I’m Not Joining Ruto’s Cabinet! Governor Natembeya Breaks Silence After Meeting CS Murkomen

Governor George Natembeya of Trans Nzoia County has spoken clearly about rumors that he wants to join the national government. He says he is not interested in becoming a Cabinet Secretary (CS) in President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza government. 

Many people started talking after Governor Natembeya welcomed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to his office. The two leaders have very different political views, so the meeting surprised many. 

But Natembeya says the meeting was only part of government protocol. He said it is normal for a governor to receive a CS when they visit a county. 

“I have no business joining the government in any capacity,” Natembeya said. “I am an elected governor, and if you offer me a CS slot, what will that help me with? Nothing. I was employed there before, and the work I am focusing on now is serving the people who elected me.” 

The governor wants people to know that he is still loyal to the opposition. He has been a strong voice against the Kenya Kwanza administration. 

The meeting with CS Murkomen happened on Monday, July 28. Murkomen was in Trans Nzoia for the 22nd Jukwaa La Usalama—a grassroots security engagement program organized by the Interior Ministry. 

During his visit, CS Murkomen met with the county’s top security leaders. He also checked on public services at the Assistant County Commissioner’s (ACC) office in Saboti Sub-County. 

Many top national security officials accompanied Murkomen. These included Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, Regional Police Commander Jasper Ombati, and Regional AP Commander John Amadadi. 

Governor Natembeya explained that when a senior national government official visits a county, the protocol requires that they visit the Governor’s office. That’s why he welcomed Murkomen. 

“Receiving CS Murkomen was simply about following protocol,” the Governor said. “It does not mean I am shifting my political beliefs or joining the government.” 

Still, some people continued to claim that Natembeya might be warming up to Kenya Kwanza. They said the meeting showed that he may be planning to change sides politically. 

Others even suggested that he might be eyeing a Cabinet position in the near future. But Natembeya strongly denied these rumors. 

He reminded everyone that he had worked in government before. He served as a Regional Commissioner before resigning to run for governor in 2022. 

“Right now, I’m focused on the people who voted for me. That is where my commitment lies,” he insisted. 

The timing of the meeting also raised eyebrows because it came shortly after Natembeya returned to his office in Kitale. He had been away due to a two-month court ban imposed by a Nairobi court. 

He resumed office on July 21, just days before CS Murkomen’s visit. This led some political watchers to think there might be something bigger happening behind the scenes. 

However, Governor Natembeya has remained firm. He said he will continue standing with the opposition, no matter the political pressure or criticism. 

His statement is a strong message to those trying to question his loyalty or spread fake news about his political future. 

Natembeya is known for being outspoken and bold. He has often challenged the national government, especially on issues affecting counties and ordinary Kenyans. 

The Governor says he will keep fighting for the people of Trans Nzoia and will not be distracted by rumors or political games. 

For now, he wants to focus on improving services, boosting development, and standing by the values he was elected to uphold. 

His message is clear: he is not looking for a job in Ruto’s government. He is happy where he is and is working hard to deliver on his promises. 

The political heat may rise, but Natembeya seems ready for the challenge.