^{By Felix Wanjala.}

Trans Nzoia County Governor George Natembeya has once again taken a bold stance, openly criticizing President William Ruto’s administration.

Speaking during a series of engagements across the Western region, Natembeya emphasized the urgent need for new leadership that can effectively represent the region’s interests at the national level.

Addressing residents in Vihiga, Kakamega, and neighboring areas, Natembeya called for unity among the people of Western Kenya ahead of the 2027 general elections. He accused the government of exploiting the region’s resources for the benefit of a few individuals, rather than serving the broader community.

While in Bungoma County, the governor vowed to “liberate” the region from leaders whom he accused of pursuing personal gain at the expense of their constituents. He challenged senior political figures from the region, including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, to explain the tangible benefits of their political pact with the Kenya Kwanza government.

As the political realignment intensifies, some leaders argue that Western Kenya is strategically positioned to produce a presidential candidate, given that it holds the second-largest voting bloc after the Mt. Kenya region.

Governor Natembeya has emerged not only as a vocal critic of the national government but also as a leading contender for the broader leadership of the Luhya (Mulembe) nation. Meanwhile, local residents continue to share mixed reactions to the shifting political landscape as momentum builds across the region.