President William Ruto has directed all government agencies to stop referring to private security personnel as “watchmen” or “guards”.
According to the Head of State, the terms are outdated, and disrespectful.
Speaking during a meeting with private security officers at State House, Nairobi on Thursday August 6, 2026, Ruto said all official references should instead use the title “private security officers.”
“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,” President Ruto said.
“We agreed that work is work, and yours is work. ‘Watchman’ was disrespectful and came from colonial rule. You are no longer watchmen; you are private security officers. The laws will be changed,” he added.
Additionally, the Head of the Republic said that the change is part of efforts to recognise the dignity and professionalism of workers in the private security sector.
He also lauded private security officers for the critical role they play in safeguarding homes, businesses, schools, farms and other institutions.
“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,” Ruto further said.
