Viral Tea Ke - : Breaking

Super Metro To Suspend Operations Amid Nationwide Matatu Strike

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sun, 17 May 2026 21:11:40 +0300

Commuters across Nairobi are set for major disruption after popular matatu operator Super Metro announced it will suspend operations on Monday, May 18, in solidarity with the nationwide matatu strike set to begin from midnight.

In a brief statement issued on Sunday evening, May 17, the SACCO confirmed that none of its buses and matatus would be on the road during the planned industrial action.

“In view of the matatu strike slated for tomorrow, we will not be in operation. We shall communicate when services will resume. Thank you,” the statement on its Facebook page read.

The announcement is expected to pile pressure on thousands of Nairobi commuters who rely on Super Metro for daily transport across key routes within the capital and its outskirts.

A fleet of Super Metro matatus. /SUPER METRO

The suspension comes amid growing unrest in the transport sector following the latest fuel price hike announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which triggered outrage among motorists, PSV operators, boda boda riders, and digital taxi drivers.

Transport stakeholders have accused the government of failing to cushion Kenyans from the rising cost of living, lamenting that the increased fuel prices had directly pushed up fares and could spill over to operating costs.

Super Metro’s decision now signals that the impact of the strike could be wider than initially anticipated, with fears mounting over potential commuter chaos during Monday morning rush hour.

The SACCO did not indicate when normal services would resume, only noting that further communication would be issued.

Meanwhile, the planned nationwide strike by players in Kenya’s transport industry over escalating fuel prices will go ahead from midnight on Monday after stakeholders from across the sector agreed to suspend operations countrywide.

In a joint statement released on Sunday, the Transport Sector Alliance announced that vehicles affiliated with participating associations would not operate as part of a coordinated nationwide industrial action.

According to the alliance, the strike has attracted support from a wide range of transport players, including public service vehicle operators, cargo and logistics firms, digital taxi operators, boda boda riders, tourism transport companies, driving schools, school transport providers and private motorists.

“Following a high-level consultative meeting held today, Sunday, 17th May 2026, all stakeholders in Kenya’s transport sector have unanimously reaffirmed that no vehicle shall move starting midnight today. The nationwide Transport Sector Fuel Strike scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026, is fully on,” the statement read.

“The Alliance confirms that all transport subsectors, covering passenger transport, cargo and logistics; ride-hailing; motorcycle transport, tourism transport, driving schools; school buses; and private motorists have resolved to stand together in one of the largest coordinated industrial actions in Kenya’s history.”

Groups supporting the strike include the Federation of Public Transport Sector, Matatu Owners Association, Motorist Association of Kenya, Truckers Association of Kenya, Digital Taxi Association of Kenya and the Association of Bus Operators, alongside several other industry bodies.

The alliance further argued that the overwhelming support from transport stakeholders placed the chances of the strike succeeding at 99 per cent.

The announcement came just days after EPRA raised the price of super petrol by Ksh16.65 per litre and diesel by Ksh46.29 per litre under the May-June 2026 fuel review.

Under the revised prices announced on Thursday, May 14, super petrol is now retailing at a maximum of Ksh214.25 per litre, while diesel jumped to Ksh242.92 per litre. The new prices took effect on May 15 and will remain in force for the next 30 days.

On Sunday, a petitioner moved to the High Court seeking urgent conservatory orders to halt the latest fuel price hikes announced by EPRA, terming the adjustments unconstitutional, punitive to consumers, and lacking transparency.

A man fueling a car at a petrol station and EPRA's logo inset. /BBC.EPRA

Ruto Appoints Supreme Court Judge Mohamed Warsame

Marvin Chege — Wed, 06 May 2026 17:11:14 +0300

President William Ruto has officially appointed Mohamed Abdullahi Warsame as a judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya.

The appointment was confirmed through a special Kenya Gazette notice made public on Wednesday, May 6, days after the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) nominated him for appointment.

“IN EXERCISE of the powers conferred by Article 166 (1) (e) of the Constitution of Kenya, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, appoint HON JUSTICE MOHAMED ABDULLAHI WARSAME to be Judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya,” reads part of the special gazette made public on May 6.

Justice Mohamed Abdulahi Warsame who has been nominated for appointment to the Supreme Court of Kenya. /JSC

With this, Warsame formally joins the seven-judge Supreme Court bench, which consists of Chief Justice and President Martha Koome, Deputy Chief Justice and Vice President Philomena Mwilu, as well as Justices Smokin Wanjala, Isaac Lenaola, William Ouko, and Njoki Ndung’u.

Justice Warsame, on Wednesday, April 29, emerged as the Commission’s preferred candidate after two days of interviews, positioning him to fill the vacancy left by Mohammed Ibrahim, who passed away on December 17 last year. This followed the interview process that saw five candidates undergo rigorous vetting.

Among the six contenders for the position was Court of Appeal Judge Katwa Kigen, a known ally of President Ruto, whose omission from the final selection list came as a surprise to many observers.

"Every step of this process was undertaken in strict compliance with the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and the Judicial Service Act, and guided throughout by the principles of merit, integrity, fairness, inclusivity, and regional balance," stated Chief Justice Martha Koome in part.

"I am therefore pleased to announce that the Judicial Service Commission has nominated Hon. Justice Mohamed Abdulahi Warsame for appointment to the Supreme Court of Kenya."

Mohamed Warsame was among the final candidates to appear before the Commission’s interview panel on Wednesday, April 29, and was nominated just hours after completing his session.

Prior to his nomination to the apex court, Warsame had served as a judge at the Court of Appeal of Kenya since 2012. Earlier in his judicial career, he sat in the High Court, where he handled matters in both the Commercial and Criminal Divisions, and also led the Judicial Review Division.

Academically, Warsame holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of Nairobi, as well as a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law.

He will take over the seat previously held by Judge Mohamed Khadhar Ibrahim, who died in December last year at the age of 69, only weeks before reaching his retirement age.

Meanwhile, President Ruto nominated Justice Ndung’u as Kenya’s candidate for election to the bench of the International Criminal Court (ICC), a matter which places her among contenders from the African region seeking election to the international court in the upcoming judicial polls.

Voting for six new ICC judges is scheduled to take place during the 25th session of the Assembly of States Parties, set for December 7 to 17, 2026, in New York, United States of America (USA).

Should Justice Ndung’u secure the position, her position at the Supreme Court will be rendered vacant, and the JSC will be required to conduct fresh interviews to identify a replacement nominee, with President Ruto expected to make a new appointment to Kenya's highest court.

A photo of judges of the Supreme Court of Kenya. /NTV

Ruto Increases Salaries For Kenyan Workers, Despite Warnings

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 01 May 2026 14:59:55 +0300

President William Ruto has ordered a 12 per cent rise in general wages for Kenyan workers and a 15 per cent increase for those in the agricultural sector, in a move that stood out during the 2026 Labour Day celebrations.

Speaking at the national event in Vihiga County, Ruto revealed that the pay adjustments were made in response to appeals submitted by workers through the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU).

“I am pleased to announce a 12 per cent increase in general wages and a 15 per cent increase in agricultural wages to all Kenyan workers,” President Ruto announced.

The President explained that the directive is intended to cushion workers against the rising cost of living.

President William Ruto (left) and COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli during the 2026 Labour Day Celebrations in Vihiga on May 1, 2026. /PCS

Under the changes, the 15 per cent increment will specifically benefit those in the agriculture sector, while the 12 per cent increase will cut across most industries, effectively boosting minimum earnings for millions of workers in both formal and informal sectors.

COTU, under Secretary General Francis Atwoli, has consistently called for wage reviews, pointing to the escalating cost of basic needs such as food, fuel, and housing.

Even so, employers have previously cautioned that higher wage bills could pile pressure on businesses, especially small and medium enterprises still navigating economic recovery challenges.

On April 24, 2026, Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) Chief Executive Officer Jacqueline Mugo noted that many firms are grappling with increased taxation, restructuring, and, in some cases, closures.

“As a federation of Kenyan employers, we are aware that the last review for minimum wage increases was done two years ago,” Mugo stated.

“But we are also aware that businesses are struggling, and we will be appealing to the government to balance the interests of businesses and the interests of employees.”

During the celebrations, Ruto also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding workers’ rights, noting that all employees will continue to be protected under Kenya’s labour laws.

He added that the administration will collaborate with COTU, FKE, and the Ministry of Labour to ensure these protections are not only enshrined in law but fully enforced.

In addition, the President disclosed progress in aligning Kenya with global labour standards, confirming that the National Labour Board has finalised the adoption of key International Labour Organization conventions on decent work for domestic workers, as well as measures to eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace.

Long queues of job seekers in their hundreds wait to hand in their documents at the county hall in Nairobi, Kenya. /NATION MEDIA GROUP

Kenya Issues Immediate Orders Affecting Standards Of Fuel

Marvin Chege — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:27:04 +0300

Kenya has temporarily relaxed fuel quality standards in a bid to avert potential shortages linked to global supply disruptions.

In a press statement issued on April 30, 2026, the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, under Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui, announced the approval of a request to adjust sulphur limits in petroleum products for a period of six months.

The ministry indicated that the decision followed appeals from stakeholders in the petroleum sector, including the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, who cited challenges in sourcing fuel that meets existing compliance thresholds.

Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui speaking at the launch of the 2025 Manufacturing Priority Agenda by Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) on March 27, 2025. /LEE KINYANJUI

"The Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry has received requests from stakeholders in the petroleum sector, including the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, regarding challenges in sourcing fuel that meets the current standard compliance levels," the statement read in par.t

"Owing to constraints occasioned by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, including disruptions to supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, and the need to safeguard the continuous supply of fuel critical to the economy, these concerns have been given urgent consideration."

Following consultations with the Kenya Bureau of Standards and the National Standards Council, the ministry conducted a technical assessment before approving the temporary waiver.

Under the new directive, the sulphur limit for Automotive Gasoil (diesel) and Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) has been set at a maximum of 50mg/kg, reverting to previous standards under KS EAS 177:2025 and KS EAS 158:2025.

"It is against this backdrop, and in full consideration of the need to safeguard the welfare of Kenyan consumers and the stability of the economy, that the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry has approved a request by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, under the guidance of the National Standards Council, to temporarily waive the sulphur parameter to the maximum limit of 50mg/kg for KS EAS 177:2025- Automotive Gasoil and KS EAS 158:2025-Premium Motor Spirit as per the previous fuel standards for a period of six (6) months," added the statement.

The ministry noted that the measure is intended to ensure continued fuel availability and maintain economic stability during the current period of global supply uncertainty.

Authorities further indicated that the directive will be reviewed at the end of the six-month period, or earlier should global supply conditions improve.

The move comes amid heightened concerns over fuel supply security, with governments globally adjusting policies to cushion their economies against ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting oil markets.

Before the latest changes, the government enforced tighter controls on sulphur content in fuel sold locally. Under the existing standards—KS EAS 158:2025 for petrol and KS EAS 177:2025 for diesel—the allowable sulphur limit had been set at 10mg/kg.

While the revision offers temporary relief amid supply constraints, higher sulphur levels are typically linked to increased harmful emissions and may, over time, affect engine durability.

Studies further show that fuel with elevated sulphur content tends to burn less efficiently, which can lower engine performance and lead to higher fuel consumption.

Motorists queuing for fuel at a petrol station along Thika Road on April 11, 2022, and a car being fuelled (inset). /VANTAGE KE

JSC Nominates New Supreme Court Judge

Marvin Chege — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:15:48 +0300

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has nominated Mohamed Warsame for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya, following a two-day interview process that saw five candidates undergo rigorous vetting.

Justice Warsame, on Wednesday, April 29, emerged as the Commission’s preferred candidate after the interviews, positioning him to fill the vacancy left by Mohammed Ibrahim, who passed away on December 17 last year.

"I am therefore pleased to announce that the Judicial Service Commission has nominated Hon. Justice Mohamed Abdulahi Warsame for appointment to the Supreme Court of Kenya."

Justice Mohamed Abdulahi Warsame who has been nominated for appointment to the Supreme Court of Kenya. /JSC

The nomination has since been transmitted to President William Ruto for formal appointment in accordance with Article 166(1)(a) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.

Under Article 166 of the Constitution of Kenya, the President appoints judges to the Supreme Court of Kenya based on recommendations made by the Judicial Service Commission, with the final appointment formalised through a Gazette Notice.

Mohamed Warsame was among the final candidates to appear before the Commission’s interview panel on Wednesday, April 29, and was nominated just hours after completing his session.

Academically, Warsame holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of Nairobi, as well as a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law.

If formally appointed, Warsame will join the apex court at a critical time, reinforcing its bench as it continues to handle key constitutional and electoral matters. He will be expected to join the current bench of the Supreme Court, alongside CJ Koome, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, and Justices Mohammed Ibrahim, Smokin Wanjala, Njoki Ndung'u, Isaac Lenaola, and William Ouko, completing the seven-judge composition of the apex court.

He will take over the seat previously held by Judge Mohamed Khadhar Ibrahim, who died in December last year at the age of 69, only weeks before reaching his retirement age.

Chief Justice Koome noted that the commission was satisfied that Justice Warsame met the constitutional threshold for appointment to the Supreme Court bench. She emphasized that his profile reflected the required standards of judicial service.

“The Judicial Service Commission is fully satisfied that the Honourable Mr Justice Wasame demonstrated the qualities that the Constitution demands of a judge of the Supreme Court, that is, professional competence and impeccable integrity, fairness, sound judgement, and genuine and demonstrable commitment to the rule of law and public service,” Koome stated.

Among the six contenders for the position was Court of Appeal Judge Katwa Kigen, a known ally of President Ruto, whose omission from the final selection list came as a surprise to many observers.

During his interview before the Judicial Service Commission, Kigen addressed concerns over perceived bias linked to his past role as legal counsel to President Ruto, insisting that he would remain impartial and uphold strict judicial neutrality if appointed.

Supreme Court of Kenya judges during the presidential petition hearings in August 2022. /VOA AFRICA

Govt Closes Down All Kenya Institute of Management Campuses

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:41:02 +0300

The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) has ordered the immediate closure of the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) and all its campuses across the country, in a sweeping move that throws the status of thousands of certificates into doubt.

In a public notice dated April 20, 2026, and obtained by Vantage Ke, the regulator accused KIM of offering and awarding academic and professional programmes “without accreditation,” despite only being cleared to run courses assessed by TVET-CDACC.

TVETA further flagged what it termed serious legal breaches, stating the institution continued “to offer programs that are not approved and award academic qualifications in contravention of Section 17(3) of the TVET Act,” and “to engage trainers without valid training licenses as required by Section 23(1) of the TVET Act.”

The directive delivers a major blow to current and former students: any certificates, diplomas, or qualifications issued by KIM after 2018 will not be recognised for employment, further studies, or career progression.

Photo of TVETA Director General Timothy Nyongesa. /EDUCATION NEWS

“The public is hereby notified that KIM does not have the legal mandate to award qualifications. Consequently, any certificates, diplomas, or other qualifications obtained from the institution beyond 2018 are not recognized for purposes of employment, further education, or professional advancement,” the notice reads in part.

Invoking Sections 36 and 37 of the TVET Act, TVETA confirmed that KIM’s accreditation has been revoked and all its campuses closed with immediate effect.

"Pursuant to Section 36 and 37 of the TVET Act the accreditation earlier issued to KIM and all its campuses in the Republic of Kenya has been revoked and all KIM campus closed with immediate effect," added the notice.

Kenyans have now been urged to tread carefully. The authority warned prospective students to verify the accreditation status of institutions before enrolling, signaling a broader crackdown on rogue colleges operating outside the law.

This latest action follows a previous warning by TVETA over a surge in institutions issuing unrecognized certificates in Kenya. In a notice dated Tuesday, March 10, the regulator flagged a growing trend of colleges awarding what it described as “internal certificates” without the legal authority to assess or confer nationally recognized qualifications.

TVETA maintained that no institution can offer any training programme without its prior approval, adding that qualifications issued by entities that are not accredited, registered, and licensed under the law remain invalid in Kenya.

The authority stressed that only recognized Qualification Awarding Bodies (QABs) can issue legitimate certificates. Such bodies must be legally established or explicitly authorized to assess and award qualifications in line with the Kenya National Qualifications Framework.

It also clarified that no private TVET institution currently holds accreditation as a QAB. “For an academic certificate to be recognized, the institution awarding it must have the legal mandate, the training programme must be approved by the regulator, and the certificate holder must have met the minimum entry requirements for that qualification,” the authority said.

TVETA urged the public to remain vigilant and verify accreditation before enrolling or paying fees.

This latest move is likely to spark nationwide concern, especially among graduates who may now find their academic credentials invalid overnight—raising fresh questions about oversight in Kenya’s higher education sector and the fate of affected learners.

Photo of a past Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) graduation. /KIM

EPRA Reduces Fuel Prices For April-May After Nationwide Uproar

Marvin Chege — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 22:56:03 +0300

Motorists across Kenya are set to enjoy a small reprieve at the pump after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced a reduction in fuel prices, following a fresh cut in Value Added Tax (VAT).

In an addendum to its earlier review issued on April 14, EPRA stated that the revised pricing stems from a directive by the National Treasury to lower VAT on petroleum products from 13 per cent to 8 per cent, as outlined in a legal notice dated April 15, 2026.

The regulator confirmed the new prices will apply from April 16 to May 14, 2026, effectively replacing those announced earlier.

“As a result, the pump price per litre in Nairobi of Super Petrol and Diesel decreases by Ksh9.37 and Ksh10.21 respectively while that of Kerosene remains unchanged,” Acting EPRA Director General Joseph Oketch stated.

Revised fuel prices as announced by EPRA on April 15, 2026

The revision means Nairobi motorists will now pay less for both Super Petrol and Diesel compared to the initial April pricing, offering some relief after widespread backlash over the steep hikes.

EPRA also revealed that the Kerosene subsidy has been scaled down from Ksh108.10 per litre to Ksh96.56 per litre, even as the pump price remains unchanged.

Under the new rates, Nairobi motorists will now pay Ksh197.60 per litre for Super Petrol, Ksh196.63 for Diesel, and Ksh152.78 for Kerosene.

In Mombasa, Super Petrol will retail at Ksh194.32, Diesel at Ksh.193.35, and Kerosene at Ksh.149.49.

The latest adjustment comes barely a day after EPRA announced sharp increases in fuel prices for the April–May cycle, attributing the spike to rising global oil costs and pressure from the exchange rate. In that earlier review, Super Petrol and Diesel prices had surged by Ksh28.69 and Ksh40.30 per litre respectively, while kerosene remained unchanged.

At the time, EPRA linked the increases to higher landed costs — the price of importing fuel — driven by volatility in international markets and a weakening shilling.

The regulator further noted that previous government measures, including reducing VAT from 16 per cent to 13 per cent and tapping the Petroleum Development Levy, had not been sufficient to offset global pricing pressures.

However, the latest VAT cut to 8 per cent signals a more aggressive intervention by the government to cushion consumers amid rising living costs.

The tax reduction was announced on Wednesday by President William Ruto, who indicated the measure will remain in place for three months to ease the burden of high fuel prices.

He added that additional interventions include the release of Ksh6.2 billion to stabilise prices and maintain the current cost of kerosene.

President William Ruto speaking in Kisii County on April 15, 2026. /PCS

EPRA Increases Fuel Prices By Up To Ksh40, Surpass Ksh200 Mark

Marvin Chege — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 21:49:37 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced a dramatic increase in fuel prices that will deal a big blow to Kenyan motorists.

