A heavy presence of plainclothes police officers, all masked, was reported at the Milimani home of Governor George Natembeya in Kitale. According to early reports, these officers gained access to the home under unclear circumstances.
The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAPK), through a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, confirmed this incident and strongly condemned it. The party accused President William Ruto’s government of allegedly using old oppressive methods that resemble those used by the late President Daniel Moi to silence political opponents.
Situation at Natembeya’s home. Photo courtesy/ DAP-K.
The statement from DAPK read, “Such Moi tactics won’t work in the current life. Stop using security apparatus to settle political scores.” This reaction has sparked wide criticism across the country, especially on social media, where many Kenyans questioned the government’s motives.
Several users called out the use of state power to intimidate or harass leaders viewed as being in the opposition. They demanded that if there are any charges against Governor Natembeya or any other leader, arrests should be done publicly and transparently in broad daylight, not through night-time operations that appear secretive and suspicious.
This development has come at a tense time politically. Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua is already facing backlash over recent remarks he made about the 2027 presidential elections.
During one of his public appearances, Gachagua warned of possible violence in the upcoming elections. His statement was met with disapproval from politicians allied to President Ruto, who saw it as reckless and dangerous.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki responded strongly to Gachagua’s remarks. He stated that the government will not allow anyone, regardless of their status, to incite Kenyans or threaten national peace.
Kindiki made it clear that such statements, which appear to suggest or promote unrest, will not be tolerated. He assured the public that the government will take firm steps against any individual trying to destabilize the country.
The presence of masked police officers at Governor Natembeya’s home has only added to the already growing tension. Kenyans are now asking whether the country is going back to an era where security forces are used to intimidate political opponents.
Situation at Natembeya’s Kitale home. Photo credit/ DAP-K
The growing fear is that these actions, if not checked, might lead to a pattern of abuse of power. Critics say the government must avoid any tactics that remind Kenyans of dark chapters in the country’s political history and instead embrace transparency, justice, and respect for democratic rights.
