This archive report was first published on 4 September 2021.
Deputy President William Ruto's Karen residence was the scene of a tense standoff on Friday, September 3, as anti-riot police officers were spotted hovering outside.
The deployment of the anti-riot police sparked panic among Ruto's allies, who were meeting with youth leaders from Nairobi County at the time.
According to Emanuel Talam, Ruto's spokesperson, the police presence was an 'intimidation tactic' aimed at disrupting the meeting.
However, police spokesperson Bruno Shioso dismissed the claims, stating that the police were simply maintaining security and patrolling the area.
The incident comes amid reports of a downgrading of Ruto's security, following a series of phone calls among senior police bosses.
It is alleged that a top officer received a call from a senior official within Ruto's security circle, seeking clarification on a new directive to stop political gatherings.
GSU officers were later spotted taking over from AP officers on Saturday, August 28, in a move that has left many questioning the motives behind the deployment.
DP Ruto speaking on how he felt betrayed by the president.
