The Kenya Defense Forces held promotion ceremony on Thursday in which lucky officers were given their new ranks as a sign of hard work and commitment within the military, four days after President Uhuru Kenyatta promoted and appointed a number of them.
On Monday, Uhuru extended Chief of Defense Forces General Samson Mwathethe's term by one year, effectively ending careers of his likely expected successors Lt General Robert Kibochi and Lt General Leonard Ngondi, who turn 60 this year.
"H. E Uhuru Kenyatta, the President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of armed forces, in consultations with National Defense Council, has extended the term of Chief of Defense Forces General Mwathethe for one year effective 6th May," read a memo by Ministry of Defense.
At Ngao Gardens, Army Commander Lt General Walter Raria, presided over the function that saw several officers of lower cadre elevated to the next rank. A similar ceremony was held at Eastleigh Air Base and Mombasa Naval Base.
In his speech, Raria expressed confidence in the elevated team, adding that the National Defense Council strictly observed merit before making recommendations to President Uhuru Kenyatta for appointment and promotions.
"These newly promoted officers have met the required merits and I have no doubt that they are able to drive the Kenya Army mission further with vigour” he said.
The biggest beneficiary was Major General Adan Mulata, who was promoted to Lt General and appointed Commandant National Defense College. NDC is the most lucrative KDF training center.
Others are: George Kiguta (Director of Medical Services), Abdalla Badi (Senior Directing Staff Air, NDC), Martin Kizito (Commandant Defense Staff College) and Mohammed Farah (Director of Military Intelligence).
National Defense Council also promoted nine officers from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier. They were assigned to different battalions and training centers. Such promotions are done after every one year or incase of retirements and senior military promotions.