A disturbing allegation from within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has surfaced, raising deep concerns over political interference, corruption, and the erosion of the military’s independence.
In a confidential email sent by a serving KDF officer, the whistleblower describes a growing sense of frustration and helplessness across ranks, alleging that key military procurement processes have been hijacked by politically connected civilians with ties to the State House.
According to the source, the problems began shortly after the current administration took office, with the disruption of a well-structured military modernization programme that began during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure. The plan was designed to upgrade all three branches of the armed forces and was progressing professionally – until early this year.
“Our bosses gave a presentation at State House,” the whistleblower wrote. “Within a week, the entire programme was hijacked.”
The email alleges that a politically connected operative, Francis Njogu, appeared at the Ministry of Defence headquarters claiming to have State House authority and unilaterally took over the procurement and supply processes. His associate, Kaburu James Day, is said to have taken over operations in the Systems Department at Defence HQ.
The scale of the alleged interference is staggering. What was originally a $700 million procurement plan reportedly ballooned into figures “running into billions,” sparking fears that public funds intended for national defence are being redirected to build a political war chest for the 2027 elections.
“We believe they are preparing to rob the treasury under the cover of defence,” the whistleblower claimed.
Also implicated in these secret dealings are unnamed figures linked to the controversial Adani project — a deal previously associated with opaque offshore transactions.
Of significant concern is the reported silencing of top KDF officials, including service commanders, the CS, PS, and the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). According to the source, most officers are too afraid to speak out, fearing career repercussions or forced retirement.
“From top to bottom, the ranks have gone numb,” the email reads. “We are a disciplined force and this wheeling and dealing is unfamiliar to us.”
