DP Gachagua demands resignation of NIS chief Noordin Haji over protests

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. [Standard, File]

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called for the resignation of National Intelligence Service Director General Noordin Haji.

Addressing a press conference in Mombasa on Wednesday, Gachagua criticised the NIS for failing to provide timely and accurate intelligence regarding public opposition to the Finance Bill 2024.

"President William Ruto would not have pushed the Finance Bill if he had known two months ago that Kenyans were against it. We have an organisation funded by the public to provide such information," said Gachagua.

He stated, "We have a dysfunctional national intelligence service that has let down the president, the government, and the people of Kenya."

Gachagua revealed that officers of the National Police Service had informed him they did not receive intelligence briefs about the scale of the protests.

"The intelligence service failed in its duty, and the reason is clear; Noordin Haji is unqualified to lead the organisation, which is why the security sector was unprepared," he added.

"Noordin Haji must take responsibility for the deaths that occurred during the protests. He has failed President Ruto, the government, and the people and must resign," he said.

Gachagua also addressed the youth, urging them to stop their planned protests.

"Please, I beseech you as a father. My sons and daughters, make an announcement and call off the protest," he appealed.