Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has dismissed criticism of former President Uhuru Kenyatta over his continued involvement in politics, terming the attacks primitive and a violation of his constitutional right to free speech.
Speaking in Kitale, Natembeya faulted leaders allied to President William Ruto who want Kenyatta to remain silent in retirement or move a motion in Parliament to sanction his perks, saying such demands undermine democratic gains.
“It is surprising to see leaders like National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula criticise the former president for expressing himself,” Natembeya said while addressing a farmers’ forum.
The governor emphasised that Kenya has made significant progress in safeguarding freedom of expression under the Constitution of Kenya 2010, noting that the right cannot be curtailed.
“Let Uhuru express himself. Let him advance the vision of his political party, which is a constitutional right that cannot be taken away by anyone,” he added.
Natembeya also accused President Ruto’s administration of undermining devolution by retaining control over certain functions to influence budgets.
“For instance, agriculture is fully devolved, but the national government is still holding on to some functions to control finances, especially donor-funded programmes,” he said.
He added that Trans Nzoia has been targeted by the national government, which he claimed has an interest in county projects for personal gain.
