Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has pleaded not guilty to corruption charges that his legal team claims are politically motivated and meant to intimidate opponents ahead of the 2027 elections.
Appearing in court, Natembeya dismissed the allegations, while his lawyer, Danstan Omari, argued that the charges were part of a broader scheme to silence political rivals. The defence insists that the case lacks substance and should not be entertained by the court.
Omari was joined by fellow lawyer Duncan Okatch, who emphasized that the charges are a distraction meant to undermine Natembeya’s public service. “This matter is purely political,” Okatch said. “We will not allow the court to be used for political theatrics.”
The alleged offences are said to have occurred during Natembeya’s time as the Rift Valley Regional Commissioner. However, details of the specific accusations were not fully disclosed in court. Despite the lack of clarity, Natembeya’s legal team maintained that the case was deliberately timed to damage his reputation and derail his political ambitions.
In court, lawyer Peter Njeru strongly suggested that the judicial process was being manipulated for political reasons. “Between now and 2027, we anticipate the judicial system being used to intimidate political opponents,” Njeru stated. “We urge the court not to fall into this trap. The allegations are nothing more than a political witch-hunt.”
Natembeya, who has grown in popularity in the Rift Valley and Western regions, is seen as a potential key player in the 2027 elections. His team says the charges are designed to slow his momentum and frustrate his leadership.
Supporters of the governor gathered outside the court, showing solidarity and chanting in his defence. Many carried placards rejecting the charges and calling for an end to politically motivated prosecutions.
The court granted Natembeya bail as the case proceeds. His next appearance will provide further clarity on the direction the proceedings will take.
For now, Governor Natembeya remains in office, vowing to continue serving his constituents as the legal battle unfolds.
Politics
Kenya Tables Ksh.4.2 Trillion Budget for 2025/26 Fiscal Year
President William Ruto’s administration plans to spend more than Ksh.4.2 trillion in the upcoming 2025/26 financial year, according to the budget estimates presented in Parliament today by Treasury Cabinet Secretary (CS) John Mbadi.
Jack Ciattarelli Wins GOP Primary in Third Bid for N.J. Governor
Jack Ciattarelli has won the Republican primary for New Jersey governor, CBS News projects, marking his third attempt at the position.
Kenya Court Bans Early Campaigns, Orders Law Within a Year
The High Court has declared that political campaigns in Kenya carried out before the official election period are illegal.
Croatian President Accuses EU of Misleading Western Balkans
Croatia’s President Zoran Milanović has claimed the European Union is misleading Western Balkan countries with empty promises about joining the bloc.
Parliament to Vet IEBC Nominees Saturday After Court Ruling
Parliament will begin vetting nominees for the IEBC chairperson and commissioners on Saturday, following a court decision.
Kajiado West MP Arrested Over Alleged Forged KCSE Certificate
Kajiado West MP George Sunkuyia was arrested on Tuesday morning for allegedly forging his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) certificate.
Tanzanian MPs Defend President Samia Over Activists’ Deportation
Tanzanian lawmakers have strongly defended President Samia Suluhu Hassan after growing criticism from Kenyans over the detention and deportation of two regional activists.
Ramaphosa Stays Calm as Trump Confronts Him Over Farmer Claims
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa kept his composure during a tense and highly choreographed meeting with U.S.
Kingi Declares Orwoba’s Senate Seat Vacant After UDA Expulsion
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has officially declared Senator Gloria Orwoba’s seat vacant following her expulsion from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
UDA Expels Senator Gloria Orwoba for Gross Misconduct
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has expelled nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba, accusing her of gross misconduct and repeated breaches of the party’s rules.
Martha Karua Deported from Tanzania Ahead of Lissu Trial
Kenyan lawyer and 2027 presidential hopeful Martha Karua was deported from Tanzania on Sunday after arriving to attend the trial of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges that could lead to the death penalty.
Former CJ Mutunga, Activists Detained and Deported in Tanzania
Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and activists Hanifa Adan and Hussein Khalid were detained and later deported from Tanzania after arriving at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam on Sunday, May 18.