By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, 26 November 2025 - The government has withdrawn the security details of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the move follows a National Police Service (NPS) report alleging the involvement of several leaders and VIPs in poll-related unrest and criminal activities.
Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday, Mr Murkomen noted that the withdrawals are temporary and will remain in place as investigations continue.
“Any security measure taken by the National Police Service is to avoid a crisis. If a police officer attached to a VIP is walking and working with goons, the best thing is to remove them,” he said.
He added that, “The National Police Service has submitted a detailed report indicating possible involvement of certain individuals in acts that compromised public safety during the by-elections. In light of these findings, we have withdrawn their security details until investigations are complete.”
Senator Khalwale, writing on his official Facebook page, said his security team was taken away without prior notice.
“My security detail has been pulled without any warning or explanation,” he posted.
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Governor Natembeya also confirmed the withdrawal, saying officers attached to him, including those assigned to his Kitale residence, were recalled abruptly.
“All the security officers attached to me were recalled last night, and I was forced to put my own safety measures in place,” he said.
“Security for me is not an offer from the government or anyone—it is a constitutional right.”
The development comes just two days after gunfire disrupted a rally in Kabuchai, Bungoma County, where Mr Natembeya had joined campaign activities for independent candidate Erick Wekesa in the Chwele Ward by-election.
The incident left residents fleeing in panic.
Mr Natembeya has in recent months been a vocal critic of senior government officials, including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
The by-elections are scheduled for Thursday, 27 November 2025, in various parts of the country.
