Chesang Accuses Governor Natembeya of Neglecting Health Sector Amid Drug Shortage Crisis
TRANS NZOIA, Kenya
Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang has launched a scathing attack on Governor George Natembeya, holding him responsible for the ongoing drug shortage in the county’s public hospitals. Speaking during a public engagement on Saturday, Chesang accused the county administration of neglecting the health sector and undermining national efforts to improve healthcare through the Social Health Authority (SHA) and Taifa Care.
Chesang, who has emerged as a vocal supporter of the national health program, claimed that while SHA is delivering results in other counties, Trans Nzoia continues to suffer due to mismanagement at the local level.
“Let’s not be misled. The Taifa Care program is working across the country, but here in Trans Nzoia, people are suffering because of poor leadership,” he stated.
Healthcare Politics Take Center Stage in Chesang-Natembeya Feud
Chesang’s remarks are the latest chapter in a simmering rivalry with Governor Natembeya. He used the occasion to promote SHA, hosting a large Easter community event where he distributed food and facilitated health registrations. He also promised to roll out mobile clinics to remote parts of the county to bring medicine directly to underserved communities.
“If you see me bringing drugs myself, it means I’ve heard your cries. This is not a campaign—this is service,” Chesang said, taking a direct jab at Natembeya’s leadership.
The Senator also pledged to take SHA awareness campaigns countywide, ensuring that more residents are enrolled and can access basic healthcare.
Broader Accusations and Political Undercurrents
This isn’t the first time Chesang has gone after Natembeya. He previously accused the governor’s administration of mismanaging Ksh800 million meant for county development. Now, with the health crisis worsening, Chesang has positioned himself as a champion for accountability and access to healthcare.
Meanwhile, Governor Natembeya has not taken the attacks lightly. Recently, he alleged that his life was in danger, claiming the national government was targeting him due to his outspoken criticism of President William Ruto’s administration.
Speaking during a seed distribution event in Kaplamai Ward, Natembeya claimed that hired goons attempted to attack him during the burial of former IEBC Chair Wafula Chebukati—a claim that has further fueled political tensions in the county.
A Healthcare System Caught in Political Crossfire
As the war of words escalates, Trans Nzoia residents are left in the middle of a growing health crisis, with limited access to essential medicines and under-equipped facilities. Chesang’s initiative to distribute medical supplies and champion SHA may be politically charged, but it’s striking a chord with locals desperate for action.
The coming months may reveal whether these public clashes will translate into genuine reforms or simply mark another chapter in a fierce political rivalry ahead of the 2027 general elections.