Kenya Insights

Tag: NIS

  • Gachagua Accuses NIS Chief Haji of Misleading President Ruto with ‘Doctored’ Intelligence

    Gachagua Accuses NIS Chief Haji of Misleading President Ruto with ‘Doctored’ Intelligence

    Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of Noordin Haji, the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), accusing him of providing President William Ruto with “doctored intelligence” that has led to misguided decisions and contributed to the president’s declining popularity.

    In an interview on the popular ObinnaTV podcast on Friday, Gachagua described the NIS as “dysfunctional” and claimed Haji manipulates intelligence to present an overly positive picture of public sentiment.

    “I speak with intelligence officers across the country who report raw data showing public hostility toward the administration,” Gachagua said.

    “But Noordin’s daily briefs to the president suggest everything is fine, which is far from the truth.”

    Gachagua cited the 2024 Finance Bill protests as an example, claiming he warned Ruto against pushing the bill due to widespread opposition but was ignored in favor of Haji’s advice.

    “The protests caught the president by surprise because he trusted Noordin over my counsel,” he alleged. Gachagua further described Haji as a “businessman” prioritizing personal deals, including with the Adani Group, over national interests, though he provided no evidence to support this claim.

    The former deputy president also questioned Haji’s qualifications, linking Ruto’s waning public support to the NIS chief’s alleged misguidance.

    “Two years ago, Ruto was a beloved leader. Now everywhere you go, people are chanting ‘Ruto must go,’” Gachagua said. “I told the president that Noordin is not fit for this role.”

    Gachagua’s allegations echo his earlier criticisms of Haji, notably during the 2024 Finance Bill protests, when he accused the NIS of failing to anticipate public unrest.

    At the time, he also claimed Haji falsely linked him and former President Uhuru Kenyatta to the protests, an accusation Haji dismissed as baseless.

    These repeated claims suggest Gachagua may be targeting Haji to undermine Ruto’s inner circle, possibly to bolster his own influence in the Mount Kenya region, where he retains significant support among the Kikuyu community.

    However, Gachagua’s accusations lack specific evidence.

    He provided no examples of falsified intelligence or documentation to substantiate his claims, raising questions about their credibility.

    His history of inflammatory statements since his October 2024 impeachment, including unsubstantiated allegations in April 2025 that Ruto facilitated money laundering through Nairobi, further complicates the reliability of his narrative.

    Political context

    Gachagua during his appearance on ObinnaTV from his home in Wamunyoro.
    Gachagua during his appearance on ObinnaTV from his home in Wamunyoro.

    Gachagua’s remarks come amid heightened political tensions in Kenya, with Ruto’s administration facing criticism over governance, economic challenges, and alleged human rights abuses, including reported abductions of government critics.

    Allegations of NIS involvement in cases like the 2024 abduction of cabinet minister Leslie Muturi’s son have fueled public distrust in the agency, lending some context to Gachagua’s claims of dysfunction.

    However, these issues do not directly corroborate his specific allegations of doctored intelligence.

    For Gachagua, the accusations serve to discredit Ruto’s leadership while positioning himself as a political contender ahead of future elections.

    At 59, he appears to be leveraging his Mount Kenya base to stage a comeback, though his focus on Haji, a figure from a minority community, risks accusations of tribalism, as seen in 2024 criticisms from former Mombasa Governor and now Mining Secretary Hassan Joho.

    For Ruto, the allegations challenge his administration’s cohesion.

    Haji remains a key ally, as evidenced by their January 2025 meeting amid abduction allegations.

    Haji’s 2024 statement that he reports directly to Ruto suggests Gachagua, even as deputy president, may have had limited insight into NIS operations, potentially weakening his current claims.

    The secretive nature of the NIS makes verifying claims of doctored intelligence difficult without access to classified briefings.

    While the agency’s failure to predict the scale of the 2024 protests has drawn legitimate criticism, Gachagua’s allegations remain speculative without concrete evidence.