In a statement released on Tuesday, April 14, the regulator revealed that the maximum pump prices for Super Petrol and Diesel sharply rose by double digits, by Ksh28.69 and Ksh40.30 per litre respectively. However, for Kerosene, the price for it remains unchanged.

In accordance with Section 101(y) of the Petroleum Act 2019 and Legal Notice No.192 of 2022, the Energy & Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has calculated the maximum retail prices of petroleum products which will be in force from 15th April 2026 to 14th May 2026," announced EPRA.

"In the period under review, the maximum allowed petroleum pump prices for Super Petrol and Diesel increases by KShs.28.69/litre and KShs.40.30/litre respectively while the price of Kerosene remain unchanged."

Fuel watch: New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on April 14, 2025

In Nairobi, motorists last month had been paying Ksh178.28 per litre for Super Petrol, Ksh166.54 for Diesel, and Ksh152.78 for Kerosene starting midnight on Sunday, March 15, for a period of 30 days.

Now, in Nairobi, motorists will pay Ksh206.97 per litre for Super Petrol and Ksh206.84 for Diesel, but consumers of Kerosene will keep paying Ksh152.78 starting midnight on Wednesday, April 15. The prices will remain effective for the next 30 days.

EPRA explained that the prices are inclusive of the Value Added Tax (VAT), in line with the VAT Act, 2013, as read with Legal Notice No.69 dated 14th April 2026, the Finance Act, 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2024, and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020.

VAT Reduced

With news of the increase in fuel prices dominating the country, the regulator announced that, effectively, the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate on Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene has been reduced from 16% to 13% to cushion consumers from the high landed cost of petroleum products as a result of the escalated prices in the international market.

The government, EPRA adds, will further cushion the consumers through the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) Fund by utilizing approximately Ksh6.2 billion to stabilize the pump prices.

"We wish to reiterate that, as per the earlier directive from the Government, the Super Petrol delivered by One Petroleum ex MT Paloma has not been included in the computation of the applicable prices," EPRA clarified.

The regulator also revealed that the average landed cost of imported Super Petrol dropped by 41.53 per cent, falling from Ksh75,266.82 per cubic metre in December last year to Ksh106,526.39 in January 2026.

In the same period, the landed cost of Diesel declined by 68.72 per cent, moving from Ksh82,292.99 per cubic metre to Ksh138,764.76 per cubic metre. Meanwhile, Kerosene recorded a sharp increase of 105.15 per cent, rising from Ksh82,684.76 per cubic metre to Ksh169,632.55 per cubic metre.

Motorists in Mombasa are set to contend with some of the steepest pump prices nationwide, with Super Petrol retailing at Ksh203.69 per litre, Diesel at Ksh203.56, and Kerosene at Ksh149.49.

In Nakuru and Kisumu, Super Petrol will sell at Ksh206.03 and Ksh206.85 per litre respectively, while Diesel prices in the two cities will stand at Ksh206.25 and Ksh207.06 over the next 30 days.

Motorists queuing for fuel at a petrol station along Thika Road on April 11, 2022, and a car being fuelled (inset). /VANTAGE KE

Police Shoot Dead Two Protesters In Mbeere North

Marvin Chege — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:58:06 +0300

Two people were reportedly shot dead in an incident involving police officers after residents of Ishiara in Mbeere North, Embu County staged peaceful demonstrations to protest the deteriorating condition of Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.

The protests, which began as a non-violent push by locals demanding urgent improvements in healthcare services, escalated into a tragic confrontation.

Witnesses claimed that police intervened during the demonstrations, leading to the fatal shooting of the two individuals under circumstances that remain unclear.

Scenes in Mbeere North as protesters took to the streets to lament the poor state of the Ishihara Level 4 Hospital on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. /BILLY MWANGI

The demonstrations, which left roads impassable for most of the day, took a deadly turn in the afternoon when police moved in to disperse the protesters.

In the lead-up to the fatal clash between police and demonstrators, angry residents stormed the busy Embu Highway, barricading it with stones and other debris to halt traffic.

Tensions peaked on Tuesday afternoon when police officers moved in to disperse the crowd, prompting resistance from protesters and triggering a confrontation. Reports suggest that live bullets were used during the standoff, resulting in two fatalities.

Ishiara Level 4 Hospital has come under mounting scrutiny in recent weeks, with local ward representatives warning as recently as April 10 that the facility’s deteriorating condition was no longer sustainable.

The facility is a Level 4 health facility that has been grappling with major operational setbacks, including the suspension of inpatient services, persistent medicine shortages, and even a lack of food for patients.

The poor state of the facility, compounded by financial difficulties, has triggered public protests over its functionality.

The hospital has also recently attracted widespread attention after images circulated on social media showing its severely deteriorated infrastructure, including leaking and damaged roofs in some wards.

As a key primary healthcare facility serving the local community, residents have long relied on it, intensifying pressure on the county government to take responsibility and urgently upgrade its conditions.

The unrest also unfolded against a backdrop of growing concern over rising incidents of “goonism” reported in various parts of the country in April.

On Sunday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stated that he had authorized Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to take firm action against the trend, with full backing from the ministry.

Photo collage showing the deplorable state of Ishiara Level 4 Hospital. /VANTAGE KE

Why Governor Lusaka Fired His Entire Cabinet

Marvin Chege — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:22:52 +0300

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has dismissed all Members of the County Executive Committee (CECM), alongside the County Attorney and County Secretary, with immediate effect.

In a statement issued on Thursday, April 9, Lusaka indicated the sweeping changes were made under his constitutional authority, aimed at strengthening governance and enhancing service delivery in the county.

"The Office of the Governor wishes to inform the public that, in the exercise of the constitutional mandate to ensure effective governance and service delivery, the Governor has undertaken a reorganisation of the County Executive," part of the statement read.

Council of Governors during a meeting on November 18, 2024. /COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS

"Accordingly, subject to section 40(1)(a) of the County Government Act, all Members of the County Executive Committee, the County Attorney, and the County Secretary have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect," it added.

Lusaka explained that the decision was taken in good faith and in the public interest, to improve efficiency within the county administration and safeguard the integrity of its institutions.

Despite the mass dismissal, the governor did not name immediate replacements, noting that details on interim arrangements and new appointments will be communicated later in line with legal procedures.

The county government assured residents that essential services would continue uninterrupted, revealing that contingency measures had already been put in place.

"Further communication regarding interim arrangements and subsequent appointments will be made in due course, in accordance with the law," the statement added.

The drastic move comes just hours after the Bungoma County Assembly disclosed it had received impeachment motions targeting a county official.

In a communication dated Wednesday, April 8, the Office of the Clerk confirmed the motions were undergoing procedural processing before being forwarded for approval.

“The Office of the Clerk wishes to inform the public that impeachment motions have been received today and are currently undergoing procedural processing.

"The motions will be presented to the Hon. Speaker and the House Business Committee for approval. Upon approval, they will be tabled before the House in accordance with the Standing Orders and the law,” the clerk’s office stated.

It remains unclear which official is the subject of the impeachment motions, whether the governor or other county figures.

Lusaka is currently serving his second term as Bungoma governor. He previously held the same position between 2013 and 2017 before serving as Senate Speaker from 2017 to 2022.

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka during a past address. /MULEMBE.CO.KE

KRA Fires Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga

Marvin Chege — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 19:29:49 +0300

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced a major leadership shake-up, confirming that Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga will exit office immediately after the Board declined to renew his contract.

In a press release dated April 8, 2026, the taxman revealed that Wattanga has been sent on terminal leave with immediate effect, bringing an abrupt end to his tenure at the helm of the revenue-collecting agency.

"The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Board informs the public that it will not be renewing Mr. Humphrey Wattanga’s Contract of Service as Commissioner General. Consequently, and in accordance with his Contract of Service, he is proceeding on terminal leave effective immediately," the statement reads in part.

Side by side image of immediate former KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga and his temporary replacement, Lilian Nyawanda. /VANTAGE KE

Despite the sudden exit, the Board moved to acknowledge Wattanga’s contribution during his time in office, crediting him for steering key reforms within the institution aimed at enhancing efficiency and strengthening tax compliance.

"The Board takes this opportunity to commend the outgoing Commissioner General for his dedicated service and leadership to the Authority and the country," added the taxman.

"During his tenure, he played a key role in advancing the Authority’s mandate. Notably, Mr. Wattanga has been instrumental in the successful organizational restructuring reforms at the Kenya Revenue Authority."

Stepping into the role in an acting capacity is Lilian Nyawanda, who currently serves as Commissioner for Customs and Border Control. Her appointment takes effect immediately as the Board begins the search for a substantive Commissioner General.

Wattanga took over as Commissioner General in August 2023 under a three-year contract secured through a competitive recruitment process. As his term approached its end, the Kenya Revenue Authority chose not to renew his contract, instead ushering in a leadership shift by appointing Nyawanda.

Prior to his appointment as Commissioner General, he served for six years as Vice Chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation.

Nyawanda now assumes control of one of Kenya’s most critical institutions at a time when revenue collection remains central to funding government operations amid ongoing economic pressures. In her role, she will be oversee the Authority’s operations, including revenue collection, tax administration, and implementation of ongoing reforms, for the time being.

The leadership transition signals a pivotal moment for KRA, which has in recent years undergone structural reforms aimed at boosting efficiency, sealing tax leakages, and expanding the tax base.

The changes come a mere 24 hours after KRA surpassed the Ksh2 trillion mark in cumulative revenue collection by the close of the third quarter ofFinancial Year (FY) 2025/26, collecting Sh2.038 trillion as at March 31, 2026, against a target of Ksh2.122 trillion.

This represented a performance rate of 96.1 per cent and an 11.4 per cent growth over the corresponding period in the previous financial year.

Workers inside the Kenya Revenue Authority offices. /KRA

ODM Senator Attacked By Goons, Office Confirms

Marvin Chege — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:16:55 +0300

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi was on Tuesday, April 8 caught up in a shocking incident after he was allegedly assaulted by armed individuals in Kisumu over his political position.

According to a statement from the Vihiga Senate Office obtained by Vantage Ke, the legislator had made a routine stop in the Acacia area for a shave before heading to a nearby Restaurant, where he met a friend and interacted with members of the public for about 30 minutes.

It was during this seemingly normal outing that the situation took a dramatic turn. “It was during this time that a group of gun-wielding individuals confronted him, questioning his political stance and subsequently subjecting him to physical manhandling,” the statement read.

The attackers reportedly demanded answers over his support for a 'one-term' political position, escalating tensions in the encounter.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi at the Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, speaking during the ODM joint Parliamentary Group meeting on March 3, 2026. /GODFREY OSOTSI

Despite the provocation, Osotsi’s security team held back from using firearms, citing the risk to civilians in the busy public setting.

“The Senator's security detail that was present exercised restraint to avoid discharging firearms in a public setting, which could have resulted in grave harm to innocent civilians,” the statement added.

The incident has since sparked concern over rising political intolerance, with the Senate office terming the attack as calculated. “We strongly condemn this barbaric and cowardly act, which appears to have been premeditated and orchestrated,” the statement continued.

Even as outrage grows, the office was quick to distance Kisumu residents from the incident, maintaining that the county remains peaceful. “This isolated incident should not, in any way, be used to tarnish the image of the people of Kisumu, who have consistently demonstrated warmth and hospitality,” the statement noted.

Authorities are now under pressure to move swiftly, with calls for investigations already underway. “We call upon the National Police Service to act with urgency and thoroughness in investigating this incident,” the statement urged.

“The availability of CCTV surveillance at the restaurant provides a critical starting point for identifying and apprehending those responsible. “The rule of law must prevail and those behind this heinous act must be held accountable.”

The statement was issued by Vihiga Senate Director of Communication Derrick Luvega. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who also confirmed the news, revealed that Osotsi was airlifted to Nairobi shortly after the incident.

"I have spoken to Senator Osotsi's team and confirmed that he was viciously attacked and injured in Kisumu earlier today when he went to get a haircut," Sifuna stated.

He went on to disclose that the injuries were severe enough to require urgent medical attention, making it impossible for the senator to travel back to Nairobi by road.

According to Sifuna, Osotsi was airlifted to Nairobi shortly after the incident, though full details regarding his condition remain unclear.

"The Senator is being airlifted to Nairobi as we speak. Whilst we wait for further details, I strongly condemn this attack and ask the Police for immediate action on those responsible," added Sifuna.

Sifuna maintained a firm stance, pressing law enforcement to move with speed in pursuing those behind the assault. "I strongly condemn this attack and ask the Police for immediate action on those responsible," he reiterated.

Senator Osotsi, who aligns with the Linda Mwananchi faction under Senator Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, has consistently criticised the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) wing associated with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Since the launch of the Linda Mwananchi grassroots rallies, the group has repeatedly faced what they describe as state-backed crackdowns, with police deployed to disperse their gatherings in different parts of the country.

Scenes as teargas is lobbed at Linda Mwananchi rally in Kakamega on February 21, 2026. /BABU OWINO

Kenya Govt Says Fuel Prices Could Increase By Up To Ksh14

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:16:21 +0300

The Kenyan government has warned that fuel prices could increase by up to Ksh14 per litre if the Super Petrol consignment imported outside Kenya’s government-backed supply framework were to make it to the market.

In a press statement on Tuesday, April 7, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi flagged a 60,000-metric-tonne shipment of Super Petrol that was brought into the country in breach of the established Government-to-Government (G-to-G) fuel importation deal.

According to the statement, the consignment was priced at Ksh198,000 per metric tonne, significantly higher than the Ksh140,000 per metric tonne secured under the G-to-G arrangement—creating a Ksh58,000 per tonne difference.

Wandayi warned that this cost gap could directly translate to a Ksh14 per litre increase in pump prices, at least for this batch.

Mv Navig8 Martinez fuel tanker docks at the Kipevu Oil Terminal 2 at the port of Mombasa with Uganda's petrol consignment on July 3, 2024. /NATION MEDIA GROUP

"A 60,000-metric-tonne consignment of Super Petrol was recently imported into the country in contravention of the procedures set out under the G-to-G contractual framework with international suppliers. This action posed a risk to the integrity of a system that has consistently safeguarded supply security and pricing stability," the statement reads in part.

"This consignment is priced at Ksh 198,000 per metric tonne, compared to Ksh 140,000 per metric tonne under the G-to-G arrangement, an increase of Ksh 58,000 per metric tonne, which would result in an approximate rise of Ksh 14 per litre in pump prices on this consignment alone."

Orders Given

In light of the findings, Wandayi announced that his Ministry, in addition to the "measures already undertaken", has directed that One Petroleum Ltd, the company that imported the said product and invoiced Oil Marketing Companies, immediately withdraw all invoices issued and raise credit notes.

Further, the CS ordered Oil Marketing Companies to neither pay the invoices nor uplift product from this consignment, and that One Petroleum Ltd is directed to exit the product out of Kenya as soon as possible.

Moreover, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) was directed to subsequently exclude the product from the monthly computation of petroleum product costs.

"The Government will remain vigilant to ensure that no individual, company, or stakeholder engages in artificial shortages or unjustified price increases. The public will continue to be updated on fuel prices in the usual manner," the CS assured.

"The Government reaffirms its firm commitment to upholding the integrity of fuel supply under the Government-negotiated G-to-G framework and to honouring its contractual obligations."

CS Wandayi, who has been under fire over the ongoing Ksh4.8 billion substandard fuel scandal, assured all stakeholders, both international and domestic, of its continued resolve to safeguard stability, transparency, and accountability in the petroleum supply chain.

A photo of petrol pumps. /FILE

Petroleum PS, EPRA & KPC Bosses Resign, Ruto Announces

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 14:40:43 +0300

Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority Director General Daniel Kiptoo, Kenya Pipeline Company Managing Director Joe Sang, and Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban have stepped down following the fuel importation deal controversy, President William Ruto has announced.

The communication was issued through the Office of the President in a letter dated April 4, 2026, signed by Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff Felix Koskei.

“The President has received the resignation of Mr Mohamed Liban as Petroleum Principal Secretary, alongside the exit of Kenya Pipeline Company Managing Director Joe Sang and EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, following decisions by their respective boards,” the letter read in part.

At the same time, the Chief of Staff disclosed that the State Department for Petroleum and KPC have launched disciplinary action against Deputy Director Joseph Wafula and Supply and Logistics Manager Joel Mburu as part of ongoing administrative measures.

President William Ruto while attending the 19th Ambassadors and High Commissioners Conference, Nairobi on March 28, 2026. /PCS

“The State Department for Petroleum and Kenya Pipeline Company have initiated disciplinary processes against Deputy Director Joseph Wafula and Supply and Logistics Manager Joel Mburu as part of ongoing administrative action.”

The developments come in the wake of the arrest of the senior officials by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over claims of procuring and facilitating the circulation of substandard fuel in the Kenyan market.

Investigators suspect that a shipment aboard the vessel MV Paloma, which had initially been bound for Angola, was rerouted to the Port of Mombasa under unclear circumstances before entering local supply channels.

Early findings indicate the cargo—reportedly sourced from Saudi Aramco—may have been overpriced by more than Ksh4 billion and did not meet Kenya’s fuel quality standards, raising concerns over potential financial losses and consumer risk.

The government has assured the public that investigations will be comprehensive, with those found culpable facing charges under the economic crimes framework. It also indicated that corrective steps will be taken to address irregular fuel shipment requisitions and restore compliance with the government-to-government (G-to-G) framework governing fuel imports.

“Further updates will be provided as investigations progress, including administrative measures to ensure full accountability, such as the reversal of irregular shipment requisitions and their alignment with the contracted G2G framework,” the letter added.

Meanwhile, at KPC, the board on Friday evening named Pius Mwendwa as acting Managing Director following the arrest of Sang. In a statement signed by Board Chair Faith Boinett, stakeholders were assured that operations at the publicly listed firm remain steady and uninterrupted.

Ruto Urged To Fire CS Opiyo Wandayi

Attention has now shifted to President Ruto, as pressure builds for him to dismiss Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, should he fail to step down voluntarily over the fuel scandal that emerged on Thursday.

The arrests of Kiptoo, Sang, and PS Liban have heightened scrutiny on the Ministry of Energy, with critics questioning how the alleged multi-billion shilling scheme escaped detection.

Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has been at the forefront of calls for action, demanding Wandayi’s immediate resignation or arrest over what he described as gross incompetence. “CS Opiyo Wandayi's core responsibility is to develop, implement, review, and enforce policies in the Ministry of Energy & Petroleum. He is the leader, reporting directly to the President,” Khalwale stated.

“He knew or ought to have known the diversion of condemned fuel worth Ksh4 billion into the Kenyan market. If he knew, he must be arrested immediately for criminal culpability. If he didn't know, he must take political responsibility and resign or be sacked,” he added.

Khalwale also cautioned that failure by the executive to act could prompt parliamentary intervention, urging the National Assembly to consider impeachment proceedings if no decisive steps are taken.

Despite the mounting pressure, Wandayi has yet to issue a public response regarding the unfolding developments within his ministry, even as investigations intensify.

President William Ruto chats with Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi at the International Conference on Nuclear Energy in Nairobi on March 25, 2026. /OPIYO WANDAYI

KPA Boss William Ruto Rushed To Hospital After Road Accident, Daughter Dies

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 12:58:07 +0300

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director William Ruto has been admitted to hospital following a road accident involving his family near Taita Taveta on Friday, April 3.

