Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has sharply criticised security authorities following the attack on Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, raising serious questions about preparedness and vigilance.
Speaking on the November 22 incident in Kabuchai Ward, Matiang’i expressed shock that the disruption occurred despite the presence of multiple security officials, including the County Commissioner, county security team, County Police Commander, and regional security leadership. “They attacked Governor Natembeya when he was in a campaign rally. You can’t tell me these officials were unaware of what happened,” he said.
The attack unfolded at a trading centre where Natembeya was campaigning for independent MCA candidate Eric Wekesa ahead of the November 27 by-election. Loud bangs, reportedly from teargas canisters, sent the crowd into panic, while a group of individuals hurled stones and attempted to break up the meeting. Police intervened and escorted the governor to safety.
In the ensuing chaos, a vehicle and a house linked to Natembeya’s allies were vandalised. No serious injuries were reported, but the episode has heightened political tensions in Bungoma County.
The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), which supports Natembeya, blamed the unrest on goons allegedly linked to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, describing the attack as an attempt to intimidate voters. The party called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and the National Police Service to act decisively.
The incident has also drawn attention from Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who warned Natembeya that Kenya Kwanza leaders remain poised to challenge his influence in future elections.
Matiang’i’s condemnation has intensified scrutiny on security agencies, renewing calls for accountability and clarity on how such a breach could occur under the watch of established leadership.
