Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has linked the withdrawal of security officers assigned to Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya to intelligence reports pointing to planned violence and the possible misuse of firearms by officers allegedly collaborating with criminal groups.
Addressing the issue on November 26, Murkomen defended the National Police Service’s decision, noting that such measures are sometimes necessary to avert crises involving VIP protection teams.
He emphasized that VIP security officers remain officers of the National Police Service and should not be drawn into the political or personal activities of the individuals they protect.
Murkomen Cites Firearm Misuse Fears in Natembeya Security Pullout. Photo: Courtesy.
Murkomen indicated that the security recall was tied to intelligence suggesting that some officers had been working alongside criminal gangs in planned disruptive activities.
He added that the affected officers could face disciplinary action, and those found culpable may ultimately lose their positions within the service.
The security detail assigned to guard Natembeya’s residence and accompany him during his movements was recalled early Wednesday morning.
While disclosing the details, Natembeya expressed outrage over the decision, insisting it was made at the highest levels of government and aimed at intimidating him.
He argued that security for elected leaders is a constitutional right, not a privilege, and should not be withdrawn for political reasons.
The withdrawal of Natembeya’s security follows a violent incident during a campaign stop in Chwele Ward, Kabuchai Constituency, on Saturday, November 22.
While campaigning for independent MCA candidate Erick Wekesa ahead of the November 27 by-election, Natembeya’s rally was attacked by masked armed individuals who fired gunshots into the air and threw tear gas, forcing him to flee.
He and his team later took refuge at MP Majimbo Kalasinga’s residence in Namakhele, which was also targeted.
Natembeya subsequently accused National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula of orchestrating the attacks, linking the violence to political rivalry.
