Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya not to be intimidated by his critics after he appealed to the government to address rising cases of abductions.
In a statement, Gachagua encouraged Natembeya to stay focused on delivering for the people of Trans Nzoia and not let the critics distract him.
“Please, do not let the Court Poets and Masters of platitudes distract you from the important work you are doing to serve the people of Trans Nzoia County. These Court Jesters are simply on a misguided mission to provide comic relief for their master,” Gachagua said.
“And do not be intimidated from speaking out on behalf of the people of Kenya when it is necessary.”
Gachagua acknowledged that the fierce criticism Natembeya is facing is a clear sign that his voice is making an impact, particularly as he speaks truth to power.
The former Deputy President expressed confidence that Natembeya will continue to speak out against the injustices facing Kenyans while uniting his people and protecting their dignity and political pride.
“This unity, I assure you, will ensure that your people’s interests remain at the forefront of any administration’s priorities,” Gachagua added.
Gachagua's remarks come after a fierce exchange between Natembeya and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungw’ah regarding the escalating issue of abductions.
The heated exchange occurred during the burial of the late Mama Anne Nanyama, the mother of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
It began when Natembeya disagreed with remarks made by Cotu Secretary-General Francis Atwoli regarding abductions.
“You are an officer; if you know people are being abducted, share the information with the police. But do not come here to shout at Atwoli (COTU boss),” Natembeya said.
He also condemned remarks suggesting that some individuals were "abducting themselves."
“I say this with a very heavy heart. For a leader to stand here and claim that people are abducting and killing themselves is unfortunate. This is not a matter for this sacred ground,” he said.
“Our children are going missing and being killed; that is the reality.”
Ichung’wah responded by accusing Natembeya of being part of the previous administration, which also faced abductions and extrajudicial killings accusations.
“You were a Regional Commissioner when hundreds of people were abducted and killed in Kerio Valley, their bodies dumped in River Yala. Did you not know the value of citizens’ lives back then?” Ichung’wah demanded angrily.
Natembeya responded to the verbal attacks, distancing himself from any allegations related to the bodies found in River Yala in 2022.
“Let it be known that George Natembeya served diligently, honestly, and truthfully to the people of Kenya. I earned that position through merit and hard work. I resigned as the Regional Commissioner without any stain or scandal,” he stated.
“My dedication as a Regional Commissioner won me the respect and trust of the people of Trans Nzoia, who later elected me as their second governor.”
