Jimi Wanjigi Demands KSh 9 Billion Payment for 400 Air Force Veterans Dismissed After 1982 Coup

Nairobi - Safina Party leader Jimi Wanjigi has demanded that the government immediately release KSh 9 billion owed to over 400 Air Force veterans who were dismissed 44 years ago after the failed 1982 coup attempt.

Wanjigi made the call on September 10, 2026, in Nairobi after meeting a delegation of the veterans who sought his support to compel the government to honour court orders on their compensation.

The Employment and Labour Relations Court ruled that the dismissal of the officers was unlawful and ordered the government to compensate them. However, the payment has not been made to date.

The High Court later directed the arrest of Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru for failing to enforce the payment order, but according to Wanjigi, Mariru has not faced any action and remains in office.

Wanjigi said Kenya is governed by the rule of law and court orders must be respected, urging the government to act without delay.

He also signed a charter with the veterans, pledging that his government will clear the entire debt within three months of taking office if Safina Party wins the 2027 General Election.

He noted that the veterans served the country with courage and selflessness and should be treated with honour and dignity, instead of being left to live undignified lives in their old age.

The veterans were among those dismissed from the Kenya Air Force following the attempted coup on August 1, 1982, when a section of Air Force personnel briefly seized control of the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation before the rebellion was put down.