DUALE: WHY JUNE RUTO WAS SELECTED TO DEFENCE COLLEGE
Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has defended June Ruto’s enrollment in the National Security Strategy programme at Kenya’s National Defence College (NDC) amid accusations of nepotism within the government. His remarks came after widespread criticism from Kenyans who viewed June’s participation as a clear example of favoritism.
Duale clarified the situation during an interview on Citizen TV, explaining that June Ruto, as a staff member of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was nominated by her ministry to undertake the year-long course.
He stated, “June Ruto, the daughter of the president, is one of sixty-seven students who started classes today, July 3. She is among three nominees from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs selected for the national security strategy course.”
Responding to allegations of bias in participant selection, Duale highlighted the diverse backgrounds of the students, drawn from various government entities including KRA, EACC, NIS, ODPP, KDF, and the Ministry of Health.
He dismissed criticisms circulating on social media as misinformation and propaganda, attributing the uproar to “fake news.”
At the opening of the 2024/2025 cohort, Duale underscored the inclusivity of the programme, noting the participation of nineteen individuals from sixteen allied countries across Africa and Asia. He emphasized that the curriculum focuses on leadership, strategic studies, and national security, aimed at equipping participants with essential skills to address contemporary security challenges.
Duale’s statements aimed to address concerns of favoritism surrounding June Ruto’s enrollment, emphasizing her legitimate nomination based on her role within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and portraying the programme as an inclusive initiative involving diverse stakeholders and international cooperation.
