TRANS NZOIA, Kenya – Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has announced his resignation from the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-Kenya), citing irreconcilable differences with party leader Eugene Wamalwa as political alignments gather pace ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interview on Wednesday, July 8, Natembeya said he had sought Wamalwa’s support to transform DAP-Kenya from what he described as a regional political outfit into a national movement but was unsuccessful.
According to the governor, the disagreement left him with no choice but to leave the party.
“I requested Hon. Eugene Wamalwa to grant me the opportunity to expand DAP-K into a broader national movement. Unfortunately, he declined. Consequently, I have no other option but to quit,” Natembeya said.
His departure marks a significant shift in the Western Kenya political landscape, where DAP-Kenya has remained one of the dominant opposition parties.
The announcement comes just days after Natembeya hosted Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other leaders affiliated with the Linda Mwananchi movement at his Trans Nzoia residence.
During the July 5 meeting, the leaders reportedly resolved to establish a new political party that will serve as their vehicle in the 2027 elections.
Sources familiar with the discussions said the meeting brought together political leaders and community elders from the Western region, who agreed on a roadmap aimed at strengthening the region’s influence in national politics.
According to individuals close to the discussions, the planned political outfit will be unveiled in the coming months and is expected to spearhead the Linda Mwananchi movement’s agenda ahead of the next General Election.
The emerging alliance is also said to have endorsed Senator Edwin Sifuna for a presidential bid in 2027, while Natembeya is expected to seek a second term as Trans Nzoia governor.
Political strategist Pauline Njoroge, a member of the Linda Mwananchi movement, said the roadmap will begin with a major rally in Trans Nzoia County on July 25 before moving to Bungoma County on July 26.
According to Njoroge, the Bungoma event is expected to endorse Sifuna as the region’s political leader before launching his national campaign.
Natembeya’s exit from DAP-Kenya adds to the growing political realignments as parties and leaders reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.