The authority confirmed the incident, noting that the crash tragically claimed the life of his daughter.

“We are deeply saddened to announce that our Chief Executive Officer, Capt. William K. Ruto, was involved in a tragic road accident yesterday evening while travelling with his family,” KPA stated in a statement released on Saturday, April 4.

Adding, “Regrettably, his daughter did not survive the accident. We extend our thoughts and deepest condolences to Capt. Ruto and his family during this time of immense grief.”

Image of a sign showing an accident scene. /FILE

Ruto, who has led KPA since 2023, remains in stable condition and is under close medical observation, the authority confirmed. “We remain hopeful for their full and swift recovery,” KPA stated.

KPA further indicated that it is collaborating with investigative agencies, including the police, to determine the cause of the crash.

The incident comes amid a spike in road accidents across the country on Friday night, as many Kenyans travel upcountry for the Easter holidays and schools close for the term.

In the meantime, the number of fatalities from a Nairobi–Nakuru highway crash at Kariandusi near Gilgil has climbed to 11 after another victim died while being rushed to hospital.

The early Saturday morning, April 4 accident involved a 14-seater matatu that collided with a stalled trailer.

Gilgil Sub-County Police Commander Winston Mwakio explained that the trailer had experienced mechanical failure and stopped on the road, before the speeding matatu lost control and rammed into it.

In a separate incident, the Kenya Red Cross Society reported another crash at about 5:20am in the Tunnel area of Fort Tenan, Kericho County, involving two buses and two lorries carrying a combined total of 66 passengers.

That accident resulted in 20 casualties but no deaths. Five people sustained serious injuries, with two transferred to higher-level facilities, while the rest—including six children—are receiving treatment at Fort Tenan Sub-County Hospital.

The wreckage of a 10-seater matatu involved in an accident on Saturday, April 4, 2026. /MAMBO MSETO

DCI Make Surprise Arrests Targeting Petroleum PS, EPRA, KPC Bosses

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 15:40:22 +0300

In a major twist, four senior government officials have been apprehended over claims of procuring substandard fuel, sparking renewed fears about fuel quality nationwide.

Those taken into custody include Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Director General Daniel Kiptoo, and Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Managing Director Joe Sang.

According to reports reaching Vantage Ke, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) carried out the arrests on Thursday evening, with the fourth person arrested yet to be identified by the time of going to press.

After their arrest, the officials were escorted to the DCI headquarters along Kiambu Road in Nairobi, where they underwent questioning before being held at Gigiri Police Station. Despite the high-profile arrests, investigators have not yet released comprehensive details about the case.

Officers stand guard at the entrance of DCI headquarters along Kiambu Road. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE

Insiders indicate that the probe is now focusing on how the substandard fuel was procured, the supply chain involved, and whether there was any collusion among senior officials.

The inquiry is also expected to examine how the fuel made its way into the country and whether procurement procedures were bypassed. If found liable, the officials could face serious charges, including possible abuse of office.

The allegations emerge amid ongoing complaints from motorists over fuel quality, with some reporting engine damage linked to contaminated petroleum products.

Substandard fuel refers to petrol or diesel that does not meet approved quality standards, often deliberately mixed with kerosene, solvents, or impurities such as water and dirt to boost profits. It can lead to engine damage, blocked filters, reduced performance, and increased emissions.

EPRA has in the past assured the public of strict compliance measures, but the latest developments raise fresh questions about the regulator’s ability to enforce fuel standards.

The situation is further complicated by fears of a potential fuel shortage following the escalation of the Middle East conflict. Even so, President William Ruto’s administration has maintained that the country has enough fuel reserves to sustain motorists for the next 30 to 40 days.

On Thursday, April 2, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi assured Kenyans that fuel prices will remain stable for at least two months, despite pressure from the Iran war on global oil markets.

Mbadi indicated that current stock levels stand at 16 days for petrol, 19 days for diesel, and 49 days for jet fuel and kerosene. Citing data from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, he noted that as of March 30, the country had 138,623 metric tonnes of super petrol, 207,841 metric tonnes of diesel, and 150,398 metric tonnes of jet fuel in reserve.

Projected deliveries for March and April include 290,000 metric tonnes of super petrol, equivalent to 47 days’ cover, 182,900 metric tonnes of diesel for 20 days, and 60,000 metric tonnes of jet fuel covering 25 days.

Import plans for the May to July period outline 510,000 metric tonnes of super petrol, 765,000 metric tonnes of diesel, and 200,000 metric tonnes of jet fuel.

The government added that about Ksh17 billion currently held in the fuel stabilisation fund under the Petroleum Development Levy will be used to cushion consumers and help keep pump prices steady over the next three months.

Authorities are also exploring adjustments to VAT on fuel, potentially shifting to a fixed charge per unit in a bid to keep prices lower.

Meanwhile, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi earlier warned oil marketing companies against hoarding fuel amid volatility in global prices driven by the Middle East conflict. Wandayi noted the government had “noted with concern, indeed grave concern” reports that some firms were withholding stocks in anticipation of price shifts, stressing that such actions violate licensing regulations and undermine the public interest.

A photo of petrol pumps. /FILE

Ruto Mourns Death Of MP David Kiaraho

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 15:27:47 +0300

President William Ruto has led the country in mourning the death of Ol Kalou Member of Parliament David Njuguna Kiaraho, who passed away while undergoing treatment.

Kiaraho’s death was confirmed by Moses Wetang'ula, who informed Members of Parliament and the public of the loss in an official statement.

Reports indicate that the legislator died while receiving medical care, although details surrounding his illness were not immediately disclosed.

"It is with profound sorrow that I hereby notify Members of the National Assembly and the entire Parliamentary fraternity of the untimely demise of Member for Ol Kalou, the late MP David Njuguna Kiaraho, who passed away today, Sunday, March 29, 2026, at around 20 minutes past 1 am while undergoing treatment at the Nairobi Hospital," Wetang'ula said.

Photo of the late Ol Kalou, Member of Parliament David Njuguna Kiaraho. /WILLIAM RUTO

In his tribute, President Ruto described Kiaraho as a committed and visionary leader whose work left a lasting mark on his constituency and the country at large.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the people of Ol Kalou during this difficult period,” Ruto stated, noting that the late MP was a “humble, steadfast, and visionary leader” who dedicated his life to public service.

Kiaraho had represented Ol Kalou Constituency in Nyandarua County since 2013, serving three consecutive terms in the National Assembly of Kenya after winning elections in 2013, 2017, and 2022.

During his time in Parliament, he built a reputation as a focused legislator, particularly in areas touching on infrastructure development, housing, transport, energy, and urban planning. He served in key committees, including the Departmental Committee on Transport, Public Works, and Housing, as well as the Procedure and House Rules Committee.

Beyond politics, Kiaraho was an accomplished architect and had been associated with Archgrid Systems as a principal architect since 1994.

President Ruto also highlighted Kiaraho’s contribution to the education sector, crediting him for expanding opportunities for young people and strengthening development initiatives within his constituency.

“His life stands as an inspiration to leaders of this generation to rise above political rivalry and remain focused on service and the core issues that matter to the people,” Ruto added.

The President further urged leaders to embrace Kiaraho’s philosophy of “Kazi Kwanza, Siasa Baadaye,” framing it as a guiding principle for effective leadership and national unity.

Meanwhile, Wetang’ula announced the formation of a parliamentary committee to coordinate the late MP’s funeral arrangements.

"On behalf of all Members and staff of the National Assembly, and indeed on my own behalf, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late Hon. Kiaraho. In this regard, I have appointed Members to the Funeral Preparation Committee to liaise with the family and coordinate a befitting send-off for the late Kiaraho," the speaker announced.

"The team will be led by the Member for Kinangop, the Hon. Kwenya Thuku, MP, assisted by the Member for Nyandarua, the Hon. Faith Gitau, CBS, MP, and seven (7) other Hon. Members. Further details on this matter will be communicated in due course."

Kiaraho’s death marks a significant loss to both his constituents and the country’s political leadership, coming at a time when he was actively serving in office.

A long-serving member of the Jubilee Party, he remained a dominant political figure in Ol Kalou for over a decade, earning recognition for his consistent leadership and development-focused agenda.

As tributes continue to pour in, Kiaraho is being remembered as a leader who prioritised service over politics, leaving behind a legacy rooted in humility, dedication, and tangible impact.

A view of Parliament during President William Ruto's State of the Nation address on November 21, 2024. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

High Court Orders Recount Of Mbeere North By-Election Votes

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:51:37 +0300

A High Court in Embu has ordered a targeted review and recount of ballots and election materials from the contested 2025 Mbeere North by-election, which initially saw Leonard Wamuthende Njeru declared the winner.

Delivering the ruling on Friday, March 27, Justice R. Mwongo pinpointed specific polling stations and ballot boxes with reported irregularities, while rejecting broader allegations of voter bribery and tampering.

The court instructed the opening of ballot boxes containing Strategic Materials at the Tallying Centre, along with 15 boxes holding KIEMS kits and four boxes containing other key documents, including Polling Station Diaries (PSDs) and Forms 32.

"The High Court at Embu orders for the scrutiny of election materials and the recount of votes in various polling stations relating to the Mbeere North by-election," lawyer Ndegwa Njiru announced on his X account.

A building housing the Judiciary. /FILE

The decision follows the November 27, 2025, by-election, which was marked by violence, bloodshed, and numerous electoral irregularities.

In a ruling delivered on Friday, the court stated, “From all the evidence adduced by the parties’ witnesses herein, and taking into account the respondents’ witnesses’ evidence on the DR’s Report, the following conclusions and determinations inevitably follow."

The court directed that the review be conducted under Section 82(2)(a) of the Elections Act and Rules 28 and 29 of the Elections (Parliamentary and County Elections) Rules. Ballot box No.135, containing Strategic Materials delivered to the Tallying Centre, was flagged for scrutiny after the court noted that items inside were placed without explanation or record.

“It is unclear why the items therein were not placed in the respective polling station ballot boxes on the polling day. As a result, this box will, undoubtedly, have to be opened to scrutinise all the contents therein referred to as Strategic Materials,” the ruling read.

All 15 boxes containing KIEMS kits referenced in the Deputy Registrar’s report will also be opened to access the kits used in polling stations requiring scrutiny and recount.

Ballot boxes from Nthigirani 1/1, Kamauwa 1/1, Gwakaithi 1/1, Siakago Social Hall 1/1, Mbaruari 1/1, and Cingera 2/2 polling stations will be opened to verify voter registers and cross-check them against KIEMS kit logs and Polling Station Diaries (PSDs).

Voter registers and KIEMS kit records in Siakago Social Hall, Mwondu Primary School, and Gikuyari Primary School will also be examined to determine whether unregistered or unidentified voters participated.

The court ordered a full recount at Gitiburi 1 and 2 polling stations, where a fire disrupted the chain of custody, and at Kaungu polling station, which experienced extreme violence and overcrowding that forced a temporary 30-minute closure.

Additionally, election forms (Forms 35A) from eight polling stations reporting alterations—Rwagori Primary School 1/1, Karimari Primary School 1/1, Kanyuambora Primary School 1/3, Karambari Primary School 1/1, Kamauwa Primary School 1/1, Ibutuka Primary School 1/1, Kogari Primary School 1/1, and St. Mary’s Kanganga Primary School 1/1—will be scrutinised.

The Deputy Registrar (DR) is required to submit a report on the findings of the scrutiny and recount by April 17, 2026. Following this, the court will issue detailed instructions to guide the exercise, with directions shared with all parties involved.

A hearing for final submissions on the merits of the petition and observations on the DR’s report has been scheduled for April 22, 2026.

"The High Court has delivered a powerful affirmation of electoral justice in Newton Kariuki Ndwiga v IEBC & Others (Election Petition No. E002 of 2025), with Justice R. Mwongo ordering scrutiny and recount of votes in the Mbeere North by-election," former Attorney General Justin Muturi reacted to the ruling.

"This is a major victory for truth, transparency, and the will of the people. The Court has opened the door for a full interrogation of the electoral process, including access to KIEMS data, ensuring that nothing is hidden and nothing is taken at face value."

Mbeere North Member of Parliament (MP) Leo Wamuthende during a past by-election campaign with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. /UDA

NTSA Suspends Instant Traffic Fines System After High Court Ruling

Marvin Chege — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:31:51 +0300

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has suspended its controversial instant fines system with immediate effect, marking a sudden policy reversal after days of mounting pressure.

The system, which had gone live on March 9 along major highways, particularly in Nairobi, quickly drew sharp criticism from motorists and triggered legal challenges, forcing the regulator to step back.

In a notice issued on Friday, March 27, NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa confirmed that the earlier public announcement on the rollout has also been withdrawn, citing gaps in public understanding.

"The National Transport and Safety Authority wishes to inform the public of the withdrawal of the public notice announcing the go-live of the instant fines issued on March 9, 2026," the notice read in part.

NTSA officials conducting compliance checks in Kirinyaga County on December 19, 2024. /NTSA

"This withdrawal has been necessitated by the realisation that the public needs to understand the details and standard procedure of handling minor traffic offenses as defined in Section 117 of the Traffic Act."

The NTSA now says it will embark on fresh public sensitisation, promising to communicate clear, standard procedures aligned with existing laws to eliminate confusion and curb misinformation.

The instant fines system had been pitched as a major reform aimed at streamlining enforcement and reducing reliance on court processes for minor infractions. However, its abrupt suspension highlights implementation challenges and growing public resistance.

Despite the setback, NTSA maintained that its mandate remains intact, reiterating its commitment to road safety and a penalty system that is “consistent, predictable, fair and certain.”

This move came days after the High Court suspended the rollout of newly introduced instant traffic fines. The case is still before the court and is scheduled for mention on April 9 to verify compliance and set the way forward for its hearing.

The authority had announced the rollout of the instant fines traffic management system on Monday, March 9. According to NTSA, motorists who commit traffic offences would receive immediate notifications via SMS, a move that sparked mixed reactions among drivers.

The system is designed to capture several violations, including speeding, lane indiscipline, driving on pavements, and failure to wear seatbelts, among others.

The system, introduced under the Traffic (Minor Offences) Rules of 2016, required motorists who commit minor traffic violations to pay prescribed fines immediately rather than going through lengthy court proceedings.

According to the NTSA, the measure formed part of broader efforts to reduce case backlogs in courts, enhance enforcement efficiency, and promote responsible road use across the country.

In the meantime, following complaints from motorists about the new fines, NTSA revealed that, together with other government agencies, it has begun reviewing speed limits on major roads nationwide.The review will also assess the broader fines system to improve clarity and efficiency in response to public concerns.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir added that fines will now be split into two categories: major offences, which will require court appearances, and minor offences, which can be paid instantly, allowing drivers to continue their journey.

To implement this framework, NTSA is collaborating with the Judiciary, Kenya Bureau of Statistics, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), and the Kenya Law Reform Commission, among others.

Kenyans lining up inside the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) office in Nairobi in 2024. /NTSA

25 Children Among 33 Bodies Exhumed From Kericho Mass Grave

Marvin Chege — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:07:04 +0300

Authorities have exhumed 33 bodies from a single grave at Makaburini Cemetery, dramatically surpassing the number earlier reported by county officials.

The discovery—more than double the initial figures provided by Nyamira County Government—has triggered a full-scale probe, with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) launching criminal investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the mass burial and determine possible wrongdoing.

Earlier reports had indicated that only 14 graves were discovered at the site. New findings paint a chilling picture, with 25 of the remains confirmed to be those of children and eight of them being adults.

DCI had earlier started the exhumation process at the site initially suspected to have at least 14 bodies. The exhumation exercise was overseen by the Director of Homicide, Martin Nyuguto, alongside a government pathologist representing Chief Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor.

Scene after 33 bodies were recovered from mass grave at Makaburini Cemetery on March 24, 2026. /NEW DAY TV

As detectives unearthed the bodies, government pathologists conducted on-site examinations to establish the possible causes of death.

The operation has rattled residents, sparking anxiety and outrage over the sheer scale of the discovery. On Sunday, March 22, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed it had opened investigations following the discovery of suspected mass graves at the cemetery.

Preliminary findings suggested the bodies had been moved from Nyamira District Referral Hospital after remaining unclaimed in the morgue.

While initial assessments did not immediately indicate foul play, detectives arrested two individuals—a public health officer attached to the hospital and the cemetery caretaker—who are now being held for 30 days to assist with the ongoing investigations.

The case first came to light on Saturday, March 21, when two young men working as grave diggers at the cemetery reported the matter to Kericho Police Station, triggering an immediate response from authorities.

According to police accounts, the two—aged 23 and 26—told investigators that on Thursday morning, a vehicle carrying three individuals arrived at the cemetery. The occupants then held prolonged discussions with the cemetery caretaker, identified only as Ezekiel, before leaving.

The situation escalated the following day. The two witnesses claimed that the same group returned early Friday at around 6 am, this time in a white Land Cruiser. It was then, they alleged, that they were instructed to dig a large grave.

In their account, the grave diggers stated that approximately 14 bodies were later brought to the site and buried in a single pit. All the bodies were reportedly in body bags, with some said to be mutilated—details that have intensified public concern and speculation.

Photo of a crime scene marked with yellow tape by police. /ICE CLEANING

Twist As Raphael Tuju Now Arrested Moments After Coming Out Of Hiding

Marvin Chege — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:03:15 +0300

In a dramatic turn of events, former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has been arrested shortly after resurfacing following 24 hours spent in hiding.

His lawyer, Ndegwa Njiru, confirmed the arrest, indicating that the former CS was bundled into a police vehicle moments after addressing the press about his whereabouts over the past 36 hours.

Njiru raised concern over Tuju’s condition, noting that his health appeared worrisome. Despite this, authorities reportedly proceeded to take him to a police station to record a statement.

Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper Patriotic Front Party, also disclosed the arrest and criticised the manner in which officers handled the former Jubilee Party Secretary General.

Former CS Raphael Tuju in a worrying state at Karen Police station on March 23, 2026. /VIRAL TEA KE

"Hours ago, police & DCI officers surrounded and barricaded Hon. Raphael Tuju's home, refusing to let anyone leave until they had him," Kalonzo stated on social media.

He added, "I personally drove him to Karen Police Station to record a statement in good faith, in the spirit of due process. What followed was unacceptable. Hon. Tuju was carried away in a manner that no Kenyan, indeed no human being, should ever experience."

By the afternoon of Monday, March 23, tension had escalated at Karen Police Station, where Tuju’s legal team expressed concern over his safety.

"They want to abduct him. Mark that vehicle. The manner in which they took him was unacceptable," Njiru was heard stating outside the station.

Videos circulating on social media show Raphael Tuju at a police station appearing visibly distressed, wailing as an individual nearby attempts to comfort him.

“I am dying, I am dying. He has killed me. May he live forever; he will not die,” Tuju was heard saying, as someone behind the camera offered reassurance.

In the aftermath, Kalonzo strongly condemned the incident, terming the reported forceful arrest a clear breach of justice and human dignity.

"When justice becomes a weapon and dignity is stripped in broad daylight, silence is not an option; we stand with Raphael Tuju, and we will not move," he stated.

However, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has dismissed the abduction allegations, stating that Raphael Tuju had locked himself inside his Karen residence and only emerged after detectives raised concerns about being denied access to the property.

"Following the family’s initial denial of access to Mr. Tuju’s residence, the National Police Service escalated the matter with utmost urgency and utmost resolve. A combined operational team comprising uniformed police officers and experienced plain-clothed detectives was immediately deployed to secure the location and, in particular, the residence of Raphael Tuju," DCI boss Mohamed Amin stated.

