“Malava Exposed Worrying Democratic Processes!” – Governor Natembeya
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has broken his silence following the Malava by-election, expressing concern about the “erosion of democratic values”.
This came as he urged for a renewed commitment to voting integrity ahead of the next national elections.
In a statement issued on Friday, Natembeya stated that the by-election, which saw UDA’s David Ndakwa declared winner, raised concerns about the exercise’s conduct and the conditions under which voters participated.
He noticed that the battle was characterized by increased tension, reports of intimidation, and an unusually high security presence.
Natembeya argued that such issues could undermine public trust in democratic procedures.
Natembeya also reported numerous instances of alleged voter bribery, asking election officials and political actors to take such allegations seriously.
“The Malava by-election exposed worrying gaps in our democratic processes and electoral integrity,” Natembeya said.
" We spent less than 5 million in Malava, the government spent over 100 million "- Gov. George Natembeya! pic.twitter.com/NnPt7mjGJq
— The Kenyan Vigilante (@KenyanSays) November 28, 2025
“Incidents of tension, intimidation, and allegations of voter inducement do not strengthen the will of the people. They weaken it.”
He praised Malava locals for their resilience, adding that voters remained steadfast despite the tense climate.
“Their resolve is the true triumph. The people of Malava stood up for their rights and exercised their choice,” he said.
I wish to address the nation following the Malava by-election, which has exposed grave flaws in our democracy and electoral integrity. The contest was marred by unprecedented intimidation, harassment, militarization, and open voter bribery using government resources, tactics that…
— George Natembeya (@GeorgeNatembeya) November 28, 2025
Natembeya emphasized that if a single-seat by-election can spark such debate, the country must consider the processes and protections needed for the 2027 General Election.
“This raises a critical question: If one by-election attracts this level of pressure and concern, what does it mean for future national polls?” he asked.
He went on to say that the events in Malava should inspire institutions, political leaders, and the general public to collaborate on improving democratic space.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to good administration, saying he will continue to advocate for justice in Kenya’s electoral process.
“I remain committed to defending our democracy through lawful and constructive means. It belongs to the people, and no amount of pressure will change that,” he stated.
ALSO READ:
- EXPLAINER: KRA’s New 3-Step Filing Process For Kenyans; How It Works
- NYAMIRA: Teen Killed, Body Dumped In Tea Plantation As Police Launch Investigations
- Governor Orengo In Hot Soup As Siaya MCAs Threaten To Impeach Him
- “Protests Won’t Lower Fuel Prices!” – Ruto Tells Kenyans
- “Kenya Has Fuel Others Don’t!” – Ruto Claims While Defending Price Spike
His scathing remark comes in the wake of the pandemonium that erupted during Thursday’s by-elections in some electoral areas.
Several polling centres recorded violent confrontations, including scuffles between supporters, arrests of youths accused of disrupting voting, and clashes attributed to rival campaign teams.
Some days leading up to the polls, several leaders in areas where polls were being conducted had their security withdrawn.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen later defended the move, insisting there were reports that officers attached to some politicians were engaging in criminal activities.
“Malava Exposed Worrying Democratic Processes!” – Governor Natembeya
