Orengo: Why my security was withdrawn
Siaya Governor James Orengo has linked the withdrawal of his security detail to his relentless criticism of President William Ruto’s administration and his growing role in the opposition-leaning Linda Mwananchi movement.
The governor protested what he described as the abrupt and unlawful withdrawal of his personal security officers and those stationed at his Nairobi residence on May 19, 2026, saying the action was politically motivated and intended to intimidate him into silence.
In a strongly worded protest letter dated May 20, 2026 and addressed to the Inspector General of Police, Mr Orengo said the officers were withdrawn without prior notice, formal communication, or the deployment of replacement personnel.
The veteran politician argued that the move was not an isolated security adjustment, but part of a broader pattern targeting leaders opposed to the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Mr Orengo has emerged as one of the most vocal figures within the Linda Mwananchi faction of the Orange Democratic Movement Party, a group that has openly challenged President Ruto’s leadership and rejected his bid for a second term.
For months, the Siaya Governor has crisscrossed the country, speaking against the high cost of living, soaring fuel prices, police brutality and the country’s mounting debt burden. His rallies have increasingly cast him as one of the fiercest critics of the current administration.
“I will not be intimidated,” the Governor maintained, insisting that the withdrawal of his security was meant to frustrate and harass him because of his political stand.
“As a State Officer under the Constitution of Kenya, the provision of security is not a privilege or a discretionary favour. It is a statutory entitlement designed to facilitate the execution of official mandates without fear of compromise or harm,” said Mr Orengo.
He demanded an official explanation on the grounds upon which the withdrawal was authorised and called for the immediate reinstatement or replacement of his security officers at all designated stations, including his Nairobi residence.
Copies of the protest letter were also sent to the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, the Chairperson of the Council of Governors and the Siaya County Police Commander.
The latest incident revives memories of the 2023 anti-government protests, when several allies of the late Raila Odinga reportedly had their security details withdrawn amid mounting political tensions.
Mr Orengo further cited events in March this year, when his bodyguard and several members of his staff were arrested and detained in Nairobi, Kisumu and Siaya under what he termed mysterious circumstances.
His bodyguard was reportedly arrested in Nairobi at about 7.30 pm and taken to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations headquarters, where he was allegedly held incommunicado.
Eight members of the Governor’s staff, including his communications officer, were also arrested the same evening and detained at various police stations across Kisumu and Siaya counties.
The arrests came only days after Mr Orengo’s Personal Assistant had been summoned to record a statement with investigators.
According to the Governor, the crackdown was linked to President William Ruto’s visit to Siaya the following day for the homecoming ceremony of Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr Ouma Oluga in Uyoma, Rarieda Constituency.
Mr Orengo claimed police had strict instructions not to release the detainees until after the President’s event had concluded.
“This egregious conduct on the part of the police has no place in a constitutional democracy. This is meant to intimidate and harass us, but it will not deter us from continuing with our cause,” said Mr Orengo.
The arrests also coincided with preparations for the planned Linda Mwananchi rally at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi, where the Orengo led team intended to unveil what they described as a parallel report on the implementation of the political MoU signed between President Ruto and the late Raila Odinga.
Shows
See AllAM Live
AM Live is NTV's morning current affairs show that sets the agenda for the day with insightful panels every weekday.
Business Redefined
Business Redefined is Kenya’s premier thought leadership platform for unpacking matters regarding economic and finance policy as well demystifying complex developments in the region’s capital markets.
Comedies
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Creatives & Coins Podcast
A podcast that dives deep into the vibrant and rapidly evolving digital creative economy in Kenya. This show explores the lives, challenges, and triumphs of individuals who are successfully navigating the gig and creative economies. From digital artists and content creators to freelance writers and tech entrepreneurs, we spotlight the voices that are shaping the future of work in Kenya.
Documentaries
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Entertainment
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Fixing The Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar. Podcast created by: Nation FM
Fixing the Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar
Full Episodes
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Gumzo La Sato
Gumzo La Sato is a live social issues show that aims to create awareness about issues affecting the larger society. The discussions range from Parenting, Marital bliss and struggles, Oppression, violence, and all matters of the Heart.
