In a dramatic turn of events, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya found himself on the wrong side of the law after being arrested on Monday morning. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) confirmed that the governor’s arrest is tied to an explosive investigation into the alleged embezzlement of a staggering Ksh.1.4 billion. The accusations include procurement fraud, abuse of office, and bribery.
The investigation zeroes in on three major county projects: the rehabilitation of Kenyatta Stadium (Phase 1A), the construction of county headquarters offices, and Tom Mboya Hospital. These projects, undertaken between the 2022/2023 and 2024/2025 financial years, are suspected to have been marred by irregular tendering and eye-popping kickbacks.
Simultaneously, EACC officers were on the move, conducting sweeping search operations at various locations, including Natembeya’s official residence in Kitale and premises linked to other individuals of interest.
The arrest has sent political shockwaves throughout the country. DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa has come out swinging, decrying the move as a politically motivated crackdown on opposition figures. He drew parallels between Natembeya’s arrest and recent actions against DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua and Mumias East MP Peter Salasya, hinting at a pattern of targeting government critics.
