Gilbert Kibaara is set to retire on July 1, 2021 - 33 years after serving top directors at the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI).
Since 1989, Kibaara has been trusted with handling files containing highly classified information. In their April 2021 magazine, the DCI stated that he has closely guarded the secrets between him and six directors of the defunct Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and one (George Kinoti) of the successor agency - the DCI.
The cook has prepared meals for all the top detectives, from Noah arap Too to Francis Sang, Daniel Ndung'u, Joseph Kamau, Gatiba Karanja, Ndegwa Muhoro and Kinoti. Kibara has thus kept secrets of governments under Presidents Daniel Moi, Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta.
"Secretaries have come and gone every time there is a change of guard, but Kibaara has remained firmly grounded in that office," DCI stated.
He is reported to have left the office only when going home or on leave. While away, his work is usually handled by support staff Yukabed Kerubo.
"It has been a big honour for me to have interacted with seven directors, served them tea and also guarded their top secrets. Handling confidential correspondence between the DCI bosses and other top security organs is no mean feat.
“You must demonstrate that you fit the bill by being of unquestionable conduct and character. One needs to completely earn the trust of the director and I believe that is the most important quality that has kept me in the office to date," Kibaara stated.
Current DCI head George Kinoti met Kibaara in 2003 when top sleuth worked as the personal assistant of CID chief Daniel Ndung'u.
Kinoti lauded the 59-year-old saying that, "He is honest, obedient and trustworthy. He's not like the office workers who spy on their bosses, and leak information and documents to unauthorised quarters."
"When we met, I quickly noted some high level of trust and integrity I had not seen in any other human being. He is a man you can misplace millions in cash and he comes looking for you to hand over the lost fortune. Unlike most office workers, he can't steal from you or betray you to the enemy," Kinoti added.
The DCI bosses alluded to convincing the father of three to extend his years in service until he (Kinoti's) term ends as he works hard, reports to work at 4 am, leaves at 8 pm and is thorough in his organisation.
One of his great assets, he stated, was mastering the art of his new bosses. He would take a few months to analyse their likes and dislikes, hobbies and passions. He also created a good rapport with other staff. This ensured the predecessor seconded him to the successor.
Former Inspector General of Police, Joseph Boinnet, rewarded him for his loyalty and dedication to work.
