Natembeya stands firm in his condemnation of abductions as he responds to backlash from critics

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has hit back at his critics, defending his remarks made during the funeral of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula's mother.

Natembeya became a target of sharp criticism after his address at the burial ceremony on Friday, where he condemned abductions in Kenya, a stance that led to a public exchange with several political figures.

The governor, in a statement, stood firm on his position, saying that he "told them the truth" during his speech.

"I was the subject of severe verbal attacks by some political leaders through the litany of insults and profanity towards my persona," Natembeya said, referring to the backlash that followed his remarks.

The controversy erupted when Cotu Secretary-General Francis Atwoli commented on the issue of abductions, suggesting that some Kenyans were abducting themselves so as to receive funding from civil society organisations.

Atwoli's comments, made during the burial ceremony, sparked immediate disagreement from Natembeya.

"On abductions, I work with many organisations across the world. Some people are abducting themselves so that they can get money from some organisations," Atwoli claimed.

‘Unfortunate’ claims

In response, Governor Natembeya rejected Atwoli's claims, calling them "unfortunate" and stating that abducted individuals should be freed to give their families peace of mind.

"I say this with a very heavy heart. For a leader to stand here and say people are abducting and killing themselves, is unfortunate. It is not for this hallowed grounds," Natembeya said at the event.

His statement was met with a fierce rebuttal from National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah, who accused Natembeya of using the funeral to "shout" at Atwoli and questioned his past record.

"You are an officer; if you know people are being abducted, share the information with the police but do not come here to shout at Atwoli," Ichung'wah said.

He further reminded Natembeya of his tenure as a regional commissioner, a period marked by allegations of abductions and extra-judicial killings.

However, Natembeya defended his legacy, insisting that his time as a regional commissioner was marked by diligence, honesty, and hard work.

"Let it be known that George Natembeya served as a diligent, honest, and truthful servant to the people of Kenya, a position I earned through merit and hard work. I resigned as the regional commissioner without any stain or scandal," he said.

He noted that his commitment to law enforcement and his work as a public servant had earned him the trust of the people in Trans Nzoia, who later elected him as their governor.

"My commitment as a regional commissioner endeared me to the esteemed people of Trans Nzoia, who nurtured me to be their second governor," he said.

Adhere to rule of law

Natembeya went on to clarify that his condemnation of extrajudicial abductions was not an attack on President William Ruto.

Instead, he stressed that his criticism was aimed at ensuring the government adheres to the rule of law.

"We all have a duty to remind state organs to adhere to the rule of law and our constitution's principles," Natembeya stated.

He added that he would continue speaking out against abductions, describing the trauma families endure while their loved ones remain missing.

"Kenyans are looking up to leaders to speak for them. Abductions must decisively and courageously be condemned," Natembeya said.

In addition, Natembeya reaffirmed his commitment to championing the rights of those affected by abductions, stating.

"I will continue speaking boldly, without fear," he said.