A section of Sabaot elders has strongly opposed renewed pressure from senior political figures seeking the resignation of Trans Nzoia Deputy Governor Philomena Kapkory, terming the efforts illegal, politically motivated, and disrespectful to the electoral will of the people.
The elders accused unnamed powerful individuals of orchestrating a scheme to coerce Ms. Kapkory into relinquishing her office in exchange for a promised high-ranking appointment in the national government.
Led by Mr. Samuel Kiboi, the group condemned what they termed "political blackmail" and insisted that the Deputy Governor's position is secured by law and not subject to political manipulation.
“The County Government operates under a well-structured legal framework. A Deputy Governor can only leave office through clear constitutional processes, not coercion,” said Mr. Kiboi during a press briefing in Kitale.
“She was not appointed; she was elected by the people alongside the Governor. Her mandate must be respected," he added.
Mr. Kiboi further claimed that the push for Ms. Kapkory's resignation was part of a wider plot to install a preferred political ally believed to be more loyal to certain national political interests.
“There’s a narrative going around that her resignation would serve President William Ruto’s re-election strategy. But how does her presence in office hinder that? These are just excuses to destabilize our county’s leadership,” he said.
Another elder, Mr. Willy Kapkara, dismissed attempts to link Deputy Governor Kapkory to the ongoing court case facing Governor George Natembeya. He warned against dragging her into political battles in which she has no involvement.
“We don’t want her name associated with the Governor’s legal woes. It is unfair and unjust to crucify her just to achieve a political agenda,” said Mr. Kapkara.
Another elder, Mr. Francis Chemwor, wondered why some political actors were “jumping the gun” while the legal process involving the Governor is still ongoing.
“We challenge the Deputy Governor to stay firm and not succumb to intimidation. She owes her loyalty to the people of Trans Nzoia, not to shadowy political forces,” said Mr. Chemwor.
The elders have now called for calm and urged all political players to respect the rule of law and allow constitutional processes to take their course.
They vowed to defend Ms. Kapkory’s mandate and warned against any moves to destabilize the county’s leadership structure.