Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya skipped this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations held in Kitale, citing political frustration and what he described as unjust treatment by the state. The move led to a lacklustre event marked by low turnout and visible public disinterest.
With Governor Natembeya absent, his Health Executive, Sam Ojwang, delivered a strongly worded speech on his behalf, drawing attention to what the governor called a backslide in the freedoms Kenyans fought for at independence. Natembeya, recently arrested over corruption allegations, used the occasion to air grievances about perceived political persecution.
“There’s nothing to go and celebrate if we still have to suffer primitive actions many years after independence,” the governor had said earlier in the week, signalling his intention to boycott the national holiday.
Only a small crowd turned up for the celebrations. Many left shortly after the parade, leaving county commissioner Gidion Oyagi and Ojwang to address rows of empty seats. Oyagi called for peace and unity, urging residents to support development programs and uphold the values of national cohesion.
In his written remarks, Natembeya honoured the heroes of Kenya’s liberation struggle but questioned the current state of governance.
“We must reclaim the freedom our forefathers fought for — a freedom rooted in justice, dignity, and equal opportunity for all,” the governor stated, adding that Kenyans deserve better than what is currently being offered by the system.
The speech appeared to allude to his arrest and the broader political environment, with Natembeya condemning what he termed oppression, silencing of dissent, and unjust systems that betray the promises of independence.
While some residents sympathised with Natembeya’s stand, others expressed frustration with his leadership, saying it had dampened the Madaraka Day mood. “We came expecting unity and celebration, not more politics,” said one attendee.
As the dust settles, the event in Kitale served as a reflection of the growing tensions between county leadership and national government structures — and perhaps, a wider discontent brewing among Kenyans over governance, justice, and accountability.
