CDF Kahariri & Noordin Haji Warned Against Interfering in ‘Ruto Must Go’ Uproar
The recent pronouncements by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri and National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji, regarding the ‘Ruto Must Go’ chants, have ignited a firestorm of criticism.
Senator Okiya Omtatah, a vocal critic, has accused the two leaders of violating the Kenyan Constitution by engaging in political discourse. He argues their statements directly contradict the constitutional mandate requiring security agencies to remain neutral.
Omtatah’s statement emphasized the dangers of security institutions becoming entangled in political matters. He cited Article 239(3) of the Kenyan Constitution, which explicitly prohibits national security organs from acting in a partisan manner.
“The NIS and CDF’s public remarks at the lecture, framing the ‘Ruto Must Go’ campaign as a threat, breach this obligation, compromising their independence,” Omtatah stated.
He further asserted that the military’s primary duty is to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, not to participate in political debates.
The Busia Senator called for an immediate cessation of political involvement by Kahariri and Haji. He also demanded a public clarification from both leaders, reaffirming their commitment to constitutional neutrality.
Moreover, Omtatah urged Parliament to launch a thorough investigation into the alleged misuse of state security agencies for political purposes. He also called for legal accountability for any officials found to have violated the Constitution.
“Kenya is a democratic nation governed by the rule of law. We will not allow security institutions to be weaponised for political suppression, as seen in continental examples of military overreach,” Omtatah commented.
General Kahariri’s comments, made at the National Intelligence and Research University, emphasized that while freedom of expression is protected, it must be exercised within constitutional boundaries. He stated the military remains apolitical and defends the Constitution and the elected government.
“We cannot have anarchy as a country. Even as people exercise their freedom, they must do so within certain limits. We, the military, are apolitical; we do not support any side,” Kahariri said.
“We defend the Constitution and the government of the day, duly elected by the people. Now that you feel tired of somebody you genuinely elected and begin to chant ‘Must Go’, that ‘Must Go’ should be done in accordance with the Constitution,” he added.
Omtatah’s demand for clarity and accountability underscores the growing tension surrounding the role of security agencies in Kenya’s political landscape.
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CDF Kahariri & Noordin Haji Warned Against Interfering in ‘Ruto Must Go’ Uproar
