Tensions flared in Narok County as Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu publicly called out Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot for meddling in the county’s political and administrative affairs.

Speaking during a public event on Monday, June 2, 2025, the governor told the senator to respect boundaries and refrain from engaging in provocative and unnecessary interference.

According to Ntutu, the fallout stems from a recent meeting that Kericho County Senator held in with leaders from Narok East in which the which Cheruiyot is said to have made remarks seen as belittling him and undermining his leadership.

“Senator Cheruiyot came here and insulted me in front of my people. I was elected by the people of Narok, and I do not need lectures from someone who doesn’t even represent this county,” said Ntutu.

The governor claimed that the senator’s comments were not only disrespectful but also politically motivated, accusing Cheruiyot of trying to sow division within the region ahead of the 2027 general election.

“I want to tell him clearly—Narok has its leaders, and we are fully capable of managing our political affairs. We do not need outsiders coming in to dictate or divide us,” Ntutu declared to loud cheers from his supporters.

Governor backed

Nominated Senator Leah Ntimama was among those who came to Ntutu’s defence, calling Senator Cheruiyot’s remarks condescending and uncalled for.

“We will not allow political tourists to come here and lecture and interfere with our issues. He should learn to respect the governor. We have not meddled with the affairs of Kericho County,” she said.

“What happened in Narok is unacceptable. The Senate Majority Leader should lead with maturity and respect. You cannot come into someone’s backyard and insult them, then expect cooperation,” said Senator Ntimama.

She added, “Governor Ntutu has been working hard to deliver services to the people of Narok. It’s unfair and irresponsible for a senior national leader to publicly undermine his efforts without offering any constructive alternatives.”

Ntutu urged the Senate Majority leader to concentrate on his role and to serve the people of his county.

“Let him stick to his duties in the Senate. We have no business interfering with how Kericho is run. He should extend the same courtesy to Narok,” Ntutu added, referencing Cheruiyot’s home county.

Ntutu said Narok County will not be a playground for national politicians seeking to assert dominance without regard for local leadership.

“The people of Narok deserve respect,” Ntutu concluded. “We are not children to be lectured. We are leaders in our own right.”