Intelligence Analysis: Haji and Gen Kahariri’s 'Ruto Must Go' Warning Sparks Fears of Politicisation of Kenya’s NIS and KDF

Intelligence Analyst: Evarist Chahali

Intelligence Cut-Off Time: March 28, 2025 0130 GMT

Introduction

Kenya's security landscape has entered a critical phase marked by escalating political tensions and public unrest. Central to this dynamic is the growing "Ruto Must Go" movement, a politically charged campaign that has sparked alarm within the country's highest security echelons. The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Muriu Kahariri, and the Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), Noordin Haji, have both issued stern warnings underscoring the need to uphold constitutional order amid growing dissent.

This intelligence analysis explores the implications of their statements, the growing concerns about the politicisation of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the NIS, and the broader consequences for national stability, regional geopolitics, and civil-military relations. The analysis is grounded in the developments reported by Nation Africa's in-depth article on the matter, augmented by historical context and strategic foresight.