The High Court on Tuesday delivered a sharp rebuke to the National Police Service, ordering the immediate reinstatement of security for Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale. The ruling restrains Inspector General Douglas Kanja and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen from varying or withdrawing the leaders' protection, framing the move as a vital check on executive power.

This decision anchors a brewing political storm, stemming from the government's abrupt withdrawal of the leaders' bodyguards on November 26, just ahead of contentious by-elections. The move was decried by the leaders as a politically motivated tactic to silence dissent, a charge that now carries judicial weight.

The Spark: By-Election Tensions Boil Over

The legal challenge was filed by the Centre for Litigation Trust, which argued the withdrawal was unconstitutional, malicious, and designed to intimidate the two prominent government critics. The petition highlighted that the security details were recalled without any formal notice or charges being filed against either leader, suggesting the action was arbitrary.

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen had defended the decision, claiming it was a precautionary measure based on police reports alleging the leaders' potential involvement in election-related disorder. This followed a spate of violence where Governor Natembeya's convoy was attacked and vehicles were destroyed during a campaign rally in Bungoma County.

A Pattern of Confrontation

For Kenyans, this ruling is more than a political drama; it touches on the fundamental right to security and freedom from state intimidation. The court's intervention underscores a growing tension between political figures and the police service. It also brings to mind previous confrontations, including an incident in May 2025 where police tear-gassed Governor Natembeya as he led protests against the privatization of Nzoia Sugar Company.

Analysts note this is not the first time IG Kanja's actions have been challenged in court. Several lawsuits have been filed against him, alleging unconstitutional tactics, including one by the Katiba Institute over the use of barricades to block protests in Nairobi's CBD. These legal battles raise critical questions about police independence and adherence to the constitution.

• November 26, 2025: Security details for Natembeya and Khalwale are withdrawn abruptly.
• November 28, 2025: The Centre for Litigation Trust files a petition challenging the withdrawal.
• December 2, 2025: The High Court orders the immediate reinstatement of the security personnel.

While the court has provided a temporary reprieve, the underlying political friction remains. Senator Khalwale warned that any physical harm coming to him or Natembeya would result in "pandemonium" across several counties, a stark reminder of the fragile security situation. The ruling now places the onus on the Inspector General to comply, setting the stage for the next chapter in the struggle between political expression and state control.