    Watch the video below.

  • CDF Kahariri Urged to Stay Neutral Amid ‘Ruto Must Go’ Political Storm

    CDF Kahariri Urged to Stay Neutral Amid ‘Ruto Must Go’ Political Storm

    Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri is under scrutiny over alleged political interference.

    Critics accuse him and National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji of attempting to suppress the ‘Ruto Must Go’ protests.

    Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah warns that their involvement violates the Constitution, which mandates security agencies to remain neutral.

    As the pressure mounts, calls for investigations into potential misuse of state security intensify.

    CDF Kahariri

    CDF Charles Kahariri and Haji Accused of Overstepping Constitutional Boundaries

    Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has sharply criticized CDF Charles Kahariri and NIS Director-General Noordin Haji for allegedly warning Kenyans against chanting ‘Ruto Must Go’ without following constitutional guidelines.

    In a Friday morning statement, Omtatah accused the two security heads of engaging in political affairs, violating the Kenyan Constitution.

    Omtatah cited Article 239(3) of the Constitution, which states that security agencies must operate in a non-partisan manner.

    He condemned their remarks at a public lecture, where they reportedly framed the ‘Ruto Must Go’ movement as a national security threat.

    “The NIS and CDF’s statements compromise their independence,” Omtatah said. “History across Africa shows the dangers of security organs meddling in politics. Kenya must not follow this path.”

    He reminded Kahariri that the military’s role is to defend Kenya’s sovereignty, not dictate political discourse.

    Omtatah called on the CDF and NIS boss to immediately withdraw from any political engagements and reaffirm their constitutional neutrality.

    Parliament Urged to Investigate Alleged Misuse of Security Forces

    Omtatah further demanded that Parliament investigate whether security agencies are being used to suppress political dissent. He called for legal action against officials found guilty of breaching constitutional provisions.

    “We cannot allow security forces to be weaponized for political suppression,” he stated. “Kenya is a democratic nation governed by the rule of law.” – Senator Okiya Omtatah.

    His remarks came just hours after CDF Kahariri, speaking at the National Intelligence and Research University, urged protestors to act within constitutional limits.

    “We cannot allow anarchy. Freedom of expression must have boundaries. The military remains apolitical and supports the elected government,” Kahariri said.

    As political tensions rise, scrutiny on the military’s role in governance continues to grow. Will Kenya’s security agencies maintain their neutrality, or is the line between politics and state security being blurred?

  • NIS Has Set Aside Billions To Remove CJ Koome And Disband The Supreme Court Ahead Of 2027, Gachagua Alleges

    NIS Has Set Aside Billions To Remove CJ Koome And Disband The Supreme Court Ahead Of 2027, Gachagua Alleges

    Speaking to congregants at Meru PCEA church on Sunday, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto’s administration of plotting to remove Chief Justice Martha Koome from office and dismantle Kenya’s Supreme Court. Gachagua’s claims come amid a backdrop of political tension and judicial scrutiny.

    During his address, Gachagua stated, “There is even a bigger scheme to dismantle the Supreme Court ahead of 2027 elections. A budget has been set aside through the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and all those petitions you are seeing against Martha Koome, and judges of the Supreme Court is the machinations of the state.”

    Gachagua further elaborated that the motive behind this alleged scheme is to establish a Supreme Court bench more amenable to the Ruto’s wishes. “They would like to put a Supreme Court bench that is amiable to what those in power want. We cannot accept. We want to ask the international community to keep an eye on Kenya,” he urged, calling for external oversight of Kenya’s judicial integrity.

    These accusations come at a time when political and legal battles are intensifying in Kenya. The Supreme Court has been a pivotal institution in maintaining checks and balances, notably during high-profile electoral disputes. The suggestion of undermining such a crucial arm of government raises serious concerns about the health of democracy in Kenya.

    The speculated disbandment of the Supreme Court would not only affect the current political landscape but could have long-lasting implications for judicial autonomy and electoral justice in Kenya.

