Former Defense Secretary Aden Duale addressed allegations that he had denied Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua the opportunity to use military helicopters during his tenure.
The claims surfaced following an inquiry by Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi, who questioned whether Mr. Duale had prevented the Deputy President from utilizing the choppers for official duties across the country.
Responding to MP Amisi’ s inquiry, Duale clarified the legal framework governing the use of military aircraft by public officials. He stated, ” According to the law, only the President, who serves as the Commander- in- Chief, and the First Lady are permitted to use the military choppers for travel.
Other individuals within public service, including the Deputy President and the Speaker of the National Assembly, can only use the military choppers with explicit permission from the President. “
This clarification suggests that the protocol for the use of military assets is strictly regulated, with clear boundaries on who is authorized to access these resources.
Duale emphasized that the use of military choppers is not a matter of personal discretion but is determined by legal statutes and presidential approval.
He further explained that the established protocol ensures that the use of military resources is aligned with national security considerations and the interests of the state.
