Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome, had a tale to tell as he addressed the confusion surrounding the withdrawal of the security detail assigned to former President Uhuru Kenyatta. With a twinkle in his eye and a chuckle in his voice, Koome confirmed that the changes were simply part of a grand restructuring plan within the National Police Service (NPS).
“A Little Restructuring Never Hurt Anyone!”
At a press conference held in Mombasa on Thursday, February 3, Koome disclosed that he had recalled the officer in charge of the former President’s security to make sure everything was in order with the regulations of the NPS. He explained that with the President’s retirement, the commander was now a superintendent of police, so it wouldn’t do for an assistant Inspector General to report to another assistant Inspector General.
“Rank Has its Privileges – But Retirement Does Too!”
Koome was quick to defend the move, saying it was all in good faith and not a result of any political witch-hunt. However, he declined to respond to questions about the number of police officers attached to the former President, saying that information was confidential.
In addition, Koome confirmed that the security detail for former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta was still intact, despite reports to the contrary that had circulated on Friday, February 2.
“Security for the First Ladies – No Threats Allowed!”
He went on to address concerns about the withdrawal of security detail assigned to former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho. Koome noted that the changes were aimed at rationalizing security deployment throughout the country, to ensure that security personnel was distributed fairly.
“Fair is Fair – Security for All Officials, Both Present and Past!”
According to Koome, it would be unfair if former government officials retained the same number of security personnel in retirement when current officials needed protection for their operations. He asserted the government’s commitment to ensuring security for the former government officials, as well as for the country at large, without discrimination.
“Peace and Calm for All Kenyans – That’s Our Mandate!”
Koome wrapped up his speech by saying that the government had put strategies in place to make sure Kenyans continued to enjoy peace and calm in the country. He promised to discharge his mandate without fear or favor, to ensure there was law and order and that the country remained safe and secure.
