Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya’s home was reportedly raided on Monday, October 19, 2026, with officers failing to find him at the residence amid growing political tensions with President William Ruto’s administration.
According to statement by a member of the Linda Mwannachi, Abigael Gikonyo, Natembeya had gone into hiding while the raid took place.
The circumstances surrounding the reported raid and the identity of the officers involved were not immediately established.
The incident comes days after Natembeya raised concerns over the withdrawal of his security detail, demanding an explanation from Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja.
In a statement on Thursday, October 15, the governor said his security had been withdrawn for the second time and called on authorities to explain the decision.
“I do not claim immunity from lawful security reviews. What I insist upon is that any such review must be conducted professionally, objectively and in accordance with the Constitution, without discrimination or improper political influence,” Natembeya said.
The security dispute followed a public disagreement between the governor and President Ruto over development projects and the management of Kitale Market.
On October 17, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka warned the government against arresting Natembeya, alleging that opposition leaders were facing possible intimidation.
Kalonzo called for political tolerance as tensions continued to rise ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The latest development also follows clashes involving rival political supporters in Kitale on October 16. The National Police Service said two officers were injured and two government vehicles damaged during the incident.
Police condemned the violence and said preliminary reports indicated that some politicians had contravened the Public Order Act.
It was not immediately clear whether Monday’s reported raid was connected to the Kitale clashes or any ongoing investigation.
Neither the police nor the Directorate of Criminal Investigations had issued a verified public explanation of the reported raid at the time of writing.