Kisii Governor Simba Arati has condemned the withdrawal of the security detail for Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.

In a statement shared on his social media on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, Governor Arati, despite being the ODM Deputy Party Leader and part of the broad-based government arrangement, came out to defend Natembeya and called for the reinstatement of his security detail.

Arati criticised the decision, emphasising that security arrangements should not be influenced by a leader’s political affiliation.

Watch: Natembeya confirms sudden withdrawal of his security team

He argued that all public officials, including those in the opposition, are entitled to protection and that the withdrawal undermines principles of fairness, respect, and inclusivity in governance.

“Our government, comprising leaders from diverse political backgrounds in a broad-based arrangement, remains committed to ensuring that political differences do not compromise anyone’s safety or violate democratic principles. Governor Natembeya’s security is paramount, and the withdrawal of his detail undermines our shared values of fairness, respect, and inclusivity,” Arati said.

The governor called on relevant authorities to urgently reconsider and reverse the decision, insisting that such actions compromise safety and democratic principles.

 ODM, while actively participating in the broad-based government, maintains that the rights of all leaders, regardless of party affiliation, must be protected.

“We therefore call upon the relevant authorities to urgently reconsider and reverse this decision in order to uphold the spirit of unity and respect within our multiparty democracy,” Arati said.

Withdrawal of security

This development comes after six security officers assigned to Governor Natembeya, including personnel from both the regular police and General Service Unit (GSU), were recalled and instructed to report to the nearest police stations and GSU camps.

A similar withdrawal of security has been applied to Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, who, like Natembeya, has been campaigning for Democratic Action Party (DAP) candidate Seth Panyako ahead of the Malava by-elections slated for Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Also watch: Khalwale says his security has been withdrawn

“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.