Parliament approves Noordin Haji as next NIS Director General

The nomination of Noordin Haji as the country’s next spymaster has received approval from the National Assembly House Intelligence Committee.

“During the approval hearing, the nominee demonstrated knowledge of topical, administrative, and technical issues touching on government and has the requisite abilities, qualifications, and experience to serve as the Director General of the National Intelligence Service,” said the committee in a report.

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A number of petitions opposing Mr. Haji’s candidacy were also rejected in a report by the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Affairs of the National Assembly.

The committee noted that the petitions did not seek Mr. Haji’s dismissal as director of public prosecutions through all available channels.

The committee, which was presided over by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, noted that Mr. Haji’s nomination by President William Ruto was in compliance with the Constitution and different laws, and that he had the necessary academic credentials for the position.

Transparency International’s petition against Haji’s nomination was rejected on the grounds that it did not make use of the constitutionally mandated means of removing him from office.

The MPs also pointed out that one Stephen Magira’s contribution was not made under oath and was therefore inadmissible.

“The nominee has not been charged in a court of law in the past three years, a requirement under the Public Appointment (Parliamentary Approval Act,” reads the observations.