Security chiefs have sounded a warning to those scheming regime change via extra-constitutional means at a time "Ruto Must Go!" chants have gained traction in public spaces.
Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri and Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) Noordin Haji on Thursday insisted that any transfer of power must be within the framework of the Constitution.
Speaking at the National Intelligence and Research University in Nairobi during a public lecture by Haji, General Kahariri said Kenyans must not allow anarchy to take root in the country.
“Even as people exercise their rights, we should be within limits and bounds so that we don’t tear our country apart. 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,” CDF Kahariri asserted.
He went on: “So when some people say they are tired with this government, a government they elected on their own and say ‘must go,’ that ‘must go’ must be done according to the Constitution.”
Growth of 'must go' chants
President William Ruto investitures Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri with badges of ranks during his swearing-in at State House, Nairobi County.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
The CDF spoke in the wake of heightened political temperatures with crowds at various social gatherings seen breaking into chants of "Ruto Must Go!", which authorities have interpreted as a push to remove President Ruto from power.
The latest instance was last week during the Harambee Stars vs Gabon match at Nyayo National Stadium.
On his part, Haji said there is need for the public to shun divisive politics.
“Divisive politics has found new breeding ground on our social media platforms. This is polarising our people and undermining national cohesion, yet national cohesion goes hand-in-hand with national security and national interest,” he said.
He also cautioned that political competition should not morph into a state of national instability that can fuel public anger.
The public lecture brought together security chiefs, religious leaders, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), civil society, media, representatives of bunge la mwananchi and boda boda operators.
However, LSK president Faith Odhiambo warned security agencies against involvement in the political space.
Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo.
Photo credit: Lucy Wanjiru | Nation Media Group
She also cautioned that if police excesses are not checked, the public loses trust,
“On the question of extrajudicial killings, IPOA (Independent Policing Oversight Authority) was established to ensure police accountability. However, its performance of this mandate leaves a lot to be desired,” she said.
