Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri and National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji . Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Reporter
Kenya’s top security officials have issued a stern warning against attempts to remove the government through unconstitutional means, as public chants of “Ruto Must Go” gain traction across various platforms.
The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri and National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji emphasized that any calls for leadership change must adhere to constitutional provisions to prevent national instability.
Security chiefs reaffirm constitutional order
Speaking on Thursday, 28th May 2025, at the National Intelligence and Research University in Nairobi during a public lecture, Kahariri stressed the need for political expression to remain within legal boundaries.
“Kenyans have the right to express their opinions, but this must be done in a manner that upholds peace and stability. As the military, our role is not political. We serve to defend the Constitution and support the government of the day,” he stated.
He further cautioned against calls for the President’s removal outside constitutional means, noting that the same citizens who voted in the government must respect due process in seeking any leadership transition.
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“When people say they are tired of a government they freely elected and start demanding it ‘must go,’ they must understand that such change must be pursued through constitutional channels,” he added.
Growing political tensions and public discontent
The warning comes amid growing public unrest, with anti-government chants becoming a common feature in social gatherings, including nightclubs and sporting events.
The most recent instance occurred during the Harambee Stars vs Gabon football match at Nyayo National Stadium, where both President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga were in attendance.
Such incidents indicate rising frustration among sections of the population, with economic hardships, governance concerns, and policy decisions fueling public dissatisfaction.
Military’s role in national security
Kahariri also addressed concerns about the military’s involvement in past anti-government protests, asserting that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) only acts in line with its constitutional mandate.
“The deployment of the military should not be politicized. We have a responsibility to protect national sovereignty and uphold the rule of law,” he said.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya had earlier told the Senate that KDF may intervene when internal security threats arise, but only in support of the National Police Service and the National Intelligence Service.
“KDF is only deployed when internal threats go beyond the capacity of law enforcement agencies. Our mandate is clear, and it is always exercised within legal parameters,” Tuya explained.
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She referenced the military’s intervention during the June 25, 2024, Gen Z-led protests, in which demonstrators stormed Parliament, stating that KDF was called in to reinforce the police.
NIS raises concern over divisive politics
On his part, Haji expressed concern over the increasing use of social media to propagate divisive political messages, warning that such rhetoric could destabilize the country.
“Social media has become a breeding ground for polarizing narratives, which are eroding our sense of national unity. Cohesion and security go hand in hand, and we must be vigilant in protecting both,” Haji remarked.
He cautioned that ethnic-based mobilization and inflammatory political slogans risk fueling tensions that could lead to instability.
“The weaponization of ethnicity not only sows divisions but also weakens our society, making us vulnerable to internal conflicts. We must learn from history and safeguard our national stability,” he added.
Legal experts demand accountability from security forces
Amid the warnings from security chiefs, legal experts and civil society leaders have urged law enforcement agencies to uphold constitutional rights while maintaining security.
Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo criticized the handling of political protests, emphasizing the need for police accountability.
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“The issue of extrajudicial killings and police brutality remains deeply concerning. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) was created to ensure accountability, but its performance has been inadequate,” Odhiambo said.
She highlighted that conflicts between the National Police Service Commission and the Inspector-General’s office have undermined IPOA’s ability to enforce oversight effectively.
“If police excesses go unchecked, public trust in law enforcement will continue to erode. Officers must operate within constitutional principles to ensure justice and fairness,” she warned.
