By KPC Reporter
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has asked security agencies to remain apolitical and stick to their job descriptions.
Omtatah said the involvement of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) in responding to the “#RutoMustGo” campaign during a lecture at the National Intelligence and Research University yesterday was illegal.
CDF Charles Kahariri and NIS boss Noordin Haji had warned that the “Ruto must go” campaign was gaining traction in the country, saying ant transfer of power must be done within the Constitution.
“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,” Omtatah said.”
“Across Africa, history warns us of the perils when security organs entangle themselves in politics.”
He cited the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, under Article 239(3), which states: “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 the Constitution).
Omtatah considered the NIS and CDF’s public remarks at the lecture a threat to the security organs’ independence.
Integrity of Republic
He said 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,” Omtatah said.
The KDF Act, under Section 8(2), states that Defence Forces shall perform their functions and exercise their powers in accordance with the Constitution and the law.
“Interference in political matters, as voiced at the National Intelligence and Research University lecture, contradicts both the KDF Act and the Constitution,” the Senator said.
The demands
He demanded for immediate cessation of any engagement by security agencies in political affairs.
He also demanded for a public statement from the NIS Director-General and the Chief of Defence Forces, clarifying their role and reaffirming their commitment to constitutional neutrality.
He also called for Parliamentary oversight investigations into the alleged misuse of state security agencies for political purposes, to commence immediately.
Further, he called for legal accountability for any officials found in breach of the Constitution and relevant laws.
“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,” he said. Henry
“We urge all citizens to remain vigilant in defending our constitutional rights and democratic freedoms.”