Kenya scales down security of ex-president Kenyatta

6th Feb 2023 | Source: BBC

Ex-President Uhuru Kenyatta (L) did not support the presidential bid of his then Deputy President William Ruto (R)

Kenya's former President Uhuru Kenyatta has had his security detail significantly cut back, as relations with his successor William Ruto sour over calls for tax scrutiny on the Kenyatta family's vast wealth.

The head of police told journalists that the changes were guided by police regulations on the security of a retired president.

"He is very safe and secure... Whatever has been done is in good faith," Inspector General Japheth Koome said on Friday.

Mr Kenyatta's security of 96 elite officers has been reduced to 25 while the former First Lady has five, the Daily Nation reports.

Former influential ministers during President Kenyatta's tenure have also had their security whittled down.

President Ruto allies have been calling for investigations into tax waivers enjoyed by the Kenyatta family during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s reign.

Mr Ruto this week accused tax cheats of funding recent opposition rallies.