Kenya, May 19 -- A large group of plainclothes police officers, wearing masks, raided the home of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya in Kitale early on Monday, May 19, 2025. This caused chaos as local residents tried to stop the police from arresting the governor.
The raid was carried out by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). It has sparked a lot of anger and claims that this is a way to target the governor for political reasons.
Witnesses say the masked officers entered Natembeya's home around 6:00 a.m. Many people from the neighbourhood quickly gathered outside to protest.
They blocked the entrance and even let the air out of the tyres of five police vehicles, saying they would not allow the governor to be arrested.
The situation became more intense, with the police using tear gas to try to disperse the crowd, which increased the tension in the town.
The Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K), led by Eugene Wamalwa, criticized the raid, calling it an old tactic used during the Moi era. They accused the government of using the police for political reasons against the governor.
DAP-K stated, "Such heavy-handed actions will not intimidate Governor Natembeya or the people of Trans Nzoia." Wamalwa showed up at the scene in support of Natembeya and was met with cheers from his supporters.
This raid came after Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka claimed on Sunday, May 18, that the EACC had a warrant to search Natembeya's properties and possibly arrest him to damage his reputation.
Musyoka stated, "This is a fake plot to embarrass a governor who speaks the truth to those in power," during a rally in Machakos.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also spoke out against the Kenya Kwanza government for targeting Natembeya, saying, "You cannot arrest people just because they challenge the government."
Natembeya, known for speaking out against President William Ruto's government, has recently disagreed with the administration about issues like the leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company and alleged misuse of police force.
On Sunday, he warned about the misuse of state security, saying, "Police are here to enforce the law, not to support political agendas."
The police have not explained why they raided his home, but sources say it may relate to EACC investigations into corruption, although no formal charges have been made.
The National Police Service has not yet made a statement, and attempts to get comments from EACC officials were unsuccessful.
As tensions remain high, local leaders and residents are supporting Natembeya. Many see the raid as an attempt to quiet an important opposition figure as the 2027 elections approach.
People in the community have mixed feelings. Some are upset about the raid and see it as an abuse of power, while others wonder about the governor's actions.
Businesses in Kitale were closed as protests continued in the morning, with police present outside Natembeya's home. The situation is still unstable, and there are concerns about more clashes if the governor is arrested.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.