Samburu Senator Steven Lelegwe dismisses threat claims by Hezena Lemaletian

Samburu Senator Steven Lelegwe has strongly denied allegations by nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian that her life is in danger due to alleged threats linked to her political ambitions.

In a statement issued on Friday, Lelegwe described the claims that he sent individuals to threaten or harm Lemaletian as false, reckless, and defamatory.

“I am utterly shocked and disturbed by these unfounded allegations, which falsely portray me as someone capable of orchestrating violence against a fellow legislator,” the senator said.

Lelegwe stated that his interactions with Lemaletian have been strictly limited to official parliamentary engagements, adding that they have never had any personal or political disagreements. He noted that their recent encounters were brief and incidental, including during the Maasai Cultural Week in Kajiado in November and at a burial ceremony in Maralal, Samburu, on January 24.

He said that during the burial, he merely offered his condolences before leaving to attend other official commitments.

The senator further emphasised that he has never questioned Lemaletian’s political ambitions nor engaged her in any form of rivalry. He added that he has not declared any intention to contest the Samburu Senate seat in the 2027 General Election.

Lelegwe also rejected claims suggesting that Samburu County is hostile to women in leadership. He cited the election of women leaders in the county, including a sitting woman Member of Parliament and a recent ward by-election won by a female candidate without any incidents of violence.

“Allegations of violence are serious matters and should not be made without evidence, as they place lives at risk and undermine public confidence,” he said.

He challenged Senator Lemaletian to provide credible and verifiable evidence to support her claims, warning that he may pursue legal action, including defamation proceedings, to protect his reputation if the allegations remain unsubstantiated.

Lelegwe said he remains focused on executing his constitutional mandate and called for restraint and responsibility in public discourse.