President William Ruto has lauded the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) as an institution that impeccably fulfills its mandate, emphasizing its pivotal role in ensuring peace and stability in the nation.
He commended the military as a paragon institution that has consistently safeguarded Kenya’s peace and security, underscoring the importance of robust institutions in nation-building.
Asserting that the strength of a nation hinges on the efficacy of its institutions, President Ruto reiterated the government’s commitment to fortifying the Kenya Defence Forces to uphold the country’s peace and stability.
President Ruto elucidated that the government is dedicated to enhancing all public institutions to enable them to fulfill their mandates, encompassing food production, job creation, healthcare provision, and more.
“As you provide security and stability for our nation, we will strive diligently to fulfill our obligations to the people of Kenya,” he affirmed.
The President emphasized the paramountcy of the country’s security and stability, stating that they are indispensable for realizing all other national aspirations.
He made these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Kenya Defence Forces Vice Chief and Service Commanders at State House, Nairobi, held on Saturday. The officers assumed their roles following their recent appointments.
In attendance at the ceremony were Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, and Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla, among others.
President Ruto reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a united Kenya free from tribalism and division.
“It is my aspiration that we eradicate tribalism, ethnicity, and marginalization, and unite our nation into a peaceful, cohesive, and progressive entity,” he stated.
Lieutenant-General Charles Muriu Kahariri was sworn in as the Vice Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, succeeding Lt-General Jonah Maina Mwangi following his retirement after a distinguished 42-year military career.
Lieutenant-General David Kimaiyo Tarus took the oath as the Commander of the Kenya Army, assuming leadership of the esteemed branch.
Major-General Thomas Njoroge Ng’ang’a was sworn in as the Commander of the Kenya Navy, entrusted with overseeing naval operations.
Also present at the ceremony were Lieutenant-General Jimson Longiro, who was appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of the National Defence University of Kenya, Lt-General Juma Shee Mwinyikai, Major General Mohamed Nur Hassan, Major-General Luka Kipkemoi Kutto, Major-General Aphaxard Muthuri Kiugu, Major-General John Maison Nkoimo, Brigadier Peter Shikuku Chelimo, and Brigadier Yahya Abdi, among other distinguished guests.