Governor Natembeya rubbishes graft allegations

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has denied corruption allegations against him, labelling them as a political smear campaign.

In a defiant statement, Natembeya urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to rise above political interference and deliver impartial justice, warning against the misuse of state institutions as tools for intimidation.

Speaking during a public address in Kitale town, Governor Natembeya claimed that his arrest and subsequent interrogation were driven by political interests.

“Every time an officer received a phone call, I heard him respond with 'yes, sir,' then he would scribble something down. I am being persecuted,” Natembeya told the crowd.

He called on the EACC boss to “conduct thorough investigations” and seek the truth without bias.

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“If you find that I’m guilty, proceed with the law. But if this is a political witch hunt, then I appeal to your conscience to do what is right under the law,” Natembeya said.

The governor also made a direct appeal to President William Ruto, asking him to intervene in the release of over ten youths who were arrested by DCI officers.

The youths were reportedly detained for allegedly obstructing EACC officials during a search of Natembeya’s properties in Trans Nzoia County.

“These are just hustlers. They should either be arraigned in court or released. Mr President, show compassion,” Natembeya pleaded.

He pointed out that no arrest warrant was presented during the searches and noted that the EACC had not yet announced any evidence obtained.

Describing the circumstances of his detention, Natembeya stated that he was interrogated for three hours and then confined overnight.

“At around 7 p.m., I thought I was going to be released. Instead, I was bundled into a van and spent the night in a cell. That was my first time being interrogated,” he said.

Despite the ongoing legal drama, the governor remained resolute, stating he would continue holding the government accountable in his role as a member of the opposition.

“I will keep criticising the government. That is my job. Leave me alone,” he said.

Governor Natembeya appeared before Magistrate C.N. Ondieki at the Anti-Corruption Court in Nairobi on Tuesday, where he pleaded not guilty to charges involving over Sh6 million in alleged irregular county payments.

According to the prosecution, Natembeya faces charges of unlawful acquisition of public property, conflict of interest, and benefiting indirectly from public funds through companies linked to him, including Lyma Agro Science, Maira Store, and Easterly Winds Limited.

State Prosecutor Alex Akhula opposed his bail, citing fears of witness tampering and ongoing investigations.

“There are compelling reasons to deny bail, including potential interference and concerns over public safety,” Akhula argued.

Despite the seriousness of the charges, Natembeya expressed confidence in the judiciary. “I trust the courts will prove I am not guilty,” he declared.