Gov't Withdraws GSU Officers Guarding Deputy President William Ruto's Residences

The security detail guarding Deputy President William Ruto’s official residence in Karen, Nairobi has been replaced.

The elite officers from the GSU G Company were withdrawn on Thursday are replaced by Administration Police Security of Government Buildings Unit (AP SGB), according to reports.

Ruto’s communications secretary David Mugonyi in a statement said the changes also affect the deputy president’s private homes.

“This morning, the Deputy President was briefed by the security officer in charge of General Service Unit attached to his official residence in Karen that he had received verbal instructions to withdraw all GSU officers effective 2.00 pm,” said Mugonyi.

“The withdrawal extends to all of His Excellency’s residences. At this stage, no explanation has been offered for the strange and unlawful decision.”

Mugonyi said the move contravenes Police Service Standing Orders, which state the GSU commandant shall be responsible for the security of the President, the Deputy President, State houses, and lodges.

“The office of the Deputy President has formally written to the Inspector General of Police, seeking an official explanation on this matter and reasons for the breach of security,” added Mugonyi.

The development comes days after President Kenyatta challenged Ruto to resign if he felt unsatisfied with how the government is being run. Uhuru faulted Ruto for criticizing the same government he is part of and, at the same time, taking credit for its achievements.

“The honorable thing is that if you are not happy is you step aside and allow those who want to move on, to move on. So that you can also take your agenda to the people. This is what happens in any normal democracy. You can’t have your cake and eat it,” Kenyatta stated.

In a rejoinder, Ruto said, “I have no space to retreat and I don’t have the luxury to surrender.”