Health Diary
Health Diary is a weekly show that highlights different types of diseases/conditions and seeks ways to prevent, treat/manage them. The show debunks this through real life stories and also feature specialists in different fields, to offer medical advice on the same.
Letter To My Younger Self
Letter To My Younger Self is a podcast where guests get to write a letter to their younger self, from which Maxine formulates questions to ask them during the hour-long show.
Lunch N Rants
Take a minute outside your schedule to have a good laugh and conversations that resonate with you. Welcome to Lunch N Rant podcast where we talk about anything and everything life.
Nation Reports
Nation Reports is a weekly podcast offers an opportunity for listeners to interact with various reporters and journey with them as they unravel the biggest most emotive stories.
One Health Lens Podcast
Discussing health matters and human stories from Kenya and across Africa. We talk big picture from people to policy, ecosystems, and everything in between. Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onehealthlens
Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost peeks through the story of Louis Otieno, the times, and everything in between.
Primetime
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Speaking of GEN Z
Speaking of Gen Z brings you entertaining but meaningful conversations about a generation that is trying to navigate through adulthood. Join hosts Michelle, Jackie and Esther as they unravel all things Gen Z.
Sport On
Sport-On is a 30-minute sports magazine show on NTV and 3 hours on NATION FM. The show seeks to give the sports “fanatics” and “funatics” comprehensive and in-depth coverage of sports both locally and internationally.
Tech-over
The extent of technological growth is beyond mere acknowledgment; it has seamlessly integrated into our daily existence. A few years ago, the notion of paying electricity bills through mobile money or recharging with 'tokens' in Kenya seemed inconceivable. Online product sales were considered distant, and artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping various facets of our lives. Amidst these technological leaps, those with a solid understanding of tech can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and build a sustainable livelihood. Tech over Show aims to be the platform facilitating discussions among thought leaders, innovators, tech companies, and the government, addressing challenges and opportunities in Kenya's thriving tech industry.
Thamani
Thamani is a business show which is dedicated to emerging issues regarding micro, small and medium size businesses.
The Politalk podcast
This is The Politalk podcast. Here we look into the ins and outs of everything Kenyan politics. We pull no punches and have no reason to sugarcoat anything that matters to Kenyans.
The Trend
A two-hour-long live show that airs on Fridays. The show focuses on what is current in the entertainment industry, controversial and popular across all media platforms targeting those aged between 25 and 35 years.
The trend podcast
The trend podcast highlights and captures the best of banter from #TTTT segment that airs every Friday on NTV. It's the TTTT EXTRA
The Wicked Edition
The Wicked Edition with Dr. King’ori seeks to address serious issues through humour and relatable wit. It is a two-part half hour show filmed in front of a live audience
Trending
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Twende
Twende is a travel show that highlights beautiful, unique, diverse locations, people, and cultures. The show offers fresh perspectives on familiar locations and memorable experiences in new ones.
Unscripted
This Saturday evening lifestyle show lets viewers share their stories and life experiences as openly & honestly for the purpose of shifting the culture of silence.
VIP Access
VIP ACCESS is Anyiko Owoko’s YouTube and podcast show on Music and Culture dedicated to promoting Africa’s most promising talent and creatives. This podcast grants you VIP access into timeless interviews while providing a platform for rising as well as established artists across the continent. Since launching in 2018, Anyiko has interviewed over 70 African music stars.
WADR
This weekly news show aims to have all sides of debate but not be constrained by it, listen to main voices in the contest but not allow them to hold the viewers hostage, entertain debate but allow push back with all due respect.
When death do us part
In this podcast, three widowers openly speak about the process of grief, how they found themselves exposed to the emotional turmoil of losing their wives, and how society still does not know how to deal with them.
Your World
Your World is a health, wellness and variety show. It provides a platform for audiences and experts to share their experiences on how to improve or manage health issues, across Kenya and the Africa region.