KDF begins nationwide recruitment as Nairobi MPs move to court over unequal allocation of recruitment centers

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has launched its 2025 nationwide recruitment exercise even as 19 Nairobi MPs move to court over alleged discrimination in the allocation of recruitment centers.

The exercise, which runs from October 13 to 25, aims to recruit General Duty Recruits, Defence Constables, General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets, and Specialist Officers across the country.

However, the drive has sparked protests from Nairobi legislators who claim the city was unfairly allocated only three recruitment centers to serve its 17 sub-counties, a move they say denies equal opportunity to many qualified applicants.

The MPs, led by Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, and Woman Representative Esther Passaris, have filed a petition at the High Court, seeking to suspend the ongoing recruitment until Nairobi gets equitable access to recruitment centers.

“We are demanding that Nairobi residents be accorded the same equitable and decentralized recruitment arrangements as other counties,” the MPs said in their application.

They argue that, unlike other counties where recruitment centres are designated in every sub-county, Nairobi’s consolidation into three centres will create “a logistical nightmare” for many aspiring candidates.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye, presiding over the case, declined to issue an interim order halting the exercise but said the court can still stop it midway if it finds merit in the petition. A ruling is expected on Thursday, October 16.

“The court can still stop the exercise midway if it finds merit in the petition,” Justice Mwamuye said.

Despite the legal challenge, KDF has insisted the recruitment will continue as scheduled in all designated county centers.

The Ministry of Defence reaffirmed that the process is free, open, and merit-based, warning applicants against engaging in bribery or fraudulent dealings.

“The recruitment is open to all qualified Kenyans. Anyone found engaging in corrupt or fraudulent practices will face legal action,” said KDF.

The physical recruitment targets candidates aged between 18 and 26 years with a minimum KCSE grade of D (Plain) for General Duty Recruits. Specialist and Officer roles require higher academic qualifications.

Applicants must also meet specific physical and medical fitness standards including a minimum height of 5 feet, and a weight of 54.5 kg for men and 50 kg for women. Those with tattoos, criminal records, or pregnancies (for women) are automatically disqualified.

Online applications for Specialist Officers and GSO Cadets closed on October 12, and shortlisted candidates will be announced through local newspapers between October 21 and 24.

As the recruitment continues across the country, all eyes are now on the High Court, whose ruling could determine whether Nairobi’s exercise proceeds or faces a temporary suspension.