NAIROBI, Kenya – Siaya Governor James Orengo has protested the reported withdrawal of his security detail, declaring he remains unbowed as a similar dispute involving Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya raises questions over the deployment of police officers to political leaders.
In a social media post, Orengo said the government had withdrawn his security for what he described as the latest in a series of such incidents.
“Today, the government withdrew my security for the nth time. I remain unbowed. WANTAM!” he said.
The claim came shortly after Orengo attended a memorial service for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo, Siaya County. The reasons for the reported withdrawal of his security were not immediately established.
Natembeya Questions Withdrawal Of His Security
Orengo’s complaint followed a similar claim by Natembeya, who said officers attached to him were withdrawn at around 11pm on Wednesday.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Trans Nzoia governor said it was the second time his security detail had been withdrawn and questioned whether the decision complied with the Constitution and the law.
Natembeya cited Article 47 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to administrative action that is lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair. The provision also requires written reasons where an administrative decision adversely affects a person’s rights or fundamental freedoms.
“I therefore call upon the Inspector-General of the National Police Service to provide a formal explanation of the reasons for this decision and to clarify whether the applicable security procedures have been followed,” Natembeya said.
Murkomen Defends Withdrawal Of Natembeya’s Security
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen defended the withdrawal of officers assigned to Natembeya, alleging that the governor associated with individuals he described as goons and was planning violence.
Speaking in Baringo during President William Ruto’s North Rift development tour, Murkomen said the government would not allow politicians to use state-provided security to facilitate unrest.
“Political goonism must be finished. Some politicians are enjoying the security provided by the government. They have police officers but still plan violence,” Murkomen said.
He specifically accused Natembeya of associating with people he described as goons and planning chaos, warning that the government would not allow public offices or state-provided security to be used to plan violence.
“We will stand firm and not be intimidated as those in charge of the security sector,” Murkomen added.
Murkomen’s remarks were directed at Natembeya. No reason had been established for the reported withdrawal of Orengo’s security.
Ruto Warns Against Using Police To Settle Political Scores
The dispute comes amid wider concerns over the deployment of police officers to politicians and the use of state security resources.
Speaking during a passing-out ceremony for police recruits, President Ruto cautioned politicians against using the police to settle political scores, saying security teams must operate within the law.
