Why I Sent Retired KDF Generals for ‘Difficult’ Envoy Jobs – Ruto
President William Ruto has clarified his choice to propose two soon-to-retire military generals for diplomatic positions in Pakistan and Iran.
Addressing the swearing-in ceremony of recently elevated generals at State House on Saturday, March 9, Ruto disclosed that the two stations required individuals of advanced age with extensive experience in public service.
He pointed out that the security situations in both nations played a role in influencing his choices.
Ruto spoke about the appointment of Lieutenant General Jonah Mwangi, former Vice Chief of Defence, as Kenya’s ambassador to Iran, and the nomination of Lieutenant General Peter Njiru, former Commander of the Kenya Army, as Kenya’s High Commissioner to Pakistan.
ALSO READ:
- Inside Job Exposed: Kenyan Prison Wardens Convicted for Orchestrating Daring Terrorist Escape
- Uganda Pulls the Plug: Nationwide Internet Blackout Ordered Days Before Crucial General Election
- African Elections Under the Spotlight as Zambia Turns to Kenya Ahead of 2026 Vote
- “Two Drug Barons in Cabinet?” Kenya Government Fires Back as Ex-Deputy President Sparks Explosive Drug Claims
- Kenyan Court Freezes Use of Private Lawyers by Government, Sparks Nationwide Legal Storm
“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.
“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,” he stated.
On a contrasting note, he conveyed positivity about the capabilities of the two military officers, characterizing them as intelligent and skilled individuals while expressing confidence in the valuable services they are expected to provide.
“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 has dedicated 42 years to the Kenyan Defense Forces (KDF), most recently holding the position of second in command, following General Francis Ogolla. In contrast, Njiru has a military service record of 39 years.
Ruto’s Choice for Military
Significantly, Ruto has embraced the strategy employed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta of placing military officers in crucial government positions either upon their retirement or in the final years of their service.
For example, Uhuru enlisted the expertise of Lieutenant General Mohamed Badi to oversee the now-defunct Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS).
Similarly, Ruto had authorized the military to engage in developmental endeavors, including the building of the Talanta Sports City with a capacity for 60,000 spectators.
Why I Sent Retired KDF Generals for ‘Difficult’ Envoy Jobs – Ruto
