MPs Clash with KDF over Recruitment Schedule

File photo of a past sitting at the National Assembly. /HANDOUT

A group of 18 Nairobi MPs has demanded changes to the KDF recruitment schedule, warning that the current plan undermines equal opportunity and could trigger logistical chaos in the capital.

In a joint letter dated September 16 and tabled by Embakasi West MP and National Assembly Minority Whip Mark Mwenje, the lawmakers argue that the itinerary is unfair and discriminatory, citing the city’s high population density compared to other counties.

According to the schedule, Nyayo Stadium has been designated to serve recruits from Embakasi East, Embakasi West, Embakasi North, Embakasi South, Kamukunji, Makadara, and Starehe constituencies.

Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani will host aspirants from Kasarani, Ruaraka, Mathare, and Roysambu.

Meanwhile, candidates from Dagoretti North, Dagoretti South, Lang’ata, Kibra, and Westlands are expected to report at Jamhuri Grounds.

The MPs said lumping together applicants from several constituencies into a few venues would overwhelm facilities and jeopardize fairness.

“The logistical parameters of this recruitment exercise, as currently structured, fail to account for the unique demographic challenges and high population density of Nairobi,” their statement read in part.

They argued that while other counties have recruitment centres in nearly every sub-county, Nairobi had been allocated only three, despite contributing a significant share of Kenya’s population.

“The allocation for recruitment in Nairobi should reflect its proportion of the national population. Concentrating thousands of candidates from a diverse and densely populated region at a handful of centres will inevitably result in logistical chaos and pose a security risk,” the statement added.

The MPs now want the Ministry of Defence to review the schedule and establish centres across all 17 constituencies in Nairobi.

They have also demanded an official response within seven days, warning of unspecified action if their concerns are not addressed.

KDF announced the 2025 nationwide recruitment exercise on September 15, targeting candidates for General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets, Specialist Officers among other positions. The exercise is set to be conducted in October.

Successful applicants will undergo a rigorous selection and training process that the military says is designed to instill patriotism, discipline, and technical competence.