Kenya’s top security officials have issued a firm warning against any unconstitutional attempts to remove President William Ruto from office.
The warnings, delivered by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri and National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji, come amid the rising momentum of the ‘Ruto Must Go’ campaign, which has been increasingly voiced in public gatherings and on social media.
Military’s Stand on Political Neutrality
Speaking at the National Intelligence and Research University in Nairobi, General Kahariri reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to political neutrality and constitutional order.
He stated unequivocally, “As military, our core value is that we are apolitical. We don’t support any political camp. We defend the Constitution and the government of the day.”
General Kahariri also cautioned against actions that could destabilize the nation, warning that while citizens have the right to express their grievances, any transition of power must adhere to the legal and constitutional framework.
“When people say, ‘We are tired of this government,’ yet they elected it themselves, any change must follow the Constitution. If the military is deployed, it is because we have a duty to protect the country,” he asserted.
Intelligence Chief Warns Against Incitement
Echoing Kahariri’s sentiments, NIS Director-General Noordin Haji raised concerns over the increasing use of social media to propagate divisive political rhetoric.
He warned against the dangers of ethnic mobilization and incitement, stating, “Weaponization of ethnicity only sows divisions and manipulates society. Political competition should not escalate into incitement or public unrest.”
The intelligence chief urged political leaders and citizens to ensure that their activism remains within the confines of the law, cautioning that unchecked rhetoric could plunge the country into instability.
Rising Political Tensions and Public Dissent
The warnings from the security chiefs come as the ‘Ruto Must Go’ campaign continues to gain traction, manifesting in various public spaces, including entertainment venues and sporting events.
A notable instance occurred during the recent Harambee Stars vs. Gabon match at Nyayo National Stadium, where both President Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga were in attendance.
Chants demanding the president’s resignation echoed through the stadium, highlighting growing public discontent.
While some Kenyans have supported General Kahariri’s remarks as a necessary reinforcement of constitutional order, others have criticized them as an unwarranted military involvement in political affairs.
Critics argue that the military should refrain from commenting on political matters, as such statements could be interpreted as veiled threats against dissenting voices.
Balancing Stability and Democratic Rights
The heightened political tensions raise critical questions about Kenya’s ability to navigate political dissent while upholding democratic freedoms.
While security officials stress the importance of constitutionalism and stability, opposition voices argue that suppression of public expression could erode democratic gains.
As Kenya grapples with increasing discontent, the challenge remains: Can the nation maintain unity while accommodating political dissent?
The coming months are likely to test the resilience of Kenya’s democratic institutions and the resolve of its leaders to balance security with the right to free expression.
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