By Bonface Mulyungi
Siaya Governor James Orengo now claims his life is in danger following what he described as the arbitrary withdrawal of his security detail by the government on Tuesday evening.
Speaking to Citizen TV on Thursday, Orengo said nine security officers attached to him in both Nairobi and Siaya counties were recalled without explanation, leaving him exposed at a time when political leaders are increasingly facing violent attacks.
The Governor warned that Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja should be held personally responsible should anything happen to him.
“I’m worried about it, but I’m not intimidated,” Orengo said during the interview.
The county boss linked the withdrawal of his security to recent incidents in which opposition political leaders have allegedly been attacked by hired goons during public functions.
He cited a recent incident involving Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, who was reportedly attacked in broad daylight in Kisumu, as well as his own experience while attending a funeral in Seme, where he claimed he was also confronted by goons.
Orengo further referenced the killings of former minister Tom Mboya and former MP J.M. Kariuki, arguing that the withdrawal of security from political leaders could expose them to grave danger.
“Mboya was killed in broad daylight in Nairobi because his security detail was not with him. J.M was abducted in the middle of this town because he had no security with him,” he said.
“So if something happens to me, or if I’m attacked by goons like Osotsi was attacked, I’ll hold the IG responsible.”
The remarks came barely a day after Orengo formally protested the withdrawal of his security in a letter addressed to IG Kanja.
In the letter, the Governor termed the move abrupt and unprocedural, saying the officers stationed at his Nairobi residence and other designated areas were withdrawn without prior notification, formal communication or replacement.
He maintained that security for State officers is a constitutional and statutory entitlement, not a privilege or discretionary favour.
Orengo demanded an official explanation for the withdrawal and called for the immediate reinstatement of the officers.
