The National Integrity Alliance (NIA), a coalition of civil society organizations focused on integrity and anti-corruption efforts, has expressed its opposition to the nomination of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji as the next Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS).

In a statement, the NIA said that Haji's nomination does not meet the constitutional requirements of leadership and integrity. The coalition pointed to Haji's handling of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), citing the dismissal of eight corruption-related cases involving influential individuals.

"About 8 graft cases have so far been withdrawn by the ODPP under Mr. Haji's watch, a clear indication that he fails to exercise authority in a manner that promotes public confidence in the integrity of his office," the NIA said.

The coalition further emphasized that had the withdrawn cases been properly handled, Kenyans could have recovered their hard-earned money.

"If these 8 cases had been successfully adjudicated, Kenyans would have recovered about Sh11.3 billion let alone the time and human resources that have been spent in the investigation, prosecution and adjudication process which could aid in dispensing other cases," the NIA said.

To address their concerns, the NIA plans to file a petition to the Public Service Commission (PSC) seeking Haji's removal from his current position based on allegations of gross misconduct.

The NIA is calling upon President Ruto to reevaluate potential candidates who have proven themselves with exceptional track records and the capacity to instil trust.

DPP Noordin Haji was nominated by President Ruto as the successor to the outgoing NIS Director-General, Major-General (Rtd) Philip Wachira Kameru.

The NIA's opposition to Haji's nomination is the latest in a series of challenges facing the DPP. In recent months, Haji has been criticized for his handling of several high-profile cases, including the case against former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko.

Haji has also been accused of being too close to the government, which has raised concerns about his independence. It remains to be seen whether the NIA's petition to the PSC will be successful, but it is clear that Haji's nomination is facing significant opposition.