On Saturday, November 22, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was campaigning in Chwele, Kabuchai Ward, Bungoma County, for independent MCA candidate Erick Wekesa ahead of the November 27 by-election.
While addressing supporters from the roof of an SUV, the rally was disrupted by violence. Reports and videos confirmed gunshots were fired and stones thrown, shattering vehicle windows and causing the crowd to scatter.
Natembeya briefly paused his speech, turned toward the source of the disturbance, and remained in position until his security detail pulled him inside the vehicle through the sunroof.
Later the same day, speaking at a separate gathering, the governor addressed the incident directly:
“I will not run away from goons. I have fought bigger battles than this. Let them come.”
Public Reaction Centres on Willis Raburu’s Post
The most widely shared video of the incident was posted by media personality Willis Raburu, accompanied by a short caption:
“He was unmoved ..”
The post, published approximately 16 hours before widespread coverage on Sunday, quickly gained traction across social media platforms. The phrase “He was unmoved” was repeatedly quoted and shared as users highlighted Natembeya’s visible composure during the chaos.
Raburu later followed up on the same thread, noting that he had simply described what the footage showed. He reiterated that, in his experience covering Kenyan politics, he had rarely witnessed such calm in the face of live gunfire.
Broader Online Response
Many Kenyans echoed Raburu’s observation, praising the governor’s steadiness. Comments frequently referenced the contrast between Natembeya’s reaction and the usual response of public figures in similar situations.
Others expressed concern over the return of political violence at campaign events and questioned why armed disruption continues in by-elections.
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