President William Ruto has today presided over the swearing-in ceremony of the newly promoted military offices.
The event, steeped in tradition and symbolism saw the new Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF) Maj Gen Charles Muriu Kahariri who was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General take an oath of office.
Maj General David Kimaiyo Tarus who is set to take over as the new Commander of Kenya Army and Thomas Njoroge Ng'ang'a (Navy commander) among several others also took their oaths of office.
The ceremony held at State House, Nairobi was also witnessed by Chief of the Defence Forces Francis Ogolla and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Ruto presided over the event in his capacity as the commander–in–chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.
In his address after the ceremony, Ruto congratulated the officers emphasizing the pivotal role of the military in ensuring national security and stability.
He said their appointments signify their commitment to Kenya and their professionalism as officers noting that they merited the positions they have earned out of the commitment to service and the people of Kenya.
"This morning you will take over heavy responsibilities. I am confident that the positions that you now occupy are the positions that you are going to use to build the military as an institution," he said.
The head of state also challenged the new officers to reflect on the oath of office noting it speaks to the core of what it should be as a nation.
As the commander–in–chief, Ruto said he will continue to provide strategic guidance so that they build a cohesive, united, progressive and secure nation.
"I want to assure you that you have the support of the government of Kenya is ensuring that you have the wherewithal to secure our nation and to discharge your responsibilities and mandate established by our constitution," he said.
The strength of a nation, he added, comes from the strength of institutions that make up the nation.
According to Ruto, KDF is an important institution in Kenya that is among critical institutions that provide stability to the nation.
He said without security and stability, it is difficult to achieve all other aspirations as a nation.
"I implore you to keep the tradition that today identifies our security agencies and defines KDF as a professional organisation with great integrity," he said.
