Raila Request for 34 Additional Bodyguards Denied

NASA’s flag bearer Raila Odinga request to have his security detail enhanced from the current 16 armed bodyguards to 50 has been declined.

In a letter addressed to the former prime minister, Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet declined to issue additional security to Odinga, noting that he had adequate security and he did not need more.

Boinnet told Raila to refer to the Retirement Benefits (Deputy President and Designated State Officers) Act, No 8 of 2015 which outlines the seven benefits that Raila and Kalonzo are entitled to.

The two are entitled to two cars, each with engine capacity not exceeding 2,000cc and one four-wheel-drive vehicle of an engine capacity not exceeding 3,000cc, all required to be replaced after every four years.

The Orange Democratic Movement leader in a letter dated 23rd May 2017 asked that his board guards be added from 16 to 50 and an addition of 11 new vehicles.

Through his Spokesman Dennis Onyango, the presidential candidate argued that his security detail needed to be strengthened as the current team guarding him was insufficient.

Raila said he needed one officer in the rank of Superintendent, one Chief Inspector, two Inspectors, two Sergeants, four Corporals, and 24 Police Constables.

He had also asked for one Mercedes-Benz, four four-wheel-drive vehicles, and six saloon cars.

“Of the six saloon cars, two will be assigned to chase cars (one front and one rear), two will be in the advance team, one will be in Nairobi for use in the deployment of officers and the other to remain in Nairobi for escort on his return when he flies out.

“Of the four 4WD vehicles, one will be in the convoy for the former Prime Minister’s use, one in the advance team and one to wait in Nairobi to receive him on return when he flies,” Raila’s letter read in part.

Odinga enjoys a security detail of 16 police officers, deployed to guard his homes in Karen, Bondo and the Capitol Hill office.