Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised serious concerns over the state of President William Ruto’s security apparatus, alleging that officers attached to the Presidential Escort Unit are demoralised, underpaid, and operating under strained conditions.
Speaking during a press briefing on Sunday, Gachagua said the safety and wellbeing of the Head of State remains central to national stability, even as political tensions continue to rise ahead of future elections.
He noted that he had previously avoided commenting publicly on security matters due to the sensitivity involved, but insisted that any threat or harm to the President would have far-reaching consequences for the country.
“His security and wellbeing is a very important ingredient of our political stability… He must be safe,” Gachagua said, warning that any lapse in protection could plunge the country into a crisis of “great magnitude.”
The former Deputy President also directed criticism at senior government officials, accusing them of poor leadership and mishandling security matters. He singled out Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, describing his leadership style as lacking maturity and effectiveness in handling sensitive security issues.
Gachagua alleged that security chiefs are struggling to brief the Interior Ministry effectively and claimed that decisive action should have been taken following recent security breaches involving the President.
He further alleged that the Presidential Escort Unit is facing internal challenges, including claims of unpaid allowances, poor morale, and what he described as attempts to influence officers’ earnings.
According to him, such conditions could compromise professionalism within one of the country’s most sensitive security formations. He urged the government to ensure officers receive their rightful dues and called for a review of welfare structures within the unit.
“Allow professionals to serve him,” he said, insisting that the presidential security detail must be insulated from political interference and internal frustrations.
Gachagua also criticised the broader leadership within government, accusing some officials of failing to act decisively in the wake of recent security incidents. He further alleged that certain political statements and responses from government spokespersons were coordinated and not reflective of genuine concern.
In addition, he dismissed an apology issued by UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar over earlier controversial remarks, claiming the statements were part of a broader political script.
The former Deputy President also warned against attempts to undermine electoral integrity, urging electoral officials to safeguard the credibility of the 2027 General Election. He further challenged the Head of State to publicly commit to accepting future election outcomes.
His remarks are expected to intensify ongoing political debate over governance, security management, and institutional accountability within the country’s leadership structures.
