Governor Natembeya rejects state honors amid graft allegations
Natembeya, a former high-ranking government official, was previously honored with the Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS) and the Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS) awards given in recognition of exemplary service to the nation.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has revealed plans to surrender his state honors, claiming he's a target of political witch-hunt.
Natembeya, a former high-ranking government official, was previously honored with the Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS) and the Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS) awards given in recognition of exemplary service to the nation.
But amid mounting corruption allegations, the governor now says the decorations no longer hold value for him.
“I’m taking them back to Harambee House,” he told Citizen Digital during an interview.
Natembeya also questioned the legitimacy of a system that, in his words, "honors individuals for service and then turns around to prosecute them."
He argued that true public service should be evaluated by the people, not by titles or fleeting state recognition.
The governor was apprehended on May 21 and charged with two counts relating to corruption and conflict of interest.
The case involves payments exceeding Sh3 million allegedly made to him by suppliers linked to the Trans Nzoia County Government.
According to the prosecution, Natembeya unlawfully benefited from transactions involving businesses contracted by the county claims he firmly denies.
He was released on a cash bail of Sh500,000 or an alternative bond of Sh1 million after appearing before Principal Magistrate Charles Ondieki at the Nairobi Anti-Corruption Court.
As part of his bail terms, the court barred him from accessing his official office for 60 days and restricted him from leaving the country without prior clearance.
He was also cautioned against making public statements concerning the ongoing case.
Despite these limitations, Natembeya remains defiant, maintaining that the legal proceedings are part of a broader strategy to suppress independent-minded leaders pushing for change.
“This is not justice it’s retribution,” he said. “But I will not be silenced.”
He warned that ignoring such injustices could erode the country’s democratic foundations, cautioning that silence in the face of political persecution sets a dangerous precedent.
