Raila Allies Chide Govt Over Security Withdrawal

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga addressing Nairobi residents at Kenyatta Market on July 11, 2023.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga addressing Nairobi residents at Kenyatta Market on July 11, 2023.
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Raila Odinga

Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko, on Tuesday, July 18, revealed that his security team was recalled to Nairobi after being withdrawn by the National Government.

While speaking to the press, the governor read malice in the directive, which he argued was not communicated effectively. His team was caught flat-footed by the announcement, which was passed by the officers as opposed to being directed via the appropriate communication channels. 

"I have not received any communication from Nairobi; whether they are up to no good or not, I do not care," Ayacko lamented. 

Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko at a meeting on Tuesday July 18, 2023
Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko at a meeting with Migori youth football club heads on Tuesday, July 18, 2023
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Migori County Government

Following in the footsteps of his party leader Raila Odinga, whose security was withdrawn on July 17th, Ayacko boldly expressed his determination and refusal to be intimidated. He firmly declared that his unwavering support for Azimio's anti-government protests would not waver.

He added that the peaceful demonstrations will continue despite the hurdle and called on the police to demonstrate restraint when quelling protests in Migori. 

Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o confirmed to Kenyans.co.ke that his security team was also recalled to Nairobi.

Suna West MP Peter Masara also revealed that his security team had been withdrawn and officers attached to him asked to report to Nairobi indefinitely. 

He also chided the national government for the withdrawal stating that one officer was not enough to keep anyone safe.

"My first security is God and the people of Suna West. Mine is in Nairobi, he has not come back nor communicated to me but I believe he is doing the right thing," he added.

The duo were among opposition politicians whose security has been withdrawn for their participation in anti-government protests.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka were among Azimio leaders who were affected by the withdrawals.

In a press conference held on Tuesday, July 18, the opposition criticised the arbitrary withdrawal of security attached to Raila and Kalonzo arguing that this was a violation of the law.

Led by former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, the opposition politicians faulted the move saying the two veteran politicians were entitled to security due to their long-standing service to the nation.

Kalonzo Leads Protest in Machakos
Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka (Centre) leads protesters in Saba saba demonstrations in Machakos County on Friday, July 7, 2023.
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Kalonzo Musyoka