Salasya demands restoration of James Orengo’s security
By Cynthia Lodite, May 21, 2026Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya has strongly criticised the sudden withdrawal of security for Siaya Governor James Orengo, describing it as an abuse of state power intended to punish dissenting political views.
Taking to his official X account on Thursday, May 21, 2026, the legislator argued that security for public leaders is a fundamental right, not a presidential favour that can be revoked at will.
“Security is not a gift from the President or any state officer that he can take away when he’s annoyed. It is a right for leaders who serve the public. Using police and state power to punish political opinions is dictatorship, not democracy,” Salasya stated.
Salasya went on to demand that leaders ought to speak freely without fear.
“Restore James Orengo’s security.Let leaders speak freely without fear. Kenya is not a police state.Siasa ya vitisho and intimidation lazima iishe!,” he added.
Orengo’s security
The controversy stems from events on the evening of Tuesday, May 19, 2026, when Orengo’s entire personal security detail and officers assigned to his Nairobi residence were withdrawn without prior notice, formal communication, or replacement.
In a strongly worded protest letter dated May 20, 2026, addressed to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Governor Orengo demanded an immediate formal explanation from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.
He termed the move “abrupt and unprocedural” and protested the lack of any stated basis for the decision.
Demand for Explanation and Restoration of Security
Following the incident, the Governor has requested an immediate explanation from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and the Inspector General of Police regarding the basis of the decision and the authority behind it.
He has also demanded the urgent reinstatement or replacement of his security detail at all affected locations, including his Nairobi residence.
Orengo emphasized that the absence of security personnel poses operational and safety concerns that must be addressed without delay.
“In light of the above, I urgently request: An official explanation as to the grounds upon which this security withdrawal was authorised, the immediate reinstatement or replacement of my official security detail at all designated stations, including my Nairobi residence,” Orengo said.
Other leaders remarks
The development has sparked broader concerns among opposition figures.
Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo echoed similar sentiments, noting that withdrawing security due to political differences sets a dangerous precedent and ultimately burdens the state if harm occurs.
The incident comes amid ongoing political tensions in Kenya, with critics viewing such actions as attempts to silence opposition voices ahead of future electoral cycles.
Governor Orengo, a veteran opposition politician and former Senator, has been vocal on national issues, including recent county governance and economic matters.