Politics

Mudavadi Vows to Field Strong Candidate Against Natembeya in 2027, Questions Governor’s Priorities

Prime Cabinet Secretary criticizes Trans Nzoia governor during Shamberere campaign rally, revives 2022 River Yala bodies controversy

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Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has declared his intention to support a formidable opponent against Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya in the 2027 gubernatorial race, accusing the county chief of abandoning his responsibilities to engage in political confrontations with other leaders.

Speaking at Shamberere Primary School on Saturday during a campaign rally for United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa ahead of the November 27 by-election, Mudavadi launched a pointed attack on Natembeya’s leadership style and priorities.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary accused the governor of neglecting county development duties while focusing on challenging other political figures, suggesting that Trans Nzoia residents deserve leadership more committed to service delivery than political theatrics.

“We will ensure that in 2027, Trans Nzoia has a strong alternative to the current leadership,” Mudavadi stated, signaling his determination to influence the gubernatorial contest in the Western Kenya county.

River Yala Bodies Controversy Resurfaces

In a surprising turn, Mudavadi also revisited the controversial discovery of over 30 unidentified bodies in River Yala in 2022, raising questions about the incident that occurred during former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s tenure.

The River Yala case generated significant public concern and media attention when the bodies were discovered, with families and human rights activists demanding thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The matter has remained largely unresolved, with questions about accountability and the findings of investigations continuing to linger.

By bringing up the issue, Mudavadi appeared to draw an indirect connection between past security concerns and current leadership questions, though he did not elaborate on specific allegations or provide new information about the case.

Escalating Regional Political Tensions

The exchange underscores mounting political tensions in Western Kenya as key figures begin positioning themselves for the 2027 general elections. Natembeya, a former regional commissioner known for his tough stance on security matters before entering elective politics, has emerged as an increasingly vocal figure in national political discourse.

The governor has previously clashed with various Kenya Kwanza administration officials, often criticizing government policies and defending opposition positions despite Trans Nzoia being considered a competitive political battleground.

Mudavadi’s decision to openly declare his opposition to Natembeya’s re-election bid represents a significant escalation in their relationship and signals that Trans Nzoia will likely be a hotly contested county in the next election cycle.

Shamberere By-Election Context

The Saturday rally was primarily focused on drumming up support for UDA’s David Ndakwa in the upcoming by-election, scheduled for November 27. The vote is being closely watched as an indicator of political sentiment in the region and the strength of various political formations ahead of 2027.

Mudavadi’s appearance at the campaign event demonstrates the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment to securing the seat, with senior government officials deploying to the constituency to rally support for the ruling coalition’s candidate.

As the by-election approaches, the political stakes appear to extend beyond the immediate contest, with leaders using the platform to frame larger narratives about governance, accountability, and future electoral contests in the Western Kenya region.