President William Ruto, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, has recently made significant changes in Kenya’s military leadership. Lieutenant General Charles Muriu Kahariri has been elevated to the rank of General and appointed as the new Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), succeeding the late General Francis Ogolla.
Lieutenant General John Mugaravai Ornenda, previously serving as the Kenya Air Force Commander, brings his wealth of experience to his new role as Vice Chief of the Defence Forces. The appointment of General Kahariri follows the untimely passing of General Francis Ogolla in a helicopter crash, underscoring the need for swift and decisive leadership transitions within the Defence Forces.
Furthermore, President Ruto has endorsed several other promotions and appointments based on the recommendations of the Defence Council, chaired by Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale. Notable changes include the reassignments of Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed as Commander of the Kenya Air Force and Major General Paul Owuor Otieno as Commander of the Kenya Navy. These decisions aim to strengthen the Defence Forces and foster collaboration among the Kenya Army, Kenya Airforce, and Kenya Navy.
