PERSONAL STATEMENT: Trans Nzoia Governor Natembeya goes After police boss Kanja over repeated security withdrawal
I wish to remind the relevant authorities that the exercise of public power in Kenya is governed by the constitution and the rule of law.
Article 47(1) and (2) of the constitution of Kenya, 2010, guarantees every person administrative action that is lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair, including the right to written reasons where a right or fundamental freedom has been adversely affected.
Any decision affecting my security must therefore comply with the applicable constitutional and legal requirements.
Further, Article 238(2)(b) requires national security to be pursued in compliance with the law and with the utmost respect for the rule of law, democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Article 244(a) and (d) requires the National Police Service to maintain high standards of professionalism and discipline and to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms and human dignity.
I am particularly concerned that this is happening for the second time. I therefore call upon the Inspector-General of the National Police Service to provide a formal explanation of the reasons for this decision and to clarify whether the applicable security procedures have been followed.
I also draw attention to the High Court ruling reported on 3 June 2025 concerning the withdrawal of security assigned to five governors. In that case, the court held that withdrawing security without prior written notice, an opportunity to be heard and written reasons violated Article 47 of the constitution.
The relevant authorities should take due account of that judicial pronouncement and the applicable law.
Let me be clear: I do not claim immunity from lawful security reviews. What I insist upon is that any such review must be conducted professionally, objectively and in accordance with the Constitution, without discrimination or improper political influence.
As an elected Governor, I remain committed to discharging my constitutional responsibilities to the people of Trans Nzoia. I will not be distracted from serving the public, defending constitutionalism or upholding the rule of law.
I accordingly call upon the relevant authorities to clarify this matter, provide the reasons for the repeated withdrawal and ensure that appropriate security arrangements are maintained in accordance with the law.
The constitution is binding on every public institution. No exercise of public power is above the law, and no Kenyan should be denied procedural fairness.
