Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has dismissed as fake a viral poster circulating on social media that purportedly shows him teaming up with former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and other leaders to form a new political coalition ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook account on Monday, October 13, Natembeya cautioned the public against falling for the misinformation, clarifying that the poster was fabricated and had no basis in fact.
“Kindly ignore the fake poster making rounds on social media. It does not represent my political position or that of any leader depicted,” he stated.
The doctored image featured photos of Dr. Matiang’i, former Agriculture CS Peter Munya, former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana, Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and former UNCTAD Secretary General Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi.
The fake coalition, as portrayed on the poster, claimed to bring together leaders “disillusioned by both government and opposition,” fueling speculation about a potential third force in Kenya’s volatile political landscape.
Visit Misconstrued
The Governor’s clarification comes just days after he and Matiang’i visited Peter Munya’s home, a move that appears to have triggered the misleading online narrative.
In a statement released on Wednesday, October 8, Dr. Matiang’i explained that their meeting was purely a condolence visit to the Munya family following the death of Munya’s grandmother, Mama Mwakairu Rukunga (Bamung’o).
“This morning, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and I met with former Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya to commiserate with him following the passing of his beloved grandmother,” Matiang’i clarified.
Political Underpinnings
The circulation of the fake poster comes at a politically charged moment, with Dr. Matiang’i recently declaring his intention to vie for the presidency in 2027 under the Jubilee Party, which is led by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
“I am openly saying I have joined the Jubilee Party. Now is the time to align ourselves with Jubilee and push for a united front,” Matiang’i said during a party event on October 5.
Matiang’i is part of the emerging United Opposition Alliance, a coalition-in-the-making that includes Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, PLP leader Martha Karua, DAP–K leader Eugene Wamalwa, former CS Justin Muturi, and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Gachagua has indicated that the group intends to apply a joint “formula” to identify a single candidate strong enough to challenge President William Ruto in 2027.
Online Misinformation Surge
The episode underscores a growing trend of political misinformation and digital forgery ahead of Kenya’s next election cycle, as rival camps jostle for early influence.
Authorities and leaders alike have repeatedly urged Kenyans to verify information before sharing, warning that disinformation can easily distort political discourse and damage reputations.
Editor’s Note: SIAYA TODAY has verified that the viral poster in question was digitally altered and originated from an unverified social media account.
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