Former Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa and former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha have formally launched their campaigns to challenge Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya in the 2027 general election, setting the stage for what is expected to be a high-stakes political contest in the county.
Speaking on Saturday, November 22, Chris Wamalwa announced the beginning of his gubernatorial journey with a mix of Swahili proverbs and biblical references. He told supporters that the day marked the official start of his political push to reclaim the county’s top seat.
“Siku ya leo ilikua kusemezana,” he said, explaining that the day was dedicated to consultations. “My journey to become the Governor of Trans-Nzoia County has begun today.”
Wamalwa described Trans-Nzoia as a deeply cosmopolitan region, stressing that the county’s leadership must reflect inclusivity. He promised to engage all communities living in the area while making it clear that the Luyha community, being native to the county, would play a central role in shaping his political roadmap.
“We know Trans-Nzoia is a cosmopolitan and we are going to be all inclusive,” he stated, thanking Luyha elders for their counsel and blessings. He added that he would first engage the Luyha community before seeking broader dialogue with other ethnic groups.
Former Health CS Susan Nakhumicha also declared her intention to run for the county’s top seat. Speaking at the same event, she revealed that her family had mandated her to pursue the governorship rather than vie for a woman representative position. Nakhumicha emphasized that leadership should not be limited by gender.
Quoting the Constitution, she reminded residents that any Kenyan has the democratic right to pursue any elective office. “Na Katiba ya Kenya inaruhusu Mkenya yeyote, wa jinsia yoyote, kua katika nafasi ya uongozi,” she said, underscoring her confidence in running countywide rather than being confined to gender-based political expectations.
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Meanwhile, Governor George Natembeya has remained silent on the growing political pressure around him. Despite the announcements from the two aspirants, he has not issued any public response. Earlier, Natembeya had vowed that attempts to intimidate him politically would not succeed, insisting he remains focused on uniting the Western region under a fresh leadership direction.
With Wamalwa and Nakhumicha now officially entering the race, Trans-Nzoia’s 2027 gubernatorial battle is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the region.
