A political storm is brewing in Western Kenya after Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa launched a scathing attack on his Trans Nzoia counterpart George Natembeya, warning him to stay away from Kakamega unless he is ready to face what awaits him.

Speaking during a public event in Kakamega on Friday, July 4, Barasa accused Natembeya of invading the county with toxic political messages aimed at dividing residents.

He cautioned that Kakamega would not sit back and allow what he termed tribal and disrespectful politics to take root.

“Some people are going around spreading messages of hate and division. Just yesterday, they came here to Kakamega. Let me tell my brother George Natembeya respect Governor Italanyi. Respect this county’s leadership. Frankly, you’re overrated,” Barasa declared.

His remarks came just a day after Natembeya led a high-profile rally in Kakamega Town alongside senior opposition figures. The rally, which focused on uniting the Luhya community ahead of the 2027 elections, appears to have triggered Barasa’s sharp response.

The Kakamega governor defended his administration and leadership, stating that the county’s residents are politically mature and will not fall for populist speeches laced with tribal undertones.

“If you dare return with the same chaos you brought, we’ll be ready. Take that nonsense back to Trans Nzoia. Kakamega residents won’t entertain those trying to tear us apart along tribal lines. If you must come back, come prepared we’ll meet face-to-face, man to man,” Barasa said.

During the earlier rally, Natembeya told the crowd that the Luhya nation would not allow itself to be divided by political outsiders or serve the interests of other regions. He called for unity among Luhya leaders and declared that the community must take charge of its future.

“From now on, the Luhya nation will stand united. No one will make decisions for us we’ll be present where national matters are discussed,” said Natembeya.

Flanked by political allies including DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka, DCP’s Rigathi Gachagua, and others, Natembeya said the region had suffered under imposed leadership and was ready to reclaim control.

“We reject political puppets in our region. Those who acquired Mumias, Nzoia, and Pan Paper through shady deals we’re putting you on notice. Once we take leadership, we’ll repossess what rightfully belongs to our people,” he warned.

The confrontation between the two governors has opened a new front in the escalating contest for political dominance in Western Kenya. With the 2027 elections drawing nearer, the power struggle over who controls the region’s support base is intensifying.

Barasa’s tough stance signals that political visits from rival camps may no longer be tolerated without resistance, especially if perceived as attempts to undermine county leadership or incite divisions.