The governor was supporting independent MCA candidate Erick Wekesa ahead of the November 27 Kabuchai by-election.
Videos circulating on social media showed smashed windows on vehicles, including Natembeya’s police escort, and reports indicated that gunshots caused panic among rally-goers.
Videos circulating on social media showed smashed windows on vehicles, including Natembeya’s police escort, and reports indicated that gunshots caused panic among rally-goers.
The incident has heightened tensions in the area and underscores the increasingly volatile nature of the by-election.
Natembeya’s Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) directly blamed the attack on goons allegedly linked to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. Wetang’ula’s Ford Kenya party is backing Vincent Maunda, a rival candidate.
Natembeya’s Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) directly blamed the attack on goons allegedly linked to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. Wetang’ula’s Ford Kenya party is backing Vincent Maunda, a rival candidate.
In a statement on X, DAP-K urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the National Police Service (NPS) to take action, warning that ignoring the unrest could escalate political violence.
“Governor Natembeya and other leaders were attacked while campaigning for Erick Wekesa by goons associated with Speaker Wetang’ula,” the party said.
“Governor Natembeya and other leaders were attacked while campaigning for Erick Wekesa by goons associated with Speaker Wetang’ula,” the party said.
The attack followed Natembeya’s public accusations that Wetang’ula was orchestrating disturbances in the area, intensifying a long-standing rivalry that has shaped politics in western Kenya.
The IEBC has previously warned that anyone found violating the electoral code of conduct, including causing unrest, could face serious consequences such as disqualification.
The IEBC has previously warned that anyone found violating the electoral code of conduct, including causing unrest, could face serious consequences such as disqualification.
The police also reassured voters that their safety would be guaranteed throughout the by-election period.
Natembeya and Wetang’ula have a history of political rivalry, often competing for influence in western Kenya.
Natembeya and Wetang’ula have a history of political rivalry, often competing for influence in western Kenya.
Both leaders have publicly criticised each other on multiple occasions, and the Kabuchai by-election is increasingly seen as a test of their regional power.
Other regional leaders have called for calm and unity, urging parties to ensure the campaign remains peaceful.
The by-election became necessary following the death of former MCA James Barasa on August 4, 2025. Besides Wekesa and Maunda, candidates from the ruling UDA party and Jubilee have also entered the race, making the contest highly competitive.
Political observers note that the attack on Natembeya reflects the high stakes of the Kabuchai by-election, which has become a proxy battle for influence between two of western Kenya’s most prominent leaders.
The by-election became necessary following the death of former MCA James Barasa on August 4, 2025. Besides Wekesa and Maunda, candidates from the ruling UDA party and Jubilee have also entered the race, making the contest highly competitive.
Political observers note that the attack on Natembeya reflects the high stakes of the Kabuchai by-election, which has become a proxy battle for influence between two of western Kenya’s most prominent leaders.
Local residents expressed shock over the violence, emphasizing the need for peaceful campaigns.
The police have promised to increase security during rallies and have urged political parties to adhere strictly to the law.
The police have promised to increase security during rallies and have urged political parties to adhere strictly to the law.
Meanwhile, Natembeya’s team continues to campaign, emphasizing the importance of voter engagement and community development.
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