Saitoti on the spot over MPs' security guards

MPs yesterday took Internal Security minister Prof George Saitoti to task claiming the government is intimidating them by withdrawing the bodyguards.

The minister declined to reveal the name of the person who ordered the withdrawal of Juja MP William Kabogo’s security on Friday. Kabogo and nominated MP Millie Odhiambo said that they were facing intimidation from the government over their security.

Millie issued a personal statement claiming she was attacked by thugs at her rural home in Suba at the Weekend. “Six armed thugs carrying AK 47 attacked us. They stole money from us but did not hurt us,” Odhiambo said.

Kabogo told Parliament that his security was withdrawn on Friday evening under mysterious circumstances. “On Friday my security was withdrawn under circumstances that I cannot understand,” Kabogo said.

Saitoti however said he was yet to get details of the government official who ordered the MPs security withdrawn. “I called the MP in my office on Friday and ordered his security detail reinstated. I am shocked that the minister is indicating that I am the one who withdrew his bodyguard,” Saitoti said.

Gwasi MP John Mbadi demanded an explanation from the minister on why MPs were being blackmailed by the government by the withdrawal of their security.

Yesterday Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s adviser on coalition matters Miguna Miguna also complained that his bodyguard had been withdrawn by the AP commandant.