Ruto defends appointment of Ogolla as CDF, cautions critics
President Wiliam Ruto admonished the newly appointed Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Francis Ogolla, on Saturday, April 29, to ensure national stability through diligence, neutrality, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
On Friday, April 28, while presiding over the swearing-in of top military officials appointed to new roles, Ruto stated that Ogolla must assume his responsibilities with honor, which will help unite the country and address national challenges.
President Ruto demanded, “I expect the professional standards of the Kenya Defense Forces to be maintained under your leadership.”
The Commander-in-Chief also instructed Ogolla to maintain the KDF’s image, which they had built over the years through ethical conduct and sound judgment.
Ruto cautioned, “Kenya has a tradition of a professional, outstanding, and honorable military that serves not only the people of Kenya but also our region and the world.”
In addition, he cautioned the military against engaging in toxic ethnicity, as it would only lead to anarchy and division in the nation.
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Ruto admonished, “My expectation and that of the Kenyan government is that the military will continue to serve the Kenyan people without regard to ethnicity, bias, or any other factor other than professionalism.”
Nonetheless, the head of state expressed confidence in Ogolla’s understanding of issues, specifically the role of the military in nation-building.
He promised to provide the new Chief of Defense Forces with his full cooperation and support as he leads Kenyan soldiers in defending the integrity of the country’s borders.
Why He Chosen Ogolla
“In considering your appointment, I have reviewed your history, military career, and where you’ve come from, and I am satisfied that you deserve the position.
Ruto assured General Ogolla, “You have my confidence and that of the Republic of Kenya to carry out your duties as Chief of the Defense Forces.”
Ogolla succeeded former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Robert Kibochi, who retired after more than 44 years of service in various ranks and positions.
Before his promotion and appointment on April 28th, Ogolla held the position of Vice CDF for over four years.
After the August 2022 General Election, he had a run-in with the Kenya Kwanza administration, which accused him of conspiring with power brokers to subvert the will of the people and prevent the inauguration of President William Ruto.
Wafula Chebukati, Prof. Abdi Guliye, and Moya Bolu, former leaders of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), criticized Ogolla and other members of the National Security Council (NSC) for allegedly interfering with the election.
Ogolla, through his attorneys, refuted the allegations, noting that NSC members visited the Bomas of Kenya on the eve of the election as part of their security duty.
Ruto defends appointment of Ogolla as CDF, cautions critics
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