Matiang'i condemns Kabuchai attack on Natembeya

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has sharply condemned the attack on Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, raising concerns over how the incident unfolded despite the presence of multiple security authorities in the area.

Matiang’i questioned the level of preparedness and awareness among security teams stationed in the region, saying the events in Kabuchai were deeply troubling given the structures expected to oversee public order.

“They attacked Governor Natembeya when he was in a campaign rally in Kabuchai. I was in charge of security before; you can’t tell me that the County Commissioner, county security team, County Police Commander, Regional Police Commander, regional security team are not aware of what happened there,” Matiang’i said.

He stressed that the incident could not be excused as a simple feud or dismissed lightly.

His remarks underscored his unease about how such a disruption could occur in the presence of established security leadership.

Matiang’i spoke in reference to the November 22 disturbance in Kabuchai Ward, Bungoma County, where Governor Natembeya narrowly escaped violence while campaigning for independent MCA candidate Eric Wekesa ahead of the November 27 by-election.

The rally, held at a trading centre, descended into panic as Natembeya addressed residents.

Loud bangs, believed to be from teargas canisters, sent the gathering into disarray.

Eyewitnesses said a group of individuals stormed the venue, hurling stones and attempting to break up the meeting.

As tension escalated, police intervened and escorted Natembeya from the scene to prevent potential harm.

In the chaos, a vehicle and a house linked to a local politician allied to Natembeya’s team were vandalised, with windows smashed and property damaged.

Authorities indicated that no immediate serious injuries were reported.

Following the disruption, the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), which supports Natembeya, issued a statement blaming the unrest on goons allegedly linked to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.

The party claimed the disturbance was aimed at intimidating voters ahead of the by-election and urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the National Police Service (NPS) to take firm action, warning that inaction could escalate tensions further.

The incident has contributed to growing political tension in Bungoma county, where rival camps have traded accusations over influence and control.

Separately, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi issued a political warning to Natembeya, stating that Kenya Kwanza leaders were prepared to challenge his influence and would field a formidable candidate in the 2027 General Election.

Matiang’i’s condemnation has intensified scrutiny on security agencies and their handling of political gatherings.

His remarks have renewed calls for accountability and clarity on how the disruption occurred despite the reported presence of several security officials in the region.