The 12 security officers assigned to Raila and Kalonzo will cater for their personal security and that of their residence. [Photo: Standard/ File]

By CYRUS OMBATI

NAIROBI; KENYA: Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka have each been assigned 12 bodyguards and two cars for their security and operations.

 They have at the same time been ordered to surrender a total of ten luxury cars in their possession.

 Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph ole Lenku said the security officers will cater for their personal security and that of their residence.

 "In line with the Government Policy, I wish to inform you that you have been allocated two government vehicles for use by the security officers attached to you," said Mr Lenku in a letter to the two top government officials and now Cord leaders.

 Mr Raila is supposed to return eight vehicles while Mr Musyoka is to return two, the letters said.

 The former PM’s car he is supposed to return includes three Mercedes Benz cars, a Range Rover, 3 Prados, and a Nissan Sunny.

 And in a similar letter dated July 26 to Mr Musyoka, Lenku also orders him to return two four-wheel drive vehicles, both Toyota Prados, in his possession.

 “I hope this communication has set the record straight with regard to your entitlement. For any further clarification, kindly contact the undersigned,” said both letters in part.

 Last week, Government Spokesman Muthui Kariuki attacked Raila and sensationally claimed he is holding onto six government vehicles that he had been assigned.

He added the former PM has been breaking traffic laws by using wrong lanes in an attack that attracted condemnation.

“He is forever mourning that the government is not giving him recognition, yet he has refused to return six government vehicles and has gone on and bought an illegal siren and is forever driving all over town using the wrong lanes,” said Kariuki.

Cord leaders denied the claims and defended Raila dismissing Kariuki.

They demanded to know how many cars that the former president Kibaki is assigned.

 Others said other former leaders have been enjoying government services including bodyguards and cars and wondered why the government is mistreating Mr Raila.