Natembeya vows Linda Mwananchi rally will go ahead in Nairobi despite concerns

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has promised to hold the Linda Mwananchi rally in Nairobi on September 13, 2026, despite doubts about the location and police notification. Natembeya accused the government of hindering the registration of the movement, stating that the authorities had rejected its registration because the name was already taken by someone else.

He likened the issue to the controversy over the Tawe name, questioning why political figures seem to be exempt from the same restrictions. "It’s the same with Tawe, people said someone had already registered 'Tawe.' What is Ruto doing? He’s doing the same thing," Natembeya stated on September 5, 2026. Natembeya claimed that the police were already aware of the September 13, 2026 event and were communicating with organizers about the meeting.

He emphasized that they were not requesting permission to hold the rally but were merely informing the authorities of their plans, arguing that the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly. "If we don’t apply for a permit, we don’t need to apply for one; we just have to inform that we are holding the meeting," he said.

Natembeya stated that if the organizers are informed that their preferred venue has already been booked, they will comply with the law, but he challenged the police to reveal who allegedly secured the venue. He also accused the National Police Service of treating political actors unfairly, accusing officers of selectively applying the law.

"I also challenge the police to treat political actors equally; they think Ruto and all UDA supporters are above the law," Natembeya said. The governor reiterated that the September 13, 2026 gathering would take place, regardless of whether they could use the originally planned venue. "The message is clear: we will not budge. On September 13, Nairobi will hold the Linda Mwananchi rally wherever we are," he declared.

Natembeya also criticized the police for using excessive force against critics and opposition-linked activists, citing alleged arrests and abductions of journalists. "The police should act like professionals; these excesses are obvious among CID 1, 2 officers who have been known to detain people arbitrarily," he said.