Fight terror war with zeal, Uhuru says as he sets up security teams

Some of the top security officers follow proceedings as President Uhuru Kenyatta addressed them during a security meeting at State House, Mombasa, on January 22, 2019. [Gideon Maundu, Standard]

Regional Commissioners have been directed to chair the Regional Development Implementation Committee.

Meanwhile, County Commissioners will chair the County Development Implementation Committee. 

President Uhuru Kenyatta said the directive is meant to increase efficiency, speed of delivery, better utilisation of public resources and reduce wastage.

“I hereby direct all Regional Commissioners, County Commissioners, and Police Commanders to treat gate-keeping, rent-seeking, fraud and misuse of resources as a threat to security.”

Uhuru said those who planned and executed the 14 Riverside Drive terrorist attack will be held accountable.

He spoke at State House, Mombasa, on Tuesday after meeting senior security officials.

Uhuru asked the attendees to stand and observe a moment of silence in honour of those who lost their lives in the January 15 raid. 

“We will pursue those who planned and financed the attack, using all instruments at our disposal,” he said.

On January 18, nine more people were arrested in connection with the attack that killed 21 people.

“I thank our security forces for their bravery, professionalism and firmness in confronting and neutralising our enemies.”

The President went on, “I want us all to fight this war against poverty, ignorance and disease, with the same zeal and single-minded focus, as we are fighting the war on terror.”

He urged all Government agencies and departments to subscribe to the One-Government Approach policy.  

All ministries, departments and semi-autonomous agencies will embrace the same multi-agency approach under the National Security Council.