    Alleged plot

    Gachagua alluded to the recent withdrawal of Koome’s security, terming it as one of the state’s strategy to scare the CJ and push her into resignation.

    “I want to ask my sister, Lady Justice Martha Koome, don’t be intimidated. Stay put. You are doing a good job. Continue making sure this is a country of rule of law and constitutionalism,” said Gachagua.

    On Thursday, January 23, Koome expressed concerns over the withdrawal of her security detail.

    In a letter addressed to Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, she highlighted the constitutional implications of such an act, describing it as a threat to judicial independence.

    Koome expressed further concern over the weakened capacity of the Judiciary Police Unit, taking issue with the withdrawal of a significant number of officers.

    Meanwhile, a duo of prominent lawyers have been on a mission to kick Koome and her colleagues at the Supreme Court out.

    Lawyers Ahmednasir Abdullahi and Nelson Havi used the X platform for the campaign against the judges whom they accused of “misbehaviour” and abuse of office.

    On January 17, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) confirmed receiving a petition from Havi seeking the removal of the bench.

    The commission maintained that the matter would be addressed in accordance with the established procedures and processes under the rule of law.

  • Ruto Hosts NIS Boss Noordin Haji Amidst Abduction Allegations

    Ruto Hosts NIS Boss Noordin Haji Amidst Abduction Allegations

    Nairobi – President William Ruto hosted a critical security meeting at State House, Nairobi, with Noordin Haji, the Director General of Kenya’s National Intelligence Service (NIS), and Ambassador Redwan Hussien, Ethiopia’s Director General of the National Intelligence Security Service, on Saturday.

    In a post on his official X account, President Ruto emphasized that the discussions were centered on tackling security threats like terrorism and organized crime, which demand collaborative action across the Horn of Africa.

    “Security challenges such as terrorism and organized crime require collaborative efforts among countries in the Horn of Africa. Kenya is committed to working with global partners to ensure stability. We discussed regional security with Ethiopia’s Ambassador Redwan Hussien at State House, Nairobi,” Ruto stated.

    Abductions

    This meeting follows recent allegations by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, who accused NIS Director Noordin Haji of involvement in the abduction of his son, Leslie Muturi, back in June 2024. In a statement recorded at Kilimani Police Station, Muturi detailed the harrowing experience of his son’s kidnapping by armed, hooded men near Dennis Pritt Road.

    Muturi expressed his frustration in locating his son, having contacted various high-ranking officials from the police, DCI, and NIS without success. He managed to secure CCTV footage that showed the vehicles involved in the abduction, identifying a box Prado and another vehicle similar to a Probox.

    After failing to find answers through official channels, Muturi personally approached President Ruto. “I went to State House after hearing the President was at a church service in Nyandarua. I explained the situation, highlighting my inability to get help from other officials and my suspicion that NIS was involved,” Muturi recounted in his statement.

    According to Muturi, President Ruto then directly questioned Haji about the matter, leading to an immediate acknowledgment and subsequent release of Leslie Muturi. “The President asked Haji if he was holding my son, and upon confirmation, instructed his release within an hour, which was complied with,” Muturi said, noting his son’s safe return home shortly after.

  • Noordin Haji: MPs Disclose Net Worth at KSh. 466 Million as He Nears Appointment as Next NIS Director

    Noordin Haji: MPs Disclose Net Worth at KSh. 466 Million as He Nears Appointment as Next NIS Director

    Members of Parliament have revealed that Noordin Haji, the outgoing Director of Public Prosecutions, possesses an astonishing net worth of KSh. 466 million.

    The revelation comes as Haji is on the verge of assuming his new role as the Director of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) in Kenya.

    This disclosure has sparked widespread discussions and debates regarding the wealth accumulation of public officials and their suitability for high-ranking government positions.

