Wamuzi News Ke
President William Ruto has come out swinging — fiercely defending the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and warning Kenyans to steer clear of what he called “reckless and dangerous” commentary on military matters.
Speaking during a high-stakes Cadets Commissioning Parade at the Kenya Military Academy in Lanet, the Commander-in-Chief didn’t mince words. Without naming names, Ruto hit back hard at a growing storm of public and media scrutiny over the KDF’s aging, often grounded fleet and a series of controversial remarks made by Defence Forces Chief General Charles Kahariri — particularly those interpreted as touching on the sensitive issue of presidential legitimacy.
“I will not stand by and watch as our military is dragged through the mud,” Ruto declared with sharp intensity. “Our soldiers are not a topic for bar talk, press gossip, or political speculation. They are the bedrock of Kenya’s peace — and I will protect them with everything I’ve got.”
This comes just days after a Standard exposé laid bare the shocking reality that only 27 out of over 130 KDF aircraft remain operational, with the majority crippled by age, neglect, or poor maintenance. Even more damning, the report revealed that more than half of the remaining airworthy fleet serves VIPs rather than national security needs — raising serious alarm bells over the government’s priorities.
But Ruto wasn’t having any of it. Doubling down on his stance, he issued a blistering rebuke to politicians, journalists, and critics alike:
“Let me be clear — Kenya’s military will not become the subject of public ridicule. We will not let our national defense be undermined by careless words or ill-informed analysis.”
Tensions had already been bubbling after General Kahariri cautioned that any calls for regime change must follow constitutional procedures — a statement that sparked furious backlash and fueled speculation about internal rifts.
“We cannot flirt with chaos,” Kahariri had warned at a national security forum in Nairobi. “Yes, citizens have rights, but those rights must not destroy the very foundation of the state. Transition must follow the law — not chants in the streets.”
Ruto, seizing on the growing political unease and media scrutiny, reaffirmed his absolute backing of the military:
“As President, I will spare no effort to reinforce our forces — not just in weapons or logistics, but in dignity and respect. Let no one mistake silence for weakness. We stand firm.”
As the country heads into uncertain political and economic times, Ruto’s forceful defense of the KDF may either rally support or stir further outrage — but one thing is clear: the gloves are off, and the battle lines over the military’s role in national discourse have been drawn.
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