This archive report was first published on 11 May 2021.
Charles Owino, the National Police Spokesperson, has been reassigned to the Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons in a surprise move by Inspector General of Police Hilary Mutyambai, effective May 11, 2021.
According to sources, Owino has been on leave and has been re-deployed to the department as a Deputy Director.
"He is no longer the Police Spokesman," a senior police officer told Capital FM News. "He has been moved to the small arms department."
The reason for the move remains unclear, with no statement issued by Police Headquarters. Observers have linked the change to Owino's intention to pursue a political seat in 2022.
Owino has served as Police Spokesperson for over 10 years but has recently been less visible, with statements from police headquarters often being sent directly to newsrooms without his involvement.
He has declared his intention to vie for the gubernatorial seat in Siaya next year, a move that has raised eyebrows given his position in the police.
