Gov't Explains the Withdrawal of GSU Officers Guarding Ruto's Residence

The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a statement regarding the withdrawal of General Service Unit (GSU) officers guarding the official residence of Deputy President William Ruto in Karen, Nairobi.

Police Spokesperson Bruno Shioso in a statement to newsrooms termed the replacement of the elite officers from the GSU G company with those from the Administration Police Security of Government Buildings Unit as a normal re-assignment of duties within the National Police Service to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

“Today 26th August, 2021 the Security of Government Buildings Unit (SGB) has been deployed to provide general security to the official residence of H.E the Deputy President from General Service Unit (GSU). This is a normal re-assignment of duties within the National Police Service to enhance efficiency and effectiveness,” reads the statement.

Shioso added that the Presidential Escort Unit will continue to provide close protection security to the deputy president.

Ruto, through his communication secretary David Mugonyi, protested the move saying it contravenes police service standing orders.

"The decision has been made contrary to Police Service Standing Orders, Chapter 8 Section 5(e), that the GSU commandant shall be responsible for security of the President, the Deputy President, State houses and lodges," Mugonyi said.