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Noordin Haji nis
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Why Kenya must shield NIS from political abuse

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National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji. 

Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group

Kenya's National Intelligence Service (NIS) is the cornerstone of the country’s security and stability.

Tasked with gathering intelligence, pre-empting threats and safeguarding national interests, the NIS operates as the unseen shield that protects the nation from external and internal dangers.

Yet, in recent months, the Service has found itself dragged into the murky waters of political expediency, with politicians using it as a scapegoat for their own agendas.

This trend, evident in the high-profile accusations and controversies involving senior politicians, threatens not only the credibility of the NIS but also the broader safety and stability of the nation.

From former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's allegations, to Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi’s claims, the actions of some leaders have set a dangerous precedent.

These incidents underscore the urgent need for Kenyans to rally behind efforts to protect security agencies from political manipulation. Here’s why safeguarding the independence and integrity of the NIS is crucial for the country’s future.

The primary role of the NIS is to gather and analyse intelligence to ensure the safety and security of Kenya. This includes pre-empting terrorism, economic sabotage, cyber-attacks and other threats, that could destabilise the nation.

The NIS works silently behind the scenes, often without public recognition, to neutralise threats before they escalate.

Given the sensitive nature of its work, the NIS relies on confidentiality, neutrality and professionalism.

Any perception of bias or involvement in political schemes undermines its ability to function effectively. Politicians who publicly attack the NIS or attempt to co-opt it for personal reasons risk eroding public trust in this critical institution.

When political leaders weaponise security agencies for their own gain, it compromises national stability in several ways. First, it erodes public trust. Accusations against the NIS, whether valid or baseless, erode public confidence in the agency.

When citizens begin to perceive the NIS as partisan or corrupt, they may become less cooperative in providing crucial information or supporting security initiatives.

Secondly, political controversies divert the NIS from its core mandate of safeguarding the nation.

Time and resources that should be spent monitoring and countering threats, are instead used to respond to political accusations or interference. Luckily, soft spoken and affable Director General Noordin Haji has managed, so far, to keep his cool, despite the provocation.

Thirdly, policitisation of security agencies end up, inadvertently, encouraging lawlessness. Politicians who undermine the authority of security agencies send a dangerous message that such institutions are fair game for criticism and manipulation.

This weakens the rule of law and emboldens bad actors, including criminal networks and extremist groups.

Finally, this political interference undermines the morale and professionalism of the agents, both behind desks and in the field. The NIS operates on principles of loyalty, discipline and discretion. When politicians publicly attack the agency or its leadership, it demoralises personnel and creates internal divisions. Over time, this could lead to reduced efficiency and compromised operations.

The cases of Mr Gachagua and Mr Muturi illustrate the risks posed by political interference in security matters.

During a period of political tension with his then-boss, President William Ruto, Mr Gachagua accused NIS Director General of failing to inform the President about planned Gen Z pretests.

The protests, which turned violent, were later linked to Mr Gachagua himself. By directing blame onto the NIS, Mr Gachagua sought to distract from his alleged role in the unrest.

His eventual impeachment highlights the consequences of such recklessness, but the damage to the NIS’s reputation lingers.

Mr Muturi’s accusation that the NIS kidnapped his 43-year-old son was not only bizarre but also irresponsible. Mr Muturi’s son, who had been controversially hired as a Personal Assistant on government payroll, was reportedly embroiled in personal and professional controversies.

By dragging the NIS into the matter, Mr Muturi sought to deflect attention from his own questionable decisions. His subsequent absconding of ministerial functions raises questions about his commitment to public service.

Robust safeguards

To prevent further politicisation of the NIS and other security agencies, Kenya must implement robust safeguards.

Parliament, for instance, should enact laws that insulate the NIS from political interference. Clear penalties should be established for politicians or public officials who make baseless accusations or attempt to manipulate the agency for personal gain.

Efforts should also be made to educate the public about the role and importance of the NIS. A well-informed citizenry is less likely to be swayed by political rhetoric and more likely to support the agency’s work.

But while the NIS must operate with a degree of secrecy, there should be robust oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability. An independent body, free from political influence, could be tasked with reviewing the agency’s operations and addressing legitimate concerns.

The NIS must continue to uphold its commitment to neutrality and professionalism. Internal policies and training programmes should emphasise the importance of remaining apolitical, even in the face of external pressures.

Politicians who abuse their positions to attack or undermine security agencies should face consequences. This includes censure, removal from office, or legal action where appropriate.

The politicisation of security agencies is not just a threat to the NIS; it undermines the broader framework of governance and democracy in Kenya. Security agencies are meant to serve the nation, not individual politicians or political parties. When their independence is compromised, the consequences ripple across all sectors of society.

Kenya faces numerous challenges, from terrorism and cross-border conflicts to economic instability and social unrest.

Divisive rhetoric and political posturing only weaken the country’s ability to respond to these threats effectively.

The integrity and independence of the NIS must be preserved at all costs, for the good of Kenya today and for generations to come.

The writer is a communications consultant and journalist lbenyawa@gmail.com