    Noordin Haji

    Noordin Haji: A Wealthy Public Servant

    Noordin Haji, known for his reluctant pursuit of corruption and high-profile prosecutions during his tenure as the Director of Public Prosecutions, has found himself in the spotlight once again.

    This time, it is not for his legal acumen but for the significant wealth he has accumulated throughout his career.

    According to the disclosure made by MPs, Haji’s net worth stands at an impressive KSh. 466 million.

    While it is not uncommon for public officials to amass wealth over time, this revelation has ignited public curiosity and scrutiny about the sources of Haji’s wealth and its implications for his new role as the NIS Director.

    The Concerns and Questions

    The disclosure of the outgoing DPP Haji’s substantial net worth has raised several questions and concerns among Kenyans.

    Some argue that his wealth might be a result of legitimate business endeavors and investments.

    Others, however, question whether such wealth can be accumulated solely from a public servant’s salary and raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

    Given the sensitivity and confidentiality associated with the position of NIS Director, there are concerns about the potential influence that substantial personal wealth can have on decision-making and national security matters.

    Citizens and opposition politicians are calling for a thorough investigation into the sources of Haji’s wealth to ensure that it has not been acquired through any illegal or unethical means.

    Noordin Haji: Transparency and Accountability

    This revelation once again highlights the importance of transparency and accountability within the public sector.

    It is crucial for public officials, especially those in influential positions, to be able to demonstrate that their wealth is acquired through legal means.

    Transparency in wealth disclosure is necessary to build public trust and confidence in the integrity of those who hold public office.

    The disclosure of Haji’s net worth should serve as a catalyst for a broader conversation about the necessity of stricter regulations and oversight mechanisms in wealth accumulation by public officials.

    Stricter wealth declaration requirements, periodic audits, and stronger anti-corruption measures could help ensure that public officials’ wealth is obtained legitimately and that their interests do not conflict with their responsibilities.

    Conclusion

    As Noordin Haji prepares to assume his new role as Kenya’s next NIS Director, the revelation of his net worth at KSh. 466 million has ignited a debate on the accumulation of wealth by public officials.

    While Haji’s wealth could be a result of legitimate means, it is essential to address the concerns raised by this disclosure and ensure that the sources of public officials’ wealth are transparent and accountable.

    The government should take this opportunity to review existing regulations, strengthen oversight mechanisms, and promote greater transparency in wealth accumulation among public servants.

    Upholding integrity and demonstrating ethical conduct are essential qualities for those entrusted with leading national security agencies and serving the public interest.

  • Ahmednasir On His Working Relationship With NIS

    Ahmednasir On His Working Relationship With NIS

    Arguably one of the most powerful figures in the judiciary, Ahmednasir Abdulahi aka Grandmullah known for not holding back his thoughts, is seen to command so much power and authority. For time, many have speculated that he’s an national intelligence asset.

    During an interview with Sunday Nation, he did a reveal it all in which he speaks about the nature of his work with the National Intelligence Services(NIS) and how then Director of National Intelligence Service (NIS) Michael Gichangi, a man he says knew him personally, almost sank the boat for him, only for MPs to save him in his JSC quest.

    For a neighbor to the Deputy President Ruto in Karen, Ahmednasir who holds stakes in banking, media away from his law firm, he’s one of the top richest lawyers in the country.

    His source of wealth has been a major center of speculation with most allegations that he launder money for pirates from his native Somalis accusation that he has severally denied but numerously used by critics to hammer him. It’s in this breath that he opened up on his source of wealth and betrayal by Gichangi.

    Below is an excerpt from the Sunday Nation interview:

    A lot has been said about your wealth and its source. What can you say about this?

    I will start with an illustration. I acted for the intelligence services and the Office of the President during the Waki Commission. (The late Prof George) Saitoti was my good friend and he recommended me to act for the Office of the President and the intelligence.

    I travelled with them throughout the country when the commission was holding its sittings. (Michael) Gichangi, who was then the director general of the National Intelligence Services (NIS) knew me personally because we met so many times along with his top people. They gave us classified information. He is someone who knows me.