"Based on solid intelligence and meticulous forensic analysis, the DCI conclusively, and I am saying this without an iota of doubt, Tuju was physically present within his residence throughout the period in question."

He added: "When confronted with the reality that police were closing in on the truth and that his deception could no longer be sustained, Mr. Tuju chose to resurface, thereby confirming the investigators’ earlier well-founded suspicion that this was a carefully staged disappearance rather than a genuine case of abduction."

Kalonzo Musyoka at Karen Police Station following the drama surrounding the arrest of former CS Raphael Tuju on March 23, 2026. /KALONZO MUSYOKA

Former CS Raphael Tuju Missing, Family Reveals

Marvin Chege — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 14:36:55 +0300

Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has reportedly gone missing, his family has confirmed.

A family spokesperson indicated that Tuju, who has been involved in an ongoing property dispute with the state, was last seen on Saturday, March 21.

His son, Mano Tuju, disclosed that the former CS had been heading to an interview, though it remains unclear whether he arrived for the engagement.

Alarm was raised after multiple attempts by family members to reach him proved unsuccessful. His lawyer noted that repeated calls to his phone went unanswered, prompting the family to alert authorities and trigger a search.

Raphael Tuju addresses the media in 2019. /FILE

On Sunday morning, Mano received a call from the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Karen Police Station, informing him that his father’s vehicle had been found abandoned along Miotoni Lane in the Karen area of Nairobi.

Tuju, who previously served as Secretary General of the Jubilee Party, has recently been in the spotlight over disputes concerning his prime land in Karen.

He has been fighting efforts to auction his properties, a standoff that recently escalated into a dramatic eviction from his Karen home, as he accused unnamed powerful figures of plotting his downfall.

In an interview with NTV Kenya on March 17, Tuju explained that he first acquired land in Karen over 40 years ago, at a time when the area was still largely undeveloped.

He detailed how he purchased his initial parcel through financing from National Bank of Kenya, noting that land at the time cost about Ksh100,000 per acre, with a minimum purchase price of Ksh250,000. To meet this, he secured a loan of Ksh180,000 and sourced the remaining funds personally, including selling his own vehicle to raise Ksh60,000.

"The first time I bought land in Karen was 40 years ago, and it was Ksh100,000 per acre. I took a loan from the National Bank. The minimum you could buy in Karen at that time was Ksh250,000. I took a loan of Ksh180,000," Tuju stated.

He later expanded his real estate investments into areas such as Upper Hill, where property values have since surged significantly.

Tuju eventually acquired a 20-acre parcel in Karen, which was developed into high-end residential and hospitality projects through associated firms.

The acquisition was financed in 2015 via a Ksh1.2 billion loan, with Ksh900 million going toward land purchase and the remainder funding developments, including wellness facilities and commercial spaces.

Despite the dispute, Tuju maintained that he is ready to settle all outstanding debts, stressing that he has not refused to pay, as long as there is full transparency from all parties involved in the matter.

Screen grabs of a confrontation between ex CS Raphael Tuju and alleged auctioneers at his Karen property on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. /WHISPERS WIRE

Senator Speaks After Surviving Wilson Airport Plane Incident, Reveals New Details

Marvin Chege — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 23:34:18 +0300

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has issued a statement confirming that he was among the 39 passengers who escaped unharmed after a plane they were travelling in veered off Wilson Airport in Nairobi on Friday night, March 20.

In a statement, Osotsi credited divine intervention for surviving the incident that sparked fresh safety concerns, describing how the Safarilink Aviation aircraft was involved in the incident, which also involved three crew members and the pilot.

“I thank God for His protection after I came out safely from an aircraft accident at Wilson Airport this evening,” Osotsi stated.

The senator singled out the pilot for preventing what could have turned into a deadly disaster, praising his quick thinking during the emergency landing.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi at the Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, speaking during the ODM joint Parliamentary Group meeting on March 3, 2026. /GODFREY OSOTSI

“I commend the pilot for his remarkable skill and presence of mind in controlling the aircraft and steering it off the runway, causing it to stall — an action that averted what could have been a catastrophic fire had the plane continued on the runway,” he added.

However, Osotsi sharply criticised the airport’s emergency preparedness, raising alarm over what he termed a dangerous lack of response systems at one of the country’s busiest airstrips.

“However, it is deeply troubling that despite the pilot’s efforts to save lives, there were no immediate rescue operations from the airport management. There was no ambulance on site, and no emergency response team came to our aid. This level of unpreparedness is unacceptable for an airport of such significance,” he said.

The incident has reignited scrutiny over long-standing safety concerns at Wilson Airport, which primarily handles domestic and regional flights. According to Osotsi, the crash-landing only reinforces issues he had recently flagged before the Senate of the Republic of Kenya.

“This incident comes just days after I sought a statement in the Senate of the Republic of Kenya regarding the safety concerns and deteriorating infrastructure at Wilson Airport. Today’s events have only reinforced those concerns,” he noted.

Osotsi pointed to poor runway conditions and faulty infrastructure as key risk factors, claiming the airstrip was operating under unsafe conditions at the time of the incident. Per his account, the runway was flooded, and the lighting system was found not to be functioning properly.

“It is common knowledge that due to these poor conditions, flights are often diverted to JKIA in the evening, raising serious questions as to why this particular flight was not redirected,” he stated.

In the aftermath of the scare, the lawmaker has now escalated his demands, calling for drastic action to prevent future incidents.

“Wilson Airport must be closed and comprehensively upgraded to meet international safety standards before it is allowed to resume full operations. The safety of Kenyans and all air passengers must never be compromised," he added.

The incident is likely to pile pressure on aviation authorities to address infrastructure gaps and emergency response failures, as questions mount over passenger safety at one of Kenya’s key aviation hubs.

Meanwhile, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) confirmed the incident that occurred at 8.55 pm involving the aircraft that was arriving from Kisumu International Airport when it veered off the runway.

KAA, however, assured that airport operations at Wilson remained normal, adding, "We wish to confirm that all passengers and crew are safe, with no injuries reported. The aircraft remains on site, and recovery efforts are currently underway."

Screengrabs of a passenger aircraft that crash-landed at Wilson Airport, Nairobi, on March 20, 2026. /VIRAL TEA KE

4 Dead After Building Collapses In Nairobi's Shauri Moyo

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:51:35 +0300

UPDATE: At least four people have been confirmed dead after a building collapsed during a demolition operation in Shauri Moyo on Monday. Nairobi North Sub-County County Commissioner Simon Osumba also revealed that four people had been rescued from the rubble, with one sustaining minor injuries and rushed to hospital for treatment.

According to Osumba, the structure collapsed while individuals were removing steel bars and other construction materials from the abandoned building. Emergency teams drawn from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, National Government Administrative Officers, and Kenya Red Cross Society were swiftly deployed to the scene, with search and rescue operations continuing into the evening.

The exact number of people who may still be trapped beneath the debris remains unclear as rescue teams continue combing through the site.

Several people are feared trapped after a partially demolished building collapsed at Blue Estate in Shauri Moyo, Nairobi.

Early reports on Monday, March 16, indicate the victims were inside the structure collecting metal scraps when the rubble suddenly gave way, leaving them buried beneath the debris.

The building was among several structures in the area that were undergoing demolition on Saturday, March 14.

"A building has collapsed in the Blue Estate area of Shauri Moyo, adjacent to structures that were being demolished on riparian land," an update from the Kenya Red Cross read in part, adding "An unconfirmed number of people are feared trapped in the rubble. Rescue efforts are underway."

Residents of Shauri Moyo look at a collapsed building in the area on March 16, 2026. /NEW DAY TV

At the time of publication, it was not immediately clear whether the incident had resulted in casualties, though witnesses reported seeing at least five people at the scene when the structure came down.

The exact cause of the collapse has yet to be established, but the building’s partial demolition may have weakened its structural integrity.

Heavy flooding in the city and surrounding areas could also have been a contributing factor, as sustained rainfall can erode or saturate the soil supporting a structure, leading to uneven settling or shifts in the foundation.

This incident comes after the Ministry of Health issued an urgent advisory warning the public of increased risks of building and infrastructure collapses during the ongoing March–April–May (MAM) long rains.

In the advisory, Health PS Mary Muthoni on March 13 noted that “prolonged rainfall can weaken foundations, damage roads and bridges, and compromise the integrity of buildings, posing significant threats to life and public safety.”

“The Ministry of Health urges all Kenyans to remain vigilant during the ongoing MAM long rains and observe safety measures to reduce injuries and loss of life associated with collapsing structures,” the advisory read in part.

The government urged caution, advising people to avoid buildings showing signs of structural weakness, such as cracks, flooding, or damaged walls. Landlords and property owners were also asked to inspect and carry out timely repairs to reinforce vulnerable structures.

Property developers were warned against constructing new buildings on unstable slopes, flood-prone areas, or riparian zones, which are especially vulnerable to landslides and structural failures during heavy rains.

The ministry further urged the public to report structural hazards or damaged infrastructure promptly, enabling disaster teams to take preventive action. In the event of a collapse, residents have been advised to move away immediately to avoid falling debris or secondary collapses.

The advisory followed multiple deadly building collapses in Nairobi. On February 11, six people were injured when a building under construction collapsed at the junction of Racecourse and Kirinyaga Road in the CBD.

In January, at least two people died after a multi-storey building under construction collapsed in South C’s Shopping Centre area, causing panic among residents.

A collage showing the debris of a 16-storey building under construction that collapsed in Nairobi’s South C estate on January 2, 2026. /VIRAL TEA KE

Win For Ruto After Court Of Appeal Ruling On His 21 Advisors

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:18:25 +0300

President William Ruto scored a significant win after the Court of Appeal on Friday, March 13, temporarily stayed a High Court order that had called for the removal of his 21-member Council of Advisors.

The appellate court noted that dismissing the President’s advisors at this stage could “disrupt the operations of his office,” following an appeal filed by the Attorney General’s office.

This decision suspends the High Court’s earlier ruling, which had deemed Ruto’s appointment of the 21 advisors last year unconstitutional, until the AG’s appeal is fully heard and determined.

In front of the Judiciary building in Nairobi. /THE JUDICIARY

The Attorney General had moved to court seeking a stay of the judgment and orders issued by Justice Bahati Mwamuye, which had declared the appointment of the President’s advisors unconstitutional, pending the hearing and determination of the intended appeal.

“The 3rd to 23rd respondents (President’s advisors) were already rendering services to the public by the time the impugned judgment was delivered. There is therefore a likelihood of disruption to the functions of the Office of the President should the application be declined,” read part of the ruling issued by a three-judge bench.

The judges further stated, “Regarding the submission that allowing the advisors to continue serving would result in duplication of roles, we are of the opinion that this is an issue that should be determined during the substantive appeal. In the circumstances, we are satisfied that the applicant has met the threshold required for the orders sought.”

Previously, on Thursday, January 22, Justice Bahati Mwamuye had issued an injunction barring the government from processing any salaries or benefits for the advisors.

With the Court of Appeal’s stay, the injunction is lifted, allowing the Council of Advisors to continue serving, receiving their entitlements, and advising the President and the broad-based government on various matters.

However, it remains uncertain whether the affected appointees will receive backdated salaries, considering the High Court had earlier directed the government to halt the processing of their pay after a case filed by the Katiba Institute.

After the ruling, lawyers involved in the matter raised concerns about the manner in which the decision was issued. Advocate Joshua Malidzo, who formed part of the legal team representing the Katiba Institute, indicated that they had not received prior notice of the ruling.

“The last time we were in court, we were informed that the ruling would be delivered on April 24, 2026. I am therefore surprised that it was delivered today, as we did not receive any notice of the delivery of the ruling or the ruling itself,” Malidzo explained.

Nevertheless, the decision allows advisers, including economist David Ndii, Makau Mutua, Joe Ager, Jaoko Oburu, Kennedy Ogeto, and Joseph Boinnet, among others, serving on the President’s Council of Economic Advisers, to remain in office until the government’s appeal is fully determined.

Additionally, the three-judge bench—Justice Korir Weldon, Lady Justice Hedwig Ong’udi, and Justice Samson Okong’o—directed that the appeal be heard on a priority basis, noting that it raises issues of significant public interest.

On July 5, 2024, President Ruto announced that the government would reduce the number of advisors within the public service by 50 percent.

This was among a string of austerity measures that Ruto announced that his government would take in response to the retraction of the Finance Bill 2024, which had aimed to raise over Ksh300 billion to finance the 2024/25 financial year budget.

President William Ruto (R), Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wah, and economist David Ndii at a retreat. /NAIROBI NEWS

Ruto Greenlights KDF Deployment & Issues Orders After 23 Die In Nairobi Floods

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 15:22:00 +0300

President William Ruto has ordered an immediate multi-agency emergency response following devastating floods that have struck parts of Nairobi and several regions across the country, leaving families mourning, residents displaced, and property destroyed.

In a statement on Saturday, March 7, the President acknowledged the scale of the tragedy, noting that the floods have caused widespread suffering and the loss of lives. This comes as the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed recovering 13 more bodies by Saturday afternoon, pushing the death toll from Friday night's heavy rainfall to 23.

“I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are also with all those whose lives have been disrupted by this disaster,” Ruto stated.

To accelerate rescue operations, Ruto directed the deployment of a coordinated emergency team led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, working alongside the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and other disaster response agencies.

President William Ruto speaking at the funeral service of the victims of the Nandi helicopter crash in Emurua Dikirr, Narok County on March 6, 2026. /PCS

According to the President, the team will spearhead rescue missions, assist affected communities, and move residents in danger to safer locations as heavy rains continue to trigger flooding in vulnerable areas.

“The Government stands in solidarity with every citizen affected, and we are acting swiftly to alleviate further suffering and safeguard lives,” Ruto stated.

As part of the emergency measures, the Head of State ordered the immediate release of relief food from the country’s national strategic reserves to support families hit by the floods.

He also announced that the government will fully cover hospital bills for victims receiving treatment in public health facilities due to flood-related injuries or complications.

“In addition, the Government will meet the hospital bills of those injured or affected by the flooding and currently receiving treatment in public health facilities,” he explained, adding that emergency humanitarian assistance will be extended to displaced families struggling to cope with the disaster.

The national government has also moved to coordinate efforts with the Nairobi City County Government and other county administrations to ensure a unified response focused on protecting residents and stabilising affected communities.

Beyond the immediate response, Ruto pointed out that the floods have once again exposed the long-standing problem of urban flooding in Nairobi.

He pointed to the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme as a key long-term intervention aimed at restoring river ecosystems, improving drainage infrastructure, and reducing future flood risks in the capital. “These efforts will be strengthened and accelerated as part of our commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment,” the President stated.

The directive comes as rescue teams continue searching flooded neighbourhoods and assisting residents in some of the hardest-hit parts of Nairobi, where torrential rains have overwhelmed drainage systems and left entire sections of the city submerged.

Nairobi's flooding had also disrupted traffic on several major roads, with sections of Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road, and Lang’ata Road experiencing severe waterlogging.

Emergency response teams from the NPS launched overnight rescue operations to save residents trapped by the fast-rising waters. So far, 29 people have been successfully rescued from different parts of the city and are receiving the necessary assistance.

Cars submerged in flood water in Nairobi, Friday, March 6, 2026. /VIRAL TEA KE

23 Dead In Destructive Nairobi Floods: NPS

Marvin Chege — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 13:39:06 +0300

UPDATE: At least 23 people have died after heavy overnight rainfall triggered widespread flooding across Nairobi, the National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed.

Police reported that torrential rains caused severe flooding, destroying property, displacing residents, and forcing road closures in several estates, including Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, Huruma, South B, South C, Pipeline, Roysambu, Kahawa West, and Githurai.

Major roads such as Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road, and Lang’ata Road were also affected. Emergency teams conducted overnight rescue operations, saving 29 people trapped by rising waters. Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and report emergencies through 999, 911, or 112.

At least 10 people have been confirmed dead in Nairobi after flash floods caused widespread destruction across the capital on Friday, March 6, following hours of intense rainfall that left roads submerged, homes flooded, and transport networks paralysed.

According to George Seda, the National Police Service Nairobi Police Commander, eight of the victims were carried away by rapidly rising floodwaters as the storm intensified across the city. In a phone interview with Radio Citizen on Saturday, March 7, Seda explained that authorities were still compiling information on the scale of the disaster while rescue teams continued responding to multiple emergencies reported overnight.

Seda indicated that some victims lost their lives after being trapped inside their vehicles as floodwaters swept through several parts of the capital. Two additional fatalities occurred in separate electrocution incidents during the storm in different locations within the county, further highlighting the dangerous conditions triggered by the heavy rains.

Meanwhile, another tragedy was reported near the Kitengela River, where a man is believed to have died after his vehicle was swept away by powerful flood currents late Friday night. Police teams have since launched a search operation in an effort to recover the body.

Aftermath of chaotic floods in Nairobi, Friday, March 6, 2026. /VIRAL TEA KE

Authorities also revealed that the floods left dozens of motorists stranded across the city. Seda confirmed that at least 71 vehicles were trapped or immobilised after major roads became impassable due to rising water levels.

He warned that the number of casualties could still increase as rescue teams continue searching for missing persons and more information about the damage continues to emerge from different parts of the city.

The deadly flooding occurred just hours after warnings from the Kenya Meteorological Department, which had cautioned that heavy rainfall was expected to persist over the next several days. "Heavy rainfall could trigger flooding, particularly in urban areas with constrained drainage systems," the department warned, urging residents to avoid crossing flooded roads and drainage channels.

Deluge In Nairobi

As the rains intensified late Friday evening, dramatic videos and images began circulating on social media showing motorists stranded and vehicles partially submerged along several roads in the capital.

One widely shared video captured a tense rescue attempt along Uhuru Highway near the Nairobi Expressway Haile Selassie exit, where passengers aboard a public service vehicle found themselves trapped after floodwaters engulfed the road.

The 33-seater bus was nearly three-quarters submerged in water, forcing passengers to form a human chain as they carefully moved from the vehicle to higher ground in an attempt to escape the rising floodwaters.

According to the Kenya Red Cross, numerous key transport corridors across the capital were severely affected by flooding. Impacted roads included sections within the Central Business District (CBD), as well as Mbagathi Way, Mombasa Road between South C and the JKIA exit through Kyumbi, Thika Superhighway between Githurai and Kahawa Sukari, Jogoo Road, Lunga Lunga Road, Enterprise Road and Lang’ata Road near T-Mall.

Scenes at a flooded section of Parklands in Nairobi following heavy downpour#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/lhSMWXSHdy
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) March 6, 2026

Floodwaters also spread into several residential estates across the city, leaving homes inundated and forcing some residents to evacuate.

In areas such as Pipeline and Embakasi, flooding cut off access along Kware Road, while residents in informal settlements including Mukuru Kwa Njenga, Reuben, Viwandani, Kibra, Mathare, Huruma and Baba Dogo faced particularly severe conditions.

Some of these neighbourhoods experienced additional flooding after the swollen Nairobi River overflowed its banks, forcing many families to spend the night outdoors in cold and wet conditions.

Other estates affected by the floods include Bosnia, South B, South C, Nairobi West, Lang’ata, Umoja 3, Chokaa, Njiru, Ruai, Utawala, Roysambu, Kahawa West, Githurai, Loresho and parts of Westlands.

For residents who remained indoors when the downpour began, the situation inside many estates quickly deteriorated as water levels rose to knee height in some streets, making movement nearly impossible.

