Kesh Patel Photo: Go Nakamura/Reuters
US President-elect Donald Trump has announced his intention to appoint Cash Patel, his long-time ally, as director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). He wrote about it on Truth Social on 30 November, calling Patel a “fighter for the truth” and a “defender of the Constitution”.
“Cash is a brilliant lawyer and investigator who exposed the ‘Russia, Russia, Russia’ conspiracy and has worked hard for America. He will be a key figure in the fight against corruption and for justice,” Trump said.
A controversial figure with broad powers
The appointment of Kash Patel raises concerns in the US political community about the possibility of using the FBI’s powers to investigate Trump’s political opponents. In the past, Patel has actively supported the idea of a “deep state” and advocated massive dismissals at the Department of Justice and the FBI, including those who investigated Trump’s ties to Russia in 2016.
Patel, a former national security prosecutor and congressional adviser, has been a key figure in attempts to discredit the Democratic investigation. He has also called for the removal of security clearances for many officials, accusing them of being biased against Trump.
Replacing the current head
Patel is to replace Christopher Wray, who was appointed by Trump himself in 2017. Despite his 10-year term, Wray could be fired as soon as Trump returns to the White House.
CNN reports that Patel, in cooperation with Pam Bondi, the potential attorney general, will be able to conduct “purges” of government officials and facilitate the declassification of documents, which could increase political tensions in Washington.
Expert reaction
Analysts warn that Patel’s appointment could set a dangerous precedent for the use of law enforcement agencies for political purposes. The appointment also calls into question the independence of the FBI, which is a key guarantee of justice in the United States.
Trump’s political opponents and human rights activists have already expressed concern that Patel’s appointment could lead to a “witch hunt” against those who criticise the Trump administration and undermine trust in state security institutions.
