President William Ruto’s aide,
Farouk Kibet, has launched a scathing attack on Trans Nzoia Governor George
Natembeya over his “Tawe” Movement, describing it as a political sideshow.
Speaking on Friday during a women’s
economic empowerment event at Kipkeikei in Cherangany, Farouk questioned the
usefulness of the movement.
“You have been elected as Governor.
Instead of serving the people who elected you, you are propagating what you
call the ‘Tawe Movement’. How will that help the people who elected you into
office?” posed Farouk.
He stated that the government was focused on empowering citizens, particularly women.
“We are here to empower women and
make their lives better. Those who propagate hate, incite Kenyans, and embrace
tribalism will not help ordinary citizens to succeed. Kenya is for all Kenyans.
We will serve you, Kenyans, diligently,” he added.
Farouk, a close ally of the
President, was speaking during an economic empowerment programme organised by
Trans Nzoia Woman Representative Lilian Siyoi.
The event was attended by several
leaders, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Speaker
Moses Wetang’ula, and Members of Parliament Silvanus Osoro, Mwengi Mutuse,
Japheth Nyakundi, Muthoni Marubu, Innocent Maino, John Bwire, Fatuma Mohammed,
Fatuma Masito, and Donya Dorice Aburi.
Farouk also sent a warning to
individuals exploiting farmers through unfair practices.
He stated that the government was
committed to protecting farmers and supporting them through subsidies and other
measures.
“We are issuing a warning to those
exploiting farmers that we will not allow that. President William Ruto’s regime
is keen on empowering ordinary farmers through programmes such as fertiliser
and seed subsidies. We believe that empowering farmers will help eliminate
hunger,” he said.
Describing Trans Nzoia as the
breadbasket of Kenya, Farouk said the region played a vital role in ensuring
food security and deserved better leadership and support.
“Trans Nzoia is the breadbasket of
our country. It is the source of Kenyans’ good health, and we depend on this
region to sustain our nation,” he said.
On the government’s new Social
Health Authority (SHA), Farouk urged Kenyans to register and ignore
misinformation being spread about the health plan.
He said those opposing the scheme
were already covered under other insurance plans, but wanted the poor to stay
exposed.
“Do not be deceived by the wealthy
who have covered their health with other insurance. Register to ensure your
health and safeguard your future,” he advised.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who
also addressed the gathering, warned politicians against attempts to seize
power through illegal means, saying the constitution only allows leadership
changes through elections.
“We will not allow power-hungry
politicians to sink our country into chaos and anarchy. Those seeking shortcuts
to leadership must calm down,” said Kindiki.
He warned that inciting violence,
storming public institutions, or destroying property would not be tolerated by
the state.
“Hakuna mtu tutaruhusu avamie police
station, aingie Ikulu by force ama achochee uharibifu wa mali ya umma na ya
kibinafsi ili aingie uongozini kwa lazima kupitia shortcut,” Kindiki said.
The DP noted that the return of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) commissioners following recent court resolutions clears the path for a proper election process ahead of the 2027 polls.
“For a while, we did not have an
IEBC due to disputes in court. Now the court has resolved those issues, and the
commissioners are in office. IEBC is the referee. The responsibility of
preparing for the election lies with the IEBC,” Kindiki said.
After the event, Farouk later joined
parents, teachers, and students of St John Paul II Chepterwai Girls in Mosop,
Nandi County, for a thanksgiving mass following the school’s good performance in
last year’s KCSE examinations.
