Kindiki defends the Interior Ministry record, citing modernisation and equipment upgrades

The Cabinet nominee for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration position, Kithure Kindiki, has highlighted various successes from his previous tenure as Cabinet Secretary during his vetting process.

Appearing before the National Assembly's Committee on Appointments on Thursday, Kindiki noted that he has been able to take action on some of the recommendations that did not require legal or policy changes.

Kindiki claims that his previous administration launched a significant program to modernise police equipment, which he said would take five years to complete.

He continued, saying they also succeeded in persuading the National Treasury and the government to set aside Sh7 billion, which they have already used to purchase air and land assets.

He stated, "These equipment have assisted officers exposed to great danger, those who are helping to keep the country safe on the frontlines, in the fight against terror, banditry, and other sophisticated organised crimes."

He noted that the equipment was already up and running, particularly the mind-resistant ambushed protected vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, personal protection equipment, and aerial unmanned vehicles, which are commonly known as drowns.

Kindiki also emphasised that they have been able to restore the police air wing, which had collapsed.

“We also have some of the aircraft that are now operational and are helping us with air surveillance,” Kindiki said.

"If this house approves me, we hope to purchase additional gunship helicopters in the next financial year to help us finish the remaining work in the fight against terror, banditry, and other organised crimes."

Kindiki highlighted that he was able to establish and operationalize the National Police Academy, which President William Ruto opened in Ngong, during his 21 months in office.

He said the academy is currently helping them put together a curriculum that will develop short and professional courses to retool and skill police officers, especially those in leadership.

According to Kindiki, the academy will also provide a fast-track process for identifying and nurturing leadership among police officers.

“Going forward with the Academy now operational, we believe that in the next few years, we are going to inculcate not only fast succession management and a career progression programme, but also very motivated leadership within our police officers,” he said.

Kindiki stated that the previous ministry operationalized the National Police Hospital, which has been caring for those injured on the frontlines, in terms of motivating police officers.

Kindiki was the first nominee to appear before the National Assembly Committee on appointments for vetting on the first day of the week-long session.

He was among the few CSs who retained their roles in President William Ruto's newly nominated cabinet.

Speaking on July 25 and 20 in Tharaka Nithi County, Ruto said Kindiki did well protecting the country at the Interior Ministry, which is why he remains on the docket.