In response to the crisis, Johnson Sakaja, the Governor of Nairobi County, ordered a 24-hour rapid emergency response operation to address the flooding and assist affected residents.

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) also deployed personnel to help manage traffic and clear blocked roads. In a statement, the military confirmed that officers facilitated the towing of five vehicles to ease congestion around the Kariokor–Ring Road roundabout and established traffic control at Mbagathi Roundabout.

Blackouts

Meanwhile, the heavy flooding also disrupted electricity supply in several parts of the city after damaging a key installation operated by Kenya Power. In a customer alert issued on Saturday, the utility company revealed that floodwaters affected the South C substation after part of the facility’s perimeter wall collapsed, allowing water to enter the installation.

The damage interfered with electricity distribution to several residential and commercial areas across the city. Among the neighbourhoods experiencing power outages are South B, South C, Nairobi West, Madaraka Estate and Lang’ata. Other affected locations include Wilson Airport, Kenyatta Market, Ngumo Estate, the Industrial Area and Uhuru Gardens.

Kenya Power explained that engineers had already been dispatched to the affected substation to evaluate the extent of the damage and begin repair work.

At the same time, the company noted that some customers were being temporarily switched to nearby substations in an effort to minimise disruption while restoration efforts continue.

“Our engineers are already on site, carefully assessing the damage to electrical equipment and working tirelessly to carry out the necessary tests and repairs. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank you for your patience and understanding. Kindly report any power incidents via *977#," the company said.

Scenes from Nairobi's South C Substation in the morning of Saturday, March 7, 2026 after last night’s flooding. /KENYA POWER

Oyugi Magwanga Explains Decision To Resign As Homa Bay Deputy Governor

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 22:19:28 +0300

Homa Bay Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga on Thursday, February 26, announced that he had stepped down, pointing to prolonged frustration and what he described as deliberate interference by the county leadership that left his office unable to function.

In a statement to residents of Homa Bay County, Magwanga explained that his decision came after “deep reflection and consultations with leaders, supporters, and my family,” noting he had chosen to resign with immediate effect.

Magwanga, elected in 2022 alongside Governor Gladys Wanga following talks overseen by the late Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga, stated he had assumed office committed to serving diligently and in strict adherence to the Constitution.

Homa Bay Woman Representative and ODM gubernatorial candidate Gladys Wanga (right) welcomes her running mate Oyugi Magwanga to speak to teachers from Kabondo Kasipul constituency on May 22, 2022. /NATION MEDIA GROUP

He alleged that from December 2025, he was locked out of his official office after its locks were changed without any formal notice. He added that he was later forced to take early annual leave under circumstances he did not initiate.

“When my leave lapsed in January 2026, I remained locked out and unable to resume my official duties,” he said.

Magwanga further claimed that while on official assignments in Nairobi, the vehicle assigned to his office was taken back without prior notice.

He also stated that the only remaining county vehicle allocated to his office is not operational and that he has not received fuel or logistical facilitation to execute his constitutional mandate.

“These actions have rendered the Office of the Deputy Governor functionally inoperative and have made it impossible for me to serve effectively,” he stated.

Magwanga maintained that he could not continue earning a taxpayer-funded salary while being blocked from performing his duties.

“I firmly believe that public office is a sacred trust. I cannot, in good conscience, continue to earn a salary funded by the taxpayers of Homa Bay County while being deliberately prevented from performing the work they elected me to do. Leadership must be anchored in respect for institutions, constitutionalism, and mutual trust,” he said.

“After deep reflection and consultations, I have concluded that it is neither tenable nor honourable for me to remain in office under these prevailing circumstances. I therefore step aside with dignity and clarity of conscience.”

His resignation comes weeks after he publicly announced plans to challenge Governor Wanga for the Homa Bay gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election. During the 2022 polls, Magwanga and Wanga were elected on a joint ticket under ODM.

Their relationship has since deteriorated, particularly after the Kasipul parliamentary by-election in November 2025, where Magwanga backed independent candidate Phillip Aroko, while Governor Wanga supported eventual winner Boyd Were.

After the results were declared, Wanga publicly called out Magwanga and other dissenting officials, urging them to quit if they could not align with her leadership.

“Someone cannot be working in your administration and speaking ill of the same administration because getting to be the leader of a government is very difficult,” she said during a November 29, 2025, rally.

On December 1, 2025, Governor Wanga removed Magwanga from his additional post as County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Agriculture.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga speaking at the 2025 Devolution Conference. /GLADYS WANGA

Blow To Trump After Supreme Court Ruling Gives Relief To Kenya & Other Countries

Marvin Chege — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:16:34 +0300

The United States (US) Supreme Court on Friday, February 20 determined that President Donald Trump breached federal law by unilaterally rolling out expansive global tariffs, delivering a major setback to the White House on a policy pillar that has anchored his foreign and economic strategy.

The ruling stands as one of the most consequential defeats for the second Trump administration before the conservative-leaning court, and one that hands a significant win to Kenya and other countries slapped with tariffs imposed on exports.

In the past year, the bench had frequently backed the president in emergency matters touching on immigration, the removal of independent agency heads, and sweeping reductions in federal spending.

Chief Justice John Roberts authored the majority opinion, with the justices voting 6–3 that the tariffs went beyond statutory limits. However, the court stopped short of directing what should be done with the more than $130 billion already collected under the policy.

Collage of US President Donald Trump and Kenya's President William Ruto. /FILE

“The president asserts the extraordinary power to unilaterally impose tariffs of unlimited amount, duration, and scope,” Roberts wrote for the court. “In light of the breadth, history, and constitutional context of that asserted authority, he must identify clear congressional authorization to exercise it.”

Addressing the emergency powers Trump cited, the court concluded that authority “falls short.” Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Neil Gorsuch joined Roberts and the court’s three liberal members in the majority. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented.

In the opinion, Roberts rejected the administration’s contention that the president possessed authority to deploy tariffs as a tool to regulate commerce — an argument raised during oral arguments last year when Trump maintained that such authority was inherent to the office.

“When Congress grants the power to impose tariffs, it does so clearly and with careful constraints,” Roberts wrote. “It did neither here.”

“We claim no special competence in matters of economics or foreign affairs,” Roberts added. “We claim only, as we must, the limited role assigned to us by Article III of the Constitution. Fulfilling that role, we hold that IEEPA does not authorize the president to impose tariffs.”

President Trump signed a directive imposing tariffs on nations that levy a Value Added Tax (VAT) on imported American goods, including Kenya, slapped with a 10% tariff, a move that sparked conversation over whether or not he started a global trade war.

The tariffs represented a major departure from the duty-free access these countries had long benefited from under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which had allowed most Kenyan exports to enter the U.S. market without duties for over two decades.

The new levies hit key Kenyan exports — including textiles, coffee, and tea — and formed part of a broader reciprocal strategy targeting countries that impose tariffs on American products. Across the region, countries such as Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Uganda were also subjected to a baseline 10 per cent tariff, while nations with steeper duties on U.S. goods were hit with correspondingly higher rates.

Even as the Trump administration signals it may explore lawful avenues to reinstate the tariffs, the ruling provides renewed optimism for businesses in the textile and apparel sector. It also reinforces the relief created by the recent one-year extension of AGOA earlier this month.

The decision effectively nullifies the 10 per cent “baseline” tariff that had overridden Kenya’s AGOA privileges, reopening duty-free access to the U.S. market for goods such as apparel, textiles, and coffee. As a result, an estimated 66,000 to 70,000 direct jobs — along with roughly Ksh95 billion in annual earnings — are safeguarded, at least in the short term.

The Supreme Court’s decision comes in the context of AGOA, which received a lifeline on January 12 following months of negotiations between United States and Kenya.

With AGOA now extended, the government has previously indicated that investors have greater certainty over continued access to the U.S. market, even as Kenya continues to pursue a more comprehensive bilateral trade agreement.

President Donald Trump delivers remarks on tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, US, April 2, 2025. /ABC NEWS

Charles Kanjama Elected LSK President, Succeeding Faith Odhiambo

Marvin Chege — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 21:18:11 +0300

Charles Kanjama has been elected the 52nd President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), succeeding Faith Odhiambo.

According to reports reaching Viral Tea, Kanjama clinched victory with 3,728 votes, defeating Peter Wanyama, who emerged second with 2,616 votes, as Mwaura Kabata came third with 2,086 votes.

Kanjama, a Senior Counsel, will be deputized by lawyer Teresia Wavinya Nicholas and takes over from Odhiambo, who was elected to the top post on March 1, 2024, with her tenure set to conclude in March 2026.

Odhiambo leaves a legacy of championing protesters’ rights, advocating for their ability to demonstrate and picket peacefully without interference from law enforcement, and pushing for the release of those detained during Kenya’s anti-finance bill protests.

Law Society of Kenya offices. /CAPITAL GROUP

The elections, overseen by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), saw over 18,000 registered lawyers eligible to vote.

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr Charles Kanjama SC, who has been entrusted by Advocates to serve as their 52nd President of the Law Society. To my team, my supporters, my agents, my partners, and the more than two thousand colleagues who believed in the SDG manifesto, I thank you from the bottom of my heart,” outgoing LSK Vice President Mwaura Kabata wrote, conceding defeat.

“Thank you for the good work you did, thank you for the sacrifices you made. We put our best foot forward, ran a great campaign, and formed lasting friendships and partnerships while at it. I truly enjoyed being on the campaign trail because of you. LSK has won; the only thing I have lost is weight.”

The LSK presidential race drew intense scrutiny, with candidates’ independence, funding sources, and professional activities under the microscope. Kanjama, Wanyama, and Kabata emerged as leading contenders, each presenting distinct visions for the society’s future.

Throughout the campaign, concerns were raised about candidates’ perceived closeness to government bodies. Kanjama faced criticism for representing the Judicial Service Commission, while Wanyama’s frequent work with county governments prompted questions about potential conflicts of interest ahead of the 2027 elections. Kabata, serving as vice president, was also questioned over past allegations concerning case withdrawals.

During the NTV LSK presidential debate, Wanyama revealed he had spent Ksh12 million on his campaign, mostly from personal funds, contributions from colleagues, and a small portion from non-lawyers. Kanjama spent KSh6 million, and Kabata Ksh5 million.

Kabata’s manifesto emphasized continuity, modernization, and sustained activism, highlighting ethics, institutional stability, and experienced leadership. Wanyama prioritized reforms, creating economic opportunities and practical support for young advocates, including mentorship and access to professional resources.

The campaign period concluded on February 17, 2026, after weeks of nationwide lobbying and engagement by candidates vying to lead Kenya’s legal fraternity.

Charles Kanjama Profile

SC Charles Kanjama is a leading constitutional lawyer in Kenya and Managing Partner at Muma & Kanjama Advocates. With over 20 years of experience, he specializes in dispute resolution, legal reforms, and public law, and is a certified arbitrator and mediator.

He previously chaired the LSK Nairobi Branch and earned his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) with Second Class Upper Division honours from the University of Nairobi in 2001, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law in 2002. He was admitted to the Bar in June 2003.

Kanjama made history as the first elected Chairman of the LSK Nairobi Branch (2016–2020), credited with operationalizing the branch after the society’s decentralization. In 2022, he was admitted to the Senior Counsel Bar, an elite rank for distinguished advocates, and currently serves as its Secretary.

LSK President-elect Charles Kanjama during the NTV LSK presidential debate. /X

Gachagua, Kalonzo Call Off Friday Protests, To Sue These MPs & Police Officers

Marvin Chege — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:41 +0300

The United Opposition has shelved its planned protests that were set for Friday, February 20, 2026, pointing to progress in investigations into the January 25 attack at Witima ACK Church in Othaya and an alleged attempt on the life of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

In a Thursday, February 19 statement, leaders, including Gachagua, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, and Jubilee deputy party leader Fred Matiang’i, indicated there was no longer a need to march to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja’s office or proceed with demonstrations, after receiving assurances from investigative agencies.

“The United Alternative Government hereby announces that we shall not be returning to the office of the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Douglas Kanja,” the statement reads.

The leaders revealed they had been informed that investigations into the Witima ACK Church attack were complete.

Images showing the aftermath of the attacks on former DP Gachagua in Othaya, Nyeri County, on Sunday, January 25, 2026. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

They claimed that 12 police officers allegedly involved in the attack—using two Land Cruiser vehicles from Nairobi—had been identified, along with two Members of Parliament accused of financing the operation.

“We have, however, since been reliably informed that investigations into the Witima ACK Church attack have in fact been concluded. The perpetrators have been identified: twelve police officers who executed the attack using two Land Cruiser vehicles from Nairobi. The financiers have also been identified: two Members of Parliament from Murang’a and Nyeri counties,” they said.

They further alleged that the case file, which was ready to be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), was intercepted by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, with instructions halting any prosecution.

“We further understand that the investigative file was ready for transmission to the Director of Public Prosecutions. Shockingly, that file has reportedly been intercepted by the Cabinet Secretary for Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, with directions that no prosecution shall take place,” reads the statement.

“We call this what it is: a criminal abuse of power. It is an obstruction of justice. It is the deliberate use of a government ministry to shield would-be assassins from accountability. CS Murkomen has, by this act, placed himself squarely on the wrong side of the Constitution, the law, and the Kenyan people. He has weaponised the Interior Ministry to protect criminals in uniform and their political patrons.”

The leaders termed the alleged move a direct assault on the rule of law and a breach of the Constitution, stressing that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions operates independently under Article 157(10) and cannot be directed by any authority.

Quoting the National Police Service motto, they added, “Service to all cannot mean protection for the powerful and repression for the opposition. Service to all cannot mean shielding rogue officers while tear-gassing citizens exercising their constitutional rights. Service to all must mean fidelity to the Constitution, impartial enforcement of the law, and equal protection for every Kenyan.”

They argued that continuing engagement with the Inspector General would be “not only unnecessary, but a disservice to Kenyans,” alleging that his authority had been undermined by political interests.

“We therefore find it not only unnecessary, but a disservice to Kenyans, to continue engaging an Inspector General whose hands have been tied by his political masters, and who presides over a force that has been turned into a private militia for the protection of those in power,” reads the statement.

The opposition leaders also announced plans to pursue private prosecutions under Article 157(6)(b) of the Constitution, Section 28 of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Act, 2013, and Section 88 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

“The United Alternative Government hereby announces that we shall, without further delay, initiate private prosecutions against: • All twelve (12) police officers who participated in the Witima ACK Church attack and the attempted assassination of H.E. Rigathi Gachagua; • The two (2) Members of Parliament who financed and facilitated this criminal operation,” reads the statement.

“The law is on our side. The Constitution is on our side. The Kenyan people are on our side. The perpetrators of this cowardly act, and those who have moved to protect them, should be under no illusion: they will be held to account.”

The leaders further urged IG Kanja to avoid “attacking our upcoming meetings” scheduled in Nairobi, Kisii, Nyamira, and Nakuru later this month.

"These are lawful assemblies protected under Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees every person the right to peacefully assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities," the statement read.

The opposition team had earlier stormed Kanja’s office on Monday, February 16, protesting recent attacks targeting events linked to Gachagua.

Gachagua has repeatedly faulted the police chief for allegedly failing to expedite investigations into the incidents, even with what he claims is available evidence linking some officers to the attacks.

Rigathi Gachagua speaking at PCEA Ruringu Church during a church service on September 14, 2025. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan Resigns

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:39:27 +0300

Ahmed Issack Hassan has resigned as the chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 17, the Authority confirmed that Hassan had stepped down, triggering a transition at the top of the civilian police watchdog.

Following his exit, IPOA Vice Chairperson Anne Wanjiku Mwangi has taken over the role in an acting capacity as the process of appointing a new chairperson begins, in line with the law.

“The Authority reaffirms its commitment to service delivery in accordance with its statutory mandate, notwithstanding these developments,” the statement read in part.

Former IEBC and IPOA Chair Issack Hassan. /THE JUDICIARY

IPOA, which is mandated to provide civilian oversight over the National Police Service (NPS), maintained that its operations will continue uninterrupted despite the leadership change.

Hassan’s resignation comes at a critical time when scrutiny on policing and accountability remains high, placing added focus on how the Authority will navigate the transition and sustain public confidence.

His resignation paves the way for him to take up duties at the Court of Appeal. He and 14 others were sworn in as Court of Appeal judges three weeks ago. On Saturday, the judiciary posted him to Nakuru, marking his first assignment as a judge.

His brief stint at IPOA concluded as he pursued a long-standing ambition to join the judiciary. "As an advocate, I think the highest goal you want to be is join the bench and become a judge," he told the Judicial Service Commission during last month’s interview.

Issack, also a former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson, was nominated by President William Ruto in November 2024, having been among eight candidates shortlisted for the role. The recruitment process for the role was in accordance with Sections 8, 9, and 10 of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act, 2011.

"The nominee is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with 30 years of experience as a legal practitioner and consultant in various countries, including Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Namibia, and Afghanistan.

"Mr. Hassan holds a Bachelor's Degree in Law (LL.B) from the University of Nairobi, a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, and a Diploma in Contemporary Public Administration Management from Galilee International Management Institute, Israel," read a statement in part by Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service at the time.

Nominated to IPOA as members of the Authority were Ann Wanjiku Mwangi, Micah Onyiego Nyakego, Boniface Kipkemoi Samati, Annette Mbogoh, John Muchiri Nyaga, Kenwilliams Nyakomitah, and Jackline Lukalo Mwenesi.

IPOA Chairperson of the Selection Panel, Arthur Osiya, revealed on Tuesday, October 8, that the selection panel initiated the process by inviting applications for the chairperson and member positions on September 13, 2024, through print media and the PSC website.

At the close of applications on September 27, 2024, the panel received a total of 22 applications for the chairperson role and 304 for the member positions.

“Following a review of the applications, the selection panel shortlisted eight candidates for the chairperson role and 37 for the member positions,” Osiya said.

President William Ruto speaking at the Administration Police Training College, Embakasi, during the pre-deployment briefing of the first Kenyan Police contingent to the Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti on June 24, 2024. /PCS

Kenya Govt Reveals Action To Be Taken Against Viral Russian Man After Demands To Arrest Him

Marvin Chege — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:44:33 +0300

The Kenyan government has strongly condemned a disturbing case involving the alleged abuse and exploitation of Kenyan women by a Russian national, terming it a serious violation of privacy and human dignity.

In a statement released on Monday, February 16, the Ministry of Gender, Culture, and Children Services raised alarm over claims that the foreign national secretly recorded and shared intimate interactions of Kenyan women without their consent.

Gender Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo described the incident as a blatant breach of constitutional rights, citing protections under Articles 28 and 31, which safeguard dignity and privacy.

“This matter represents a serious form of technology-facilitated gender-based violence and exploitation. As a Government, we view such violations not merely as criminal acts but as threats to the social fabric of our society, which is founded on respect, human dignity, and protection of vulnerable persons,” the statement read in part.

Gender CS Hanna Cheptumo speaking at State House, Nairobi on January 27, 2025. /HANNA WENDOT CHEPTUMO

The government confirmed that a multi-agency 'whole-of-government' response is already underway, with security, investigative, and prosecutorial bodies directed to fast-track the case. Due to its cross-border nature, Kenyan authorities are also working with international partners to pursue justice.

Officials warned that anyone found culpable will face the full force of the law, including charges under the Penal Code and the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act. This matter could likely see the Russian national tracked down and arrested.

