Susan Nakhumicha Rejects Criticism from Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya Over Attendance at Government Meetings

The governor had accused her of overstepping her role by attending sessions he claimed were arranged by administration officials, suggesting it was inappropriate or politically motivated.

In response, Nakhumicha dismissed the remarks as misguided and emphasized that her position is a national government appointment, making her involvement in official state functions entirely lawful and aligned with her diplomatic responsibilities.

Nakhumicha, who previously served as Cabinet Secretary for Health before her current ambassadorial posting, highlighted that her duties as Kenya's envoy to UN-Habitat—headquartered in Nairobi—require engagement with various government entities, including those coordinating national development, urban planning, and international partnerships. She described the governor's attack as baseless and politically charged, especially given the escalating rivalry between the two ahead of the 2027 elections. Nakhumicha has openly declared her intention to contest the Trans Nzoia gubernatorial seat, positioning herself as a challenger to the incumbent Natembeya, whom she has repeatedly criticized for alleged underperformance in areas like healthcare and overall county development.

The exchange underscores the growing political tensions in Trans Nzoia County, where Nakhumicha's national profile and experience in high-level government roles contrast sharply with Natembeya's local leadership record. Supporters of Nakhumicha view her rebuttal as a defense of institutional propriety, while critics of the governor see it as further evidence of friction between national and devolved government actors. As the 2027 polls approach, such public spats are likely to intensify, with both figures leveraging their platforms to rally support in what promises to be a competitive race for the county's top seat.