Interior CS Matiangi's final message as five-year reign ends

Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i says claims that security agencies attempted to interfere with the outcome of the 2022 General Election are false.

In his final message as curtains come down on his five-year reign as the country’s security boss, Dr. Matiang’i said security personnel put up an outstanding performance during the electioneering period, adding that his team performed exemplary in facilitating the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to conduct a free and fair election.

This he says was reaffirmed by the outcome of the Presidential election petition where the Judiciary did not find the country’s security organs culpable of any wrongdoing.

“Despite immense criticism, scorn and false accusations of scheming to manipulate and interfere with the General Election, our sector put up a stellar and professional performance in supporting the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to conduct the General Election. This has been lauded by election observers and Kenya's Development Partners,” said the CS in a letter addressed to all security officials.

He added: “The just-concluded Presidential petitions and the subsequent ruling did not indict our expansive team across the country of any wrongdoing. This affirms our collective professionalism and due diligence to duty.”

The Interior CS went on to state that the transition to the next administration will also be conducted with utmost professionalism.

“Equally, it is my conviction that those tasked with facilitating the smooth transition to the next administration will exhibit similar professionalism,” he said.

In the letter dated September 9, the CS, who has served in four different ministries, expressed his gratitude to President Uhuru Kenyatta for appointing him to his government, pointing out that he is overly proud of the achievements he made especially in the security docket.

"In the life of a man, there is nothing nobler than being called to serve your country. I came to this Ministry on Saturday, 15th July 2017, at 12.50 p.m., following the demise of Major General (Rtd) Joseph Nkaiserry (may his soul continue resting in peace).  As my tour of duty comes to an end, I exult in the pride of knowing that we have not only honoured expectations but exceeded them by important and evident milestones. History will vindicate our legacy,’ said the CS.

Some of the achievements he cited include tackling the triple threats of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), teenage pregnancies and sexual violence which he says have been tamed to an all-time low.

He also pointed out the improvements in service delivery of essential services such as the issuance of IDs, passports and motor vehicle registration.

“Kenyans now get these services within reduced time and at more locations across the country obviating the need for expensive and time-wasting travel,” he said.

He further pointed out that through a multi-agency approach to security, the war against terrorism, extremism and organized crime had borne fruit.

“Our towns are safer and open to business for longer hours. Visitors can now travel to all parts of our country free of fear,” said the CS.

The letter was addressed to the Inspector General of Police, Deputy Inspectors General of Police, Director of Criminal Investigations, Commissioners General of Prisons, Director General, Kenya Coast Guard Services, Director General, Immigration and Regional Commissioners.