Beyond the investigations, the Ministry signaled plans to tighten digital safety measures, including stronger policies to curb online exploitation and protect women and children in both physical and virtual spaces.

At the same time, Kenyans have been urged to avoid sharing or circulating the alleged content, with the government cautioning that doing so could amount to further abuse and attract criminal liability.

The Ministry also called on survivors to seek support through the national GBV toll-free helpline (1195), which offers counselling, legal assistance, and protection services.

“We stand in solidarity with all affected women and survivors of gender-based violence,” the CS added.

The government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the dignity, safety, and rights of all Kenyans, both online and offline, as concerns grow over rising cases of digital exploitation.

This response came two days after Kenyans demanded that the government crack down on the Russian TikToker accused of secretly filming intimate interactions with multiple Kenyan women and sharing them without their consent, a matter that dominated most of the online conversation over Valentine's weekend.

A Kenyan man took the lead in demanding investigations into the actions of the man allegedly identified as Yaytseslav by staging a solo protest in Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) on Saturday, February 14. The man stood next to a whiteboard on which he had scribbled his demands, lamenting that the intense virality of the secret interactions through videos circulated across social media platforms had painted a negative image of Kenyan women and put their reputation in turmoil.

"I will stand here until the Russian guy is investigated and arrested. If a Russian man comes into our country, exploits women, secretly records them, and turns their private moments into online speculation, what does this indicate about us if we stay silent?" he posed on the whiteboard.

Posing for the entirety of the afternoon and late evening, the man vowed to remain put until Yaytseslav was investigated and arrested.

The Russian man's escapades weren't just tied to Kenya, as he had reportedly pulled similar stunts in Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, and Ghana, which is seeking his extradition.

The blogger, alleged to be in his 30s, labeled a self-styled “pick-up artist,” allegedly used hidden devices, possibly camera-fitted sunglasses, to record women during his visit to the West African country. Technology Minister Sam George confirmed summoning Russia’s ambassador to discuss the breach of Ghana’s cybercrime laws.

Although preliminary reports indicate the suspect has left the country, officials remain committed to justice, coordinating with Moscow and Interpol, and may proceed with legal action even if he refuses to return. Russia seldom extradites its citizens to other countries, doing so only in rare, exceptional cases.

A photo of the city of Moscow in Russia. /PLANETÉ ENERGIES

Court Blocks Sifuna's Ouster From ODM As Secretary General

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:07:08 +0300

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has secured a temporary reprieve after the High Court suspended his removal as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General.

In a ruling issued on Thursday, February 12, the court directed that the gazettement of Sifuna’s removal be halted immediately, pending the hearing and final determination of the case.

The judge also scheduled the mention of the petition lodged against the ODM party and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) for February 26.

"THAT pending the hearing and determination of this instant application, inter partes, this Honourable Tribunal hereby issues orders staying the implementation of the Resolution made by the National Executive Committee of the Orange Democratic Movement Party on 11th February, 2026 to remove Edwin Sifuna as the Secretary General of the Party," the orders read in part.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

The Tribunal also restrained the respondents from proceeding with the publication of the resolution in the Kenya Gazette, a move that would have formally sealed and enforced his removal.

By suspending the enforcement and gazettement of the resolution, the Tribunal has, in effect, restored and safeguarded Sifuna’s position on an interim basis pending the full hearing and determination of the dispute.

The court’s decision came just hours after the Nairobi senator moved to court to contest Wednesday’s resolution by the ODM National Executive Committee (NEC) to eject him from the Secretary General post.

Earlier in the day, the outspoken lawmaker pushed back against the party leadership, branding the decision unlawful and pledging to challenge it through legal channels.

“I have taken note of the announcement made by a section of the ODM National Executive Committee in Mombasa yesterday purporting to remove me from the position of secretary general of ODM,” he stated.

“Let me state without fear of contradiction that this action is unlawful, unprocedural and a blatant violation of the ODM constitution as well as the principles of natural justice,” Sifuna affirmed.

He went on to argue that the move amounted to a witch hunt linked to his refusal to back President William Ruto’s leadership, insisting there are no lawful grounds to justify his removal after more than nine years in office.

“My only crime is that I have refused and opposed any plans and schemes within the party to support President William Ruto's re-election because I have held the firm position that this country cannot afford another five years of divisive misadventures,” the legislator noted.

The court battle follows a decision by the NEC, chaired by ODM party leader Oburu Odinga, to remove Sifuna from the position with immediate effect and appoint Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo as his replacement.

The committee pointed to concerns over discipline and leadership conduct in its resolution, indicating that Omanyo would serve in an acting capacity pending the election of a substantive Secretary General.

"The National Executive Council (NEC) expressed concern over rising levels of indiscipline within the party, especially within senior leadership positions," a statement from ODM's NEC read.

"Having deliberated on matters relating to the conduct of Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, the NEC resolved to remove him from office effective immediately."

The late ODM leader Raila Odinga with Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna. /K24 DIGITAL

Joy For MPs After Court Of Appeal Ruling On NGCDF

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 10:54:18 +0300

The Court of Appeal has overturned a High Court ruling that had nullified the entire National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NGCDF) Act, 2015, restoring the law while striking out only one provision.

In a judgment delivered on Friday, a three-judge bench led by Court of Appeal President Daniel Musinga, alongside Justices Francis Tuiyott and A.O. Muchelule, set aside the High Court’s September 20, 2024, decision. The appellate judges found the trial court’s constitutional analysis shallow and its remedies excessive.

The court ruled that the NGCDF Act neither undermines devolution nor breaches the constitutional division of functions between national and county governments. It also held that amendments made in 2022 and 2023 did not render the original petition moot.

In front of the Judiciary building in Nairobi. /THE JUDICIARY

On the separation of powers, the judges only faulted Section 43(9), which linked the tenure of constituency fund managers to parliamentary terms and election cycles. That provision was declared unconstitutional and severed from the Act.

The bench dismissed claims that the law violated public finance principles, stressing that courts cannot strike down legislation based on speculative harm.

They noted that NG-CDF spending falls under national expenditure approved by Parliament and is subject to audit by the Auditor-General and parliamentary oversight.

In a sharp rebuke of the High Court, the judges flagged its failure to clearly demonstrate how the Act conflicted with the Constitution. Quoting the US Supreme Court decision in U.S. v. Butler (1936), the court underscored that judges do not police policy choices, only constitutional compliance.

The decision follows an appeal by the National Assembly against the High Court ruling delivered on September 24, 2024, that had declared the NG-CDF Act unconstitutional.

In the appeal, the National Assembly intended to challenge all the findings of the High Court with regard to the constitutionality of the NG-CDF Act 2015.

In their judgment, Justices Kanyi Kimondo, Roselyn Aburili, and Mugure Thande had given the current NGCDF a gross period of one year and eight months lapsing at midnight on June 30, 2026, when the Fund was to cease to exist, for the completion of all pending NG-CDF projects.

The Petition was filed in 2016 by Katiba Institute, among other petitioners, challenging the legality of the NG-CDF Act 2015, on, among other grounds, that the Fund violated the principles of Public Finance and alleged breach of the doctrine of separation of powers, among others.

A logo of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF). /TENDER YETU

These Salaried Kenyans Will Not Pay Taxes Again: Ruto Announces

Marvin Chege — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:45:15 +0300

President William Ruto has announced a major tax shake-up that could put more money back into the pockets of low- and middle-income earners, with a proposal set to be tabled in Parliament next week.

Speaking during a meeting with UDA aspirants at State House, Nairobi, on Wednesday, February 4, Ruto revealed that the government has kicked off a process to lower taxes, starting with workers earning Ksh30,000 and below. For this, a separate amendment seeks to completely exempt Kenyans earning less than Ksh30,000 from income tax.

The President linked the planned changes to what he framed as improved fiscal performance and sound financial choices made since his administration took office in 2022.

Photo of a person handling Kenyan notes. /FILE

“We have also now begun the process of bringing down taxation. When Parliament resumes next week, we will be taking proposals there. Every Kenyan whose salary is Ksh30,000 going down will not pay taxes again,” Ruto announced.

The plan goes further. Kenyans earning up to Ksh50,000 will benefit from a reduced tax rate, dropping from 30 per cent to 25 per cent.

According to the President, the proposals will completely remove income tax for about 1.5 million workers, while another 500,000 Kenyans will enjoy lower deductions.

“We are saying any Kenyan who earns upto Ksh50,000, we are reducing their taxes from 30 to 25 per cent. 1.5 million working Kenyans will not pay any taxes. Another 500,000 working Kenyans will have their taxes reduced,” he added.

Under the existing tax framework, an employee earning Ksh50,000 is partially taxed in the 30 per cent bracket. In reality, however, the final payslip reflects multiple compulsory deductions taken before and after tax, including NSSF pension contributions, the 2.75 per cent SHA levy, and the 1.5 per cent Housing Levy.

At current statutory rates, such a worker first parts with about Ksh3,000 for NSSF, Ksh1,375 for SHA and Ksh750 for the Housing Levy, amounting to roughly Ksh5,125 in mandatory deductions before PAYE is calculated. This reduces the taxable income to approximately Ksh44,875.

Applying the current progressive tax bands and personal relief, the employee pays about Ksh5,800 in PAYE, bringing total monthly deductions to slightly above Ksh11,400 and leaving a net pay of around Ksh38,600.

If the proposed reforms cut the top PAYE rate from 30 per cent to 25 per cent while keeping other statutory deductions unchanged, the real benefit to a Ksh50,000 earner would hinge on how Parliament adjusts the tax bands and relief structure.

Ruto argued that the measures are intended to make taxation fairer, relieve pressure on low-income earners, and cushion them from excessive economic hardship.

If approved by Parliament, the changes would mark one of the biggest tax relief moves under Ruto’s administration, coming at a time when the cost of living remains a top concern for households across the country.

Even so, pressure continues to mount on the government to review or scrap other compulsory deductions, particularly the 1.5 per cent Housing Levy, which many Kenyans argue is weighing heavily on household incomes.

Workers inside the Kenya Revenue Authority offices. /KRA

IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan Resigns

Marvin Chege — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:09:09 +0300

Marjan Hussein Marjan has stepped down from his role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Marjan, who has been part of the IEBC since 2015, indicated that his exit came after wide-ranging consultations with the commission’s senior leadership.

In his statement, he stopped short of giving specific reasons for his resignation, instead suggesting that the move was reached through a mutual understanding with the commission’s top officials.

“As you may be aware, the Commission and I have mutually agreed on a structured transition in the Office of the Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer. I write to you today to express my sincere appreciation to each one of you for the privilege of serving alongside you over the years,” the outgoing CEO's letter read.

In an internal message to staff, Marjan expressed appreciation to commissioners and employees for their professionalism throughout his tenure at the IEBC since 2015.

He praised their performance during the 2022 General Election and the transition that followed, while urging them to continue upholding integrity and the rule of law as the handover process gets underway.

He noted, “Since joining the Commission in April 2015, first as Deputy Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer and later as Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, it has been an honour to work with a professional, dedicated, and resilient team committed to the constitutional mandate of the IEBC.”

During his time as CEO, Marjan oversaw the commission’s daily operations, including election administration, human resource management, and the execution of commission policies.

The IEBC later confirmed his exit in a statement released on Tuesday evening, February 3, indicating that an interim CEO would be named “in due course”.

In the same statement, the commission reaffirmed its focus on institutional readiness ahead of upcoming elections.

“The IEBC Secretariat is very crucial in service delivery on electoral management, and it is the intention of the commission that it has to reflect the level of preparedness, passion, and commitment to deliver credible, free and fair elections in Kenya,” the commission stated.

Marjan’s departure comes amid growing pressure on the IEBC from the opposition and the public as preparations for the next General Election intensify.

Just days before his resignation, leaders from the United Opposition visited the commission’s offices and raised issues they argued required urgent attention as the 2027 polls approach.

During that visit, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua openly questioned Marjan’s leadership, strongly expressing a lack of confidence in him.

Immediate former IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein speaking in a past forum. /FILE

President Ruto Picks Mama Ida Odinga For Govt Post

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:37:15 +0300

In a move set to strengthen Kenya’s influence in global environmental diplomacy, President William Ruto has nominated Mama Ida Betty Odinga as Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

The nomination, now awaiting parliamentary approval, underscores Kenya’s commitment to environmental leadership on the world stage.

"HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT has, in exercise of the prerogative vested in the Head of State and Government, caused the nomination of CANON DR. IDA BETTY ODINGA, E.G.H., for appointment as Ambassador/Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)," Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, announced in part in a press release dated Friday, January 23.

Mama Ida Odinga, a celebrated educationist and civic leader, has long championed social justice, gender equity, and education.

Raila Odinga's wife, Mama Ida Odinga. /DAILY NATION

Per Koskei's statement, she began her career as a teacher at Highway Secondary School and Kenya High School, shaping generations of students before emerging as a leading advocate for women, children, and youth.

Widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Mama Ida has built a legacy defined by courage, sacrifice, and unwavering service.

"IN THE EARLY 1990s, amid the national clamour to transition from a single-party State to a multiparty democracy, she played a key role in advancing calls for change and democratic reform as the founding Chairperson of the League of Kenya Women Voters. Since then, she has consistently championed initiatives that improve the lives of women, children, the youth, and vulnerable communities," Koskei went on to add.

Beyond her civic work, Mama Ida has contributed to Kenya’s private sector through leadership roles in family enterprises, including East African Spectre, a liquefied gas cylinder manufacturing firm that has supported the nation’s energy sector.

Her leadership resonates internationally. She has received two Honorary Doctor of Letters degrees and was awarded Kenya’s highest civilian honour, the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (E.G.H.), in 2018. Additional accolades include the Trailblazer Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Human Achievers Foundation.

If approved, her appointment is expected to amplify Kenya’s voice on environmental issues and cement the country’s role as a global leader in sustainable development.

The nomination has been formally transmitted to the National Assembly for consideration in line with constitutional procedures. Notably, Mama Ida could be on the verge of taking over from Ababu Namwamba, who was reassigned as Kenya’s new High Commissioner to Uganda, effective January 21.

Namwamba’s posting to Uganda from his previous role as Kenya's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) positions him at the center of one of Kenya’s most critical bilateral relationships, spanning trade, security, and regional integration within the East African Community.

The former Sports Cabinet Secretary took over from Ambassador Joash Maangi, who had been Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda since 2024.

Maangi, on his part, was reassigned to Brussels, Belgium, to serve as Kenya’s representative to the European Commission.

President William Ruto while signing into law the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, 2024 on August 5, 2024. /PCS

Ruto's Lawyer, IPOA Chair Among 15 Nominated For Court Of Appeal Judge Positions

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:03:25 +0300

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has unveiled a shortlist of nominees for appointment to the Court of Appeal, featuring several heavyweight names from Kenya’s legal scene.

The list includes senior counsel Joseph Katwa Kigen, a prominent advocate widely known for representing President William Ruto in high-stakes legal matters, alongside Ahmed Issack Hassan, the former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson who currently leads the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

In an update issued on Thursday, January 22, the JSC confirmed that the recruitment process had been concluded and the final list of nominees approved.

Also making the cut is High Court judge Chacha Mwita, who now stands a chance to join Kenya’s intermediate appellate court.

Senior Counsel Katwa Kigen during a Senate plenary hearing on March 13, 2024. /PARLIAMENT OF KENYA

Other nominees proposed for appointment as Judges of the Court of Appeal include Lady Justice Hedwig Imbosa Ong’udi, Justice Mathews Nduma Nderi, Lady Justice Linnet Mumo Ndolo, and Lady Justice Lucy Mwihaki Njuguna.

The list further features Hon. Mr. Justice Samson Odhiambo Okongo, Hon. Lady Justice Rachel Chepkoech Ngetich, Hon. Mr. Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo, Mr. Brown Murungi Kairaria, Paul Lila, Hon. Mr. Justice Munyao Sila, Johnson Okoth Okello, and Hon. Mr. Justice Byram Ongaya.

List Of Nominees

Joseph Katwa Kigen
Ahmed Issack Hassan
Hon. Mr. Justice Chacha Mwita
Lady Justice Hedwig Imbosa Ong’udi
Justice Mathews Nduma Nderi
Lady Justice Linnet Mumo Ndolo
Lady Justice Lucy Mwihaki Njuguna
Hon. Mr. Justice Samson Odhiambo Okongo
Hon. Lady Justice Rachel Chepkoech Ngetich
Hon. Mr. Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo
Mr. Brown Murungi Kairaria
Paul Lila
Johnson Okoth Okello
Hon. Mr. Justice Munyao Sila
Hon. Mr. Justice Byram Ongaya

“In reaching its decision, the commission was guided by constitutional principles, including merit, integrity, fairness, gender parity, inclusivity and regional balance,” JSC stated.

Once appointed, the additional judges will raise the number of Court of Appeal judges from 27 to 42, a move expected to significantly strengthen the court’s capacity to clear cases.

The JSC extended congratulations to the shortlisted nominees and expressed appreciation to all applicants who took part in the exercise, along with members of the public and institutions that submitted memoranda and other input. The commission reiterated its pledge to uphold an effective, efficient, and transparent justice system.

The commission further noted that the names will be forwarded to President William Ruto in line with Article 166(1)(b) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, which requires the President to appoint judges following nomination by the JSC.

Ruto Reshuffles Ababu Namwamba In Latest Diplomatic Changes

Marvin Chege — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:36:23 +0300

Former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba has landed a high-profile diplomatic posting after President William Ruto reassigned him as Kenya’s new High Commissioner to Uganda, effective immediately.

The move, confirmed in a press release from the Executive Office of the President on Wednesday, places Namwamba in Kampala as part of changes within the Foreign Service triggered by the end of tenure for several ambassadors.

The shake-up also affects Kenya’s mission to Europe, with career diplomat Joash Maangi redeployed as Ambassador to Brussels, where he will represent the country in Belgium and to the European Union.

The reassignments were approved through Presidential Action No. II of 2026 and took effect immediately, signaling a swift recalibration of Kenya’s diplomatic lineup at a time when regional and international engagements are under sharp focus.

President William Ruto while signing into law the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, 2024 on August 5, 2024. /PCS

"HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT has this afternoon sanctioned changes within the nation’s Foreign Service. The changes are necessitated by vacancies arising from the completion of the terms of service of serving Ambassadors," Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service Felix Koskei announced the changes on Wednesday, January 21.

"BY DINT OF this presidential action, the following serving Heads of Kenya’s missions abroad have been reassigned as stated."

The changes have been framed as administrative but politically notable, given Namwamba’s return to a strategic government role after exiting the Cabinet.

This is another government role he is taking up after he was among the 21 Cabinet Secretaries (CS) fired by President Ruto on July 11, 2024.

Kenya's Envoy To Uganda

As Kenya’s new High Commissioner to Uganda, Namwamba becomes Nairobi’s top envoy in Kampala, overseeing a wide brief that spans trade talks, diplomacy, and the welfare of Kenyans living across the border. One of his first tasks will be to strengthen relations between the two East African neighbours, whose ties rest on deep economic interdependence and shared cultural history.

He will also push Kenya’s commercial agenda, working to open doors for local businesses in Uganda, a key export destination and one of Kenya’s largest trading partners.

The post carries a strong consular mandate as well, covering services for Kenyans in Uganda, including travel documentation, emergency support, and legal assistance during crises. On the regional front, Namwamba will play a role in advancing East African Community integration, with a focus on trade, mobility, and collective development.

Namwamba takes over from Ambassador Joash Maangi, who has held the Uganda posting since 2024, in what appears to be a calculated reshuffle rather than a recall.

