The recent changes in security at Deputy President William Ruto’s Karen residense was meant to stop a series of political meetings that were being held at his home, it has emerged.
On Thursday, August 26, officers from the General Service Unit that form part of the Presidential security were withdrawn from the Deputy President’s official residence in Karen and replaced by officers from the Security of Government Buildings Unit which is part of Administration Police (AP).
According to the Standard, the decision to withdraw the elite GSU officers manning the DP’s residence was reached on Saturday, August 21, after it emerged that the elite GSU were teaming with delegates from across the country and allowing political meetings to go on contrary to the protocols put in place by the Ministry of Health.
No doubt the Deputy President has been receiving delegates from across the country in the recent past to cement his base ahead of the crucial 2022 presidential election despite a ban on political meetings aimed at flattening the Covid-19 curve.
According to a security brief, top police bosses felt that the security chief at Karen was not dealing with the directives well, and as such, a decision was reached to replace the team.
While Ruto and his allies protested the changes made to his security over what they say was politically instigated, the National Police Service termed the reshuffle of Ruto’s security as a normal reassignment.
“This is a normal reassignment of duties within the National Police Service to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The Presidential Escort continues to provide close security protection to William Ruto,” Police spokesperson Bruno Shioso explained.
Other than the change in William Ruto’s security, Kivumbi.co.ke understands that at least five drivers attached to the DP have been withdrawn.
According to DP Ruto’s spokesperson Emmanuel Talam, the trained police officers attached to William Ruto’s transport team were recalled on Friday, August 27.
“Those who have been withdrawn are five trained police officers who are in the driving team,” Talam said.
