Ruto vows to eradicate tribalism as new KDF Vice Chief, Service Commanders sworn-in

In his remarks, President Ruto emphasized the urgent need to address tribalism and ethnicity, stating, "It is my desire that we eliminate tribalism and ethnicity, marginalization in our nation. That we consolidate our country into a united, progressive, peaceful, and stable nation."

Acknowledging the vital role played by the Kenya Defence Forces and the broader security sector, President Ruto commended their patriotism and professionalism.

"I am very proud of our KDF and the entire security sector for their patriotism and professionalism," he remarked, highlighting the crucial responsibility they bear in safeguarding the nation.

As Commander in Chief, President Ruto assured the military leadership of his unwavering support and commitment to providing strategic guidance.

"I want to assure you as Commander in Chief I will continue to provide strategic guidance so that together we can build a cohesive, united, progressive, secure, and stable nation," he affirmed.

President William Ruto promoted Major General Charles Muriu Kahariri to the esteemed rank of Lieutenant General, appointing him as the Vice Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

Kahariri will replace outgoing Lieutenant General Jonah Maina Mwangi who is retiring after serving 42 years in the armed forces.

Major General David Kimaiyo Tarus has also been elevated to a similar rank as Kahariri and appointed Kenya Army Commander.

Tarus, who previously served as the Deputy Kenya Army Commander, will succeed Lieutenant General Peter Mbogo Njiru who is leaving the force after 39 years of service.

The President also promoted and appointed Major General Jimson Longiro to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed him Vice-Chancellor National Defence University - Kenya Until his appointment Lieutenant General Jimson Longiro was the Commander Kenya Navy.

Brigadier Thomas Njoroge Ng'ang'a was also promoted and appointed to the rank of Major General and appointed the Commander Kenya Navy. Until he was appointed Commander Kenya Navy he was the Base Commander Kenya Navy Base Manda.

President Ruto likewise promoted and re-assigned seven senior KDF officers as per recommendations from the Kenya Defence Council chaired by CS Aden Duale.

They are; Major General Juma Shee Mwinyikai, Major General Mohammed Nur Hassan, Brigadier Luka Kipkemoi Kutto, Major General Aphaxard Muthuri Kiugu, Major General John Maison Nkoimo, Brigadier Peter Shikuku Chelimo and Brigadier Yahya Abdi.

Mwinyikai has been elevated to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed as Commandant National Defence College, while Hassan has been assigned to the Kenya Army headquarters as Deputy Army Commander.

Kutto's rank has been raised to Major General, and he has been designated as General Officer Commanding Eastern Command, whereas Kiugu has been posted to the Kenya Military Academy as Commandant.

Nkoimo assumes the role of General Officer Commanding the Border Security Command, while Chelimo has been posted to the Kenya Navy headquarters and appointed Deputy Navy Commander.

Abdi has been appointed as a Senior Directing Staff for Kenya Navy and posted to the National Defence College.