KDF, NIS Issued Demands After 'Ruto Must Go' Comments

Omtatah stated that the participation of the nation's top security agencies in a politically sensitive issue breached the Constitution, which requires them to remain impartial and nonpartisan.

National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji during a past address. /FILE

"We are deeply alarmed by the involvement of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) in responding to the “#RutoMustGo” campaign, as evidenced by their public statements during a lecture at the National Intelligence and Research University on March 27, 2025," wrote Omtatah on his X account.

"This direct engagement in a politically charged matter violates the Constitution and the laws governing security agencies, which mandate them to remain neutral and apolitical. Across Africa, history warns us of the perils when security organs entangle themselves in politics."

Omtatah quoted the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, under Article 239(3), which explicitly states that “A national security organ shall not, in performing its functions act in a partisan manner; further any interest of a political party or cause; or prejudice a political interest or political cause that is legitimate under this Constitution.”

The vocal Senator was of the view that Haji and Kahariri's public remarks at the lecture, framing the “Ruto Must Go” campaign as a threat, breach this obligation, compromising their independence. 

"The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) are established under Article 241(2)(a), which mandates them to: 'defend and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic.' Nowhere does the Constitution authorize the KDF to engage in domestic political affairs," he added.

"The KDF Act, under Section 8(2), states: “The Defence Forces shall perform their functions and exercise their powers in accordance with the Constitution and the law.”

According to Omtatah, interference in political matters, as voiced at the National Intelligence and Research University lecture, contradicts both the KDF Act and the Constitution.

He thus demanded that Kahariri and Haji immediately cease any further engagement in political affairs and for the two to issue a public statement clarifying their role and reaffirming their commitment to constitutional neutrality.

Omtatah also called on Parliament to promptly investigate the alleged exploitation of state security agencies for political gain. Furthermore, he insisted that any officials found violating the Constitution and relevant laws be held legally accountable.

"Kenya is a democratic nation governed by the rule of law. We will not allow security institutions to be weaponized for political suppression, as seen in continental examples where military overreach, whether in coups or subtle political meddling, has led to repression, economic ruin, and prolonged unrest. We urge all citizens to remain vigilant in defending our constitutional rights and democratic freedoms," he added.

Omtatah’s demand notice was issued just hours after Kahariri urged Kenyans chanting 'Ruto Must Go' to ensure their actions align with the Constitution.

While speaking at the National Intelligence and Research University in Nairobi on Thursday, March 27, General Kahariri emphasized that the military would not be involved in any attempts to overthrow a legitimately elected government.