Siaya Governor James Orengo has raised an alarm after his security was withdrawn suddenly, in what he describes as an unprocedural and unexplained action carried out without prior notice or official communication.
The Governor says the withdrawal affected both his personal security detail and officers attached to his Nairobi residence, leaving him without replacement arrangements.
In a press statement dated May 20, 2026, the Governor of Siaya County protested the abrupt move, terming it highly irregular and deeply concerning.
Orengo said the action was carried out without any written notice or explanation from the relevant authorities, despite the sensitivity of the security arrangements attached to a sitting state officer.
“Yesterday evening, Tuesday, May 19th, 2026, a highly irregular and deeply concerning action was taken by the national security apparatus: the sudden, unprovoked withdrawal of my entire personal security detail, as well as the security personnel assigned to my Nairobi residence. This was executed abruptly, without prior notice, official communication, or the provision of any replacement,” read part of the statement.
He added that both his personal escort and the officers stationed at his Nairobi residence were withdrawn without notice. According to him, no replacement officers were deployed, leaving all designated protection points unattended.
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The Governor emphasized that no written explanation or formal briefing was provided prior to the withdrawal, describing the move as sudden and without precedent.
Demand for Explanation and Restoration of Security
Following the incident, the Governor has requested an immediate explanation from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and the Inspector General of Police regarding the basis of the decision and the authority behind it.
He has also demanded the urgent reinstatement or replacement of his security detail at all affected locations, including his Nairobi residence.
Orengo emphasized that the absence of security personnel poses operational and safety concerns that must be addressed without delay.
In light of the above, I urgently request: An official explanation as to the grounds upon which this security withdrawal was authorized, the immediate reinstatement or replacement of my official security detail at all designated stations, including my Nairobi residence.
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Questions Raised Over Procedure and Security Entitlement
Orengo argued that security provision for state officers is not a discretionary privilege but a constitutional and statutory entitlement. He stated that such protection is intended to ensure the safety of public officials and enable them to discharge their duties without disruption or fear.
He stressed that such protection must be guided by law, procedure, and clear communication between responsible agencies.
Orengo warned that abrupt changes in security arrangements without explanation raise serious institutional and procedural concerns, particularly where elected leaders are involved.
“As a State Officer under the Constitution of Kenya, the provision of security is not a privilege or a discretionary favour; it is a statutory entitlement designed to facilitate the execution of official mandates without fear of compromise or harm,” read statement in part.
