“Wetang’ula has been a kingpin for years, but Natembeya is building a different kind of power one that is grassroots, youthful and not dependent on old patronage,” Manyora told listeners during a recent interview cited by People Daily.
Below I unpack Manyora’s claims, ground them in what’s happening on the ground, and show why this matters for Western Kenya’s political balance.
Manyora argues Natembeya isn’t only making headlines; he is institutionalising his influence across counties through organised unity drives, public instalments and a fast-moving public brand (“Tawe” and related mobilisation).
Recent events including plans to install Natembeya as a regional spokesperson and his public unity tours across Western back up the picture of a leader building structure, not just buzz.
Why it hurts Wetang’ula: long-standing networks can be weakened when a rival offers an alternative centre of gravity for county leaders, elders and youth activists.
Manyora says Natembeya’s team is deliberately widening its appeal beyond narrow county lines courting Mt Kenya elders and speaking to audiences outside the old Luhya power bases.
Coverage shows Natembeya hosting leaders from Mt Kenya and announcing outreach that resonates beyond Trans-Nzoia. That kind of cross-regional bridge-building undercuts Wetang’ula’s ability to claim exclusive leadership of Luhya politics.
Natembeya’s confrontational stance on issues such as the handling of state assets and alleged intimidation of critics has won attention among younger voters and activists frustrated with traditional elites.
Manyora highlights that this messaging activates a different voter base one less swayed by traditional patronage. Multiple reports document Natembeya’s protests and vocal criticism of national policy, signalling energy that Wetang’ula’s steadier, elder-led politics finds hard to match.
Where political influence often moves slowly, Natembeya’s team has prioritised high-visibility wins rallies, installations, and county-level engagements that create momentum.
People Daily and other outlets have reported on these gatherings, which Manyora says are translating into practical loyalty among MCAs, county officials and grassroots leaders.
Manyora warns Wetang’ula of a squeeze: if he leans too hard on old alliances (or contests certain local seats), he risks aggravating local divides; if he moves to blunt Natembeya, he may alienate elders and voters who want change.
Recent commentary in The Star and other outlets shows the unease Natembeya’s rise has caused among established leaders like Wetang’ula and Musalia Mudavadi suggesting the elite is not unified in response.
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