Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has come to the defense of Noordin Haji, the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), after the intelligence chief faced criticism from various political figures and civil society organizations. In a passionate statement, Olekina condemned the attacks on Haji’s leadership, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding national security from unwarranted political interference.
Olekina’s remarks come in response to growing criticisms directed at Haji, particularly following allegations made by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi. Muturi, in a dramatic revelation, linked the NIS to the alleged abduction of his son, Leslie Muturi, last year. According to the CS, he sought intervention from President William Ruto, who allegedly confirmed that the NIS was holding his son. The President, Muturi claims, instructed Haji to ensure his son’s immediate release, which he says happened within an hour.
Muturi’s bombshell statement sparked a wider debate, with some political figures and civil society groups voicing concerns about the NIS’s operations. The claims painted a picture of an intelligence service operating beyond accountability, which some feared could have detrimental effects on public trust and national security. However, Olekina dismissed these criticisms, calling them baseless and harmful to the country’s stability.
In his defense of Haji, Olekina described the NIS boss as a “fine gentleman, sober and a true pastoralist who is not easily cowed.” He praised Haji for his professionalism, resilience, and calm leadership in the face of growing political pressure. Olekina further stated, “You can try all your dirty tricks to remain relevant, but when it comes to attacking the head of intelligence of a country, you have completely gone gaga!” His remarks underlined the sensitivity and significance of protecting institutions like NIS from political attacks.
The senator also stressed the need for unity in ensuring national security, pointing out that the continuous undermining of critical institutions could lead to instability. According to Olekina, Haji’s leadership should be supported rather than maligned, especially considering the NIS’s role in safeguarding the country’s security.
Adding his voice to the ongoing discourse, Dennis Itumbi, Head of Creative Economy and Special Projects, defended the NIS, asserting that the intelligence service is often an easy target for criticism, particularly when the real focus is on the government or the President. Itumbi pointed out the silent yet vigilant nature of the NIS, which operates without a public voice of its own to defend against attacks.
While the allegations raised by Muturi and others remain contentious, it is clear that the defense of the NIS’s leadership, particularly Haji’s, remains a matter of significant importance in maintaining the integrity of national security and public confidence in its operations.
