Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has defended his decision to skip the recent meeting between governors and President William Ruto at State House, insisting that attendance is not a constitutional requirement for counties to receive development.
“Hakuna mahali katika Katiba imeandikwa kwamba lazima gavana aende State House ndio apate maendeleo,” Natembeya said, dismissing claims that counties risk losing support for failing to attend such meetings.
He emphasized that conditional grants, development partnerships, and donor-funded programs follow established formal procedures, not political goodwill.
“Hazipeanwi kama peremende au kama zawadi za kisiasa,” he added.
The governor questioned why Trans Nzoia would be sidelined over political differences, insisting that development must never be used as a tool of political reward or punishment.
“Mbona utenge Trans Nzoia? Ati kwa sababu gavana ni mpinzani wako kisiasa? Si maendeleo ni haki ya kila Mkenya anayelipa kodi jameni,” he remarked.
Natembeya maintained that all Kenyans—regardless of their leaders’ political affiliations—deserve equitable development and access to national resources.
