Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has raised alarm over his safety after part of his official police protection was withdrawn without explanation. Speaking from his Kibiku, Kabete residence on Tuesday, Wamatangi revealed that his security officers were recalled on Thursday and Friday last week, with no reasons given.
While a few were redeployed later, several have yet to resume duties.
"I have two back," the governor confirmed.
The governor said he intends to formally write to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja following an incident earlier on Tuesday, where he claims he was being followed by unknown individuals driving a white vehicle.
"They tried to appear like they were minding other businesses, but it is my movements they were watching. The whole saga tells me there was a sinister motive, and for that matter, it is important that I bring it to public attention, especially to the Inspector General of Police, that it is my position and request that I should have very enhanced security. I cannot and do not want to be a rumour monger, but such people may not have good intentions," Wamatangi said.
He added that he expects the police to investigate the matter urgently.
"I expect that there will be immediate action to ensure that as I move around, my security will be taken care of and that my life is guarded just like any other Kenyan, elected leader and especially at this particular time when, for reasons I am not aware of, I seem to be a subject of interest," the governor said.
Wamatangi, who often travels without his full security team, said the Tuesday episode highlighted the need to review his protection measures.
"It is my view and belief that my security needs to be relooked at and enhanced so that those threats can be countered as I remain personally vigilant while doing my work to serve the people of this county who have elected me," he explained.
The governor’s concerns follow a reported shooting incident last month near his home. A bullet hit the roof of his neighbour’s house, about 50 metres away from his residence and just 10 metres from where he was standing. The source of the shot remains unknown, and police investigations are ongoing.
Kiambu County Majority Leader Godfrey Mucheke on Tuesday also expressed concern over the lack of answers regarding the incident, calling for urgent measures to protect the governor.
