Nairobi News

HustleNews

Eastleigh business community backs Noordin Haji’s nomination as NIS boss


The Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA) has supported the nomination of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji as the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS).

The association, through chairman Ahmed Yare, said Haji has considerable experience in law enforcement and the justice system complemented by his steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law which makes him exceptionally qualified for the crucial job.

Mr Haji was last week nominated by President William Ruto for the job to replace outgoing spymaster Major General Philip Kameru.

The Eastleigh business community welcomed Haji’s nomination saying he is suitable owing to his previous workings with the office of the Attorney General and the NIS’s Counter Organised Crime Unit where he was the deputy director before he was appointed the DPP.

They said that Haji’s return to the NIS as the Director General signifies a new chapter in his career, adding that he is well-prepared to effectively address the national security challenges facing the nation.

Also read: Ethics watchdog opposes Haji’s nomination as new spymaster

The traders said in his career, Haji has made remarkable contributions including his exemplary work at the Attorney General’s office. Mr Yare said Haji has spearheaded significant reforms within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for the last six years he has been in the office.

“The EBDA firmly believes that Haji, with his extensive qualifications and experience, is the best-suited public official to be nominated as the Director General of NIS,” Yare said.

“We unreservedly support his appointment and have utmost confidence in his ability to lead the NIS effectively, ensure the security of our nation, and steadfastly uphold the rule of law.”

Eastleigh Business District Association Chairman Ahmed Yare addressing the media at a hotel in Eastleigh on May 25, 2023. PHOTO|JOSEPH NDUNDA

He said the DPP made reforms at the ODPP which include the successful deployment of an electronic filing system, significantly enhancing service delivery, and the establishing the Prosecution Training Institute (PTI).

“Haji’s progressive review of policies and guidelines in the prosecution sector has disrupted the outdated and corrupt system of the past, earning him adversaries amongst those who benefited from it.”

Also read: Grassroot Civil Organizations support new NIS boss Noordin Haji’s appointment

The Prosecution Training Institute, located at the former Kenya Police Staff College in Loresho, Nairobi is an advanced academy within the ODPP which plays a pivotal role in developing the skills and capabilities of prosecutors in the region.

The traders’ lobby chairman said Haji’s dedication to working with social justice centres demonstrates his commitment to nurturing a fair society.

“Haji has actively collaborated with human rights groups and community-based organisations to advocate human rights, combat extrajudicial killings, champion the rights of women and marginalised groups, and resist injustice. His efforts have helped create a safer and more equitable community where justice is accessible to all,’ he said.

They also said Haji’s understanding of the importance of a stable political environment led him to play a critical role in initiating bipartisan talks between the government and Azimio la Umoja coalition, saving the country billions of shillings that would have been lost if protests by the opposition had continued.

Also read: Revealed – Chinese hackers ‘targeted’ Kenya’s government over debts