Governor Natembeya's convoy stoned while leaving Chebukati requiem mass

A requiem mass to honour the late former IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati in Kimilili, Trans Nzoia County, on Friday, turned chaotic when local Governor George Natembeya was reportedly ambushed by hired goons shortly after arriving at the venue.

Natembeya claims that after his arrival, Kiminini MP Kakai Bisau, who had allegedly already left the venue, returned with a group of rowdy individuals who aggressively targeted his entourage, prompting police intervention.

The officers reportedly ordered Bisau to leave the premises. However, according to Natembeya, the legislator instructed the hooligans to station themselves along the roadside to ambush his convoy as it left the venue.

“Despite this intervention, Hon. Bisau reportedly planted youths along the roadside, who ambushed the Governor’s entourage, pelting stones at his vehicle,” read a statement from Natembeya’s office.

In the ensuing chaos, Natembeya’s driver, Kaitano Siphas, was injured in the neck while attempting to shield the Governor from the barrage of stones. Two police officers also suffered injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.

Natembeya has since condemned the attack, calling it a “disgraceful and barbaric” attempt to instill fear and disrupt peace

“It is deeply regrettable that Hon. Bisau chose to desecrate a sacred moment of mourning by turning it into a battleground for political theatrics. Such acts of lawlessness have no place in our society and must be met with the full force of the law,” he said.

The Trans Nzoia Governor also called on law enforcement agencies to launch investigations into the incident and bring those responsible to justice.

“Leaders must rise above petty political rivalries and uphold decorum, particularly during solemn occasions that demand unity and respect,” he said.

He went ahead to “assures residents that his administration will not be deterred by acts of intimidation and will continue working towards a safer and more prosperous county for all.”