The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has strongly dismissed reports alleging that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga prevented a military coup against President William Ruto. 

In a firm statement issued on Monday, March 17, the Ministry of Defence called out Daily Nation for publishing what it described as “false, baseless, and reckless”claims.  

The Ministry condemned two articles—one in Sunday Nation titled “Raila: I Saved Ruto from Military Coup” and another in Taifa Jumapili titled “Nilivyozima Mapinduzi Dhidi ya Ruto”. 

Further, It dismissed both as misleading, stating that KDF remains a professional, apolitical institution committed to its constitutional mandate.  

“The KDF does not engage in political affairs and upholds the highest standards of integrity, discipline, and service to the nation,” read part of the statement.  

The controversial Daily Nation article, citing an undisclosed source, claimed Raila revealed in an exclusive interview that Kenya was on the brink of military rule, which he personally helped prevent. 

According to the the report alleged that during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests, military intervention could have escalated into a full takeover.  

“If the military had taken over, Ruto would not be in power today. Once soldiers leave the barracks, they never go back,” Raila was quoted as saying.  

The Ministry, however, accused Daily Nation of sensationalizing national security matters and urged the media to uphold responsible journalism by prioritizing accuracy and fairness in