How Eldoret Residents Reacted To Security Replacement at DP Ruto’s Residences
A move by the National Police Service to replace security details at Deputy President William Ruto’s residences across the country continues to elicit mixed reactions across the political divide.
KHISA CJ
A move by the National Police Service to replace security details at Deputy President William Ruto’s residences across the country continues to elicit mixed reactions across the political divide.
Several politicians allied to the DP have faulted the move, terming it as part of a wider scheme to demean him – hoping that he fights back.
In Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, where there is one of Ruto’s residences that was affected by the latest security changes, locals pitched camp at the Elgon View residence where they vowed to step in and provide the security.
Led by the Uasin Gishu County Assembly Deputy Chief Whip Gilbert Tenai and Kipsomba MCA Joel Rugut, the locals said even if Ruto’s security is withdrawn in totality, they will protect him.
“Ruto has a right to be protected by the government but if powers that be see it fit that he does not deserve to be protected, we as the locals will ensure the DP is protected,” said Tenai, who is also the Cheptiret/Kipchamo MCA.
“We will draw a timetable and put in place a clear strategy on how this residence will be protected. We also know God will protect him (Ruto),” added Rugut.
In a separate media briefing in Eldoret, Soy Member of Parliament Caleb Kositany termed the withdrawal of the Deputy President’s security detail as petty.
He also dismissed assertions by the National Police Service that it was normal redeployment, reading malice in the move that he noted had left a security vacuum.
“There should and can never be a security vacuum when it comes to an individual of the caliber of Ruto. The DP is not bothered with this and we will provide security to him. There is already a number of people calling me saying they are retired police officers and army ready to provide the protection even with their hands,” said Kositany.
The vocal MP later led locals in a peaceful demonstration in Eldoret town to condemn that action that has escalated a rift between President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy.
