Former Rift Valley Regional Commissioner, George Natembeya, has explained why he was redeployed to the Office of the President immediately after resigning.
According to a letter signed by Interior Principal Secretary, Karanja Kibicho, the outspoken police boss was moved to the Office of the President with immediate effect.
On Wednesday, January 12, Natembeya announced his resignation in order to concentrate his efforts in the Trans Nzoia county gubernatorial contest. His redeployment raised more questions than answers.
Speaking to a local media house on Thursday, January 13, Natembeya explained that he was moved to the Office of the President so as to allow him time to clear from the service and prepare his pension documents before leaving the service completely.
He also explained that he has accrued many leave days that will serve as resignation notice while some will be utilised in the clearance process.
"I have resigned from government. But when you want to exit government, there are some procedures to be followed and there are clearances to be done. That's what we are doing now," Natembeya stated.
"I had accrued so many leave days, so many of these exiting procedures will be covered within the leave days, that is why you see I have been deployed to the OP headquarters, but basically I have resigned."
Natembeya was replaced by Makueni County Commissioner, Mohamed Ahmed Maalim.
The vocal law enforcement officer, who has served as Rift Valley Commissioner for two-and-a-half years, is seeking to succeed Trans Nzoia Governor Patrick Khaemba in the August 9 polls.
“I am letting go this police uniform and duties. I won’t be seen in it unless under extraordinary circumstances,” he announced upon his resignation.
“I will take all my experience in the National Government to the County Government and help the people of Trans Nzoia."
He noted that he enjoys the support of President Kenyatta, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, and his PS Karanja Kibicho.
