Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya returned to the public stage on Monday with a packed rally tour across five counties in Western Kenya, just days after pleading not guilty to corruption-related charges in court.
Natembeya touched down at Kisumu International Airport early Monday morning to a warm reception from county leaders and a crowd of cheering supporters. His arrival marked the beginning of a long day of roadside rallies and brief stops under the banner of his growing political platform, the Tawe Movement.
He is expected to wrap up the tour in Kitale, where a major homecoming event is set to take place this afternoon. Supporters say the rally will focus on “unity, prayer, and community development”—a message the governor has consistently echoed since taking office.
“This is a spiritual moment as much as it is political,” said a county official who helped organise the events. “The governor wants to reconnect with the people, pray with them, and talk about the future.”
Natembeya’s motorcade will pass through Luanda, Chavakali, Kakamega, Malava, Webuye, Bungoma, Chwele, Kimilili, Kamukuywa, and Kiminini, energising his base and giving him a chance to speak directly to the public.
The rallies come at a sensitive time. Just last week, on 20 May, the governor appeared in court over charges that he has strongly denied. He was released on a Sh500,000 cash bail and temporarily barred from accessing his office for 60 days, pending further legal proceedings.
“I am innocent,” Natembeya told reporters after his court appearance. “This is political. But I believe in the justice system, and I will face it head-on.”
Natembeya, once a powerful regional commissioner, has built a loyal following in Western Kenya. He is also a senior figure in DAP-K, the party led by former Cabinet Minister Eugene Wamalwa. His arrest made him the second top DAP-K member to face legal trouble in less than a week, raising questions about the growing scrutiny of opposition-aligned leaders.
Political analysts are watching his tour closely. Many see it as a test of his popularity and resilience in the face of mounting legal and political pressure.
“He’s clearly trying to take control of the narrative,” said Prof. Wanjiru Muita, a political commentator based in Nairobi. “By going directly to the people, he’s positioning himself as a leader who won’t be silenced.”
Still, some critics argue that public rallies at this time could risk fuelling political tensions. They call for a more measured approach while legal matters are ongoing.
Natembeya’s team insists the rallies are peaceful and focused on prayer and public engagement—not politics.
“This is not a campaign. It’s about reconnecting and rebuilding,” said one aide.
As the governor heads to Kitale, the political temperature in Western Kenya is rising. But for his supporters, today is not about charges or politics. It’s about home.
