Governor Natembeya Escapes Attack at Kabuchai Rally as Tensions Spike Ahead of By‑Election

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya narrowly escaped an attack while campaigning in Chwele, Kabuchai Ward, ahead of the November 27 by‑election.

Videos obtained by Kenyans.co.ke show shattered windows on several vehicles — including one in his police escort — amid reports of gunshots that scattered the rally crowd.

Natembeya’s Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP‑K) directly blamed the incident on “goons” allegedly linked to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, whose party supports rival candidate Vincent Maunda. DAP‑K called on both the IEBC (electoral body) and the National Police Service to intervene, warning that failing to act could fuel further political unrest.

The governor had earlier publicly accused Wetang’ula of orchestrating the violence locally — underscoring a longstanding political rivalry between them.

Observers say this by‑election is being framed as a proxy battleground for influence, with Natembeya and Wetang’ula representing competing power centres in Western Kenya. The election was triggered by the death of the previous MCA, James Barasa, on August 4, 2025.

🔎 Analysis / Key Implications

• This is more than a simple campaign skirmish: the scale (shots fired, damaged vehicles) suggests serious political violence.
• If the allegations against Wetang’ula are true, his influence may be contested not just at the national level, but in local electoral politics.
• The call for IEBC and police to act is significant; electoral violence could undermine voter confidence.
• The by‑election is not just about the ward seat — it may be a test of regional political strength for competing factions in Western Kenya.