Governor George Natembeya at his office in KitaleTrans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has condemned the reported abduction of Standard Group editor Alex Kiprotich, saying the incident raises concerns about the safety of journalists and citizens.
In a post on Friday, Natembeya said Kiprotich was reportedly seized by armed men along the Gilgil-Nakuru road, held for several hours and later found near Masinga Dam.
“What message are we sending to every reporter, editor and ordinary Kenyan who dares to question power?” the county boss asked.
Natembeya said the incident went beyond the safety of one journalist, arguing that it raised broader questions about media freedom, freedom of expression and the security of citizens.
He said journalists should be allowed to carry out their work without fear of intimidation, adding that disagreements with published reports should be addressed through facts rather than force.
He also urged those in positions of authority to respond to criticism through political and lawful means rather than intimidation.
“If a citizen criticises you, answer them politically, not through intimidation, disappearance or fear,” he added.
Natembeya said media freedom and freedom of expression were not privileges but constitutional rights that must be protected.
His remarks come amid renewed concerns over the safety of journalists and allegations of abductions in the country.
He called for those responsible for Kiprotich’s disappearance to be identified and prosecuted.
The governor also sought answers on who was behind the reported abduction and the motive behind the incident.
“We must know who abducted Alex Kiprotich, why he was targeted, and who authorised or facilitated it,” Natembeya wrote.
He called for a transparent and independent investigation into the incident, saying anyone found responsible should face the law regardless of their position or the institution they belong to.
Natembeya also challenged President William Ruto to honour his previous commitment that abductions would end in the country.
“His Excellency the President promised that abductions would stop. Kenyans deserve to see that promise honoured not only in words, but in action,” he said.
The governor warned that failure to address such incidents could create a climate in which journalists become afraid to perform their duties and citizens hesitate to express their views.
“Kenya cannot become a country where journalists look over their shoulders before doing their work, where young people fear expressing themselves, or where families fear a knock on the door at night,” he said.
“This is bigger than politics. It is about the soul of our democracy."
He called on authorities to protect citizens, uphold media freedom and enforce the Constitution, while bringing an end to what he described as a culture of abductions and fear.
