Human Rights Activist Demands Investigation into Alleged Political Violence Networks in Western Kenya

 

 A prominent Eldoret-based human rights activist, Kipkorir Ngetich, has issued a strongly worded public statement calling on the Inspector-General of Police, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to institute urgent investigations into what he describes as a “dangerous escalation of political manipulation, militia-style mobilization, and orchestrated acts of violence” in parts of Western Kenya.

Ngetich, known for his advocacy on political accountability and human rights monitoring, expressed deep concern over what he claims is the deliberate organization of violence disguised as spontaneous political clashes. According to him, recent incidents reported in Western Kenya “bear the characteristics of pre-planned operations rather than random acts of aggression,” and could be part of a broader political strategy aimed at shaping public sentiment ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Allegations Directed at Governor Natembeya

Central to Ngetich’s statement are allegations involving Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, whom he accuses of surrounding himself with individuals “with questionable security backgrounds.” The activist claims that some members of the governor’s private entourage include former security officers who were allegedly dismissed or discharged under unclear or controversial circumstances.

“These are people with past connections to criminal allegations or professional misconduct,” Ngetich alleged in his statement. He urged the National Police Service to conduct a full audit of all private security personnel attached to the governor, including their employment histories, disciplinary records, and affiliations.

He further claimed that Governor Natembeya’s background as a former provincial administrator potentially gives him access to networks that could be “misused to create chaos or manipulate public perception during politically sensitive periods.”

These allegations remain unproven. Governor Natembeya has not publicly responded to the claims, and no state agency has confirmed the existence of any investigation.

Claims of Organized Youth Mobilization

Ngetich also alleged that youth groups from Bungoma, Mt. Elgon, and Kitale are being assembled for political missions, including what he describes as “underground movements designed to disrupt democratic processes.” He claims that these groups could be deployed to interfere with polling stations, disrupt electoral activities, or interfere with voter materials.

He cautioned that if such networks do exist, they pose a major threat to national stability.

“Kenya cannot afford a return to the dark days when criminal gangs held entire regions hostage during elections,” he warned. “If these mobilizations are happening, the state must act now, not react later when damage has already been done.”

Concerns About Heightened Regional Tension

The activist warned that rising political rhetoric in Western Kenya is heightening ethnic and regional polarization. He accused some leaders—including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Governor Natembeya—of employing tribal narratives to gain sympathy and consolidate support.

“Kenya does not need warmongers, warlords, or divisive populists,” he said. “We need leaders who prioritize peace, development, and national unity.”

Ngetich argued that the Luhya community, being one of the country’s largest voting blocs, is increasingly being targeted by what he called “commercial politicians whose loyalties shift depending on the highest bidder.” He warned that this trend could undermine genuine leadership in the region.

Endorsement of Established Regional Leaders

In his statement, Ngetich praised senior leaders from the region—among them Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula—describing them as “disciplined, tested, and visionary leaders” capable of guiding the region without resorting to incitement or populist strategies.

He contrasted them with other political actors such as Senator Cleophas Malala and former Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, whom he accused of “auctioning the rights of the Luhya people for short-term political gain.” He claimed that the younger political class in Western Kenya is increasingly adopting high-risk mobilization tactics that could threaten the region’s peace.

Call for Security Agencies to Act

Ngetich urged Kenyan security agencies to classify the alleged activities in Western Kenya as matters of national security and to respond with robust intelligence gathering.

He emphasized the need for a “sophisticated and neutral intelligence network” to monitor political movements and detect early signs of potential violence. According to him, law enforcement agencies should closely track any emerging criminal gangs, revived militia groups, or politically motivated security formations.

He further urged the IEBC to stay vigilant and to work closely with security organs to secure all electoral processes in the region.

Appeal to Youth and the Public

Addressing the young people of the Luhya community, Ngetich urged them not to be swayed by leaders who he claims are using them as “political shields and foot soldiers.”

“Young people must refuse to be used for violence, intimidation, or electoral disruption,” he said. “They should protect their future by rejecting politicians who thrive on chaos.”

Awaiting Official Response

As of the time of publication, the offices of the Inspector-General of Police, DCI, and IEBC have not issued formal responses to Ngetich’s claims and demands.
Governor Natembeya has also not responded to the allegations, and no official confirmation has been made regarding the existence of any investigations into the matters raised.