Trans-Nzoia Madaraka Day Celebrations Marred By Mass Walkout As Residents Protest

Madaraka Day celebrations in Trans-Nzoia County took an unexpected turn on Sunday, June 1, as a significant number of attendees staged a mass walkout just as President William Ruto’s speech was about to be read.

The event itself was already under a cloud, with Governor George Natembeya and his deputy Philomena Kapkory conspicuously absent. Governor Natembeya later cited an ongoing graft case against him as a key reason for his non-attendance, a departure from the usual protocol.

Health CEC Sam Ojwang represented the Governor, but was left visibly perplexed when residents at the Lessos Primary School grounds openly disapproved of County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi’s attempt to read President Ruto’s address. Footage obtained by Kenyans.co.ke showed a large portion of the crowd rising in unison and departing, leaving only a handful of National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and local officials at the venue.

Public Discontent and Governor’s Troubles

The precise reasons behind the residents’ decision to boycott the President’s speech remain unclear, but the incident comes amidst growing local discontent with the national government, particularly exacerbated by Governor Natembeya’s recent legal challenges.

In early May, Natembeya faced scrutiny from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over allegations of procurement irregularities, misuse of office, bribery, and fraudulent acquisition of public funds totaling Ksh1.4 billion. A dramatic raid on his residence in Kitale’s Milimani area saw area residents and the governor’s staunch supporters attempting to obstruct EACC officers, even vandalizing their vehicles.

Since his release from custody, Governor Natembeya has been a vocal critic of the government. In his first public speech post-release, he accused the President of attempting to silence his opposition to certain government projects.

Natembeya’s Absence and Criticism of Authority

Speaking in Kiminini shortly before the Madaraka Day celebrations, Governor Natembeya offered another reason for his absence, citing a perceived lack of meaningful authority in his gubernatorial role.

“At the moment, I hold no position of power, so why should I attend celebrations of authority?” the governor questioned. He further added, “The worsening poverty is a new form of colonialism. We have been deceiving ourselves, and I will consider in the future whether or not to attend such celebrations.”

Ironically, President Ruto’s Madaraka Day speech, one of the longest in the event’s history, contained several significant announcements directly impacting Kenyans. Notably, the President announced a plan to champion a constitutional reform that would allow Kenyans access to up to Ksh5 million in low-interest loans for mortgages. However, the residents of Trans-Nzoia opted not to hear these pronouncements, underscoring a deepening political rift.