Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya’s controversial remarks that painted the Luhya community as Kenya’s poorest and overrepresented in low-paying jobs have sparked sharp criticism, with Mumias East MP Peter Salasya being the latest to hit back.
In a strongly worded response, Salasya dismissed Natembeya’s claims, insisting that Luhyas are not poor but rather a close-knit, honest, and community-driven people whose values go beyond material wealth.
Related: Natembeya: Luhyas Are Kenya’s Poorest, Blames Mudavadi and Wetang’ula
“Luhyas are not poor as he thinks. We love each other and we are honest people. Even when they came to demolish my house, the whole community was present. When building, or even during funerals, we show up for one another,” Salasya said.
He emphasized that trustworthiness is one of the most treasured qualities among the Luhya people, and it’s this integrity that sees them sought after for domestic and security jobs, not because they are impoverished.
“The highest value in a person is not wealth, but trust. Luhyas are easily trusted, people feel comfortable entrusting them with responsibilities. So to say Luhyas are just maids, watchmen, and gravediggers is wrong and disrespectful.”
Turning the heat on Natembeya’s leadership
Salasya went further to criticize Governor Natembeya’s track record, accusing him of failing to deliver basic infrastructure in Trans Nzoia County despite receiving billions in development funds.
“Trans Nzoia is the only county where the governor has not constructed a single kilometer of tarmac. I traversed from Kambimiwa to Birunda, Kitalale to Saboti, and Endebes—no roads. Even my car’s engine knocked down. From Kiminini to Chebukati, about 30 km, no tarmac!”
He challenged Natembeya to focus on transforming lives in his county before lamenting about unemployment and poverty.
“A governor can’t complain to me about unemployment when he himself can’t show what he’s done with the billions or how many lives he’s uplifted as the president of that county.”
Respect for all hustles
Salasya, who has often spoken about his humble beginnings, reminded Natembeya and the public that no job is inferior.
“In 2019, I was doing manual work to sustain myself. I feel bad when someone looks down on others just because they are up there. Maids, watchmen, grave diggers, they are all human. Let’s respect every hustle, even that of a toilet cleaner.”
He concluded his response with a stinging rebuke: “Madharau na ujeuri itaisha tu (This arrogance and pride will come to an end).”
The exchange between the two leaders underscores ongoing tensions within the Luhya political leadership and the broader conversation about development, identity, and dignity in work.
