Kibaki reassures of peaceful transition

By PPS

Nairobi, Kenya: President Mwai Kibaki has called upon all Kenyans to play their respective roles in restoring normalcy in the country’s economic sectors as soon as possible, even as the Supreme Court ruling on the Presidential Election Petitions is awaited.

The President, who will retire after the swearing in of the next Head of State, reaffirmed his full commitment to a peaceful transfer of power to the next Government.

At the same time, President Kibaki urged the country’s young people who are active users of various social media to utilize such forums to spread peace and unity.

Emphasizing that the future of the country belongs to present and future generations, the President said it was the responsibility of all Kenyans to ensure that their attitudes, words and actions of today build blocks to a prosperous and united Kenya in the years to come.

He was speaking during an official farewell luncheon hosted by the National Intelligence Service (NIS) on Wednesday, at their new School of Analysis in Kitisuru, Nairobi County.

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The Head of State said, “As the country awaits the Supreme Court ruling on the Presidential Election Petitions, which is due in the next few days, I call upon all of us to accept the ruling and maintain peace.”

He commended the National Intelligence Service and other security organs in the country for their contribution towards a peaceful General Election and for enabling Kenyans exercise their democratic rights freely.

“I also wish to commend all Kenyans for maintaining peace before, during and after the elections,” the President added.

The Head of State, who presented the Service with its new Emblem, signifying the evolution and transformation of the country’s intelligence structures to meet national security challenges, commended NIS for setting up a state-of-the-art School of Analysis.

President Kibaki noted that the National Intelligence Service has drastically improved its operations, revamped its training programmes and invested in world-class technology in the last ten years.

The Government, the President said, has ensured that the Service is adequately funded and legal framework governing its operations strengthened.

The Head of State observed that the National Intelligence Service Act enacted last year in addition to legislation such as the Prevention of Terrorism Act, Money Laundering Act and Organized Crimes Act have increased the capacity of the Service to deal with emerging threats.

He exuded confidence that the National Intelligence Service will diligently serve and support the incoming administration in its efforts to maintain national security and stability.

President Kibaki cited one of the hallmarks of intelligence service as that of carrying out its mandate overtly or covertly making it is easy for a nation to forget the important role played in securing the country’s borders and preventing numerous criminal acts.

He commended the management and staff of the National Intelligence Service for overcoming threatening obstacles in the course of its duties to work hard and remain dedicated to duty.

“In this regard, I extend the gratitude of my Government for your selfless service. I, therefore, stand here today to tell you that your work and contribution to the development of our nation is deeply appreciated. Asanteni Sana,” the President said.

The Head of State specifically acknowledged the tremendous support the intelligence community offered to his Government by providing accurate and timely information regarding national affairs over the last ten years.