Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has called on the Inspector-General of Police to explain the repeated withdrawal of his security detail, citing constitutional provisions on fair administrative action as tensions between him and President William Ruto continue to escalate.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 15, 2026, Natembeya said the withdrawal had happened for the second time and demanded a formal explanation from the National Police Service on the reasons behind the decision and whether the appropriate procedures had been followed.
The governor cited Article 47 of the Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to administrative action that is lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair. He also referred to Article 238, which requires national security to be pursued in accordance with the law and with respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Natembeya further cited Article 244, which requires the National Police Service to uphold professionalism, discipline and human dignity.
He pointed to a High Court ruling delivered in May 2025 concerning the withdrawal of security officers assigned to five governors: Ochilo Ayacko, Gladys Wanga, James Orengo, Anyang’ Nyong’o and Simba Arati. The court found that withdrawing their security without prior written notice, an opportunity to be heard and written reasons violated the right to fair administrative action.
“I do not claim immunity from lawful security reviews,” Natembeya said, insisting that any review should be conducted professionally and objectively, without discrimination or improper political influence.
The latest dispute comes against the backdrop of an increasingly public disagreement between Natembeya and Ruto over politics and development in Trans Nzoia County.
On October 12, the two leaders traded accusations after the President toured the county without the governor accompanying him. Ruto accused Natembeya of frustrating national government development projects, citing the Endebess Hospital and Kenyatta Stadium in Kitale.
The President said KSh240 million had been spent on the Endebess Hospital project, with a further KSh100 million needed to complete it, and accused the governor’s political approach of obstructing development. Natembeya, who has been a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration, has maintained his opposition to what he considers poor governance.
The disagreement also reflects broader political differences ahead of the 2027 General Election, with Natembeya positioning himself among leaders seeking to consolidate opposition support in Western Kenya. His Tawe political movement has featured prominently in his criticism of established regional political leadership and the national government.
The security dispute is not new. In November 2025, Natembeya reported that officers assigned to protect him and guard his residences had been recalled shortly before the Malava Constituency by-election. He accused the government of intimidation and suggested the move was politically motivated, claims that were not independently established.
At the time, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the withdrawal of officers was linked to allegations of police misconduct and was not limited to one political leader. The government’s explanation differed from Natembeya’s allegations of political intimidation.
The governor has now asked the Inspector-General to clarify the circumstances surrounding the latest withdrawal and ensure that appropriate security arrangements are maintained in accordance with the law.
He said he would continue discharging his constitutional responsibilities to the people of Trans Nzoia, arguing that public institutions must remain accountable to the Constitution regardless of political differences.
