Since President Uhuru Kenyatta picked Noordin Haji to serve at the high office of the Director of public prosecutions, criticism continues to be levelled against the choice. Mr. Haji who is a deputy director the national intelligence service is expected to replace Keriako Tobiko who left the seat vacant after being appointed as a cabinet secretary.
Haji’s critics point out that he has no experience as a prosecutor and is likely to endanger the independence of the judiciary as he is viewed as a jubilee administration’s insider.
“We are very concerned because he is not known within the legal profession. He is associated with the security establishment and he is a political insider.” said the Kenya National Human Rights Commission executive director, George Kegoro.
The head of the Independent Medical-Legal unit, a rights group based in Nairobi, Peter Kiama pointed out that among those short-listed for the appointment were senior prosecutors and sought for explanations on why they were not selected.
“His exposure to the practice of criminal law seems to have been very limited,” said Okero.
Activist Okiya Omtatah has also joined the band of critics terming the appointment as a red flag. “The holder of this office should not be someone of his background. This is a red flag.” Said Omtatah.
Mr. Haji who is the son of Garissa Senator Yusuf Haji will take charge of the office of DPP once vetted and approved by the National Assembly.