CoG demands restoration of Governor Lonyangapuos security

The Council of Governors (CoG) has demanded immediate restoration of the security detail attached to West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo.

In a statement issued on Sunday, CoG Chairman Josephat Nanok condemned the withdrawal of Governor Lonyangapuo’s security, saying the action was taken without notice or formal communication to the governor.

“The Council of Governors strongly condemns the recent withdrawal of security detail attached to Prof. John Lonyagapuo. We note that the Governors body guards have been withdrawn from his official residence without notice. To this moment, no explanation of the same has been communicated,” reads the statement.

“The withdrawal of the Governor’s security personnel demonstrates a clear conflict between discharge of public duties and fulfillment of personal interests, whether directly or indirectly. The Inspector-General must take action in this matter, and seek to formally communicate to the Governor and immediately replace the officers. The actions witnessed must not be repeated ever again.”

Lonyangapuo’s bodyguards were recalled after he stormed a police road-block and dramatically freed a boda boda rider who had been arrested for allegedly flouting traffic rules.

Addressing the press on Friday, West Pokot County Police Commandant Mathews Kuto confirmed that security teams deployed at the governor’s home and office had been withdrawn.

Kuto said police officers are investigating the November 28 incident to ascertain what exactly happened at the road-block.

During the said incident on Wednesday this week, a visibly angry Lonyangapuo tossed aside the metal spikes that were placed at the road-block and ordered the police to leave, accusing them of harassing the youth.