Constitutional duty first: Why Military and Intelligence Chiefs Must Stay Apolitical
by admin on | 2025-04-03 08:07:02
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Kenya’s democracy is anchored on the principle of constitutionalism, where every institution and public officer must operate within the confines of the law. Among the most critical guardians of this constitutional order are the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Intelligence Service (NIS). Their leaders—General Charles Kahariri and Director General Noordin Haji—are bound by solemn oaths to serve the Republic, not any individual or political faction. Recent reports suggesting that these security chiefs are unsettled by the \"Ruto must go\" chants raise serious concerns about their neutrality. Article 238 of the Constitution mandates that national security organs—including the military and intelligence services—must remain strictly non-partisan. Their duty is to protect Kenya’s sovereignty and democratic framework, not to police political dissent or shield any leader from criticism. Freedom of expression, guaranteed under Article 33, allows citizens to voice their opinions, including dissent against the government. The \"Ruto must go\" slogan, however discomforting to those in power, is neither illegal nor unconstitutional. For General Kahariri and Mr. Haji to express unease over such chants risks politicizing institutions that must remain impartial. This editorial underscores why Kenya’s military and intelligence chiefs must stay out of...Read more
