Natembeya addresses Senate over County Public Service Board standoff
By Kiprono Keileb, March 16, 2026Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya appeared before the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations on Monday, March 16, 2026, to respond to questions surrounding the closure of the County Public Service Board.
The governor used the opportunity to clarify the legal and constitutional framework guiding the relationship between the county executive and the board.
Governor Natembeya explained that his appearance was prompted by a board that had repeatedly refused to cooperate with his administration while asserting independence beyond what the law allows.
“This afternoon, I appeared before the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations to address allegations regarding the purported illegal closure of the County Public Service Board. I took the opportunity to firmly underscore the constitutional and legal framework that guides the relationship between the Executive and the Board,” Natembeya stated.
The governor emphasised that the independence of county institutions must operate within the law and governance structures, noting that the authority to appoint members of the board lies with the county governor. He stressed that adherence to legal processes ensures proper service delivery and protects the interests of residents.
“My appearance was necessitated by the conduct of a rogue board that has persistently refused to cooperate with the Executive while simultaneously claiming autonomy. While independence of institutions is respected, it must operate within the law and established governance structures, noting clearly that the appointing authority remains the Governor,” he added.
Governor Natembeya further assured residents that his administration remains committed to upholding lawful governance and accountability across all county departments. He highlighted that cooperation between county institutions is crucial for effective service delivery and the smooth functioning of government operations.
“I reaffirmed my administration’s unwavering commitment to lawful governance, accountability, and the smooth functioning of county institutions in the best interest of the people we serve,” Natembeya stated.
The governor’s appearance at the Senate Committee comes amid heightened scrutiny of the County Public Service Board, with calls for clarity on the board’s operations and the boundaries of its autonomy. In his presentation, he sought to assure both the legislators and the public that the county government is acting within the law while striving to maintain functional and transparent institutions.