Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya have complained that their security details were withdrawn without explanation, one day before the Malava by-elections. They blame the government for attempting political intimidation. Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has acknowledged the move but says it is due to security reasons, not politics.
On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale addressed the media, claiming his security detail was withdrawn without warning or explanation, and alleging a plot to arrest him at home before Thursday's by-elections on November 27. "My security details have been pulled without any warning or explanation," Khalwale said, linking it to his strong stance against senior government officials. He added, "I hear that they want to arrest me. Please do not waste your fuel, I will either sleep in my home or at the hotel." He stated he was ready to face arrest if it occurred.
This follows similar claims by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who said all six of his officers, including GSU personnel and his driver, were ordered to report to stations at midnight on November 25 without explanation. "They have removed all of them, I don't even have one at home or in the office. Why? I don't know. Ask Ruto," Natembeya said, claiming it was an attempt to intimidate him for criticizing President William Ruto's administration and campaigning for opposition candidate Seth Panyako in Malava, Kakamega County.
Natembeya noted he was shot at on Saturday, so he should receive more protection, not less. Panyako also claimed via X that there is a plot to arrest opposition leaders like Eugene Wamalwa and others, and to use police to intimidate voters. He named Nabii Nabwera, Rashid Echesa, and Farouk Kibet as planning violence in various Malava wards.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, speaking in Kasipul, Homa Bay County, acknowledged Natembeya's security was withdrawn over allegations of involvement in political campaigns and violent skirmishes. "There have been cases where police officers attached to VIPs have misused their positions with goons; we will dismiss them," Murkomen said. He emphasized that security changes are based on threat assessments, not politics, and that Natembeya is not the only one affected. The government is ensuring security during the by-elections.
