Siaya Governor James Orengo says he can no longer trust the State to protect him. He accuses the government of repeatedly withdrawing his security detail at politically sensitive moments.

In remarks reported by Nation on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, Orengo said he now relies on the goodwill of members of the public and on private security personnel, even though his political activities expose him to danger.

Nine withdrawals

In a statement on 15 October, Orengo said his security had been withdrawn for the ninth time. In May, he complained that an earlier withdrawal came without notice, official communication or replacement officers, and he wrote to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja demanding an explanation.

The veteran politician and former Senate Minority Leader argues that security for a sitting governor is a constitutional right and a statutory entitlement, not a favour granted at the government's discretion.

Not alone

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who is locked in a bitter standoff with President William Ruto, has made similar complaints. He has cited a 2025 High Court ruling that withdrawing an officer's security without prior written notice, a chance to be heard and written reasons violates Article 47 of the Constitution.

The two governors have jointly demanded answers from IG Kanja, Capital FM reported.

Political backdrop

Orengo has become one of the most prominent critics of ODM's cooperation with Ruto's government. He has appeared at rallies of the Linda Mwananchi Movement led by Senator Edwin Sifuna.

The National Police Service has not publicly explained the repeated withdrawals. Opposition leaders say the pattern is meant to intimidate critics ahead of the 2027 election.

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