General Charles Kahariri Muriu was officially sworn in as the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) in a ceremony held at State House, Nairobi, under the auspices of President William Ruto.
During the inauguration, Kahariri vowed to uphold, protect, and defend the Constitution, as well as the people and the Republic of Kenya, in the execution of his duties.
“I am committed to serving the people and the republic with unwavering dedication, free from any form of bias, influence, or partiality, whether political, religious, or otherwise,” he affirmed.
Kahariri assumes the position following the tragic demise of Francis Ogolla in a plane crash in Elgeyo Marakwet alongside nine others last month.
Additionally, John Mugaravai Ornenda was elevated to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed as the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces, taking the oath alongside Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed, the newly appointed Kenya Air Force Commander, and Major General Paul Owuor Otieno, who assumes command of the Kenya Navy.
President Ruto, addressing the assembled military leadership, emphasized the solemn duty incumbent upon them to fulfill their mandate with diligence and accountability.
“As leaders of the KDF, you are entrusted with the responsibility to serve the nation and its citizens. Remember, with authority comes the obligation to uphold the highest standards of accountability,” President Ruto asserted.
Furthermore, he urged the KDF leadership to collaborate with other agencies and uphold the principles outlined in their oath of office.
“Your allegiance is to the people of Kenya, not to any particular community or religious affiliation,” President Ruto underscored.
In a separate announcement, President Ruto elevated Kahariri to the rank of General and appointed him as the new Chief of the Defence Forces, effective immediately.
