Africa-Press – Kenya. Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) Director-General Mohamed Badi has spoken on succeeding Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Chief Robert Kibochi.
In an interview with KTN News on Friday, July 30, Badi refuted reports that he would be the next KDF boss due to his relationship with President Uhuru Kenyatta.
The Kenya Airforce General was promoted to Lieutenant General’s rank and retained his role as NMS boss. This placed him in a pole position to rise to Chief of Defence boss when Kibochi retires in 2023.
However, he will face stiff competition from three other lieutenants, Major Francis O Ogolla, appointed Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF), Major General Albert K Kendagor and Major General Jonah M Mwangi.
“The dream of every soldier is to be a four-star general. However, the position of CDF is only one yet we are four lieutenant generals.
“My chances of becoming CDF are 25 percent, there is a high possibility I might not rise beyond; civilian life is beckoning,” Badi stated.
The army pilot denied reports that he was Uhuru’s handyman and blue boy, arguing that the two became friends way before.
“Our relationship is purely work-related,” Badi stated.
He also spoke on his poor relationship with Mke Sonko, which people reportedly used to taunt him, alleging that he orchestrated the former Nairobi Governor’s downfall.
Sonko was impeached by the Senate in December 2020, over graft allegations, violation of the Constitution and frustrating NMS operations.
“He was angry and thought that I had taken over his job. He should have played smart by being close to me for a harmonious working relationship. However, I harbour no grudge against him,” Badi explained.
In previous interviews, Badi disclosed that he wasn’t interested in politics either and would serve in the army until his retirement.
“Reaching the level of General in the military means you have done management at a higher level so it’s not a new area for me; managing the city is just like managing the military.
“When I am done I will go back to the military and will not join politics,” Badi assured.
The NMS boss also sits in the Cabinet and advises the Head of State. On Thursday, September 10, he took the Oath of Secrecy and swore to protect and safeguard Cabinet agendas.
