Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri
Kenya’s top security officials have publicly addressed emerging threats to national stability and reaffirmed their commitment to constitutional governance during a public lecture at the National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU) this week.
The unprecedented forum featured National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director Noordin Haji, Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri, and Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, offering insights into the strategies and principles guiding Kenya's security apparatus. General Kahariri emphasized the military’s commitment to upholding the constitution, cautioning against any actions undermining democratic processes. He urged Kenyans to resolve political differences through established legal channels, pointing to regional instability, particularly the ongoing conflicts in neighbouring Sudan and Ethiopia, as a significant concern with potential spillover effects on Kenya.
The public lecture comes in the wake of recent Gen Z-led protests that prompted scrutiny of security agencies' handling of domestic dissent. In response, NIS Director Noordin Haji defended the agency against accusations of misconduct, including allegations related to high-profile abductions. He acknowledged the inherent challenges in balancing the need for secrecy in intelligence operations with the demands for public accountability.
"If a blanket keeps you warm through the storm, it may not always be wise to unravel the stitches to understand how," Haji stated, alluding to the necessity of discretion in intelligence gathering.
Haji elaborated on the NIS's expanded mandate under the Security Laws Amendment Act of 2014, emphasizing its proactive role in addressing modern threats, such as technological disruptions, disinformation campaigns, and climate-induced crises. While underscoring the importance of confidentiality, Haji recognized that increased transparency could help dispel misconceptions and strengthen public trust in state institutions.
Both Kahariri and Haji voiced concerns about the increasing polarization within Kenyan society, which they attributed to divisive rhetoric, partisan politics, and sensationalist media coverage. Haji warned of the dangers of manipulated narratives and the potential for artificial intelligence to be used to spread propaganda, which could erode social cohesion and undermine faith in government. He called for responsible media practices, noting the potential for media influence to be exploited for malicious purposes.
Addressing global security trends, Haji described a world characterized by increasing unpredictability. He highlighted the convergence of new technologies and protectionist policies as factors complicating international cooperation. He urged African nations to take control of their digital future by investing in AI research, development, and partnerships that empower the continent, rather than being limited to content moderation roles.
“Africa must move beyond roles such as content moderation and foster AI research, development, and partnerships that empower the continent,” he said.