Police on Monday morning conducted a dramatic raid at the Kitale residence of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, sparking tension and protest among his supporters.
The operation, carried out under unclear circumstances, involved heavily armed anti-riot police officers working in conjunction with officials from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
Eyewitnesses reported that the early morning swoop caught many by surprise, with the presence of elite officers quickly drawing attention. Crowds of Governor Natembeya’s supporters gathered outside the premises, chanting slogans associated with the “Tawe Movement” — a political platform linked to the governor’s growing influence in the Western Kenya region.
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A tense standoff ensued as supporters confronted the officers, accusing the state of using investigative agencies to intimidate political opponents.
Police reinforcements were later deployed to disperse the swelling crowd and prevent the situation from escalating into violence.
The incident comes on the heels of claims made by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who on Sunday, May 18, warned of a looming crackdown against the Trans Nzoia county boss.
Speaking at a political rally in Machakos, Kalonzo alleged that the EACC had obtained a search warrant targeting Governor Natembeya in what he termed a politically motivated scheme.
“Governor Natembeya is threatened as we speak, and on Monday, which is tomorrow, they have obtained a search warrant to go and search his house. They just want to apprehend him and release him so that they may embarrass him before the people of Trans Nzoia,” Kalonzo stated.
He further urged state institutions, especially the EACC, to resist being used as tools for political intimidation.
“If you are the governor and you don’t toe the line of those in leadership at the highest level, they will send EACC after you. But I want to say that the commission should not be used,” he added.
Governor Natembeya, a former Rift Valley Regional Commissioner, has in recent months emerged as one of the most outspoken critics of President William Ruto’s administration in the Western region.
His increasing political clout and association with opposition figures have reportedly placed him at odds with the ruling establishment.
The Monday raid also follows another controversial incident last week, where Natembeya, accompanied by several Members of Parliament and former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, was blocked by police from accessing the Nzoia Sugar Company in Bungoma County. The leaders claimed they were heading to engage stakeholders over the sugar mill’s woes before officers barred their entry.
Efforts to get a response from Governor Natembeya’s communication team were unsuccessful by press time. Meanwhile, the EACC has yet to issue an official statement explaining the raid or confirming any ongoing investigations against the governor.
This developing story continues to attract national attention, as questions mount over the politicisation of law enforcement and the use of state agencies in internal political battles.
More to follow.