Nakhumicha Throws Hat in Ring for Trans Nzoia Governor’s Seat, Vows to Unseat Natembeya

The race for Trans Nzoia’s gubernatorial seat in 2027 is heating up, with former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha declaring her candidacy to challenge incumbent Governor George Natembeya.

The announcement, made on Saturday at Stovar Farm in Kiminini Constituency during the burial of retired senior chief Geoffrey Jomo Mutoka, has set the stage for a fierce political showdown.

Nakhumicha, currently Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat, dismissed speculation about running for the county women’s representative seat, boldly asserting her intent to vie for the county’s top job.

“I am above the county women’s representative seat, and I ask you to support my bid for governor,” she told mourners, signaling her readiness to take on Natembeya and other contenders, including 2022 challenger Chris Wamalwa and Kiminini MP Maurice Bisau.

Highlighting her track record, Nakhumicha pointed to her influence in securing Sh600 million for development projects during her tenure as Health Cabinet Secretary.

These funds supported initiatives like Matunda Sub-County Hospital, Kitale Medical Training College (KMTC), and school infrastructure in Kiminini.

“I have all it takes to clinch the seat,” she declared, exuding confidence in her ability to compete in what she described as a “bruising political battle” against her male rivals.

The announcement comes amid swirling political undercurrents in Trans Nzoia.

Sources close to one of the aspirants revealed that President William Ruto and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula are strategizing to curb Natembeya’s rising popularity.

“After failing to silence him through corruption allegations, they are now backing a candidate to challenge Natembeya in 2027,” the source claimed.

Nakhumicha, a close ally of Wetang’ula, is reportedly poised to secure the Ford Kenya ticket, adding weight to her candidacy.

Tensions were palpable at Mutoka’s burial, where Sikhendu MCA Andrew Kutitila accused unnamed local politicians of collaborating with external forces to push for Natembeya’s impeachment.

“We are aware of their schemes to frustrate the governor, and we will stand with him,” Kutitila told the crowd, which included Bisau.

Natembeya, a polarizing figure known for his outspoken leadership, faces a crowded field.

Wamalwa, who ran against him in 2022, and Bisau have already launched early campaigns, intensifying the competition.

Nakhumicha’s entry, backed by her national government experience and political connections, adds a new dimension to the race.

Political analysts see the 2027 contest as a test of Natembeya’s grassroots support against a coalition of national heavyweights.

“Nakhumicha’s candidacy, with Wetang’ula’s backing, signals a deliberate move to consolidate Kenya Kwanza’s influence in Trans Nzoia,” said political commentator Jane Wekesa.

“But Natembeya’s populist appeal makes him a formidable opponent.”

As the countdown to 2027 begins, Trans Nzoia voters are bracing for a high-stakes battle that could reshape the county’s political landscape.