A dispute over the security of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has escalated after he alleged that police officers assigned to him were withdrawn without formal communication or legal grounds.
The claim, shared on Wednesday through a statement on X, has drawn attention due to the governor’s heightened political visibility ahead of several by-elections in Western Kenya.
In his statement, Natembeya said the officers were removed abruptly and without notice, arguing that the action contravened provisions of the National Police Service Act.
He referenced Sections 30 and 31 of the law, which outline the Inspector-General’s duty to provide protection to State officers whose work places them at increased risk.
According to him, “there is no court order, no disciplinary communication, and no official explanation” for the withdrawal.
Natembeya has recently emerged as one of the more outspoken county leaders critical of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
His involvement in opposition campaign activities in Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, and neighbouring counties has placed him at the centre of ongoing political realignments ahead of upcoming by-elections.
Such shifts often heighten tension between rival camps, particularly in regions where electoral contests are historically competitive.
The withdrawal of security for serving governors has previously triggered national debate, with past administrations accused of using police protection as leverage during political disputes.
Although the National Police Service routinely adjusts officers’ deployments, abrupt changes affecting high-ranking officials typically come with formal communication or public clarification. In this instance, no explanation had been issued by Wednesday afternoon.
Legal analysts note that the law grants the Inspector-General operational independence but also requires adherence to clear standards when assigning or withdrawing protection for State officers.
The absence of an official statement has therefore left the motivations behind Natembeya’s case open to questions.
County operations may also be affected, as governors frequently rely on state security for mobility, protocol duties, and public engagements.
Natembeya has called for the immediate reinstatement of his security and urged the National Police Service to comply with constitutional expectations of fairness and professionalism.
He warned that the withdrawal “endangers my safety” and could interfere with county obligations.