The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has alleged that his official security detail was unexpectedly withdrawn just hours before the Thursday by-elections in Malava. In a video posted on his social media accounts, Khalwale suggested that the decision was linked to his choice to back an Opposition candidate in the race.
Despite the security withdrawal, Khalwale, who also serves as Senate Majority Whip, remained composed. He expressed confidence that the people of Malava would vote freely and without fear of intimidation.
“Even without my security detail, I believe Malava will emerge victorious,” he stated.
Khalwale called on state agencies involved in the election process to ensure that the polls are peaceful and transparent, emphasizing that the will of the people should prevail. He reminded that elections naturally produce both winners and losers, urging authorities not to resort to extreme measures.
Additionally, Khalwale claimed that the security detail for Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya had also been withdrawn. He questioned, “I’ve been assigned six officers, but where are they? What’s the plan?” He emphasized that his supporters are peaceful, and any violence would only stem from their refusal to be intimidated in front of their families.
He also warned that young people, allegedly brought in from outside Kakamega, might unknowingly find themselves in dangerous situations.
In response, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen dismissed any claims of political targeting. He confirmed the security withdrawal for Governor Natembeya and several other VIPs, stating that the decision was based on a National Police Service (NPS) report. According to Murkomen, the withdrawals were prompted by concerns about the conduct of certain police officers assigned to VIPs.
Murkomen explained that any security measures taken by the NPS are aimed at preventing crises.
“If a police officer assigned to a VIP is seen with troublemakers, the best course of action is to remove them,” he said.
He also reassured the public that the security measures were temporary, pending investigations into the conduct of the officers and the VIPs they were protecting.
The incident has sparked increased attention on election security, with Murkomen affirming that officers deployed to polling areas would work to ensure a peaceful environment. “Our responsibility is to ensure that voters are not intimidated,” he added, noting that measures taken against disruptive individuals are necessary to maintain order.
