NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya’s top security officials have issued a stern warning against political rhetoric calling for the ousting of President William Ruto’s administration through unconstitutional means.
They emphasized that any leadership changes must strictly align with the constitution to preserve the country’s stability.
Speaking during a public lecture at the National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU), National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director Noordin Haji and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri highlighted the risks of political instability and its potential to undermine national and regional security.
General Kahariri underscored the Kenya Defence Forces’ (KDF) unwavering loyalty to the constitution and their apolitical stance.
“We defend the Constitution and the government of the day, duly elected by the people. Even as people exercise their freedom, they must do so within certain limits,” he said.
Addressing public dissatisfaction and chants of “Ruto Must Go,” Kahariri stated, “When people decide they are tired of the government they elected, the change must happen within the framework of the constitution. As the military, we took an oath to defend the constitution and the republic.”
He also expressed concern about regional conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, warning that Kenya’s internal stability must be safeguarded to avoid spillover effects.
NIS Director Noordin Haji responded to allegations of human rights violations, including claims that the agency was involved in the abductions of activists and protesters.
He denied these accusations, stating, “We respect the constitution and apply it in discharging our mandate. The misinformation out there distorts the true role of intelligence in a democracy.”
While stressing the importance of secrecy in intelligence operations, Haji said, “Silence must never be mistaken for impunity. In some cases, secrecy is the last shield between a vulnerable citizen and a dangerous actor.”
He criticized the media for sensationalism and warned about the dangers of misinformation, particularly through emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and deepfake content, which can manipulate public perception and erode trust in institutions.
Noordin highlighted the expanded mandate of the NIS under the Security Laws Amendment Act (2014), allowing the agency to take a more proactive role in preventing threats.
However, he noted that political divisions, misinformation, and advanced technologies were increasingly fueling instability.
He urged African nations to invest in their digital future, arguing that dependence on foreign technology firms could leave the continent vulnerable.
“We must prioritize artificial intelligence research and development to secure our digital future,” he said.
The officials concluded by stressing the need for unity and adherence to constitutional processes to navigate Kenya’s complex domestic and regional challenges.
As Noordin put it, “The power to build is the same power to destroy. Let us use it wisely.”
