State House was unhappy with Francis Kimemia, sources say

Francis Kimemia. (Photo:Standard)

By Cyrus Ombati

Nairobi, Kenya: Secretary to the Cabinet Francis Kimemia Wednesday said he was happy for having served as the chairman of the powerful National Security Advisory Committee (NSAC), as more details emerged on why he was removed.

 President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday replaced him with Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua.

 Kimemia said it is not easy for one to hold such a position for seven years, pointing out that under his watch, the country held peaceful elections last year.

“We used NSAC to secure the country and I am proud to have served in that position. I am still a member of NSAC as the Secretary to the Cabinet,” said Kimemia.

Kimemia noted that under his leadership at the committee the country also passed a new Constitution.

He added the committee had also among other issues ensured the resettlement of all Internally Displaced Persons.

 “It is routine and the President decides who should brief him at what stage. I am happy to have served in that position and let us support the new chairman,” said Kimemia.

But as Kimemia said this, it emerged that State House was unhappy with his handling of matters while at the helm of NSAC.

His statement, which sensationally linked USAID to an alleged attempt to destabilise the Jubilee Government by allegedly fanning protests was among actions cited for his removal. Sources also alluded to a breakdown in utilisation of intelligence.

Threat to stability

In addition, his intervention in the wrangles between Lands minister Charity Ngilu and National Land Commission Mohamed Swazuri through a letter that warned the squabbles were a threat to stability is said to have worked against him.

 The changes were effected on Monday when Kinyua, who is also the Chief of Staff, took over the new duties even as sources said that the President’s political advisor Nancy Gitau, whom he inherited from retired President Kibaki has also been moved from State House to Harambee House.

Kinyua later chaired an NSAC meeting at Harambee House on Monday for the first time following the changes.