staged aspects of the incident.
The governor’s deleted video has now added a new layer to an already turbulent political season
