Senate Summons CS Tuya Over Explosive KDF Bribery Allegations: “Is Our Military for Sale?”

Senate Summons CS Tuya Over Explosive KDF Bribery Allegations: “Is Our Military for Sale?”

Shock and outrage gripped the Senate on Wednesday, October 1, after disturbing claims surfaced about bribery in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment drive. Senators demanded answers after reports alleged that military slots were being sold for up to Ksh400,000.

“He Offered Me a Bull”—Khalwale Exposes Heartbreaking Plea

Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale ignited the debate with a powerful testimony. He recounted how an elderly man begged him for help to secure his child’s entry into the military.

“There is an old man in Kakamega who owns a bull worth Ksh250,000,” Khalwale told the Senate. “He came to me and said he needed Ksh150,000 more to buy a slot in the military,” he added.

Khalwale demanded clarity from Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya.

“We want the Minister to clarify whether chances to join the military are on sale or on merit,” he insisted. “And if it is on merit, we want to know the merit,” he emphasized.

“Where Is Tuya?”—Senators Slam CS for Skipping Sessions

Tuya, who was expected to appear before the Senate, failed to show up for the third time. Her absence sparked fury among lawmakers.

“This is deliberate snubbing,” Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna declared. “She must respect this House and the people we represent,” he added.

The Senate resolved to summon Tuya again, this time in Busia County, demanding she address the bribery claims head-on.

“We Followed the Rules”—KDF Denies Allegations, Defends Recruitment Process

In response to the uproar, KDF maintained that the recruitment process was transparent, fair, and free of charge.

“We uphold integrity. No slot is for sale,” a KDF spokesperson stated.

The available positions include General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets, Specialist Officers, General Duty Recruits, Tradesmen/Women, and Defence Forces Constables.

Applicants must meet strict academic and professional requirements. For example, GSO Cadets need a KCSE mean grade of B (Plain) with C+ in English, Mathematics, and one science subject.

“We Need Answers”—Public Demands Accountability

As the scandal unfolds, Kenyans are demanding transparency and justice.

“Our youth deserve fair opportunities. Not corruption,” a parent from Kakamega said.

With the Senate now pushing for answers, all eyes are on CS Tuya and the Ministry of Defence.

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Senate Summons CS Tuya Over Explosive KDF Bribery Allegations: “Is Our Military for Sale?”