Editor's Review

Natembeya dared Ruto to launch projects funded by the Trans-Nzoia County Government.

The battle for supremacy between President William Ruto and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya over the launch of Masinde Muliro Market has escalated to new heights after the latter threatened to move to court.

Speaking on Tuesday, October 13, Governor Natembeya told Ruto he would not allow him to bully him on his own turf.

He added that if push came to shove, he would move to court to obtain orders barring Ruto from setting foot in the market or its vicinity.

"You want to come here and bully me, yet I have the Constitution as my line of defence? I can actually go to court tomorrow to stop you from setting foot in the market," the Governor declared, 

Natembeya maintained that the market was constructed solely using Trans Nzoia County funds. He warned the government against vacating traders who have already pitched their stores in the market to allow the President to launch it.

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A file photo of Governor George Natembeya

The County Chief further dared Ruto over plans to launch the new county headquarters.

"I built the new county assembly offices worth Ksh500 million using Trans Nzoia's money. There is not a single cent from Ruto in that project, but I hear he wants to launch it.

"Come and open it. After all, I have built it for you. However, when you leave, I will remove the plate bearing your name and replace it with mine," he stated.

Natembeya maintained that if the Head of State wants to launch or commission projects in his county, then he and his government should invest in them instead of joyriding on his own.

He told Ruto to respect the devolution, adding that there were clear lines that defined national and county governments' roles.

Natembeya's rant came days after he and Ruto were engaged in a public spat after the President accused him of derailing development in the county through the 'Tawe' movement of 'always objecting to everything'.

In response, the Governor said he is not opposed to development, arguing that it is a right for all Kenyans, including Trans Nzoia residents.

However, he questioned the legal basis of the national government allocating money for the hospital project without an agreement with the county.