Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya….Photo /courtesy
NAIROBI
The government has defended the withdrawal of security from George Natembeya, saying the move followed standard procedure and did not reflect targeting, a position offered on Wednesday by Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Interior.
PS Omollo told reporters that the recall of National Police Service officers across the country—which included those attached to the Trans‑Nzoia governor—was part of a routine redeployment and did not single out any individual.
He added that officers were still on “high alert” and that broader security arrangements remain in place to safeguard public safety.
Governor Natembeya confirmed the withdrawal of his security detail early Wednesday morning, saying officers guarding him at his home and while escorting his movements were recalled at midnight.
He called the decision “politically motivated” and asserted that security for elected leaders is not a privilege but a constitutional right.
Natembeya described the security recall as “intimidation,” alleging it came as reprisals for his outspoken criticism of the government and his active campaigning ahead of the November 27 by-election in Malava.
He insisted he would not be cowed, warning that his personal safety — and that of his political associates — remained at risk.
As of now, the national police command has not issued an independent statement confirming the redeployment or explaining the timing of the recall.
Civil‑rights observers warn that removing official security from a sitting governor — especially in the context of political tension and recent attacks on his convoy — could set a dangerous precedent.
