Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki recently reflected on his impactful two-year term as Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary, highlighting achievements in curbing banditry and streamlining passport processing.
During his first address at Harambee Annex in Nairobi, Kindiki outlined his efforts to enhance national security, particularly in regions plagued by terror and gang violence.
Upon assuming office in 2022, Kindiki faced widespread insecurity in North Eastern Kenya, Lamu, and the Northern Rift Valley. He noted that through strategic military deployments and declaring certain areas as "disturbed" in early 2023, the security operations dismantled bandit networks, restoring peace in previously volatile zones.
Did you read this?
With military support starting in February 2023, this police-led operation effectively weakened heavily armed bandits through intelligence-driven tactics and superior firepower. Kindiki proudly reported that schools and other institutions in these areas, previously closed due to bandit attacks, have reopened.
Acknowledging President William Ruto's pivotal role, Kindiki expressed gratitude for the resources and support provided, which enabled security forces to counter banditry effectively in Northern Kenya. He noted that these measures disrupted the infrastructure that had fueled bandit activity for decades.
Beyond security, Kindiki achieved significant reforms in passport processing. When he took office, applicants faced delays of over a year, with a backlog of 724,000 applications.
Through efficient management and anti-corruption measures, the processing time has been reduced to seven days, with 85,000 ready passports awaiting collection. Kindiki aims to cut the waiting time to three days by year-end, a target he believes is achievable.
His tenure’s legacy includes a safer Kenya and streamlined immigration processes, marking notable progress in combating crime and improving service delivery.
