Why I Picked 2 Retired Military Generals For Ambassador Posts- Ruto

President William Ruto on Saturday, March 9 explained his decision to nominate two retired military generals for diplomatic roles in Iran and Pakistan.

Speaking during the swearing-in of newly promoted generals at State House, Ruto indicated that the two stations required senior citizens bearing vast experience satisfying the demanding assignments.

The Head of State nominated immediate former Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Jonah Mwangi and Kenya Army commander Peter Njiru to be the new envoys to Tehran, Iran and Islamabad, Pakistan respectively.

President William Ruto presiding over the swearing-in of newly promoted generals at State House on March 9, 2024. /PCS

He also took into consideration the volatile security status of both countries as a factor in his decisions.

"I know that I have given you difficult stations. Teheran and Islamabad are not very easy stations but I know you are up to the responsibility," he explained.

"In Pakistan, we all know what is going on there and we also know what is going on in Iran and that is why I believe that senior citizens like yourself who have wide experience are the best people to man those stations."

Nonetheless, Ruto expressed optimism over the services the two military officers will offer, describing them as competent officers who are intelligent and competent.

"My very best wishes as you transit into your new responsibilities in the service of the nation. I was pleased with them and they have discharged their duties with distinction," he stated.

Mwangi and Njiru are among several other individuals who have been nominated as high commissioners, ambassadors, permanent representatives, deputy heads of mission, consul-generals and special envoys to various countries.

The communication from the Office of the President said their names have already been submitted to the National Assembly for consideration.

Mwangi has served in KDF for 42 years with the latest assignment being the second in command in KDF after General Francis Ogolla. On the other hand, Njiru served in the army for 39 years.

These appointments further Ruto's love for the military, similar to former President Uhuru Kenyatta when he opted for military officers to run government offices upon retirement or during the latter years of their service.

An example during Uhuru's regime is when he appointed Lieutenant General Mohamed Badi to run the defunct Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS).

Ruto has relied on the military on several occasions nearly two years into his first term as President, the latest being development work regarding the construction of the Talanta Sports City stadium holding up to 60,000 spectators.

An artistic impression of the Talanta Sports City which will host the 2027 AFCON games. /PCS