Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has revealed plans to contest the presidency in 2027 under a united opposition ticket.
The governor made the declaration after receiving key backing from Agikuyu elders who endorsed his bid during a meeting held in Trans Nzoia over the weekend.
Speaking at Ndura Stadium in Trans Nzoia over the weekend, Natembeya said his move aims to unite opposition voices ahead of the next general election, adding that his focus would be on restoring integrity and inclusivity in national leadership.
The elders, led by John Waweru, pledged to rally support for Natembeya across the Mt Kenya region, describing him as a courageous and visionary leader who resonates with ordinary Kenyans.
''You have entered the Mt Kenya region and shown the willingness to work with us. We now want you to come and do a tour of the mountain so that you can get the support from our people,'' Waweru said.
Natembeya welcomed the endorsement and promised to champion a united front that addresses unemployment, graft, and equitable distribution of resources.
''When we say Wantam, we do not say so because we hate the President. Ours is a quest to see a better and prosperous Kenya where everyone, regardless of their role or age, feels part of the national progress,'' Natembeya stated.
The governor has, in recent months, intensified his political activities across the western counties, positioning himself as one of the leading figures pushing for a united region ahead of 2027.
According to Natembeya, every election cycle, Western leaders often declare their intention to run for the presidency only to settle for Cabinet, Speaker, or other government positions once negotiations begin.
He said that that would be the reason he would be fronting his candidacy to enable the region to have a leader who can represent the welfare of the region.
''Every election cycle, Luhya leaders come out declaring their intention to run for the presidency, only to settle for Cabinet, Speaker, or other government positions once negotiations begin,'' Natembeya said.
Adding that: ''It’s because of this repeated pattern, and many other reasons, that we’ve decided it’s time to go for the real seat, the President’s seat. We are ready for Ruto’s position because too many of our leaders have failed to push the Luhya agenda to its rightful place.''
