Natembeya Claims Security Withdrawal Is Political Intimidation

By : Mweru Mbugua 

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has accused the national government of using intimidation tactics after all his state-provided security was withdrawn without notice

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Radio Citizen on Wednesday, Natembeya said his bodyguards, official driver and vehicle were recalled abruptly—an action he believes is linked to his vocal criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration.

“They took every security detail my guards, my driver, even the vehicle. It is okay, but let’s be honest, this is intimidation,” he said

Natembeya argued that the decision undermines the government’s duty to protect leaders irrespective of their political positions, adding that attempts to silence him would not deter his advocacy for citizens

He suggested the withdrawal came soon after his community-focused initiatives, including programmes aimed at providing water and food to vulnerable households efforts he claimed may have unsettled some state actors

“We have never worked to please the government we work for the people,” he affirmed, noting that his safety now depends on “the people of Western and Kenyans”

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The governor also alleged attempts to frustrate his planned travels, including to Malava, where he is set to hold public engagements. He insisted he would not be deterred

“It is my constitutional right to move freely and speak to my people. Tomorrow morning, I will be in Malava,” he stated

The controversy comes days after armed individuals reportedly disrupted one of his rallies in Kabuchai constituency, firing shots and damaging vehicles an incident Natembeya described as evidence of rising political intolerance

Despite the setbacks, the governor vowed to continue with his scheduled engagements, maintaining that he will not be silenced