Governor George Natembeya in Trans Nzoia./MATHEWS NDANYITrans Nzoia Governor George
Natembeya’s security detail was withdrawn on Wednesday, prompting protests from
the county boss and his supporters.
Natembeya confirmed the
bodyguards assigned to him and officers guarding his home in Kitale were
recalled without notice. He described the move as intimidation and a direct
threat to his life.
“My security detail was withdrawn
without any notice or lawful justification. This violates Sections 30 and 31 of
the National Police Service Act, which obligate the Inspector General to
provide security to state officers exposed to heightened risk,” Natembeya said.
The governor said there was no court
order, disciplinary communication, or official explanation for the withdrawal.
“It not only endangers my safety but also interferes with the smooth execution
of county duties,” he added.
Natembeya called on the National
Police Service to immediately reinstate his security and adhere to constitutional
standards of fairness and professionalism.
“Security for me is not a privilege; it is a constitutional right,” he said,
accusing the Inspector General of politicising the security apparatus for partisan
interests.
The withdrawal came amid threats to
Natembeya’s life, including attacks during his by-election campaigns in Malava
and Bungoma. Gunshots were fired during his rally in Kabuchai, where his
bodyguards helped him escape unscathed.
Natembeya, a vocal critic of
President Ruto and the UDA regime, claimed the withdrawal is part of a scheme
to rig the Malava by-elections. He also alleged attempts to arrest him, along
with Cleophas Malala and Dr Boni Khalwale, ahead of the polls.
In response, the county quickly
deployed some enforcement officers to safeguard the governor and his home.
Natembeya said he would continue with his normal activities but demanded that
the Inspector-General publicly explain the withdrawal.
