Ruto was speaking at State House on Thursday.
By Cantona Joseph August 06, 2026 15:49 (EAT)
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President William Ruto has directed all government agencies to stop referring to private security personnel as “watchmen” and “guards”, saying the terms are outdated, disrespectful and rooted in Kenya’s colonial past.
Speaking during a meeting with private security officers at State House on Thursday, Ruto said all official references should instead use the title “private security officers” as the government moves to amend the law.
“I know that these terminologies are in the law and regulations, but I am instructing all government agencies to expunge references to all private security officers as watchmen and guards,” he said.
“We agreed that work is work, and yours is work. ‘Watchman’ was disrespectful and came from the colonial rule. You are no longer watchmen; you are private security officers. The laws will be changed.”
The President said the change is part of efforts to recognise the dignity and professionalism of workers in the private security sector.
His directive comes minutes after a security guard appealed to Ruto to have private guards officially referred to as security officers instead of watchmen, saying the change would accord them the respect they deserve.
Ruto also lauded private security officers for the critical role they play in safeguarding homes, businesses, schools, farms and other institutions across the country.
“Before many Kenyans wake up, a private security officer is already awake. You stand at our gates, homes, schools, offices and farms. You welcome us when we arrive, watch over our property while we work and remain behind when everyone else calls it a day,” he said.
The President noted that the meeting at State House was the largest gathering ever hosted at the venue, saying it reflected the importance of the sector.
“My officers are telling me that we have about 27,000 people. This is the biggest meeting that has ever happened here, and I am happy that this big meeting is for Kenyans the private security officers who ensure our security,” he said.
Ruto said the government will pursue legislative changes to align existing laws with the new designation for private security personnel.
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