Kenya’s Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja Kirocho, has reshuffled the leadership of the presidential protection unit following a serious security lapse involving President William Samoei Ruto.
On May 24, 2026, during a thanksgiving prayer service in Ganze, Kilifi County, a young man managed to bypass security and reach President Ruto on stage, even touching his shoulder. Security officers quickly pulled him away, but the incident sparked public debate about repeated breaches of presidential security.
President Ruto himself asked officers to handle the man gently, promising to speak with him later. However, this was the third such incident in 2026, raising concerns about the effectiveness of his protection detail.
Inspector General Kanja described the lapse as unacceptable and announced a special investigation team to determine how the breach occurred. He emphasized that the safety of the Head of State must never be compromised.
In a follow-up statement, Kanja confirmed leadership changes: Noah Kirwa Maiyo, head of the presidential protection unit, was removed and replaced by William Sawe.
Juda Mathews Gwiyo, previously on leave, will remain off duty until retirement. The deputy commander role was reassigned to George Kirera.
These changes reflect Kenya’s determination to restore confidence in the presidential security system after repeated breaches.