- Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has asked Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja to explain the withdrawal of his security detail
- Natembeya cited constitutional provisions on fair administrative action and police professionalism
- The dispute comes amid growing political tension between Natembeya and Ruto over the governor's opposition politics
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has demanded answers after his security detail was reportedly withdrawn for the second time, hours after President William Ruto visited the county.
Source: Facebook
Natembeya raised concerns over the decision on Thursday, October 15, insisting that the withdrawal must comply with the constitution and the rule of law. His communications director, Felix Sialo, said the withdrawal happened hours after Ruto's visit.
In a statement shared on social media, the governor called on Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja to explain the decision and clarify whether the required procedures had been followed.
“I am particularly concerned that this is happening for the second time. I therefore call upon the Inspector-General of the National Police Service to provide a formal explanation of the reasons for this decision and to clarify whether the applicable security procedures have been followed,” Natembeya stated.
What did Natembeya say about security withdrawal?
The governor cited Article 47 of the constitution, which guarantees every person lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair administrative action, including written reasons when a decision adversely affects their rights or fundamental freedoms.
He also referred to Articles 238 and 244, which require national security operations and police conduct to respect the law, human rights and professional standards.
Natembeya further cited a High Court ruling reported on June 3, 2025, concerning the withdrawal of security assigned to five governors. He said the court had found that withdrawing security without written notice, an opportunity to be heard and written reasons violated Article 47.
The governor clarified that he was not opposed to lawful security reviews but insisted that such decisions must be objective and free from improper political influence.
“Let me be clear: I do not claim immunity from lawful security reviews. What I insist upon is that any such review must be conducted professionally, objectively and in accordance with the Constitution, without discrimination or improper political influence,” he said.
How has Natembeya's relationship with Ruto deteriorated?
The latest development comes amid an escalating political dispute between Natembeya and Ruto over development projects, healthcare and the governor's Tawe movement.
During his October 10 visit to Trans Nzoia, Ruto accused Natembeya of frustrating national government projects through opposition politics. The president also criticised the governor's stance on proposed development initiatives, including hospital and road projects.
Ruto's allies, including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and several local leaders, also criticised Natembeya's leadership and indicated their intention to support a change of governor in the 2027 General Election.
After Ruto left Trans Nzoia, Natembeya held a series of rallies across the county, which he described as an effort to “sanitise” the region following the president’s visit.
The governor has maintained his opposition to what he considers problematic government initiatives, arguing that the respective responsibilities of national and county governments must be respected.
The latest security dispute follows a similar incident in November 2025. In December that year, the High Court ordered the reinstatement of security details assigned to Natembeya and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale pending further proceedings.
Source: TUKO.co.ke