Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya unveiled as DAP-K deputy party leader. [Osinde Obare, Standard]

Trans Nzoia governor George Natembeya has been named as the Democratic Action Party (DAP-K) deputy party leader.

The party's National Executive Committee NEC, during a meeting held on Wednesday, unanimously endorsed Natembeya as the Deputy Party leader .

Natembeya, former MP Wafula Wamunyinyi and Kakamega deputy governor Ayub Savula will serve the party in the capacity of deputy party leader.

Additionally, Benard Masanja will be the new national Secretary General after relinquishing the position of second national party leader.

Dick Oyugi Maungu is the new organising Secretary while Mohammed Adkikarim is the secretary for county coordination.

Wamunyinyi welcomed Natembeya to the top party leadership and said he will be instrumental in the growth of the party.

"We have today held our National Governing Council and National Executive Council meeting for the reorganisation of the party and unanimously approved the governor as new deputy party leader," said Wamunyinyi.

Initially, Wamunyinyi was the party leader before he stepped down in favour of Eugene Wamalwa.

On his part, Wamalwa said bringing on board Natembeya is key to the progressive agenda of the party ahead of the 2027 election.

The former Devolution Cabinet Secretary expressed confidence that the new team will drive the party's social-political agenda.

He said the inclusion of the governor will help to strengthen the party and position the party for the 2027 election.

"I have confidence in the new leadership team. The inclusion of Natembeya is a big boost to our party ranked fifth nationally. I will have ample time to go out for a vote hunt for my presidential bid in 2027," Wamalwa said.

He dismissed claims by critics that DAP-K is a regional party saying the party has elected MPs and MCAs across the country.

Wamalwa has asked Natembeya to ensure fair grassroot elections to strengthen the party.

Natembeya, in his acceptance speech, said he is up to the task but challenged party members to be loyal to the party leadership.

He vowed to ensure popular candidates are given a chance to be the party's flag bearers in the next general election.

oosinde@standardmedia.co.ke