Siaya Governor James Orengo has demanded the immediate return of his security officers after his entire security detail was withdrawn under unclear circumstances on Tuesday evening.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, Orengo said security officers assigned to him and those guarding his Nairobi residence were removed without prior communication or explanation.
The governor has now written to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen seeking answers over the move.
According to Orengo, neither his office nor his staff received any formal notice before the officers were withdrawn.
He added that it was done without any form of warning, formal communication, or even provision of proper replacement.
Governor Orengo has asked for an explanation in writing as to who authorized the move, and why the withdrawal was made.
Also, he has requested that his security be restored, including his personal guards in Nairobi.”
“In light of the above, I urgently request an official explanation as to the grounds upon which this security withdrawal was authorised and the immediate reinstatement or replacement of my official security detail,” he stated.
The incident has sparked political debate, especially because Orengo has in recent months become increasingly outspoken on national political issues.
The Siaya governor has openly criticised the broad-based political arrangement between ODM and President William Ruto’s UDA administration.
He has also been vocal against recent fuel price increases and tough economic measures, at times calling for public pressure on the government to lower the cost of living.
On Wednesday, Orengo described the withdrawal of his security as worrying, insisting that security for elected leaders is not a favour but part of constitutional protection for public officials.
Copies of his letter were also sent to Council of Governors chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi and Siaya County Police Commander Lucy Kananu.
None of the two, IG Kanja and CS Murkomen, had made any comment regarding the allegations and the reason for withdrawing the security personnel.
This development now marks yet another new political turn amidst increasing tension between some ODM leaders and the Kenya Kwanza government.