Governor Natembeya's Security Allegedly Withdrawn

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has raised concerns over the alleged withdrawal of his security for the second time.

In a statement on Thursday, October 15, he questioned the circumstances surrounding the reported withdrawal, arguing that any decision affecting his security must comply with the Constitution and the rule of law.

Natembeya cited Article 47 of the Constitution which guarantees every person the right to administrative action that is lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair. 

He maintained that authorities must provide written reasons where a decision adversely affects an individual's rights or fundamental freedoms.

"Any decision affecting my security must therefore comply with the applicable constitutional and legal requirements," he wrote 

Natembeya further invoked constitutional provisions governing national security and the conduct of the National Police Service.

"Further, Article 238(2)(b) requires national security to be pursued in compliance with the law and with the utmost respect for the rule of law, democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms.

"Article 244(a) and (d) requires the National Police Service to maintain high standards of professionalism and discipline and to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms and human dignity," he added.

Natembeya said he was troubled by the reported withdrawal because it had allegedly happened before. 

He called on the police leadership to explain the reasons behind the latest decision and confirm whether the applicable security procedures had been observed.

"I am particularly concerned that this is happening for the second time. I therefore call upon the Inspector-General of the National Police Service to provide a formal explanation of the reasons for this decision and to clarify whether the applicable security procedures have been followed," he further said.

Natembeya also referred to a High Court ruling reported on June 3, 2025, concerning the withdrawal of security assigned to five governors. 

He argued that the ruling offered relevant guidance on the legal requirements authorities must observe when making decisions affecting the security of public officials.

"I also draw attention to the High Court ruling reported on 3 June 2025 concerning the withdrawal of security assigned to five governors. In that case, the Court held that withdrawing security without prior written notice, an opportunity to be heard and written reasons violated Article 47 of the Constitution. The relevant authorities should take due account of that judicial pronouncement and the applicable law," he noted.

Despite his concerns, Natembeya clarified that he was not opposed to lawful security reviews. Instead, he insisted that any assessment of his security arrangements should be based on objective considerations and carried out without discrimination or political interference.

"Let me be clear: I do not claim immunity from lawful security reviews. What I insist upon is that any such review must be conducted professionally, objectively and in accordance with the Constitution, without discrimination or improper political influence," he further said.

Natembeya maintained that the reported development would not distract him from his responsibilities as the elected governor of Trans Nzoia County. 

He reiterated his commitment to serving residents and defending constitutional principles.

"As an elected Governor, I remain committed to discharging my constitutional responsibilities to the people of Trans Nzoia. I will not be distracted from serving the public, defending constitutionalism or upholding the rule of law," he declared.

Natembeya urged the relevant authorities to address the matter, explain the repeated withdrawal and ensure that his security arrangements were handled in accordance with the law.

"I accordingly call upon the relevant authorities to clarify this matter, provide the reasons for the repeated withdrawal and ensure that appropriate security arrangements are maintained in accordance with the law," he concluded.

This comes a day after Natembeya threatened to drag President William Ruto to court over the launch of Masinde Muliro Market.

Speaking on Tuesday, October 13, Natembeya told Ruto he would not allow him to bully him on his own turf.

He added that if push came to shove, he would move to court to obtain orders barring Ruto from setting foot in the market or its vicinity.

"You want to come here and bully me, yet I have the Constitution as my line of defence? I can actually go to court tomorrow to stop you from setting foot in the market," he declared.

Natembeya maintained that the market was constructed solely using Trans Nzoia County funds, warning the government against vacating traders who have already pitched their stores in the market to allow the President to launch it.

The County Chief further dared Ruto over plans to launch the new county headquarters.

"I built the new county assembly offices worth Ksh500 million using Trans Nzoia's money. There is not a single cent from Ruto in that project, but I hear he wants to launch it.

"Come and open it. After all, I have built it for you. However, when you leave, I will remove the plate bearing your name and replace it with mine," he added.