President William Ruto, on Wednesday, June 14, revealed that he requested Major General Philip Kameru, the former Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), to continue serving in his position even after his official term had ended.
During the swearing-in ceremony of the new NIS boss, Noordin Haji, at State House, Nairobi, Ruto elaborated that he was in the process of establishing his government at that time and felt that he needed the support of the experienced spymaster.
The president observed that the Major General was gracious enough to stay in office with his services proving to be vital in the first nine months of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Ruto also pointed out that he shares a cordial working relationship with the former NIS boss who was picked to head the security docket by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2014.
In particular, Ruto acknowledged the formidable challenges that the former NIS boss had encountered, attributing them to the escalation of regional conflicts and the global threat of terrorism.
"When I requested you (Kameru) to stay on until many things are put together, you graciously accepted, and I am truly grateful.
"I want to thank Kameru for the exemplary service that he has provided for the people of Kenya. I have worked with him and I can say that he worked with diligence and loyalty," he stated.
Moreover, Ruto hinted at a future appointment of the military man, adding that the government could still use his expertise in various government departments.
"As I informed you, we will be looking for senior citizens like yourself to help the government. The experience you have in government is useful," he stressed.
Kameru was succeeded by Noordin Haji, the former Director of Public Prosecutions, who was nominated by Ruto on May 16.
Haji took oath a day after the National Assembly unanimously approved his nomination.
Ruto conveyed his trust in Haji, expressing his belief that the newly appointed spy chief would effectively utilize his expertise and network in carrying out his responsibilities.
"I have full confidence in the experience you have garnered, having worked in NIS and other senior government positions such as DPP. I am sure you have garnered relevant experience.
"We have an economic situation globally that requires a lot of delicate management. I am looking forward to working with you together with your colleagues," he stated.
