Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has declared that he will seek a second term in office.

Speaking at a rally on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Natembeya asserted his determination to remain in power and lead Trans Nzoia for another term.

“Na mimi nimesema nitakuwa governor hapa term ingine ya pili. Tutapanga maswala ya Trans Nzoia mpaka kwa meza huko nitakuwa. Kwani kule utanikataza namna gani? Na mimi nimeshika Western yote nimeshika namna hii ni yetu.” he told the crowd.

He emphasised the importance of unity among the people of Trans Nzoia and the wider Western region.

“Tunakubaliana kwenda kwa meza kama jamii moja, kama sauti moja. Sasa hapo tutengeneze kazi ikuwe mzuri niende niwatafutie matunda huko mbele,” he said.

Natembeya urged residents to stick to their chosen path in politics.

“Mwaka ujao nataka wakaazi wa Trans Nzoia, na jamii ya Western, mahali tunasema tunaneda hiyo ndio barabara. Siasa huwa inapangwa mambo ya kubaatisha hakuna. Tukisema ni hapa ni hapa,” he added.

The statement comes as Natembeya positions himself strongly in local and regional politics. He recently dropped any national presidential ambitions for 2027 to focus on re-election as governor.

Readiness for any challenge

This shift follows earlier reports where he eyed a higher office, but he now emphasises defending his current role. His comments also build on his active role in the United Opposition coalition.

Just days earlier, on February 23, 2026, he criticised President William Ruto, saying he would become the first Kenyan incumbent president voted out after one term.

“Ruto atakuwa mfano kwamba inawezekana kumuondoa rais ambaye yuko kwa kiti,” Natembeya said at that event in Keumbu.

Natembeya’s rally remarks signal his readiness for any challenge to his governorship. He claimed broad support across Western Kenya and insisted no one can stop his plans.

The governor has mended ties with DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa after a public feud in 2025, and the two now appear together at events.

Natembeya faces potential contenders, including former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha, who has shown interest in the Trans Nzoia seat. Yet Natembeya presents himself as firmly in control, backed by community unity and his track record in the county.