Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has strongly condemned Monday morning’s raid on the Kitale home of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, terming the incident a politically motivated act that undermines the spirit of devolution and democracy.
The operation, carried out by police officers and detectives from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), led to chaotic scenes as angry residents stormed the compound to protest. The raid, which began before 8 a.m., lasted for over two hours in the absence of Governor Natembeya, who was not at the residence at the time.
Eyewitnesses reported that hundreds of irate residents confronted the officers, pelting their vehicles with stones, deflating tyres, and vandalising more than five cars used during the operation. The confrontation turned chaotic as locals expressed outrage over what they termed as political witch-hunting and intimidation of leaders who speak out on national issues.
Senator Onyonka expressed deep concern over what he called a disturbing trend of weaponizing independent institutions to silence dissenting voices. “Our country is slowly descending into a scenario where voices of opinion are silenced through unlawful arrests and intimidation,” he said, lauding Natembeya for consistently standing with the people, particularly on matters related to the Nzoia and Mumias Sugar factories.
The EACC, on its part, condemned the destruction of its vehicles, calling the act a blatant disregard for the rule of law. In a statement, EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud said the vandalism was carried out by a group of rowdy youths and that the offence is punishable by law. “The act of hooliganism is unacceptable and a direct affront to the rule of law,” he said.
The incident has sparked fresh debate on the conduct of anti-corruption agencies and the line between law enforcement and political persecution. As investigations continue, many are calling for transparency and accountability to ensure that the fight against corruption does not become a tool for political score-settling.
