Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has sharply condemned the recent assault on Mumias East MP Peter Salasya, warning that Kenya risks sliding into dangerous political intolerance if such acts go unchecked.

Speaking in Kakamega on Monday, May 26, 2025, alongside Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah, Governor Natembeya condemned the attack that occurred at Nyayo Stadium during a World Cup qualifier, describing it as a disturbing sign of shrinking democratic space.

He warned that the normalization of political violence threatens not only individual leaders but the very soul of the nation.

This marked Natembeya’s first public address since his release, making his remarks even more significant as he reaffirmed his commitment to defending democratic freedoms and speaking out against injustice, even as he is set to tour the Western bloc ahead of a series of prayer rallies.

Undermining democracy

Natembeya, addressing a charged crowd in Kakamega described the stadium assault on MP Salasya as a “blatant violation of democratic principles.” He said no Kenyan should face physical harm for holding a divergent opinion or aligning with a particular leader.

Such acts of violence are an affront to our democratic values and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” Natembeya said.

“We cannot allow intolerance to take root under the guise of political expression.”

Peace and unity

A vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza regime, Natembeya urged the youth to resist manipulation by politicians who thrive on division.

“We must strive for a Kenya where differences in political opinion do not breed hostility but rather foster healthy debate and national progress,” he said.

“Political maturity demands tolerance, not fists.”

He called on law enforcement agencies to act decisively and impartially, adding that justice must be seen to be done.

Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah, stood shoulder to shoulder with Natembeya. He echoed the call for political civility and emphasized the right of every Kenyan to be heard without fear of retribution.

“What happened to Salasya should not happen to any elected leader or citizen. If we don’t stand up now, silence will be our downfall,” Wajackoyah warned.

The assault on Salasya has drawn widespread outrage, prompting calls from across the political divide for greater tolerance and accountability. As the country approaches a politically charged season, the unity displayed by Natembeya and Wajackoyah offers a rallying cry for peace, democracy, and mutual respect.