Former Interior CS condemns attack on Natembeya
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has condemned the Kabuchai attack on Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, voicing alarm over how the incident occurred despite the presence of multiple security authorities in the area. Matiang’i’s comments come as authorities face scrutiny over coordination and rapid response in volatile settings, where political tensions and security challenges often intersect.
In a statement that circulated across media channels and social networks, Matiang’i urged a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances that allowed attackers to breach security and target the governor. He emphasized that safeguarding elected leaders should be a non-negotiable priority for all arms of government, and that public confidence hinges on visible accountability when security lapses occur.
Security coordination under the spotlight
The incident has put a spotlight on how security agencies—police, provincial administration, and national defense units—coordinate at the local level in rural counties where political activity is high and resources are stretched. Analysts note that even with a presence of multiple authorities, gaps can emerge in real-time risk assessment, intelligence sharing, and rapid deployment when threats materialize.
Matiang’i’s remarks also touch on the broader concern of how security sectors intersect with politics during election cycles or community disputes. Advocates argue that robust liaison frameworks, clear command structures, and timely information flow are critical to preventing violence and ensuring the safety of public figures and ordinary citizens alike.
Governor Natembeya’s security and political context
Governor Natembeya, a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, has previously navigated security threats tied to his leadership in Trans-Nzoia. While details of the Kabuchai attack remain under investigation, the incident underscores the persistent risks faced by county leaders who operate in volatile environments. Officials have called for calm, restraint, and measured responses to prevent further escalation that could destabilize the region.
Calls for accountability and reforms
Experts advocate for concrete reforms to security protocols at the county level—standardized risk assessment tools, joint operation drills, and more transparent investigative processes. Matiang’i’s condemnation aligns with a broader push from lawmakers and civil society for greater accountability when security personnel fail to prevent or respond rapidly to attacks.
Public statements from government officials often stress commitment to peaceful political engagement and the protection of constitutional leaders. As investigations proceed, there is an expectation that security agencies will provide timely findings and recommendations to close any identified gaps.
What comes next
Authorities are likely to publish a briefing detailing the sequence of events, the resources deployed, and the steps being taken to safeguard Natembeya and other leaders in the region. In the meantime, political figures and residents are urged to prioritize non-violent dialogue, verify information through official sources, and cooperate with investigators to ensure the full truth emerges.
