Lieutenant General Charles Kahariri has been sworn in as the new Vice Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.

In a ceremony presided over by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on Saturday, March 9, Lt-Gen Kahariri vowed to serve the country diligently and defend the people and the Constitution of Kenya.

“I, Charles Kahariri, Vice Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, do swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to the Republic of Kenya and the President as Commander-in-Chief of Defence Forces. That I will diligently serve the people and the Republic of Kenya…So help me God,” he pledged.

Also sworn into office are Lieutenant General David Kimaiyo Tarus who will now serve as the new Commander of the Kenya Army, and Major General Thomas Njoroge Ng’ang’a who now becomes the Commander of Kenya Navy among others.

Ruto congratulated the new appointees and urged them to observe professionalism and serve as per the law.

“I am confident that the positions you now occupy you will use it to build the military institution. You have contributed immensely to the progress of our country and now I employ you to keep the tradition that today identifies our security agencies and defines the KDF as a professional organisation that serves with great integrity. Congratulations to you,” said Ruto.

Kahariri replaces Lieutenant General Jonah Mwangi Maina who has retired from the service after 42 years.