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Former Presidential Escort Unit commandant Noah Maiyo was redeployed after a breach into President William Ruto's security during a function in Kilifi County last month. [File, Standard]

The security breach witnessed during President William Ruto’s public rally in Ganze, Kilifi County, was not just another political incident for social media debates and online humour. It was a serious national security warning that Kenya cannot afford to ignore.

In full public view, a young man broke through security lines, rushed toward the presidential podium, held the President and whispered words into his ear before officers responded. For several seconds, the President stood exposed before a charged public gathering.

Fortunately, the incident ended peacefully. Dr Ruto remained calm and even restrained security officers from rough-handling the individual. Many Kenyans admired the President’s composure under pressure. But leadership composure should never be confused with security preparedness.