Malala condemns withdrawal of Natembeya’s security
By Mabonga Makhanu, November 26, 2025Democracy for Citizens (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala has condemned the withdrawal of Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya’s security ahead of the Malava by-elections slated for Thursday, November 27, 2025.
Speaking in Kakamega on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, on the eve of the by-elections, Malala, accompanied by Democratic Action Party (DAP-K) candidate Seth Panyako, stated that these measures will not prevent their preferred candidate from being elected as the MP for Malava Constituency.
He criticised the state’s decision to strip the governor of his security detail, emphasising that Natembeya is entitled to this protection under the constitution and should not be denied his constitutional privilege.
Malala urged Natembeya not to worry, noting that the security of both Natembeya and his party leader, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, had been withdrawn long ago, and they have adapted. He encouraged the governor to follow suit.
“Yesterday, they withdrew security belonging to Natembeya. We condemn that act. Why withdraw something which is a constitutional right to a governor? He is entitled to have security,” Panyako said.
He further asserted that the state would not succeed in any attempts to rig the upcoming by-elections, saying that as a united opposition, they are well-prepared, fully mobilised, and have adequate security to safeguard their votes.
Withdrawal of security
The withdrawal of security follows similar action against Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, both of whom have been campaigning for Seth Panyako in Malava.
at Lukume village in West Kabras, Malava Constituency on Sunday, November 9, 2025. PHOTO/@DrBKhalwale/X
In Natembeya’s case, six of his officers were recalled and instructed to report to the nearest GSU camp, while police officers among the six were directed to report to the nearest police station, including his driver.
This action affects both Natembeya and Senator Khalwale, who are actively supporting Seth Panyako in his contest against United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa.
“My security detail has been pulled without any explanation, and I want to make it clear: if this decision was meant to put me at risk or expose me, those responsible need to realise that every action has its consequences. I refuse to be intimidated. The struggle goes on,” Khalwale said.
Seth Panyako, who was present during the presser, also condemned the act, labelling it as ‘primitiveness and impunity from the state’.