In a dramatic escalation of political tensions, Siaya Governor James Orengo has raised the alarm that his life is under threat after all nine of his personal security officers were abruptly pulled out on May 19 without notice or replacement.
Speaking out publicly, a visibly concerned Orengo pointed fingers directly at Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, declaring the move irregular, unprocedural, and highly suspicious.
The governor made the revelation during a charged address, brandishing a protest letter dated May 20 in which he formally demanded the immediate restoration of his security detail.
The sudden withdrawal affects both his personal protection team and officers stationed at his Nairobi residence, leaving one of Kenya’s most prominent opposition figures exposed at a time of heightened political temperatures.
Lawmakers have quickly rallied in support. Kakamega Senator and vocal critic Peter Salasya called for the immediate reinstatement of the governor’s constitutionally protected security, describing the move as unacceptable.
This incident has sent shockwaves through political circles, with many interpreting it as a worrying sign of selective security enforcement amid ongoing rivalries between the government and opposition leaders.
As of now, the National Police Service has not issued an official statement on the reasons behind the withdrawal or when — or if — the security will be restored. More to follow as this developing story unfolds. Kenya watches: Will the governor’s security be reinstated, or is this the beginning of a deeper political storm?