The National Integrity Alliance, a citizen-led integrity and anti-corruption group, has spoken out against the choice of Noordin Haji as the new Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS).
The group, led by Transparency International executive director Sheila Masinde, claimed that Haji's nomination violated Chapter 6 of the constitution, which outlines criteria for leadership and integrity.
The alliance claims that Haji is unfit for office because his performance as Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has been questioned, particularly after dismissing eight graft-related cases involving top individuals, some of whom have been appointed to government positions.
Ms Masinde went on to say that if the withdrawn cases were handled professionally and the perpetrators held accountable, a total of Ksh.11.3 billion would be recovered for the benefit of the public.
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They also claim that Haji violated both the ODPP Act and the NIS Act, rendering him unfit for any leadership post.
They have pledged to file a petition with the Public Service Commission (PSC) on Monday to remove Haji from his present DPP position for gross misconduct, incompetence, and non-compliance with Chapter 6 of the constitution.
They will also submit a memorandum to the National Assembly's vetting committee, citing the same concerns and stating that if Haji is appointed, they will go to court.
They have also urged President William Ruto to investigate alternative candidates with a proven track record, noting that "Kenya deserves a spy chief who can inspire trust and significantly address our nation's security challenges."
DPP Haji was appointed by President Ruto following the retirement of the incumbent NIS Director-General, Major-General (Rtd) Philip Wachira Kameru.
He is anticipated to be scrutinized by Parliament's Defence and Foreign Relations Committee before being officially appointed by the President.
