Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was endorsed as the Luhya community’s regional spokesman during a vibrant ceremony in Vihiga County, dubbed the Vihiga Declaration. The event, held in Sabatia Constituency, saw Vihiga elders crown Natembeya with a whisk and staff, symbolising leadership, as he called for consolidating the Luhya’s 6.7 million votes into a unified bloc to combat political marginalisation.
The declaration, attended by thousands, marks a bold step in Natembeya’s push for Luhya unity ahead of the 2027 elections, amid rivalries with figures like National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
The Vihiga Declaration followed Natembeya’s tour through Luanda and Mbale, where locals mobbed him, reflecting his growing influence. Speaking at Mundete, he criticised leaders who exploited the Luhya for votes while neglecting their economic plight.
“We’re not just househelps or watchmen; our 6.7 million votes must demand respect,” he said, urging the community to negotiate as a bloc for national influence.
The event, rooted in Luhya tradition, began past 3:00 pm, aligning with cultural practices tied to cattle herding.
Elders, led by Ken Kibisu, praised Natembeya’s courage and vision, positioning him as a counter to Wetang’ula and Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, whom Natembeya has accused of failing to uplift the community.
A July 2025 Spice FM interview saw him label Luhyas as Kenya’s poorest, blaming leaders for their marginalisation in jobs and infrastructure.
His Tawe Movement, launched to unify the Mulembe nation, has gained traction, though critics like Mumias East MP Peter Salasya call it tribalistic.
The endorsement comes amid Natembeya’s legal battles, including corruption charges over KSh 1.4 billion in procurement irregularities, which he calls politically motivated. A May 2025 arrest by the EACC didn’t dim his appeal, as supporters rallied during his Western Kenya tour.
A fake Tifa poll circulating in May claimed he had a 93% Luhya approval rating, though the firm disowned it, highlighting his polarising rise. Wetang’ula’s ambitions for Luhya leadership pose a challenge, with analysts noting his national clout as Speaker.
Yet, Natembeya’s grassroots appeal, seen in his Ukombozi School Milk Program and bursary initiatives, bolsters his case. As the Vihiga Declaration sets the stage for a Kakamega coronation, Natembeya’s call for unity could reshape Kenya’s political landscape, though internal rifts and external pressures loom large.