NAIROBI, Kenya – A Diplomatic Dance Across East Africa by Ethiopia’s Intelligence Head

With a diplomatic flair that could rival even the most seasoned politicians, Ethiopia’s intelligence chief, Redwan Hussien, has navigated the swirling currents of East African politics during his recent sojourn. Picture a chess match played out across the punctuated landscapes of three nations. The journey ended last weekend, marked by tête-à-têtes with Kenya’s President, William Ruto, and Uganda’s iconic leader, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

This was a significant meet-and-greet for the spy master, thrusting Ethiopia into the epicenter of Horn of Africa’s turbulent—some say sticky—misadventures. The region is dealing with Al-Shabaab’s renewed shenanigans in Somalia and a bubbling stew of unease in Sudan.

In the midst of these geopolitical shadow plays, Hussien carried the message of his boss, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, like a torch: “I had the distinct pleasure of reverberating Prime Minister Abiy’s messages to President H.E. Yoweri Museveni and H.E. William Ruto,” Hussien said, oozing diplomacy. “Their constructive engagement fosters interdependence in the region, steering clear of the wedges that so often drive us apart.”

While Hussien shuffled the diplomatic cards, President Ruto of Kenya seamlessly hopped on board the peace train. “The Horn of Africa’s security conundrum needs collective resolve,” Ruto declared. “Kenya is committed to partnering with our regional and global neighbors to extinguish the flames of instability.”

There’s no denying Ruto’s dedication: “Conversing about regional security with Ethiopia’s National Intelligence Service Director Redwan Hussien, right here in State House Kenya, Nairobi,” he added candidly.

However, underneath the smooth patter lies the tangled web of internal Kenyan politics; Hussien’s visit conveniently intersected a local political whirlwind. Noordin Haji, Kenya’s own intelligence head, finds himself entangled in controversy, with accusations flying thicker than bees on a honeypot. Allegedly, there’ve been shenanigans involving state security forces and dissident disappearances—a hot potato Haji has yet to address.

Take Justin Muturi, who’s been tossing accusations like a pro. As Public Service Minister and former Attorney General, Muturi didn’t pull punches accusing Haji of having a hand in his son’s disappearance six long months ago. It’s messy, with Rigathi Gachagua, an erstwhile Deputy President, ladling on further claims of Haji’s alleged governmental meddling. If you think the soap opera stops there, you’re barking up the wrong tree.

Yet, the “Haji brigade” batters back accusations, deeming the uproar as nothing more than political chicanery. They argue these hissy fits hazard Kenya’s security, with critics unwittingly undermining Ruto’s presidency instead of nurturing it like a blooming flower. They staunchly defend Haji, who leans on his laurels as a former Director of Public Prosecutions.

As with any theatrics of this ilk, nails bit down to cuticles await the next chapters. For now, though, East Africa’s regional drama continues hurling surprises at its unsuspecting audience.

Report By Axadle.