    When I was elected to the JSC, for his own reasons, he made up his mind that I should not be approved by parliament. During the vetting, which should not have been there anyway for elected members and that is the law today, my candidature got bogged down in parliament. One day I asked Caroli (Omondi, then the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff) why the ODM side was blocking my path to JSC. Karoli called Millie Odhiambo, who was my classmate and was in that committee of parliament that was to vet me and then came back to me to say it was not ODM side that was delaying the process but the PNU side that had a problem with me.

    I was told that Gichangi wrote about one paragraph for all the other candidates but did three pages about me. Among the issues he wrote was that Ahmed’s wife has left him, that because of that, he is not a man that can look after his family and, therefore, is not fit for this job. He said my wife was living in Canada. It is in the report. I am not making anything up. That time my wife was on maternity leave after giving birth to our last born twin daughters.

    Then he also said that Ahmed is holding all the money from Somali pirates. That is the director of national intelligence! He said a lot of things. Millie and people who know me said the accusations could not be true.

    I just wanted to give you that background, that people propound their own theories. Gichangi did not want me to be in the JSC and came up with many things that were lies. I come from Mandera. I have no godfather. During my early practice, whenever I was paid by a client I would make sure I buy suits, very expensive ones. I know which case has financed which suit. The first time I was paid Sh500,000 by a client, I framed that cheque for some time because that was a lot of money then.

  • New law to allow KRA, NIS to track gamblers

    New law to allow KRA, NIS to track gamblers

    A new proposed law to tame gambling will allow The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and state agencies like Police and National Intelligence Service (NIS) to track betting activities on real time.

    The amendments that have received the backing of the state will create a platform that will enable more agencies to trail and apprehend gamblers behind suspicious bets to combat money laundering and flow of dirty money.

    The government is forcing the changes amid piling concerns that betting firms are offering services where proceeds of crime and corruption are rinsed without any declarations to the KRA and the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB).

    The amendments that are already in parliaments are improvements to earlier changes that only gave the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) real-time access to gambling activities.

    If adopted the new laws will allow security agencies and the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC) which tracks illicit money to be added to the list of institutions that will track the bets whenever they are placed.

    “The Board (Gaming board) shall establish a framework to facilitate real time monitoring of online gaming activities which shall be accessible for monitoring by the Communications Authority of Kenya, the board and any other relevant government agencies,” the Bill read.

    The law is targeting plungers who deal in large transactions but bet with a small fractions. Those making small, regular and suspicious bets will also be on the radar of the government.

    Kenya is known for inflows of dirty money, majorly proceeds of crime, corruption, drugs and shady business deals by tender bandits in government who end up investing in luxurious cars and real estate.

    In 2019, state revoked licences belonging to more than 15 betting firms over fresh demands for more taxes and shareholder disclosures which resulted to  court fights with giant gambling firms like SportPesa and Betin.

    The gambling industry has achieve a combined revenue of Sh204 billion as it becomes the best ground for criminals to ‘rinse’ dirty money.

    Criminals collude with gambling executives to feed their illicit money into their betting wallets, bet a small share then cash out the remaining bulk.

    The new rules will also force gambling firms to get advertising approval from the regulator. The advert will also have a warning message that must constitute a third of the actual advertisement.

    The State has recently lost its bid to freeze betting accounts and seize cash that remains unused for three months in a row amid money laundering concerns.

    But the parliament’s committee on Sports, Culture and Tourism rejected the proposal because confiscation of idle cash is the role of the Unclaimed Financial Assets Authority (Ufaa).

    In what looked like a move influenced by the deep pocketed gambling cartels, the parliament was also swayed to reject changes to the Betting Bill that aimed to empower CS Fred Matiang’i.

    Parliament rejected the move that would see the Interior CS freeze the accounts and order gamblers to show proof and declare source of cash before accessing the money.