The state-issued security detail assigned to Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was withdrawn early Wednesday morning — a development that comes just days after he survived a violent attack at a political rally. The governor confirmed the withdrawal, saying that the guards stationed at his home and those who accompanied his convoy were pulled out at midnight, leaving him without official protection.
Governor Natembeya said he learned of the security removal shortly after the rally incident, which took place in Chwele Ward, Kabuchai Constituency, in Bungoma County. During that event, armed assailants allegedly stormed the gathering, destroyed vehicles, and opened fire, forcing Natembeya and attendees to flee. The attack left supporters shaken and sparked widespread concern over political intolerance.
He condemned the attack in harsh terms, calling it “primitive” and accusing his political rivals of using hired thugs to intimidate opposition voices. Natembeya specifically referenced the destruction of the home of a local MP, describing the violence as a coordinated attempt to silence dissent ahead of upcoming by-elections in the region.
The withdrawal of his security detail has provoked anger and alarm among his supporters and some political figures, who view the move as a targeted act of intimidation rather than a routine security adjustment. They argue that removing protection from an elected official following an attack undermines both personal safety and democratic freedoms.
Critics are now calling on national security agencies to explain the decision to withdraw the security detail, pointing out that the timing — coming immediately after the attack — raises serious questions about the state’s commitment to protecting public officials regardless of their political affiliation.
Governor Natembeya has since appealed to the authorities to restore his security squad, warning that without it, not only is his personal safety at risk, but so is the safety of his supporters. He cautioned that the absence of protection could fuel further violence and destabilize the political environment in a period already charged with tension.
As the debate unfolds, many eyes are now on national institutions to see whether they will act to ensure security for all leaders and safeguard democratic processes from coercion and fear.
Image by Nation Africa
