A group of religious leaders from the Coast region have come to the defense of National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji, who has recently faced accusations of being involved in abductions in Kenya. The Coast Restoration Council of Eminent Elders, led by Sheikh Abu Hamza, issued a strong statement on Thursday, arguing that accusations against Haji are politically motivated and should not overshadow the country’s security concerns.
Sheikh Hamza emphasized that while they firmly oppose any form of abduction or forced disappearances, politics should remain separate from matters of national security. The religious leader pointed out that those now accusing Haji of masterminding the abductions had previously remained silent when similar incidents occurred, especially during the height of abductions in the Coast region, when many young people were accused of having terrorist links.
“Why were they quiet when the same abductions were happening in the Coast region?” Sheikh Hamza questioned. “Now that the problem has reached their doorsteps, they cry wolf.” He stressed the hypocrisy of such accusations, urging the public to recognize the inconsistency in leaders’ responses when the issue touches their personal lives.
The Coast region had witnessed several cases of forced disappearances, with many families pleading for justice without success. Human rights groups, such as Muslims for Human Rights, had been at the forefront of demanding accountability, only to face allegations of supporting terrorism. Sheikh Hamza lamented the double standards seen in the current discourse around security, accusing some political leaders of amplifying their concerns only when the abductions affect them directly.
He further warned that continued politicization of security matters could lead the country into a state of anarchy. “Accusations against the NIS boss, especially when they are driven by tribal politics, only serve to undermine the work of the government,” he said.
The recent controversy began when Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi accused Haji of being behind the abduction of his son during the Gen Z protests in June 2024. Muturi claimed that after frantic attempts to locate his son, it was only after contacting President William Ruto that his son was released, following confirmation that Haji was involved in the matter.
In response, the COEE reiterated their support for Haji, affirming that his position at the helm of Kenya’s intelligence services was earned through merit. Sheikh Hamza called for unity in addressing security issues and urged leaders to maintain consistency in their actions and words, rather than exploiting national security concerns for political gain.
