Ruto Overhauls National Security Council, Replacing Uhuru Men
President William Ruto took bold action by reconstituting the National Security Council, an important body responsible for making crucial decisions for the nation.
Ruto has replaced all officials who served under former President Uhuru Kenyatta during the preceding ten years.
Ruto replaced the head of the intelligence service, the head of the defense forces, the attorney general, and the head of the national police service.
By Article 240(2) of the Constitution of Kenya, the new National Security Council will consist of the Head of State, his Deputy Rigathi Gachagua, and Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.
Alfred Mutua, CS for Foreign Affairs, and Kithure Kindiki, CS for the Interior, will also serve on the council. Attorney General Justin Muturi, who advises Ruto, will also be a member of the new cabinet.
Replacements
Ruto reconstituted the National Security Council by replacing key members who had served under Uhuru.
Ruto chose Francis Ogolla to replace Robert Kibachi as Chief of Defense Forces.
In addition, the President replaced Major-General (Retired) Philip Kameru, who had led the National Intelligence Service (NIS) since 2014.
Ruto nominated Noordin Haji in his place on Tuesday, May 16, pending approval by the Parliament.
Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome is another new member of the National Security Council, appointed by Ruto after the 2022 general election to succeed Hillary Mutyambai.
Ruto appointed former Energy Cabinet Secretary Monica Juma as National Security Advisor to strengthen the National Security Council.
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By Article 240(2) of the Kenyan Constitution, the newly reconstituted National Security Council will integrate the domestic, foreign, and military policies about national security so that the national security organs can effectively cooperate and function.
In addition, the Constitution stipulates that the council will assess and evaluate the country’s objectives, commitments, and risks associated with its actual and potential national security capabilities.
However, its operations will be governed by the parliament, where legislators will approve certain security decisions, such as the deployment of forces.
“Advise the President on the declaration of a state of emergency,” the Constitution states.
Some members of the National Security Advisory Council visited Bomas of Kenya before the announcement of the Presidential Election, according to affidavits filed by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) during the 2022 General Election.
In defense, the council desired information on the election status to facilitate the transition.
Ruto announced on Saturday, April 29, that he appointed Ogolla to replace Kibochi due to his military background.
The appointment occurred despite claims that Ogolla was among the security council members who visited Bomas during vote tallying.
“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.”
Ruto Overhauls National Security Council, Replacing Uhuru Men
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