President William Ruto has explained his decision to nominate two retiring military generals for ambassadorial roles in Pakistan and Iran.
Speaking during the swearing-in of newly promoted generals at State House on Saturday, March 9, Ruto revealed that the two stations needed senior citizens with vast experience in public service.
He also cited the security dynamics in both countries as a factor in his decisions.
Ruto was referring to the nomination of former Vice Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General Jonah Mwangi as Kenyan ambassador to Iran and that of former Commander of the Kenya Army Lieutenant General, Peter Njiru, as Kenya’s High Commissioner to Pakistan.
Former Vice Chief of Defence Lieutenant General Jonah Mwangi (left) and Former Commander of the Kenya Army Lieutenant General Peter Njiru at State House Nairobi on March 9, 2024.
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“I know that I have given you difficult stations. Teheran and Islamabad are not very easy stations but I know you are up to the responsibility.
“In Pakistan, we all know what is going on there and we also know what is going on in Iran and that is why I believe that senior citizens like yourself who have wide experience are the best people to man those stations,” he stated.
On the other hand, he expressed optimism over the services the two military officers will offer, describing them as competent officers who are intelligent and competent.
“My very best wishes as you transit into your new responsibilities in the service of the nation. I was pleased with them and they have discharged their duties with distinction,” he stated.
Mwangi has served in KDF for 42 years with did latest assignment being the second in command in KDF after General Francis Ogolla. On the other hand, Njiru served in the army for 39 years.
Ruto’s Choice for Military
Notably, Ruto has adopted former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tactics in deploying military officers to key government offices upon retirement or during the latter years of their service.
For instance, Uhuru sought the services of Lieutenant General Mohamed Badi to run the defunct Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS).
Likewise, Ruto had deployed the military to undertake development work such as the construction of the 60,000 seater Talanta Sports City.
An artistic impression of the Talanta Sports City which will host the 2027 AFCON games.
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