Governor Natembeya to Return State Awards After Corruption Charges Shake His Legacy



(Photo Courtesy: Governor George Natembeya) 

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has announced plans to return all state honours previously awarded to him. This decision follows ongoing corruption allegations and court appearances, which he says have stained the meaning of those honours.


Which Awards Is He Giving Back?

Natembeya is set to return the Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS) and Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS), both given for distinguished public service. He explained that these awards had lost their value due to the corruption charges he now faces.

> “How can I carry the title of a state honouree while being paraded in court over corruption allegations? It makes no sense,” he told Citizen Digital.

He added that the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) even took away the medals during a raid at his Kitale home.


Was He Denied a New Honour?

Yes. The governor revealed that he was close to receiving the Elder of the Golden Heart, an award that most governors have already received. However, he believes political differences caused him to be excluded from the list.

> “I plan to return them to Harambee House,” he said, signalling his complete rejection of the honours.



What Are the Charges Against Him?

On 21 May 2025, Natembeya was charged with two counts of corruption and two counts of conflict of interest. The case involves over Ksh4.2 million allegedly received from businesses connected to Trans Nzoia County.

Although he denied the claims, the prosecution says the funds were linked to county tenders. He was freed on Ksh500,000 cash bail or a Ksh1 million bond.


Has the Court Taken Any Action?

Yes. On 5 June, the High Court temporarily suspended the case after Natembeya filed a petition to challenge the charges. Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued the ruling, stopping the proceedings until the petition is heard and decided.


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