In a dramatic turn of events, police officers and detectives from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on Monday morning, May 19, raided the Kitale residence of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya—sparking tension, protests, and political outrage.
A large crowd that had gathered to show solidarity with the governor was dispersed by anti-riot police outside his Milimani home, as plainclothes officers conducted the early morning operation. The motive behind the raid remains unclear, but sources point to a potential political power play.
DAP-K Party Condemns Raid, Accuses State of Political Intimidation
The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), under which Natembeya was elected, swiftly issued a statement condemning the move as politically motivated.
“A heavy contingent of police officers in plain clothes, well masked, have gained access to Governor George Natembeya’s Milimani home in Kitale. Such Moi-era tactics won’t work in today’s democracy. Stop using security forces to settle political scores,” the party said.
Kalonzo Musyoka Claims Raid Was Pre-Planned
A day earlier, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka had sounded the alarm, alleging that a state-sanctioned plan was underway to discredit the Trans Nzoia Governor.
“Governor Natembeya is under threat. On Monday, they’re planning to obtain a search warrant and arrest him—not to prosecute, but to smear his name and later release him without charges,” Kalonzo warned during a Sunday address.
Protests, Sugar Politics, and Rising Tension
This development follows just a week after Governor Natembeya led demonstrations against the controversial leasing of the Nzoia Sugar Company. During the protest, Natembeya and other local leaders were teargassed while demanding transparency and accountability in the lease deal.