Maangi's posting to Brussels, Belgium, where he will represent Kenya to the European Commission, is not a recall but a redeployment, one among which reinforces a growing trend under President Ruto, where former Cabinet Secretaries are recycled into diplomatic roles instead of being sidelined entirely.

Former Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi during vetting as Kenya's Ambassador to Uganda on April 4, 2024. /STANDARD DIGITAL

Uganda Orders Shutdown Of Internet Days To General Elections

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:13:38 +0300

Ugandan citizens are set to lose access to the internet from this evening, days before the general elections slated for Thursday, January 15.

The Uganda Communications Commission has announced a temporary suspension of public internet access and certain mobile services starting at 6 pm on January 13, 2026, coinciding with the election period.

The order, released on Tuesday, covers public internet use, SIM card sales and registration, and outbound data roaming. Essential services like healthcare, banking, and government networks are exempt from the shutdown.

“Following a strong recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) duly directs all licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to implement a temporary suspension of the following services,” the directive read in part.

Uganda President Yoweri Museveni speaking during a public rally on Monday, October 20, 2025. /KATEREGA UTHMAN

The UCC said the temporary shutdown is intended to curb the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, and electoral fraud, while preventing the incitement of violence that could threaten public trust and national security during the elections.

The order blocks all non-essential public internet activity, including social media, web browsing, video streaming, personal emails, and messaging apps.

The suspension also covers mobile broadband, fibre optic connections, leased lines, fixed wireless access, microwave links, and satellite internet services.

Critical systems needed to maintain network stability and security are exempt, but these are strictly limited to essential services.

Regular mobile and public internet access will remain offline, and operators must immediately shut down any exempt systems that are misused to bypass the restrictions.

This directive sees Uganda become the first country in the entire East African Community (EAC), going by election years from 2025 to 2027, to impose temporary internet shutdowns ahead of a general election.

Tanzania faced a nationwide internet blackout on Wednesday, October 29, coinciding with the country’s election day, leaving most citizens with limited or no online access.

Global internet watchdog NetBlocks, which tracks connectivity and cybersecurity issues, reported that real-time network data showed a widespread disruption across the country, describing the incident as a “digital blackout.”

Major mobile network operators in Tanzania had by then cut off internet access nationwide, heightening fears of a state-orchestrated information blackout intended to control the narrative and block citizens from sharing real-time updates on social media.

Notably, Kenya cannot pull such a move ahead of the 2027 general elections even if it wanted to. On May 14, 2025, High Court Judge Bahati Mwamuye issued an order barring the government, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), and other involved parties from shutting down internet services in any form or manner.

A county government official disconnecting fibre optic cables mounted on power lines. /CAPITAL GROUP

Eliud Owalo Quits Govt Job After Declaring 2027 Presidential Bid

Marvin Chege — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 20:23:09 +0300

Eliud Owalo has announced that he has resigned from his position as the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency in the Office of the President.

Owalo announced on Sunday evening, January 11, hours after he announced plans to run for president in the 2027 General Elections.

He explained that his decision to go for the top seat next year made his current government position untenable, hence his announcement that he would resign immediately.

"Following my declaration earlier today that I intend to run for the Presidency of the Republic of Kenya in the year 2027, my position as the Deputy Chief of Staff, Delivery and Government Efficiency is no longer Tenable. I have therefore resigned from the position with immediate effect," he announced on his social media platforms.

Eliud Owalo during an interaction with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on July 4, 2023. /ELIUD OWALO

Owalo has been working as Deputy Chief of Staff responsible for delivery and government efficiency, a position that plays a key role in coordinating, monitoring, and driving the rollout of government programmes across ministries, departments, and agencies.

His departure from the post officially paves the way for his 2027 presidential bid, placing him among the earliest figures from within the Executive to openly signal ambitions for the nation’s highest office.

Owalo unveiled his bid on Sunday, January 11, during the 106th anniversary marking the death of his grandfather, Prophet Johanna Owalo, founder of the Nomiya Church. The event took place at the church’s headquarters in Oboch, Kisumu County.

“Come 2027, I will submit myself as a candidate for the presidency of the Republic of Kenya,” Owalo stated, pointing to his track record as a performer, a results-focused leader, and a risk-taker.

The move signalled a notable political pivot for Owalo, who has previously worked alongside former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Musalia Mudavadi, and had served in President William Ruto’s administration before his announcement this evening.

He framed the decision as a shift from rallying behind political personalities to prioritising tangible development outcomes for Kenyans.

Although he has not yet disclosed the platform, party ticket, or coalition he intends to use, Owalo’s announcement and exit from office signal a clear move away from technocratic public service into full-time national politics.

Historically, only a handful of Kenyan government officials have resigned after declaring a presidential bid, which makes Owalo's move absolutely rare as far as the history of the Republic is concerned.

Most presidential aspirants have stepped down closer to election timelines rather than immediately after an announcement. Notable examples include the late Mwai Kibaki and Martha Karua in past cycles.

Although Owalo is now joining a small group of senior officials who have publicly exited the government to pursue the presidency, the move is considered a very rare one in Kenyan history, as it comes just under 18 months before a general election, in this case, in 2027.

Eliud Owalo, the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency of the President of Kenya speaking in Asembo on December 30, 2025. /ELIUD OWALO

More As Than 2024: Breakdown Of Grades In 2025 KCSE Results

Marvin Chege — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 10:07:15 +0300

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has officially released the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination results.

Addressing candidates and stakeholders on Friday, January 9, at AIC Chebisaas High School in Uasin Gishu County, Ogamba revealed that 1,932 candidates attained a mean grade of A Plain in the 2025 examinations.

He highlighted that this figure marks an increase from the 2024 KCSE results, where 1,693 candidates achieved the top grade.

Education CS Julius Ogamba speaking during the release of the first ever Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) results at the Kenya National Examinations Council offices in Mitihani House, Nairobi on December 11, 2025. /JULIUS OGAMBA

“There were 1,932, which is 0.19% percent of the candidates who obtained an overall mean Grade of A Plain in the 2025 KCSE examination. This is an improvement compared to 1,693 who scored an A Plain in 2024,” Ogamba stated.

According to the Education CS, a total of 270,715 candidates scored C+ and above, qualifying for direct university entry. This represented 27.81 per cent of the 2025 KCSE cohort.

“The number of candidates with direct university entry qualification of mean grade C+ (Plus) and above was 270,715, which is 27.81%. This is an improvement compared to 246,391, which was 25.53% in 2024,” he added.

Ogamba also announced that 507,131 candidates attained a mean grade of C minus and above, accounting for 50.92 per cent of all candidates. Meanwhile, 634,082 candidates scored D+ and above, up from 605,774 in 2024.

National schools recorded the highest number of A Plain grades. “National schools produced the highest number of candidates with an overall mean grade of A, which was 1,526, followed by extra country schools, which had 197, and private schools with 185,” he noted.

He further observed that sub-county schools outperformed county schools in the number of candidates scoring C+ and above, with 72,699 students reaching the benchmark.

On results access, Ogamba confirmed that candidates can check their performance through the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) online portal.

“Individual candidate results will be accessed online through results.knec.ac.ke. Candidates will be required to enter their index number and one of their names as per the registration data for the 2025 KCSE Examination,” he stated.

Alternatively, candidates can obtain their results via SMS by sending their full KCSE index number to 20076. Each SMS costs Ksh25 and delivers the results directly to the candidate’s mobile phone.

The 2025 KCSE examinations were administered by the Ministry of Education between October 21 and November 21, 2025, across 10,755 examination centres nationwide.

Education CS Julius Ogamba oversees the opening of the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) container at the Nyamira North Sub-County DCC offices on November 21, 2025. /JULIUS OGAMBA

High Court Stops Ruto From Establishing Ksh5 Trillion National Infrastructure Fund

Marvin Chege — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 17:36:49 +0300

The High Court has issued interim orders suspending the rollout and implementation of the proposed National Infrastructure Fund until a petition filed by the Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK) is heard and determined.

In rulings delivered on December 24, 2025, Milimani High Court Judge Bahati Mwamuye barred the respondents—including the Office of the Auditor-General and the Office of the Controller of Budget—from setting up, registering, financing, or taking any steps to operationalise the fund pending inter partes hearing of the case.

The ruling stems from a petition lodged by Nakuru-based surgeon Dr. Benjamin Gikenyi, Eliud Matindi, and others, who are contesting the creation of the National Infrastructure Fund through a presidential communiqué issued on December 15, 2025.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

The petitioners argue that the fund was set up through executive action without the involvement of Parliament, public participation, or an enabling legal framework, thereby contravening the Constitution and the Public Finance Management Act.

Court filings indicate that they maintain Article 206(1)(a) of the Constitution permits the establishment of a national public fund only through legislation passed by Parliament or pursuant to the Public Finance Management Act, and not by registering a limited liability company under the Companies Act.

They further contend that the move breaches core constitutional principles, including the sovereignty of the people, constitutional supremacy, the rule of law, responsible management of public finances, transparency, accountability, and public participation as provided for under Articles 1, 2, 10, 201, 206, and 232.

Dr. Gikenyi also argues that the way the fund was unveiled weakens Parliament’s oversight mandate and could expose public resources to use outside the normal budgetary and control frameworks.

Additionally, the petitioners claim the proposed fund risks duplicating or undermining constitutionally established instruments such as the Equalisation Fund under Article 204, while lacking clear safeguards on governance, accountability, and oversight by institutions like the Controller of Budget.

The petition further raises concerns that the announcement of the fund failed to clarify whether it would be structured as a company limited by shares or by guarantee, how it would be funded, or how public money would be safeguarded, in breach of the Public Finance Management Act and its regulations.

In issuing interim orders, Justice Bahati Mwamuye directed that the conservatory measures remain in place pending the inter partes hearing and determination of the application.

The court instructed the petitioners to serve the respondents and interested parties with the application, petition, and court orders by December 29, 2025.

Respondents and interested parties were given until January 9, 2026, to file their replies, while the petitioners may submit a rejoinder and written submissions by January 14, 2026. The respondents’ and interested parties’ submissions are due by January 16, 2026.

On Monday, December 15, President William Ruto's Cabinet approved the creation of the National Infrastructure Fund, among two powerful financial vehicles that also included a Sovereign Wealth Fund—designed to bankroll the government’s ambitious Ksh5 trillion economic transformation plan.

Set up as a limited liability company, the National Infrastructure Fund will become the State’s primary engine for funding roads, energy, transport, and other big-ticket infrastructure projects.

The fund is expected to align public money with national development priorities while pulling in massive private-sector investment.

President William Ruto chairing a Cabinet meeting at State House, Nairobi on December 15, 2025. /PCS

Jailed Waititu Ordered To Give Up Multi-Million Assets In Ksh1.9 Billion Case

Marvin Chege — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 15:08:48 +0300

A High Court judge has ordered the seizure of assets valued at Ksh76.2 million believed to be owned by former Kiambu County Governor Ferdinand Waititu, as well as three plots of land—two worth Ksh32 million and one belonging to his wife, Susan Ndung'u—to be forfeited to the state.

The ruling came after Waititu and his wife failed to adequately account for the origin of these assets, which they argued were obtained legally through loans and business income before his term as governor.

The confiscated property also includes a Caterpillar machine valued at Ksh 11 million and two vehicles, each worth Ksh 600,000.

Ferdinand Waititu arriving in court for his sentencing on February 13, 2025. /PHOTO

Justice Nixon Sifuna partially approved a civil suit brought by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) aiming to reclaim assets allegedly obtained unlawfully during Waititu’s governorship.

Although the EACC sought recovery of assets totaling Ksh 1.9 billion, the court only permitted the seizure of items whose sources were not satisfactorily explained.

The judge dismissed the EACC’s request to confiscate funds held in various bank accounts connected to Waititu, his wife, and their companies, noting that the allegations regarding the accounts were unclear and insufficiently substantiated.

The legal proceedings concerning Waititu's assets originated in 2022, when the EACC initiated a lawsuit alleging the former official possessed over Ksh1 billion in unexplained wealth.

The EACC claimed that Waititu amassed this fortune corruptly during his tenure as a Member of Parliament for Kabete Constituency (2015–2017) and later as Governor of Kiambu County (2017–2020).

The commission argued that a portion of these assets was acquired using proceeds from questionable procurement contracts awarded to companies linked to Waititu and his wife.

However, in Friday's ruling, Justice Sifuna noted that the EACC’s claims lacked sufficient clarity and were not backed by solid evidence. Consequently, the court determined that only a small portion of the assets in question should be forfeited, as the commission failed to provide adequate proof to justify a full seizure.

This order follows Waititu’s conviction in February 2025 on conflict of interest charges in a separate Ksh 588 million corruption case, for which he received a 12-year prison sentence or a Ksh 52.5 million fine.

His wife, Susan Ndung'u, was sentenced to one year in prison or a Ksh 500,000 fine in the same case.

Ferdinand Waititu (right) with his wife, Susan Ndung'u. /KBC DIGITAL

Supreme Court Judge Mohammed Ibrahim Is Dead

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:43:29 +0300

Justice Mohammed Khadhar Ibrahim, a judge serving at the Supreme Court of Kenya, is dead.

The Judiciary stated that the judge died on Wednesday, December 17, after a period of illness. He passed away at approximately 4:30 pm at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi, where he had been undergoing treatment.

Mohammed had sought medical care following his return from India, where he had previously been hospitalised.

As tributes began to pour in, Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo described Justice Mohammed as “a towering source of inspiration to all who dared to dream.”

Supreme Court of Kenya judges during the presidential petition hearings in August 2022. /VOA AFRICA

In a statement, Odhiambo said, “Justice Mohammed Ibrahim, SCJ, served on the bench with unparalleled grace and a distinguished intellect. His rare calmness reflected a man who deeply understood judicial authority as a call to service and appreciated the nuances of justice as a means of preserving social order.”

She added, “His passing on is a big loss to the Supreme Court, the Judiciary, and to the administration of justice in Kenya.”

The distinguished judge is widely recognised for his unwavering advocacy for social justice and the protection of minority rights.

However, his resistance to elements of the one-party system led to his detention without trial in July 1990 during the Daniel arap Moi administration. He was held in solitary confinement at Kamiti Prison for one month for offering legal counsel and supporting pro-democracy activists.

Educational background

Justice Mohammed Khadhar Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi and a Diploma from the Kenya School of Law.

Career background

On January 11, 1983, Mohammed Ibrahim made history as the first Kenyan Somali to be admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya. He began his legal career at Waruhiu & Muite Advocates, where he was elevated to partner in 1985.

In July 1990, his opposition to aspects of the one-party regime again resulted in his detention without trial under the Moi government, during which he spent a month in solitary confinement at Kamiti Prison for providing legal advice and backing pro-democracy figures.

In 1994, he founded Mohammed Ibrahim & Associates, which later grew into Ibrahim & Isaack Advocates in 1997.

Beyond private practice, he was a founding trustee of the human rights organisation Mwangaza Trust until 1994, served as a council member of the Law Society of Kenya, and sat on the board of the Legal Education and Aid Programme (LEAD).

Ibrahim was appointed a Judge of the High Court of Kenya in May 2003, serving until May 2011. In June 2011, he was elevated to the Supreme Court of Kenya, where he had continued to serve until his demise today.

On June 2, 2022, Justice Mohammed Khadhar Ibrahim was appointed a member of the Commission in accordance with Article 171(2)(b) of the Constitution.

The widely regarded jurist was scheduled to formally retire on January 1, 2026, after attaining the constitutionally mandated retirement age of 70.

Photo of the late Supreme Court judge Mohammed Ibrahim. /FILE

Road To Singapore? Cabinet Approves Ksh5 Trillion National Infrastructure Fund

Marvin Chege — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 16:20:05 +0300

On Monday, December 15, President William Ruto's Cabinet approved the creation of two powerful financial vehicles—the National Infrastructure Fund and a Sovereign Wealth Fund—designed to bankroll the government’s ambitious Ksh5 trillion economic transformation plan.

Set up as a limited liability company, the National Infrastructure Fund will become the State’s primary engine for funding roads, energy, transport, and other big-ticket infrastructure projects.

According to a Cabinet dispatch to newsrooms, the fund is expected to align public money with national development priorities while pulling in massive private-sector investment.

"Through innovative mobilisation of domestic resources, strategic monetisation of mature public assets, democratisation of ownership through capital markets and the deployment of national savings, the Government will unlock large-scale private sector capital to finance priority investments while reducing reliance on borrowing and taxation," the dispatch reads in part.

An artist impression of a highway in Kenya. /CAPITAL GROUP

In a major policy shift, all proceeds from privatisation will now be ring-fenced and invested strictly in income-generating public infrastructure.

Treasury estimates that every shilling injected through the fund could attract up to Ksh10 more from pension funds, sovereign investors, private equity players, and development financiers.

If it works, the model could fundamentally reshape how Kenya pays for development—and who gets to profit from it.

The Cabinet further gave the green light to the Sovereign Wealth Fund Policy, creating a structured system for managing and investing income from minerals and petroleum, returns from State-owned investments, and a share of proceeds from privatisation under a single national fund.

Built around inter-generational savings, cushioning the economy from external shocks and making commercially viable strategic investments, the fund is expected to boost fiscal discipline, improve economic resilience, and drive long-term competitiveness.

The policy also gives effect to Article 201 of the Constitution on inter-generational equity and aligns with the Kenya Kwanza administration’s investment-driven growth strategy.

"Together, the Sovereign Wealth Fund and the National Infrastructure Fund will finance Kenya’s transformation agenda focused on strengthening food security and positioning Kenya as a net-exporting economy, expanding modern transport and logistics to drive productivity and trade, and scaling up energy generation to power industrialisation and the digital economy," added the dispatch.

To boost food security, the government plans to roll out large-scale modern irrigation by building 50 mega dams, 200 mini-dams, and more than 1,000 micro-dams, opening up an additional 2.5 million acres for agricultural production. The projects are expected to enhance food and water security, accelerate agro-industrialisation, and improve livelihoods in rural areas.

At the same time, transport and logistics infrastructure will be scaled up through the expansion of 2,500 kilometres of dual-carriage highways and the tarmacking of 28,000 kilometres of roads. Other plans include extending the Standard Gauge Railway to Malaba, expanding regional oil pipelines, and upgrading airports as well as the ports of Mombasa and Lamu to improve connectivity between farms, factories, cities and regional markets.

Energy supply will also be significantly expanded, with at least 10,000 megawatts of new power capacity targeted over the next seven years to support manufacturing, value addition, digital growth, e-mobility, and emerging technologies. The expansion will tap into Kenya’s geothermal, hydro, solar, wind, and nuclear resources.

Both funds will be run professionally and independently under strict governance, transparency, and accountability structures. The National Infrastructure Fund will be managed by a competitively appointed board and chief executive, while the Sovereign Wealth Fund will operate within a strong policy framework to ensure responsible investment, fiscal discipline, and inter-generational equity.

"This financing architecture marks a decisive shift toward a sustainable, investment-led development model that mobilises capital, accelerates delivery, preserves national value and secures lasting prosperity for present and future generations," the dispatch continued.

President William Ruto flags off the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Road project on November 28, 2025. /PCS

How To Check KJSEA Results 2025 Online

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 13:05:09 +0300

The Ministry of Education has released the 2025 Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA) results, marking a major step for students transitioning into senior school under the Competency-Based Curriculum. More than 1.13 million candidates completed the assessment in October, and their results are now available through official channels, including online.

