Ruto Blames Tawe Politics for Hindering Service Delivery
President William Ruto has launched a fresh attack on Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya’s "Tawe" slogan and opposition politics, accusing the movement of derailing development in the county and frustrating efforts to improve roads, hospitals, and other essential services.
Speaking during a roadside address in Endebess on Saturday, October 10, 2026, Ruto called on residents to reject what he described as poor opposition leadership. He accused the political camp of opposing government initiatives instead of supporting development projects.
Ruto directly linked the county’s infrastructure challenges to political resistance. "Mimi niko na pesa ya kujenga hospitali hapa, lakini hiyo maneno ya ‘Tawe, Tawe’, hiyo tabia ya kupinga kila kitu ndiyo imefanya Trans Nzoia ikae hivi. And I will sort it out," Ruto said.
The president pointed to the state of hospitals and roads in the county, stating that facilities could have been improved long ago but had remained neglected because of poor leadership. He pledged to address historical challenges facing Trans Nzoia residents.
Political Differences Intensify Ahead of 2027
The remarks come amid growing political differences between Natembeya and leaders allied to the President. The governor has used his "Tawe" slogan to mobilize residents against the political status quo and push for changes in leadership at both county and national levels.
Natembeya has increasingly positioned himself as a critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration, prompting leaders allied to Ruto in the county to intensify efforts to challenge him ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Former Cherangany MP Joshua Kutuny dismissed Natembeya’s "Tawe" slogan, saying he and other leaders allied to President William Ruto would counter it with a rival slogan dubbed "Ngopit," a Kalenjin slang term for rejection.
Rivals Declare Interest in Gubernatorial Seat
Several political figures have declared their interest in the Trans Nzoia gubernatorial seat, signaling a competitive field for the upcoming elections. Former Health Cabinet Administrative Secretary Susan Nakhumicha argued that the county has achieved little since 2022 and pledged to restore its development agenda. She recently received backing from National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
Former Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa also expressed interest in the governorship, vowing to challenge Natembeya in the 2027 elections.
Natembeya has maintained that his focus remains on Trans Nzoia, shelving earlier national political ambitions as he prepares for the next election. He has declared support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna in the presidential race.