Kitale, Kenya – May 19, 2025 – Chaos erupted in Trans Nzoia County as Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) officers raided Governor George Natembeya’s home in Kitale, sparking outrage from supporters and condemnation from political leaders. The dramatic operation, conducted under unclear circumstances, has intensified the debate over alleged misuse of state power and political witch-hunts in Kenya.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, a vocal critic of Natembeya, did not mince words, declaring, “I warned Natembeya to desist from corruption, bad governance, and poor development record in Trans Nzoia. He must be held accountable!”
EACC Raid Turns Chaotic as Supporters Fight Back
Early morning, armed EACC and DCI officers stormed Governor Natembeya’s residence, reportedly carrying “unexplainable boxes”—a move the governor had previously warned was a tactic to “tarnish his image.” The raid follows Natembeya’s recent protests against the controversial sale of a Western Kenya sugar company, raising suspicions of political retaliation.
Angry residents and supporters swiftly mobilized, deflating the tires of five EACC and DCI vehicles parked outside the governor’s home. Chants of “Free Natembeya!” filled the air as DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa arrived, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
Cherargei’s Explosive Allegations: “5M on Coffins?”
Senator Cherargei, a fierce critic of Natembeya, took to social media to justify the raid, accusing the governor of gross financial mismanagement.
“How can he allocate 5 million shillings of Trans Nzoia funds to buying coffins?” Cherargei questioned. “This is not about politics—it’s about accountability. The snake must die with its eggs!”
His remarks have fueled a heated debate, with Natembeya’s allies dismissing the claims as politically motivated.
Senator Onyonka Blasts “Political Witch-Hunt”
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka issued a strongly-worded press statement, condemning the raid as an attack on devolution and democracy.
“Weaponizing state institutions to silence dissent is unacceptable,” Onyonka declared. “Governor Natembeya’s arrest is unlawful, just like the targeting of Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Kenya must not return to an era of state-sponsored intimidation.”
Natembeya’s Defense: “This is Political!”
Before the raid, Governor Natembeya had warned that anti-corruption efforts were being politicized.
“EACC officers will raid your home with cartons disguised as evidence,” he had said. “Their goal is not justice—it’s to destroy reputations.”
His supporters argue that the timing of the raid—just days after his sugar protest—proves his claims.
Public Outcry: Is This Justice or Persecution?
The raid has divided opinion:
- Natembeya’s allies see it as political persecution, citing similar actions against opposition figures.
- Critics, including Cherargei, insist corruption must be confronted “head-on.”
With tensions escalating, questions remain:
✅ Was the raid justified, or is Natembeya a victim of political vendetta?
✅ Will EACC provide concrete evidence, or is this another “box drama”?
✅ How will Trans Nzoia residents respond if the governor is charged?
What’s Next for Natembeya?
As investigations continue, one thing is clear: Kenya’s fight against corruption remains deeply entangled with politics. With public trust in state institutions eroding, the Natembeya case could become a defining moment for accountability—or further proof of systemic abuse.
