President Ruto Appoints General Charles Kihariri as New Chief of Defence Forces
In a significant move within Kenya’s military leadership, President William Ruto, the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, has elevated Lieutenant General Charles Muriu Kahariri to the esteemed position of General and appointed him as the new Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF).
General Kahariri’s appointment follows the unfortunate demise of General Francis Ogolla, who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash alongside nine other military officers just two weeks ago. President Ruto’s decision to appoint General Kahariri signals a pivotal transition within the top echelons of Kenya’s defence establishment.
Concurrently, President Ruto has promoted Major General John Mugaravai Ornenda to the rank of Lieutenant General and designated him as the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces. Notably, Lieutenant General Ornenda previously served as the Kenya Air Force Commander, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.
This series of appointments underscores President Ruto’s commitment to ensuring stability and continuity within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) following the untimely passing of General Ogolla. The President has also demonstrated his faith in the capabilities of seasoned military leaders to steer the country’s defence strategy forward.
Moreover, on the recommendation of the Defence Council, chaired by Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, President Ruto has approved several promotions, postings, and appointments of KDF officers.
Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed has been posted to the Kenya Air Force and appointed as its Commander, while Major General Paul Owuor Otieno has been appointed Commander of the Kenya Navy. These appointments reflect a strategic realignment aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness within the various branches of the KDF.
Additionally, other notable appointments include Major General Thomas Njoroge Ng’ang’a as Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Administration and Finance at the National Defence University and Brigadier Peter Nyamu Githinji as Senior Directing Staff, Air at the National Defence College.
The rotational basis for the CDF position among generals within the Kenya Army, Kenya Air Force, and Kenya Navy remains intact. General Ogolla hailed from the Kenya Air Force, while General Kahariri’s background lies in the Kenya Navy, exemplifying the rotational tradition within the KDF’s leadership structure.
President Ruto’s decisive actions in appointing General Kahariri and other senior military officials underscore his unwavering commitment to ensuring the continued professionalism and effectiveness of Kenya’s defence establishment.
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