Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has affirmed that the Ministry of Defence will adhere to the recent High Court ruling authorizing the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers to assist the police in maintaining peace amid ongoing protests.
In a statement released shortly after the High Court upheld the decision, CS Duale emphasized the government’s commitment to legal and procedural compliance. “The Government through the Ministry of Defence will comply with the court decision and issue a new gazette notice in due course,” he stated.
The deployment of KDF officers comes in response to a surge of protests that have swept across various parts of the country. The decision to involve the military has been a subject of significant public and legal debate, with some critics arguing that it could lead to the militarization of civil policing functions. However, proponents assert that the measure is necessary to restore order and ensure public safety during these tumultuous times.
The High Court’s decision has now provided a legal endorsement for the government’s strategy, paving the way for a coordinated effort between the military and police forces. The specific roles and responsibilities of the KDF in this joint operation are expected to be detailed in the forthcoming gazette notice.
CS Duale reassured the public that the deployment will be conducted within the bounds of the law and with respect for human rights. “We are committed to ensuring that the deployment of KDF officers will be done in a manner that respects the rule of law and the rights of all citizens,” he said.
The Ministry of Defence’s compliance with the court’s ruling is seen as a crucial step in maintaining institutional integrity and public trust. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on how the integration of KDF officers with police forces will be managed and its impact on the ground.
With the new gazette notice expected soon, the government aims to provide clear directives and ensure transparency in the execution of this critical operation.
