Former Health Cabinet Secretary Ambassador Susan Nakhumicha has officially signaled her intention to challenge Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya in the 2027 general elections, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most heated gubernatorial battles in the Rift Valley.
Speaking confidently during a public event in the county, Nakhumicha declared that she had delivered more development to Trans Nzoia during her tenure as CS than Natembeya has achieved as governor. She insisted that her work at the national level directly benefited residents and that she deserves a chance to lead the county.
In her fiery message to voters, she said:
“Mimi nimeleta maendeleo mingi hapa Trans Nzoia kuliko Natembeya. Nikiwa CS nili-allocate Trans Nzoia development mingi sana. Naomba mnipee kura nikuwe governor kupitia ile kazi nimewafanyia.”
Nakhumicha pointed to improved health infrastructure, increased funding for medical facilities, and national-level programs she supported as evidence of her commitment to the county. She argued that with full executive authority as governor, she can do even more.
Her announcement comes amid growing political tension between her camp and that of Natembeya, who remains a popular and outspoken county chief. Natembeya has frequently clashed with leaders from the Kenya Kwanza administration, making him one of the more controversial county bosses in the country.
Nakhumicha’s supporters believe she has the credentials, networks, and development track record to mount a serious challenge. They argue that the county needs a leader aligned with the national government to ensure faster delivery of resources and projects.
On the other hand, Natembeya’s allies have dismissed her claims, describing them as desperate attempts to gain relevance after being dropped from the Cabinet. They maintain that Natembeya’s hands-on leadership style and county-level transformations speak for themselves.
Political analysts say the Nakhumicha–Natembeya duel will be one to watch, especially given their contrasting leadership styles and their growing rivalry. With both sides already firing shots this early, the road to 2027 in Trans Nzoia is shaping up to be intense, dramatic, and highly competitive.
