Siaya Governor James Orengo has claimed that his security detail was withdrawn again, shortly after attending the memorial of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo.
In a social media post, Orengo said the withdrawal was the latest in a series of similar incidents.
“I remain unbowed,” he said.
His claim came hours after Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya said officers attached to him had been withdrawn at around 11pm on Wednesday.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Natembeya said the withdrawal had occurred for the second time and questioned whether the decision complied with the Constitution and the law.
He cited Article 47 of the Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to administrative action that is lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair, including written reasons where a decision adversely affects a right or fundamental freedom.
“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,” he said.
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.
“We have a governor here in neighbouring Trans Nzoia, who hangs around with goons and plans chaos. He wants to have police officers, and at the same time he is planning violence. We will not allow any politician to use government offices and government security to plan violence.”
Murkomen said security officials would remain firm in dealing with what he described as political violence.
“We will stand firm and not be intimidated as those in charge of the security sector,” he added.
The reasons for the reported withdrawal of Orengo’s security were not immediately established.
Speaking during the passing-out ceremony of police recruits, Ruto cautioned politicians against using the police to settle political scores, saying security teams must observe the law.
