Following the tragic death of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Francis Ogolla in a helicopter crash on April 18, the Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Charles Muriu Kahariri has been appointed to act as the Chief of Defence Forces until a substantive appointment is made, officials have confirmed.
There is no vacuum in the military hierarchy, as Gen Kahariri immediately assumed the role of acting CDF following the unfortunate incident. This arrangement will remain in place until a new CDF is appointed by the President in accordance with the law.
The Defence Council will convene to discuss and deliberate on the selection of the next military leader. Subsequently, they will advise the President on the appointment.
Retired Gen Daudi Tonje emphasized that the existence of a Vice Chief of Defence Forces ensures continuity in such situations, and the VCDF will serve as acting CDF until the appointment of a new leader is finalized.
According to the Kenya Defence Forces Act, the CDF, his deputy, and service commanders serve a single term of four years or retire upon reaching the mandatory retirement age. However, in times of war or emergencies, the President, upon recommendation from the National Defence Council, may extend the CDF’s term for up to one year.
Additionally, retirement ages for military ranks are stipulated in the law, with provisions for amendments through legislation. The position of CDF is rotated among the three services—Kenya Army, Kenya Air Force, and Kenya Navy—according to rules introduced by retired Chief of General Staff Gen Daudi Tonje, known as the Tonje Rules.
