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Tough Security Precautions Ruto is Taking During Mandera Tour After Al Shabaab Threat

After at least five chiefs went missing on Monday, February 3, following an ambush and kidnapping by suspected terrorists in Elwak, Mandera County, President William Ruto took extra safety precautions during his tour.

While addressing Mandera residents at Moi Stadium on Tuesday, February 4, Ruto’s approach to his speech showed noticeable changes and unusual elements.

After Deputy President Kithure Kindiki introduced him, President Ruto did not use the podium. Instead, he moved away from it and descended the stairs. Also to note all politicians present at the event used the dais.

Shortly after, a white vehicle was seen moving towards him, with a man in a white shirt directing it. After the vehicle stopped, the man, along with another person, signaled for the vehicle to reverse.

President William Ruto in Mandera. Photo/ Hussein Weytan
President William Ruto in Mandera. Photo/ Hussein Weytan

This occurred after the Head of State was seen pointing to where he wanted the vehicle to stop.

As Ruto stood in front of the podium waiting to alight in the vehicle, a security officer in uniform was spotted moving closer to him, while another individual in civilian clothes observed.

As the vehicle approached, President William Ruto was escorted to board. He addressed Mandera residents from the top of his vehicle.


Also Read: Ruto Fires Back at Gachagua and Kalonzo 


Meanwhile, a security officer in a blue uniform positioned himself to manage the crowd.

 Four armed police officers emerged from the crowd, standing behind the vehicle, while another four moved forward to stand in front of it.

As President Ruto began speaking, several officers in uniform positioned themselves in front of the crowd, ensuring the vehicle remained secure.

The crowd was restricted to one side of the vehicle, unable to access the other three sides.


Also Read: Ruto Breaks Silence After Abductions of Five Chiefs


While addressing residents, Ruto alleged that five chiefs were abducted in an attempt to block his visit to Mandera.

President Ruto said such attempts would not deter him from visiting the area and assured residents that he would ensure the safety of the Northern region of Kenya.

“Unajua hawa wajinga walikuwa wanafikiria ya kwamba wakifanya hiyo maneno walifaya jana ati ndio nisikuje hapa. Hao ni wazimu. Mimi sio ati nimekuja Mandera. Nimekuja na Mandera na ni nalala Mandela,”

Loosely translated to mean:

“You know, these fools were thinking that by doing what they did yesterday, I wouldn’t come here. They are mad. I haven’t just come to Mandera—I have come with Mandera, and I am staying in Mandera,” President Ruto said.

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President William Ruto delivered his speech from the top of a bombproof vehicle, surrounded by elite soldiers, during his visit to Mandera.
President William Ruto delivered his speech from the top of a bombproof vehicle, surrounded by elite soldiers, during his visit to Mandera.

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Annah Nanjala Wekesa

Annah Nanjala Wekesa is a journalist at The Kenya Times, with a passion for crafting news-worthy stories that leave a lasting impact. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media from Kisii University. She has honed her skills in the art of storytelling and journalism. Her passion lies in the art of storytelling that resonates with audiences, driving a commitment to delivering news-worthy stories through the lens of integrity and precision. She can be reached at annah.wekesa@thekenyatimes.com

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