George Natembeya, Governor Trans Nzoia County
Trans Nzoia County Governor George Natembeya has directly attack President William Ruto’s recent directive to scrap the Identity Card (ID) vetting committees in Northeastern Kenya, warning that the move poses significant security threats to the country.
Natembeya expressed deep concerns over the potential security implications of the president’s decision, particularly in relation to the infiltration of foreign elements into critical national security structures.
“This is a dangerous policy decision. The president has allowed a system where people are no longer thoroughly vetted before acquiring Kenyan identity cards. This will hurt our country’s security.” Natembeya declared
Natembeya who previously served in Northeastern Kenya during his tenure in the National Administration, claimed that the removal of vetting committees creates a loophole that could be exploited by individuals with malicious intent, including foreign nationals and terror affiliates.
The governor alleged that prior to the disbandment of these committees, there were instances where individuals from Somalia paid bribes to obtain Kenyan identification documents. “They come to the vetting committee, give money, and then they are cleared. Now that the committee has been removed, there’s no proper alternative to ensure due diligence,” he said.
Natembeya further claimed that this policy could enable individuals with links to terrorist groups, such as Al-Shabaab, to infiltrate critical government institutions. He cited a disturbing incident where five chiefs were reportedly abducted by Al-Shabaab operatives and have yet to be rescued.
“Those chiefs who helped in planning President’s event in Northeastern were taken by Al-Shabaab. They have not been released. Some of these individuals will now freely acquire Kenyan passports, join our army, our police, even rise to become the President’s escort commanders. The consequences will be dire.” He lamented
Natembeya warned that within the next five years, Kenya could face severe security repercussions if the current policy remains unchanged. He painted a grim picture of a future where foreign elements penetrate high-level government positions, jeopardizing national security both domestically and internationally.
“This decision will come back to haunt us. In five years, you will see what will happen. Even Members of Parliament, MCAs, Governors, and top security officials could be compromised,” he cautioned.
The governor’s remarks come amid growing national debate over the government’s approach to security in Northeastern Kenya, an area that has long been vulnerable to terrorist activities due to its proximity to Somalia.
Governor Natembeya give a stern warning to the national leadership: “You may dismiss my words today, but when the consequences come, you will remember I spoke out. Silence in the face of wrong decisions is not an option.”