As other counties such as Homabay Massively overjoyed, Stadiums filled to capacity as they commemorate madaraka Day in cheers, For Transnzoia was a Misery as Governor George Natembeya failed to grace His county.
Low turnout saw officials address empty seats as the residents walked out after the parade as officials stood to address the few attended congregants.
To fulfill a part of his duty,Natembeya sent his health executive, Sam Ojwang, to read a speech that was filled with protest message over his recent arrest on graft allegations.
Earlier in the week, the governor had signalled he would not attend the event, citing political frustration and what he called unjust treatment.
“There’s nothing to go and celebrate if we still have to suffer primitive actions many years after independence,” Natembeya had said.
In his written message, Natembeya paid tribute to the men and women who, 62 years ago, ushered in self-rule. He praised their courage, unity, and sacrifice, saying it laid the foundation for freedoms Kenyans now enjoy.
“But as we honour their legacy, we must ask ourselves, is this the Kenya they envisioned? Is this the Kenya we deserve? Or can we rise to something greater?” he asked.His remarks appeared to reflect discontent over his recent arrest and ongoing investigations.
“As we reflect on the journey of our nation, let this be more than a commemoration. Let it be a renewed commitment to safeguarding the rights and freedoms of every Kenyan, and to holding any government accountable when it fails to serve its people,” he said.
The governor said the country was backsliding on freedoms won through struggle.“We must reclaim the freedom our forefathers fought for — a freedom rooted in justice, dignity, and equal opportunity for all,” he said.
He added that Kenyans deserved a better country than what they have now.
“We must boldly condemn the ways in which we, whether as a society or through leadership, sometimes turn around and deny that very freedom to our own people through oppression, the silencing of dissent, or unjust systems that betray the promises of independence,” he said.
