Pressure intensifies on presidential escort unit over rising security breaches
By Sharon Atieno, May 25, 2026Fresh pressure is mounting on the presidential escort unit following growing concerns over repeated security breaches surrounding the presidency, with political leaders and governance experts warning that the trend could expose the country to serious security risks.
Speaking during an interview on a local television station on Monday, May 25, 2026, opposition youth leader Ken Babu said the office of the president must remain protected at all costs, regardless of the individual occupying it, insisting that recent incidents had raised serious questions over the country’s security preparedness.
“The presidency as a whole is a very important office, regardless of who holds the office. The breaches that we have seen so far are matters of concern,” Ken Babu stated.
Security fears grow
His remarks come amid increasing public debate over the safety of top state officials after a series of incidents that critics say have exposed weaknesses within the presidential security system and shaken public confidence in national security structures.
Ken Babu faulted the presidential escort unit for what he termed growing lapses in protecting the Head of State, warning that any security failure targeting the Presidency ultimately places the entire country at risk.
“It is within the purview of the presidential escort unit to ensure that the presidency is protected,” he added.
The outspoken youth leader argued that the matter should not be politicised, saying the security of the presidency transcends party affiliations and political rivalries because it symbolises the stability of the nation.
Opposition figure returns to spotlight
Ken Babu, who previously made headlines after leading a family delegation to the burial site of opposition chief Raila Odinga in a symbolic political gesture last year, has lately re-emerged as a vocal critic of governance and security failures within government circles.
Political observers say his latest remarks are likely to ignite fresh scrutiny on security agencies at a time when the country is witnessing heightened political temperatures ahead of the 2027 general election.
The comments also sparked reactions online, with a section of Kenyans questioning whether security agencies are still adequately prepared to handle threats targeting senior state officials and strategic national institutions.
Analysts now warn that continued security breaches around the Presidency could further damage public trust in the country’s security apparatus if urgent corrective measures are not implemented.