rans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has announced he will return his state honours, citing a loss of meaning following corruption charges he claims are politically motivated.
Speaking in an interview, Natembeya expressed his intention to surrender the Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS) and Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS) awards, which he received for distinguished public service during his tenure in national administration.
“I plan to return them to Harambee House,” Natembeya stated. “How can I carry the title of a state honouree while being paraded in court over corruption allegations? It makes no sense. Those honours have been tainted. The EACC even took them during their raids. I no longer want them.”
The governor, known for his outspoken criticism of government excesses, believes the charges against him stem from his vocal advocacy for the rights of ordinary citizens. He described his arrest and arraignment as attempts to silence reformist leaders.
“These charges are not about justice—they’re about silencing voices that speak the truth. But I will not be cowed,” he asserted, maintaining that his constitutional right to speak out must be protected.
Natembeya was arrested on May 21 and charged with two counts of corruption and conflict of interest involving over Sh3 million allegedly linked to county suppliers. The prosecution claims he unlawfully received payments from individuals and firms doing business with the Trans Nzoia County Government.
After appearing before Nairobi Anti-Corruption Principal Magistrate Charles Ondieki, he was released on a Sh500,000 cash bail or Sh1 million bond. The court barred him from accessing his office for 60 days and restricted his travel outside the country without permission. He was also instructed not to discuss the case publicly.
Despite these restrictions, Natembeya continues to defend his innocence, warning that failing to challenge political intimidation could threaten the future of Kenya’s democracy.
The High Court has since halted the governor’s prosecution pending the outcome of a petition he filed, which challenges the legitimacy of the charges brought against him.
