Perceived State critics face the wrath of power and intimidation

Ruto’s regime has over the past four years been accused of suppressing dissenting voices. Human rights organisations have repeatedly raised concerns over the disappearance of activists and bloggers critical of the government.[File Standard]

President William Ruto’s administration appears to be strengthening the creation of a presidency anchored on political intolerance as perceived critics and those unable to implement the government’s wishes feel the wrath of State power and intimidation.

In a week that scores of Kenyans were detained for allegedly protesting against fuel prices and others shot dead, the government’s use of intimidation tactics against critics has reemerged.

Claims of growing State intolerance have resurfaced after Siaya Governor James Orengo accused the government of abruptly withdrawing his security detail without notice, in what critics say reflects increasing hostility toward dissenting voices against the current regime.

This is a typical example of allegations against President William Ruto’s administration, which has for the past four years been accused of using State agencies to silence critics and suppress dissenting voices.

Security personnel

In a letter dated May 20, 2026, Orengo termed the move “abrupt and unprocedural,” saying the security personnel attached to him were withdrawn on Tuesday evening without prior notice, formal communication, or suitable replacements being provided.

“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,” Orengo stated in the letter.

The incident has now triggered a wider political debate, with critics linking the move to Orengo’s recent hardline criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration and growing tensions within Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

In recent months, Orengo has openly opposed attempts to align ODM fully with the Ruto administration under the broad-based arrangement.

He has repeatedly insisted that ODM must remain an independent opposition outfit ahead of the 2027 General Election.

“The problem in ODM is President Ruto,” Orengo declared recently while defending Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna during internal party wrangles.

The governor is known as a fierce critic of the Kenya Kwanza regime and is a prominent figure in the ODM-aligned Linda Mwananchi faction, which has positioned itself against President Ruto’s administration.

His remarks have placed him on a collision path with another ODM faction, Linda Ground, associated with Oburu Oginga and Gladys Wanga, who support continued cooperation with the government.

Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo said that during past protests, his security officers were withdrawn until court intervention, arguing that it is wrong to withdraw security from Orengo or any other leader due to political differences,.

“In the unfortunate event that something untoward befalls any leader, the same government will spend a lot more.

‘‘Leaders are secured for the benefit of the electorate and governance,” said Amollo.

Political and governance analyst Moses Ombayo said the withdrawal of Orengo’s security raises serious questions about the state of democracy and tolerance in Kenya.

“When State security begins to be used in ways that appear punitive against critics, then democracy itself starts becoming threatened,” Ombayo said.

Among the most controversial cases was the withdrawal and scaling down of security attached to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following his fallout with allies within government.

The move sparked accusations that State security was being used to settle political scores.

Last year, the security detail of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was withdrawn.

The governor directly linked the situation to his criticism of the government, saying police officers manning his home, as well as guards attached to him, were withdrawn at midnight.

Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi also previously complained publicly about alleged surveillance and intimidation after differing with sections of government.

There were also claims by opposition leaders and activists during the Gen Z-led anti-government protests that police selectively targeted government critics through arrests, abductions, and intimidation.

Human rights organisations have repeatedly raised concerns over the disappearance of activists and bloggers critical of the State, with some later resurfacing after days in unknown locations.

Common scenes

Critics have also pointed to the handling of anti-government demonstrations, where heavy police deployment, teargas, and arrests became common scenes in Nairobi and other towns.

“The pattern is becoming difficult to ignore. Today it is Orengo, tomorrow it could be another governor, senator, activist, or journalist. Democracies die slowly when intimidation becomes normalised,” said Stephen Chahasi, a Kakamega-based human rights activist.

Human rights defenders warned that political intolerance could worsen tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election if left unchecked.

“When leaders begin fearing criticism and resort to coercive tactics, institutions lose public confidence. That is dangerous for national stability,” he said.

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