George Natembeya Speaks After Clash With Wetang’ula At A Funeral Gathering,”

The Governor of Trans Nzoia County, George Natembeya, has strongly condemned the unfortunate incidents that marred the funeral gathering in Kwanza on Friday, March 22.

Various dignitaries including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Governor Natembeya himself attended the ceremony to bid farewell to former nominated MCA Philip Nyongesa in Goseta.

However, tensions escalated when supporters of Wetang’ula and Natembeya clashed, leading to a chaotic and stormy situation. The law enforcement officers had to intervene, who resorted to the use of tear gas to restore order.

Governor Natembeya, who later addressed the media in his office, attributed the clashes to what he perceived as his commitment to champion Western Kenya’s representation in the national leadership. He has been vocal in questioning the prominence of Wetang’ula in the region, drawing parallels with historical figures such as the late Masinde Muliro and Kijana Wamalwa.

Natembeya recounted being caught in the middle of the chaos and even suffered her clothes torn. He expressed his dismay at the disruption of such a solemn event as a funeral, stressed the need for peace and condemned the use of violence for political purposes. He particularly criticized the practice within certain political factions, citing cases of individuals carrying weapons to funerals.

The governor reaffirmed his determination to unite the counties of Western Kenya and demand fair treatment from the national government.

In response, Moses Wetang’ula pointed the finger at Natembeya and accused him of orchestrating the clashes. He complained about the disruption of the funeral ceremony and stressed the need for the authorities to take decisive action against political intolerance and violence.

Wetang’ula urged against the manipulation of the youth by political leaders to incite disorder and called for accountability regardless of one’s status in society.

The incident highlights the challenges of political rivalry and the need to maintain civility and respect, especially in sensitive settings such as funerals. Both leaders called for restraint and adherence to the principles of the rule of law in resolving such disputes.