Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah has firmly refused to apologize to Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya over alleged defamatory remarks.

These comments were made during the January 6, 2025, burial of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula’s mother in Kabuchai, Bungoma County.

In his response, Ichung’wah maintains that his statements were not defamatory. He additionally, expressed surprise that Governor Natembeya could claim his reputation had been harmed.

Through his legal team, Adrian Kamotho Njenga & Company Advocates, Ichung’wah described Natembeya’s accusations as baseless and even referenced Natembeya’s time as Rift Valley Regional Commissioner, accusing him of engaging in criminal activities.

“Our client is shocked that your client, a self-proclaimed villain, would dare assert any reputation capable of being damaged,” the response read.

Ichung’wah alleged that Natembeya’s tenure was marked by incidents such as issuing shoot-to-kill orders and other actions against innocent citizens.

The demand letter

Governor Natembeya had earlier sent a demand letter on the same day as the burial. He thereby, gave Ichung’wah three days to issue an apology published in three major newspapers: The Nation, The Standard, and The Star.

Failure to do so, Natembeya warned, would result in a lawsuit. His lawyers, Oringe Waswa & Opany Advocates, emphasized that the apology must mitigate the harm caused to their client’s reputation.

However, Ichung’wah responded with a strong rebuttal. He dismissed Natembeya’s claims of having a reputable societal standing as “outright blasphemy.”

He further, argued that criminal actions from the past are not erased by time and warned that justice would eventually prevail.

Matters ascalating

“In due time, the wheels of justice will arrive at your client’s doorstep, leading to immense weeping and gnashing of teeth,” Ichung’wah declared.

Ichung’wah also accused Natembeya of making derogatory and slanderous remarks about him following the funeral service.

He further, highlighted his own commitment to civic responsibility and demanded an immediate end to such accusations.

“Our client takes immense pride in his hard-earned reputation. He demands an apology for the scandalous and defamatory statements made recklessly by your client.

Failure to comply will lead to the prompt use of appropriate legal measures,” Ichung’wah’s statement concluded.

The matter now appears to be escalating, with potential lawsuits and counter-suits looming. Both sides seem unwilling to back down, setting the stage for a legal showdown.

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