Trans Nzoia County Governor George Natembeya has fired back at Dadaab lawmaker Farah Maalim, days after he sensationally called for his “expulsion” from Kenya.
Maalim had questioned the governor’s nationality and urged the government to send him back to his home country.
The debate stemmed from the government’s recent move to abolish rigorous vetting procedures for the issuance of national identity cards (IDs) in Northeastern Kenya—a policy shift Maalim supported but the Governor opposed.
Natembeya, a vocal advocate for the reinstatement of the vetting process, has previously cited national security concerns as the basis for his position.
Also Read: Farah Maalim Expelled from Wiper Party
Natembeya responds to Farah Maalim’s question on his nationality
In his rebuttal, the first-term governor stood firm on his stance, dismissing Maalim’s remarks as “false and inflammatory,” and reaffirming his nationality.
“I was born in Kenya, raised in Kenya, educated in Kenya, and have devoted my entire career to public service in this country—from my early days as a Regional Commissioner in high-pressure zones to my current role as Governor of Trans-Nzoia County,” he said.
“My track record demonstrates a steadfast commitment to the welfare, security, and development of all Kenyans, irrespective of ethnicity or region. No individual—political opponent or otherwise—possesses the moral or legal authority to question my Kenyan identity or strip any citizen of their birthright.”
On ID vetting and national security, Natembeya reaffirmed his call for the reinstatement of the vetting process, stating that “border regions have unique challenges—ranging from cross-border movement to the threat of illicit networks—that demand prudent safeguards.”
He further argued that labeling his position as “discrimination” is a misrepresentation of both fact and intent, adding that “every responsible leader must raise the alarm when processes meant to protect our people are being weakened.”
“I will continue to speak boldly on matters of security and governance, guided by facts and the public interest, lead justly, ensuring every community in Trans-Nzoia feels heard, protected, and empowered and serve diligently, with transparency and respect for the rule of law,” Natembeya added.
“My voice will not be silenced by threats, nor will my mission be derailed by the politics of fear.”
Also Read: Natembeya Attacked Again by Goons After Leaving Chebukati’s Home
Extra ID vetting abolished
The clash between the two leaders follows the government’s decision to abolish the long-standing vetting procedures required for the issuance of national identity cards in Northeastern Kenya.
This came after President William Ruto signed a decree aimed at ending what he described as years of “state discrimination” in the registration process.
For decades, residents of the region have faced extra-vetting and ethnic profiling by the State before acquiring birth certificates and national identity cards.
While signing the Presidential Proclamation on Registration and Issuance of IDs to Border Counties in February 2025, President Ruto condemned the practice as unjust and disenfranchising.
He made the remarks during a public signing ceremony at Orahey Grounds in Wajir Town, where he also read out the contents of the decree.
“If it’s about vetting, let all children of Kenya be vetted equally without any discrimination,” the President said.
“We want the people of Northern Kenya to feel equal to the rest of the country.”
The move has, however, sparked debate among leaders, with some applauding it as progressive and inclusive, while others—like Governor Natembeya—have raised security concerns and called for a more cautious approach.
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