KAKAMEGA, Kenya — Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has publicly claimed that the national government has withdrawn his security detail, alleging that the move is an act of political intimidation stemming from differences with the ruling administration.
Speaking to the press in Kakamega town, the Senator stated that his entire security complement, consisting of six bodyguards, was ordered to leave without any prior notice or official explanation.
Khalwale’s claim follows a similar allegation made just hours earlier by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who also reported the withdrawal of his security personnel.
The Senator has linked the withdrawals to a broader government strategy aimed at pressuring opposition figures ahead of upcoming by-elections scheduled for Thursday.
Context of recent violence
The removal of the security details occurs against a backdrop of escalating political violence in the region.
On Saturday, November 22, Governor Natembeya was ambushed by armed assailants while attending a rally in Chwele Ward, Kabuchai, Bungoma County. The same group of attackers reportedly targeted the residence of Kabuchai Member of Parliament Majimbo Kalasinga.
Viral images and video footage confirmed that several of Natembeya’s vehicles were extensively damaged during the attack.
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The Governor publicly alleged that he was shot at several times after the armed group stormed the political gathering.
Following the chaos, Governor Natembeya publicly linked the violence to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, a prominent political rival in the region.
The actions targeting the two key political figures have intensified debate over the government’s role in ensuring the safety of opposition leaders during the sensitive period leading up to local polls.
