Wamalwa Breaks Silence on Ruto-Natembeya Feud as Sh1Billion Hospital Sparks Fresh Political Tensions

Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa has urged President William Ruto and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya to end their escalating political confrontation, warning that residents risk losing out when leaders prioritise rivalry over development.

Wamalwa made the appeal while addressing mourners at Lessos, where he called for restraint over disagreements surrounding a proposed Sh1 billion Level Five hospital in Trans Nzoia County.

The dispute has intensified following Natembeya’s objections to the handling of the project and tensions surrounding the President’s recent market launch in the county.

Wamalwa argued that national and county governments are constitutionally required to cooperate and consult when implementing development programmes. He urged the two leaders to use established intergovernmental channels to resolve their differences instead of engaging in public confrontations.

He maintained that the proposed hospital could strengthen healthcare services in Trans Nzoia, where some residents reportedly travel to neighbouring Uasin Gishu County to seek specialised treatment.

The former Cabinet Secretary also cited the nearly Sh1 billion Masinde Muliro Market as an example of what cooperation between the two levels of government can achieve, noting that the facility serves residents across the region.

However, his intervention has attracted political scrutiny, with critics questioning whether his position favours the national government at Natembeya’s expense.

The governor recently left DAP-K for the Linda Mwananchi Movement associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, adding another dimension to the dispute.

Natembeya has challenged Wamalwa to support the movement’s leadership ambitions ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has previously described Wamalwa as a sober politician, fuelling speculation about his political direction.

Wamalwa’s latest remarks could further intensify debate over his relationship with the government as Trans Nzoia’s political contest gathers momentum.

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