Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has announced plans to return two of Kenya’s highest civilian awards, saying they no longer reflect the principles they were meant to honour.
In a defiant interview with Citizen Digital, the former administrator-turned-governor said he intends to hand back the Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS) and Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS) decorations, citing what he described as ongoing political persecution and attempts to silence his criticism of the national government.
“How can I hold on to state honours while being paraded in court like a criminal?” Natembeya posed. “The EACC even seized the medals during their raids. It’s no longer about honour it’s about humiliation.”
Natembeya, who has positioned himself as a vocal government critic, is currently facing two corruption-related charges stemming from alleged irregular payments amounting to over Sh3 million tied to county suppliers. Prosecutors claim he received funds from individuals and companies contracted by the Trans Nzoia County Government—allegations he flatly denies.
He was arrested on May 21 and later arraigned before Nairobi Anti-Corruption Court Principal Magistrate Charles Ondieki. Released on a Sh500,000 cash bail or Sh1 million bond, Natembeya is now barred from accessing his office for 60 days and cannot travel outside the country without court permission. He’s also been directed to steer clear of public commentary on the case though he continues to speak out, saying the charges are politically motivated.
“This is not about justice it’s about silencing leaders who speak for the people. They want to shut down any dissenting voice that threatens the status quo,” Natembeya said, adding that public trust not ceremonial medals should be the true measure of leadership.
His remarks come as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) intensifies its investigations into county-level graft, with several governors and county officials facing similar charges in recent months.
By returning the honours, Natembeya says he’s rejecting what he sees as a double standard: celebrated as a public servant one day, criminalized the next.
