By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
Kenya, May 20, 2026 - Siaya Governor James Orengo has demanded an immediate explanation after the government allegedly withdrew his security details. In a statement, the governor said his personal security and that of his Nairobi residence were withdrawn, terming the action abrupt and unprocedural.
“This drastic action was taken without any prior notification, formal communication or the provision of a suitable replacement,” Orengo said in the statement. The governor argued that, as a state officer under the Constitution of Kenya, the provision of security is not a privilege or discretionary favour, but a statutory entitlement designed to facilitate the execution of official duties without fear of compromise or harm.
“In light of the above, I urgently request an official explanation as to the grounds upon which this security withdrawal was authorized,” he said in the statement sent to newsrooms. Orengo also called for the immediate reinstatement or replacement of his official security personnel at all designated stations, including his Nairobi residence.
According to the governor, the security details were withdrawn on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
There was no immediate explanation from the police regarding the latest move. However, the withdrawal is already being linked to Orengo’s recent hardline criticism of President William Ruto’s administration and his growing role in the ODM “Linda Mwananchi” faction, which opposes cooperation with UDA.
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The development comes at a time when political tensions within ODM continue to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, particularly over the party’s future relationship with President Ruto’s government.
Speaking during a recent political tour, Governor Orengo insisted that ODM would not enter into any agreement with President William Ruto’s party, arguing that the opposition party must maintain its independence and chart its own political direction ahead of the next election cycle.
The incident is now likely to fuel wider political debate over the treatment of opposition leaders, the use of state security apparatus and the growing divisions emerging within Kenya’s opposition politics.