This archive report was first published on 28 August 2021.
On August 28, 2021, a significant security shift occurred at the funeral of late nominated senator Victor Prengei in Nakuru County. General Service Unit (GSU) officers took over from Administration Police (AP) officers guarding Deputy President William Ruto.
A video captured the moment GSU officers moved in and formed a new security protocol at Gichaki grounds, Mariashoni, Nakuru County, as the APs moved out. The reason behind this change is unclear, but it may be linked to Ruto's letter to Inspector General Hillary Mutyambai, calling for the redeployment of GSU members.
Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya stated that the deployment of GSU officers was a normal procedure to enhance security, contain pandemic restrictions, and prevent tribal conflicts in Mariashoni.
During the funeral, Ruto expressed his focus on turning around the Kenyan economy through his bottom-up approach, stating, "I'm sorry I will have to disappoint those gentlemen who want us to talk about power and positions and security, I'm busy assembling an economic plan that will see to it that we create jobs for the youth and security for all."
Earlier, Ruto's allies had called out top officials regarding the downgrading of his security detail. A total of 77 GSU officers were withdrawn and replaced with 26 security officers from the Government Buildings Unit (GBU) of the administrative police service, contravening National Police Service orders that stipulate the presidency should be guarded by GSU.
Following the downgrade, Ruto wrote a letter to Inspector General Hillary Mutyambai, claiming his life was in danger and that the new security detail might have been deployed with an ulterior motive.
Police spokesperson Bruno Shioso had earlier affirmed the changes, stating they were a normal re-assignment of duties within the security forces to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
