Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, sharply criticised Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen for justifying the abrupt withdrawal of security personnel assigned to Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya. The move, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, has ignited a fierce debate on the politicisation of state security and the safety of elected officials, particularly those critical of the national government.

Speaking at the SKM Command Centre in Nairobi, Mr. Musyoka dismissed the government's explanation as baseless, suggesting the action was a punitive measure against opposition leaders actively campaigning against state-backed candidates in Thursday's by-elections. “Why would Murkomen want to issue a statement saying that they have withdrawn security of leaders at this time ati wanachunguza? (that they are investigating?)” Musyoka questioned. “Sasa wanachunguza what is pretty obvious?” (What are they investigating that is so obvious?).

Government Cites Criminal Links

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed the withdrawal, defending it as a necessary security measure based on intelligence reports. Speaking in Kasipul, Homa Bay County, on Wednesday, Murkomen stated that the National Police Service (NPS) recalled the officers after receiving reports that some personnel attached to VIPs were involved in criminal activities and collaborating with “goons” to plan violence. “If a police officer attached to a VIP is walking and working with goons, the best thing is to remove them,” Murkomen said. He asserted that the decision was not targeted at Governor Natembeya alone but affected several leaders from across the political divide as a precautionary step ahead of the by-elections scheduled for Thursday, November 27. “The National Police Service has a report that the officers attached to them are involved in criminal activities... It is not only one person whose security has been withdrawn,” the CS stated, adding that the officers involved would face disciplinary action and potential dismissal if the allegations are proven.

Natembeya Alleges Intimidation

Governor Natembeya, a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration, condemned the withdrawal as a politically motivated scheme to intimidate and silence him. He revealed that his entire security detail, including officers guarding his residences, was recalled without any official communication or justification. “I personally blame the President for this because this is a decision made at a very high level, and I know it's a plan to intimidate me,” Natembeya told the Nation on Wednesday morning. The governor argued the action violates the National Police Service Act, which mandates the provision of security to state officers exposed to heightened risk due to their roles. “There is no court order, no disciplinary communication, and no official explanation for this decision. It not only endangers my safety but also interferes with the smooth execution of county duties,” he stated.

The withdrawal follows a violent incident on Saturday, November 22, where armed individuals disrupted a rally Natembeya was addressing in Kabuchai, Bungoma County, firing gunshots and damaging vehicles in his convoy. Natembeya has vowed to continue his political activities, stating he has hired private security and that his ultimate protection comes from the public.

A Pattern of Political Pressure?

The controversy highlights a recurring issue in Kenyan politics where the provision of state security is often perceived as a tool of the executive to reward loyalty and punish dissent. This is not the first time leaders, particularly those aligned with the opposition or critical of the government, have had their security details withdrawn under contentious circumstances. In 2019, several politicians allied with then-Deputy President William Ruto faced similar actions, which were officially described as routine reassignments but widely viewed as political pressure.

Allies of Governor Natembeya and civil society actors have warned that such actions set a dangerous precedent, undermining democratic principles and the rule of law. Kisii Governor Simba Arati also condemned the move, calling for the immediate reinstatement of the officers and affirming that security is a constitutional privilege for all public servants, regardless of political affiliation. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, Faith Odhiambo, called for an independent investigation, cautioning that the selective withdrawal of security could destabilize the political environment. As of Wednesday evening, the Council of Governors had not issued a formal statement on the matter. FURTHER INVESTIGATION REQUIRED.

The timing of the withdrawal, just before by-elections in Malava and other areas where Natembeya has been actively campaigning, has intensified accusations of state interference. The events in Trans Nzoia and the broader Western Kenya region are seen as a critical test for political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, raising the stakes for all involved.