In a tweet that circulated widely on social media, Natembeya contrasted the move with the conduct of past presidents. He said that when Daniel arap Moi was in power, he did not hold Kenya African National Union meetings at State House.
He added that Mwai Kibaki never hosted Party of National Unity meetings there, while Uhuru Kenyatta also avoided holding Jubilee Party gatherings at the venue.
According to Natembeya, previous leaders preserved State House as a neutral national institution and a symbol of unity.
The remarks followed reports that President Ruto hosted thousands of United Democratic Alliance aspirants at State House ahead of upcoming electoral processes.
The remarks followed reports that President Ruto hosted thousands of United Democratic Alliance aspirants at State House ahead of upcoming electoral processes.
The meetings reportedly involved party mobilisation and discussions around nominations, drawing criticism over the blending of official state functions with partisan activity.
Natembeya’s position aligns with concerns raised by other commentators, including veteran journalist Linus Kaikai, who has previously urged that State House be reserved for state business rather than routine party affairs.
Natembeya’s position aligns with concerns raised by other commentators, including veteran journalist Linus Kaikai, who has previously urged that State House be reserved for state business rather than routine party affairs.
Critics argue that frequent partisan use risks undermining the perception of impartiality and the institutional dignity of the presidency.
In contrast, previous administrations are said to have preferred alternative venues such as Sagana State Lodge or other locations for large party meetings, while keeping State House largely for governance, diplomatic engagements, and national ceremonies.
Natembeya’s comments come amid heightened political tensions, with the Trans Nzoia governor increasingly vocal on national issues. As of now, there has been no official response from State House or UDA addressing the specific criticism.
The debate has renewed discussion on the boundaries between state resources and party politics in Kenya, highlighting the ongoing tension between political strategy and expectations of presidential neutrality in a multi-party democracy.
In contrast, previous administrations are said to have preferred alternative venues such as Sagana State Lodge or other locations for large party meetings, while keeping State House largely for governance, diplomatic engagements, and national ceremonies.
Natembeya’s comments come amid heightened political tensions, with the Trans Nzoia governor increasingly vocal on national issues. As of now, there has been no official response from State House or UDA addressing the specific criticism.
The debate has renewed discussion on the boundaries between state resources and party politics in Kenya, highlighting the ongoing tension between political strategy and expectations of presidential neutrality in a multi-party democracy.
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