‘They’ve Kept The Country Safe’ Itumbi Defends NIS Amidst Allegations of Abduction

Nairobi – Dennis Itumbi, the Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, has come to the defense of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), describing it as the backbone of stability in Kenya and the region. His comments follow recent allegations by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justine Muturi, who accused NIS of being behind the abduction of his son, Leslie Muturi, in June of last year.

Muturi, who was the Attorney General at the time of the incident, directly implicated NIS Director General Noordin Haji, demanding an explanation for the motive behind the alleged abduction.

In a statement issued on his social media pages, Itumbi praised the NIS, highlighting his personal experiences during training sessions at the NIS headquarters. “The truth is that it is very hard to love the National Intelligence Service (NIS), it is actually easier to hate and criticize them,” Itumbi remarked, acknowledging the service’s often thankless role.

He added that the urgency has become a punching bag for those who aim at fighting the president or the government given its voiceless nature, “it is actually easier to hate and criticize them. Especially when the real target of the criticism is the Government or the President himself. NIS is always an easy target—silent, vigilant, without a voice of their own.” He said.

He emphasized the NIS’s crucial, often unseen, work in maintaining national security, citing instances where the service had neutralized threats, though specifics remain undisclosed due to security oaths.

NIS Director General Noordin Haji.

Itumbi recounted how former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua had praised the NIS for its self-correcting systems and dedication to national security during these training sessions. “Under Noordin Haji’s tenure, this legacy not only persisted but also encouraged dialogue with society as a whole,” Itumbi added, suggesting a balance between intelligence work and public accountability.

Itumbi lauded the heroic efforts by the intelligence agency in averting attacks in the country, “think about this: How many unseen threats does the NIS neutralize each day to keep us safe? Threats we may never hear of, but ones that could change our lives forever.” He said.

Addressing the criticism directly, Itumbi does not deny the need for accountability, especially regarding serious allegations like abductions. “So, should we remain silent about abductions? That’s not my point at all. Speak up, demand answers through thorough investigations,” he stated, advocating for a transparent process to hold those responsible accountable.

However, he urged for a measured perspective when critiquing national institutions like the NIS. “But even as we raise our voices, let us not forget to reserve the respect due to one of our foremost institutions,” he concluded, emphasizing the NIS’s role in national unity and security.