Stern warning as police arrest scores in Bungoma
By Tony Wafula, July 10, 2025Bungoma County Commissioner Thomas Sankei has issued a stern warning to politicians in the region to desist from making reckless and inflammatory statements.
He stated that such utterances could incite violence and compromise peace ahead of the 2027 General Election.
He spoke in his office following the recent Gen Z protests and Saba Saba commemoration demonstrations that saw Trans Nzoia governor George Natembeya and MP John Waluke clash.
Sankei confirmed that several individuals were arrested in connection with the unrest in Bungoma and would be arraigned in court in accordance with the law.
“We have arrested a number of individuals who were directly involved in unlawful activities during the protests. They will be taken to court and charged according to the legal procedures. Let it be clear that while we respect the right to protest any form of lawlessness will not be tolerated,” Sankei said.
The County Commissioner further disclosed that police vehicles were attacked during the Saba Saba commemorations in Bungoma, which were marked by confrontations between the youth-led protestors and security officers.
“Our officers were forced to retreat in some areas after protestors started pelting police vehicles with stones. This kind of hostility towards law enforcement is unacceptable and criminal,” Sankei added.
The protests, largely driven by Gen Z activists across the country, were aimed at demanding government accountability and protesting against the high cost of living and calling for the rejection of punitive finance policies.
Sankei condemned the rising political tensions in the region, warning that inflammatory exchanges between leaders could destabilise the region’s security.
He urged political leaders to show maturity and resolve their differences through dialogue rather than inciting followers in public rallies.
“The attacks and counterattacks we are witnessing between leaders are dangerous. If not managed, such reckless utterances may easily spark chaos, especially as we approach electioneering periods,” he warned.
Sankei’s comments come in the wake of a heated confrontation between Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Sirisia MP John Waluke during opposition rallies that were held in the Western region last week.