Security Breach at Ganze Rally Prompts Overhaul of Presidential Escort Unit
Eugine Wabwile
2 min read
BY MARK MABUSI
A security breach during President William Ruto’s thanksgiving rally in Ganze, Kilifi County, has triggered immediate changes to the Presidential Escort Unit and renewed concerns over political tensions along Kenya’s coast.
The incident occurred on Saturday, May 24, 2026, as President Ruto addressed a crowd during a ceremony honoring Youth Affairs Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs. Eyewitnesses and video footage from Tandao TV showed a young man carrying a Bible bypass multiple security layers to reach the presidential dais, briefly embracing the President before being escorted away by officers.President Ruto swiftly diffused the tense moment, urging security personnel to “leave that young man alone” and joking that the man had learned from Fikirini Jacobs “not to miss any opportunity.” His lighthearted response quelled the crowd’s unrest.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja described the breach as a “gravest national concern,” ordering an immediate restructuring of the Presidential Escort Unit and the specialized Recce Sub-Unit. Senior officer William Sawe was appointed Commandant of the Presidential Escort Unit, replacing Noah Kirwa Maiyo, who was reassigned to the Vigilance Unit. Several other senior officers were also redeployed or placed on leave pending retirement.Kanja announced the formation of a special investigations team to probe how the breach occurred, emphasizing that the President’s security remains a matter of national importance. The team will review operational protocols and crowd management strategies for presidential events.
The rally was part of President Ruto’s ongoing efforts to consolidate support in the coastal region, a key battleground ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speakers at the event highlighted government investments in infrastructure and social programs as evidence of commitment to the area.Security experts note that the breach echoes similar incidents in Wajir earlier this year, underscoring challenges in coordinating security during high-profile political tours. The National Police Service reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding national leadership and preventing future lapses.
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As investigations proceed, the incident has intensified political focus on the coast, where both Kenya Kwanza and opposition parties are ramping up campaigns ahead of next year’s polls.
