President William Ruto has instigated significant changes in the leadership structure of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
Announced on Friday, March 8, the changes include the promotion of Major General Charles Muriu Kahariri to the rank of Lieutenant General, appointing him as the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces, where he will serve as the deputy to General Francis Ogolla.
Kahariri steps into the role vacated by Lieutenant General Jonah Maina Mwangi following the end of his term.
In a statement issued by KDF, it was also revealed that Major General David Kimaiyo Tarus has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed as the Commander Kenya Army, succeeding Lieutenant General Peter Mbogo Njiru, whose 39 years of service culminated with the end of his term. Tarus previously served as the Deputy Army Commander.
Further promotions include Major General Jimson Longiro, who has been elevated to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor of the National Defence University, transitioning from his former role as the Commander of the Kenya Navy.
Brigadier Thomas Njoroge Ng'ang'a has been promoted to Major General and designated as the Commander Kenya Navy, having previously served as the Base Commander of Kenya Navy Base Manda.
Among other changes, Major General Juma Shee Mwinyikai has been promoted to Lieutenant General and appointed as the Commandant of the National Defence College. Major General Mohamed Nur Hassan will now serve at the Headquarters of the Kenya Army as the Deputy Army Commander.
Brigadier Luka Kipkemoi Kutto has been promoted to Major General and named as the General Officer Commanding Eastern Command.
Additionally, at the Kenya Military Academy, Major General Aphaxard Muthuri Kiugu has been appointed as Commandant.
Major General John Maison Nkoimo has been assigned to the Border Security Command and appointed as the General Officer Commanding.
Finally, Brigadier Peter Shikuku Chelimo has been designated as the Deputy Navy Commander at the Headquarters of the Kenya Navy.