KITALE, Trans Nzoia – Tension gripped Kitale on Monday morning after a heavy contingent of plainclothes police officers believed to be affiliated with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) raided the Milimani home of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
In a strongly worded statement, the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) decried the operation, accusing the state of deploying intimidation tactics reminiscent of Kenya’s repressive past.
“A heavy contingent of police officers in plain cloth, well masked, have gained access to Governor George Natembeya’s home in Kitale. Such Moi tactics won’t work in the current life. Stop using security apparatus to settle political scores,” read part of the DAP-K statement.
The unannounced raid sparked outrage among local residents, who quickly gathered outside the governor’s residence in a show of support and to resist what they perceive as a politically motivated arrest.
Adding fuel to the fire, prominent opposition leaders weighed in on the unfolding drama. Former Justice Minister and People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua was among the first to condemn the operation.
“I am asking William Ruto and his regime, why all the drama? Why do you raid a governor’s home like it is a flight risk? Do the police have a warrant to go and terrorise Governor George Natembeya and his family?” Karua posed.
The raid comes mere hours after Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka warned of an imminent plan to arrest Governor Natembeya. Musyoka claimed that EACC had secured a search warrant targeting Natembeya’s properties, with the intention to apprehend him on Monday, May 19.
Governor Natembeya, who has been openly critical of the Kenya Kwanza administration, particularly on issues affecting the western region, reiterated his position on Sunday during a public function.
“We should stop using the police to solve our political problems. Law enforcement exists to uphold the rule of law, not to be a tool for political agendas,” he stated.
The latest confrontation follows Natembeya’s vocal opposition to the leasing of public sugar companies, including Nzoia Sugar Company, to private investors. He recently called for the cancellation of a 30-year lease of Nzoia Sugar to the Rai Group, citing lack of public participation and potential harm to the local economy.
“Leasing our sugar companies to private investors without consulting the farmers is unacceptable. It risks entrenching poverty and undermining our economic independence,” he said.
As questions mount over the legality and motive behind the raid, Kenyans across the political divide are calling for transparency and accountability from the country’s investigative bodies. With growing concerns about the misuse of state agencies, this incident could mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over governance, justice, and the rule of law in Kenya.
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By Kelly Were
