The High Court has ruled that the Inspector General of Police cannot withdraw security from public officials without a written notice.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi, in his verdict over the withdrawal of bodyguards for governors Ochilo Ayacko, Gladys Wanga, James Orengo, Anyang Nyong'o and Simba Arati, said that security details are benefits afforded by the government to its officers and cannot be taken away whimsically.
According to the court, the security personnel are assigned to office holders owing to their job and the risk that comes with their office.
He asserted that it is unfair and illegal to be denied the essential service. "A declaration is hereby issued that provision of protected security detail to persons performing public duties is based on merited assessment that arises from the nature of the public duties and any withdrawal or removal of security without prior written notice, an opportunity to be heard and written reasons for the decision being given to the affected person(s) violates Article 47(1) & (2) of the Constitution and the applicable policy hence unconstitutional, unlawful, null and void," said Justice Mugambi.
