Four Governors in the Nyanza region have had their security details withdrawn by the government in what has been seen as due to the ongoing protests called by Azimio but outlawed by the state.
The move comes in the wake of the latest warning by the Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kindiki Kithure that they will not allow the leaders to hold protests while enjoying state security.
Governors Anyang Nyong’o (Kisumu), James Orengo (Siaya), Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay) and Ochilo Ayacko (Migori) had their security details withdrawn over the weekend.
Governor Nyong’o confirmed that his security had been withdrawn but failed to divulge more information.
He only went further to say that he will be content with private security arrangements.
“They just informed us that my security has been recalled, without giving any explanation. We don’t know what they are up to,” said the Governor.
On Monday, Nyong’o arrived at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOORTH) where he had an official function but arrived while being driven by a civilian and guarded by county askaris.
Contacted, Migori Governor said he was not moved by the action of the government to withdraw his security.
“I am not surprised that my security has been taken, after all, I am running a local government, complete with county askaris,” he said.
Orengo’s security has also been withdrawn and the same applies to his Homa Bay counterpart Wanga.
The Opposition has in the recent past intensified demonstrations across their strongholds with some governors in the region attending in person.
Last week, Governor Nyong’o joined Kisumu protestors, which was broken by the police.
The leaders are now left exposed and have to make their own private security arrangements both at work stations and at their houses.
Migori and Homa Bay County Governors however have not been spotted in the streets joining other demonstrators in their respective counties, although the withdrawal was unilateral.
At the weekend, Nyanza elected leaders led by the National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi maintained their resolve to be on the streets.
Wandayi who spoke in Kisumu said they will not be cowed by the government or suppressed to call off their push for a better Kenya as enshrined in the Constitution.