Parents can access the results online through the Ministry’s designated portal. By visiting https://kjsea.knec.ac.ke, they can enter the learner’s assessment number and submit it to view the full outcome, including subject scores and placement information.

The platform allows users to download or print the result slip, and schools will also issue physical copies. Although the portal supports both mobile and desktop access, heavy traffic may cause delays, and users are advised to retry if loading issues occur.

In addition to the online option, parents may obtain official result slips directly from schools. These documents can be collected for verification, consultation, and guidance as learners prepare for the next phase of their education.

A photo of students awaiting to do their exams. /NAIROBI LEO

For Individual Candidate's Results

1. Visit the web address: kjsea.knec.ac.ke
2. Enter the candidate's Assessment Number and at least one
of their name.
3. Accept the privacy and access notice
4. Search for the results

For Institutional Results

1. Head of Institution to log in to the CBA portal cba.knec.ac.ke
2. Click on the Results menu
3. Click on the download link to view the institution's results

Senior school placement letters are expected within a week. Students will be assigned pathways that reflect their performance and interests, whether in Arts and Sports, STEM, or Social Sciences. Reporting for Grade 10 is set for January 12, 2026.

The Ministry notes that placement decisions consider academic results, learner preferences, and available capacity in senior schools. Parents are encouraged to check placement details as soon as they are released to ensure a smooth transition.

The Ministry has also issued a security alert cautioning the public against fraudulent SMS or USSD services claiming to provide early or paid access to the results. It stresses that only the official online portal and schools should be relied on, and any other source should be treated with suspicion.

This release represents the second nationwide implementation of the KJSEA under the CBC, replacing the former KCPE system. The assessment emphasizes competency development over rote learning, supporting a shift toward practical skills and holistic education.

The publication of the results underscores ongoing progress in rolling out the new curriculum and shaping a workforce that can meet future demands.

Parents seeking assistance can reach the Ministry via its helpline or visit education offices across the country. Schools will also continue offering support by helping families interpret results and understand the available senior school pathways.

Student Rankings

The results have been issued without the traditional ranking system. Instead, learners have been placed into four performance categories: Exceeding Expectations, Meeting Expectations, Approaching Expectations, and Below Expectations. This model is meant to curb unhealthy academic competition among schools and students.

A learner’s final score is drawn from three assessment components. The KPSEA exam taken in Grade Six contributes 20 per cent, school-based assessments conducted in Grades Seven and Eight add another 20 per cent, and the KJSEA summative assessment accounts for the remaining 60 per cent.

Each subject is graded out of a maximum of eight points across nine subjects, giving a total possible score of 72. Although students will not receive precise percentage marks, these scores determine their placement within the four performance bands.

Learners in the Exceeding Expectations category fall within the 75–100 per cent range and earn between seven and eight points. The Meeting Expectations group covers 41–74 per cent, Approaching Expectations spans 21–40 per cent, and Below Expectations reflects 0–20 per cent. These categories are further broken down into eight levels to create a more detailed scoring structure.

The outcome highlights learners’ progress through continuous assessment and their achievement by the end of Grade Nine. Both the Ministry of Education and KNEC have reiterated that no rankings will be released, reinforcing efforts to promote a more supportive and balanced academic environment.

Education CS Julius Ogamba during his visit to schools in Kajiado County. /JULIUS OGAMBA

Governor Amos Nyaribo Escapes Impeachment Again

Marvin Chege — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 18:05:51 +0300

Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo has survived impeachment by Members of the County Assembly (MCA) for the third time.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi determined that the county assembly had not met the required threshold for his removal, despite 23 of the 35 MCAs voting in favour of the impeachment. This time, 23 MCAs backed Nyaribo’s impeachment, pushing the showdown to the Senate for the final call.

In the process, MCAs brushed aside affidavits from 12 absent members and even let six present colleagues cast votes on behalf of some absentees, helping them hit the two-thirds mark needed to push the motion through.

38 senators voted to uphold the objection, while only four opposed it, bringing the impeachment process to an end on a technicality.

Bird's eye view of proceedings at the Senate as of December 3, 2025. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

The motion, introduced by Bonyamatuta Ward MCA Julius Kimwomi Matwere, accused Governor Nyaribo of abuse of office, gross misconduct, irregular appointments, and mishandling public funds.

Nyaribo had earlier rejected all allegations made against him as the Senate opened hearings into his proposed impeachment. He denied the charges when he appeared before the Senate plenary on Wednesday, December 3, the first day of the proceedings.

The session began with Senate Deputy Clerk Mohamed Ali reading the charges to the governor, who dismissed each one in full.

The impeachment motion accused Governor Nyaribo of various violations, from unlawful appointments to abuse of office — claims he maintained were baseless.

The first cluster of accusations focused on claims that the Governor supported the unconstitutional Bunge Mashinani initiative, approved the Nyamira County Supplementary Appropriation Bill, 2024, without legal grounds, and illegally appointed Dr. Peris Nyaboke Oroko, also known as Peris Mongare, to the County Executive Committee.

The Assembly also faulted him for allegedly making illegal appointments to the Nyamira and Keroka Municipal Boards, improperly forming the County Public Service Board (CPSB) Selection Panel, and failing to appoint CPSB leadership as mandated by law.

Additional allegations stated that Nyaribo neglected key constitutional responsibilities, including issuing the State of the County Address and submitting Annual Reports.

He was further accused of defying court orders on the appointment of Clive Ogwora to the County Executive Committee.

On the abuse of office charge, the County Assembly claimed Nyaribo presided over recruitment exercises without approved budgets, influenced irregular hiring of senior HR officers, and personally benefited from questionable salary arrears.

Assembly members also cited an alleged payroll fraud ring that resulted in the loss of public funds, accused him of enabling dual appointments outside the law, and said he interfered with functions belonging to the Auditor-General and CPSB. The governor was additionally accused of unlawfully suspending the CPSB Secretary.

The governor’s lawyers had maintained that the county assembly failed to secure the constitutionally mandated two-thirds vote required to approve an impeachment motion.

When moving the motion on whether to uphold the objection, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot raised doubts about whether the case had even been properly submitted to the Senate.

“We unfortunately must ask ourselves whether this matter is properly before us as a House,” he submitted, adding, “Have we been properly invited, or has a governor come through the door, or has this matter been thrown through the window?”

Cheruiyot also criticised Parliament for failing to enact a clear impeachment procedure law, arguing that many persistent conflicts — especially around vote counts and processes — would have been avoided had such legislation already been in place.

“If we had set out an impeachment procedure bill, we would not be debating these issues today. By now, we would be listening to the case by the county assembly and the governor’s response. But here we are, unfortunately,” he argued.

Nyaribo Joins Governors Who Survived Big Chop

Nyaribo’s impeachment adds to a growing list of county chiefs ousted or nearly removed since 2022, outlining how difficult it is to successfully impeach a governor in the Republic of Kenya.

Notable cases include Meru’s Kawira Mwangaza, removed in 2024 after multiple attempts over abuse of office and nepotism. Her impeachment was upheld by the High Court on March 14, 2025, making this one of the few times a governor has been successfully impeached through the Legislature and Judiciary.

Kiambu’s Ferdinand Waititu was ousted in 2019 for corruption and later jailed; and Kericho’s Erick Mutai, impeached in 2025 for similar violations but saved by the Senate.

If Nyaribo had been removed by way of the Senate's decision, he would have become the 11th governor since 2013 to have been impeached in acting capacity.

The latest motion, his third since 2023, follows raids by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over a Ksh 382 million tender and accusations of presiding over parallel “Bunge Mashinani” sessions outside legal procedures.

Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo addresses residents after his swearing-in ceremony at Nyamira Primary. /STANDARD DIGITAL

Raila Odinga's Sister Is Dead

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:25:58 +0300

The late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's family has been thrown into mourning again following the passing of his sister, Beryl Achieng Odinga.

Raila’s elder sister, Ruth Odinga, confirmed the news, saying Beryl passed away on Tuesday, November 25. She did not reveal what caused her death.

"It is with a heavy heart, but accepting the will of God, we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga. Daughter of the Late Hon Jaramogi Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga. Mother to Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai," she announced on Tuesday, November 25, on her Facebook page.

Beryl was also a sister to Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, Akinyi Wenwa, amongst others, and a sister in law to Dr Anne Oburu, Dr Canon Ida Odinga, Hon. Tabu Osewe, and Judy Oburu.

Photo of the late Beryl Odinga. /THE KENYA TIMES

"While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord's arms and are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we were privileged to share with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her," the Kisumu County Woman Representative added.

Reports — which had not been independently confirmed at the time of publication — indicated that she died at a Nairobi hospital after a long struggle with illness.

Sources familiar with the situation said Beryl had been admitted multiple times and that attempts to restore her health were unsuccessful, eventually leading to her passing.

The former Prime Minister’s little-known sister lived a largely private life, despite being part of a politically prominent family.

Even while keeping out of the spotlight, Beryl built a solid career in education. She trained as a teacher and later became a lawyer, and is noted as the only member of the extended Odinga family who attended school in Kenya.

Beyond her work in the classroom, she held notable leadership roles, including serving as the Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewage Company (NWSCO).

She married real estate magnate Otieno Abala in 1974, though the two eventually went their separate ways following reports of disagreements. It remains unclear whether she remarried.

Her death now marks a double-blow for the Odinga family and comes barely six weeks after Raila died on October 15, 2025, following a cardiac arrest in India.

He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors confirmed his death at approximately 9:52 a.m. (Indian time), according to a hospital spokesperson.

Late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga with his sister Beryl Achieng Odinga at a past event. /JUBILEE PARTY FORUM

Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo Impeached Again

Marvin Chege — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:00:46 +0300

Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo has been impeached yet again after the County Assembly voted to oust him from office.

MCAs pushed the motion, accusing Nyaribo of “gross misconduct,” abuse of office, and making questionable appointments. It’s the third time they’ve tried to boot him out of office, underscoring the deep rifts inside the Assembly.

The motion, tabled by Bonyamatuta Ward MCA Julius Kimwomi Matwere, sailed through after 19 of the 31 MCAs backing his ouster voted in favour. Four members opted to sit out the vote entirely.

A photo of Nyamira County headquarters. /STANDARD DIGITAL

The impeachment now heads to the Senate. Nyaribo has dodged two previous attempts: in September last year, he survived by a single vote after 22 MCAs backed his removal while 12 opposed.

A year before that, in September 2023, the bid also failed after only 16 MCAs supported the motion, falling short of the required two-thirds majority as 18 members voted against it.

What Awaits Nyaribo

Once MCAs impeach a governor, the law requires the County Assembly Speaker to forward the resolution — along with all supporting documents — to the Senate, which has the constitutional authority to interrogate the case.

The Senate then sets up a committee to probe the accusations, review the evidence, listen to the governor’s defence, and take submissions from both the assembly and the governor’s allies before drafting a recommendation for the full House.

That said, senators can opt to hear the case as a full plenary instead of using a committee. A vote, guided by the Standing Orders, determines which route they take.

After the committee issues its report, the Senate debates the findings. A two-thirds vote of all senators is needed to sustain the impeachment and formally oust the governor. Until that vote is taken, the governor remains in office.

What Happens After the Senate Process

If senators affirm the impeachment, the deputy governor immediately takes over for the rest of the term. If the senators decide otherwise, his impeachment is overturned, and he can resume his duties.

The ousted governor can, however, head to court to contest the decision—especially on procedural or constitutional grounds—which could stall or even overturn the removal.

EACC Watching Him

Meantime, Nyaribo is still being probed by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over claims of graft and abuse of office — a cloud that has put the county’s leadership in a tight spot.

Just last month, EACC officers raided Nyaribo’s residences and offices in connection with an alleged Ksh382 million irregular tender.

The dawn swoop on October 29 also zeroed in on several top county officials suspected of being part of the scheme.

Embattled Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo. /NAIROBI NEWS

Petition Filed To ODM Demanding Oburu Odinga's Resignation

Marvin Chege — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:58:43 +0300

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has been thrust into fresh turmoil after a group of life members, led by Rachael Tabitha, issued a strongly worded petition demanding the immediate resignation of Oburu Odinga from all party leadership positions.

The petitioners accuse Oburu of violating the ODM Constitution, undermining internal democracy, and sidelining long-serving members in what they describe as a “dangerous departure” from the party’s founding principles.

They cite alleged breaches of due process, disregard for Article 6.2.2(b) of the party constitution, and conduct they say has weakened confidence in ODM’s leadership structures.

The group warns that ODM’s core values — transparency, accountability and respect for the rule of law — are at risk, with many life members reportedly feeling excluded from key decision-making processes.

A photo of Rachael Tabitha interacting with Oburu Odinga. /VIRAL TEA KE

"It is with deep concern that we note actions and decisions attributed to Hon. Oburu Odinga and a select group of individuals that undermine the very principles ODM has defended for decades. The deliberate disregard for due process, violation of internal democratic procedures, and failure to respect the rights of life members signal a dangerous departure from the constitutional order of the party," the petition sent to Viral Tea reads in part.

"It is deeply inappropriate for some leaders to speak with pride and boldly declare that they are legitimately in office, while the party constitution particularly article 6.2.2(b) has been blatantly violated. Such defiance undermines the very principles of accountability, fairness, and respect for due process that our party stands for."

Demands

In their petition, the members outline three demands: Oburu’s immediate resignation, the convening of an urgent National Delegates Convention (NDC) to address what they term a governance crisis, and full recognition of life members’ rights within the party.

They have issued a 30-day ultimatum to the National Elections Board, threatening to resign from the party if their demands are not met.

"We respectfully but firmly notify the National Elections Board that: If the above actions are not undertaken within thirty (30) days from the date of this petition, we, the undersigned Life Members of ODM, shall tender our resignation from the party, as a matter of principle, in protest under The Raila school of thought against the ongoing violation of constitutional order," added the petition.

"ODM is more than an institution—it is a movement built on sacrifice, struggle, and an unyielding quest for justice and democracy. We therefore expect the NEB to act promptly, impartially, and in full fidelity to the Constitution of our party."

On Monday, a report by the Daily Nation highlighted growing rifts within the Odinga family over the leadership of ODM.

The tensions had surfaced during the ODM@20 event in Mombasa during this past weekend, where Winnie Odinga — daughter of the late party leader Raila Odinga — openly cast doubt on her uncle Oburu Oginga’s ability to steer the party.

Just days earlier, on November 15, Winnie had sparked fresh controversy after alleging that certain unnamed officials were plotting to “sell off” the party her father founded in 2005 and which is now under her uncle’s stewardship.

According to the EALA MP, the plotters held clandestine meetings at a time when ODM appears split over whether to continue backing the Kenya Kwanza government or chart its own course ahead of the 2027 elections. She, however, did not provide further details.

“ODM is not a party that was secretly birthed. I am informed that there are some of us who are walking with us during the day, but at night are hatching plans to sell our party. That will not be possible, the party was not born in a boardroom,” Winnie said.

She added, “The party was not made in a bedroom, and its future will not be discussed as pillow talk. It was born out of protest, made in resistance, and the people of ODM have bled time and again and shed tears for this country, Kenya.”

Just days before the celebrations, ODM's announcement on Thursday, November 13 confirmed Oburu as the Party Leader — a role he now holds officially after serving in an interim capacity. Oburu replaced his brother Raila, who was his predecessor.

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga at State House, Nairobi on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. /PCS

MP Bidu Mohamed Dies

Marvin Chege — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 19:29:38 +0300

Isiolo South Member of Parliament (MP) Tubi Bidu Mohamed is dead.

Bidu passed away while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula confirmed on Wednesday, November 12, evening.

In a formal statement to the House under Standing Order 42(2), Wetang’ula described the death of the first-term legislator, elected on a Jubilee Party ticket in 2022, as a significant loss to both Parliament and the nation.

“It is with profound sorrow that I inform you and the nation of the demise of our esteemed colleague, the Member for Isiolo South Constituency, Hon. Tubi Bidu Mohamed, who has left us this evening while receiving treatment at the Nairobi Hospital,” Wetang’ula said.

Isiolo South Member of Parliament Mohamed Tibu during swearing-in. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

President William Ruto, expressing his condolences for Tubi, called him a committed public servant and a fervent supporter of education, further noting that the late legislator was devoted to uplifting communities through access to knowledge and opportunities.

"His commitment to transforming the lives of his constituents and advancing development in Isiolo stands as a lasting legacy of his leadership," Ruto mourned in a statement on his social media pages.

He added, "May the Almighty God rest his soul in eternal peace and comfort his loved ones during this very difficult time."

Tubi Bidu Mohamed Profile

Bidu Mohamed was the Member of Parliament for Isiolo South Constituency in Isiolo County, elected in August 2022 on a Jubilee Party ticket.

He began his secondary education at Isiolo Secondary School and later earned a Diploma in Wildlife from the College of African Wildlife Management, Moshi, Tanzania, between 1999 and 2001. He also obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Community Development from Gretsa University from 2015 to 2018.

Before entering national politics, Mohamed had a long career in wildlife conservation and local governance. He served in various roles including Acting Warden-in-Charge at Isiolo County Council from 1993 to 1996, Game Warden and Senior Warden, and Chief Game Warden at Isiolo Parks between 2004 and 2008.

He later worked at Maasai Mara National Reserve from 2009 to 2012 and at Samburu Park from 2012 to 2013. Mohamed also served as the inaugural Speaker of the Isiolo County Assembly from 2013 to 2017, before taking on the role of MP for Isiolo South in 2022.

As a legislator, Mohamed served on committees including the Departmental Committee on Environment, Forestry, and Mining, as well as the Public Petitions Committee.

His legislative focus drew on his previous career, emphasizing wildlife conservation, environmental management, and infrastructure development in his constituency to improve service delivery and living conditions for his community.

Mohamed’s sudden passing this evening marked the end of a rising public-service career. He is remembered by colleagues and regional leaders as a committed figure who bridged experience in conservation with governance and community development, particularly in Northern Kenya.

His death leaves a leadership gap in Isiolo South, a region where strong local representation in the national assembly was still being solidified.

A bird's eye view of Parliament as of June 6, 2024. /PARLIAMENT OF KENYA

High Court Suspends Police Recruitment Again

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:12:12 +0300

The High Court has temporarily halted the ongoing recruitment of constables into the National Police Service (NPS) after issuing a conservatory order.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye delivered the ruling on Monday, November 10, in response to a petition filed by Eliud Matindi contesting the recruitment exercise.

“Pending the inter partes hearing and determination of the Petitioner/Applicant’s Notice of Motion Application dated 06/11/2025, a conservatory order be and is hereby issued suspending the Notice of Recruitment of Police Constables/Officers issued on 04/11/2025 by the 1st Respondent,” the order stated in part.

The judge instructed the petitioner to serve the respondents and interested parties with the petition, application, and court order without delay and to submit an affidavit by the end of business on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

A photo of the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

Justice Mwamuye further directed the respondents and interested parties to enter an appearance and file their responses by Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

The court has scheduled the case for mention on January 22, 2026, to verify compliance and issue directions on the fast-tracked hearing and determination.

Earlier, on Tuesday, November 4, the National Police Service (NPS) had announced plans to conduct a fresh recruitment exercise for police constables on Monday, November 17, 2025, at designated venues starting from 8:00 a.m.

“The recruitment process will take place on Monday, 17th November 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in all designated recruitment centers countrywide. All applicants must be at their respective recruitment Centres by 8:00 a.m.,” NPS said in a statement.

This marks the second instance in which the High Court has suspended a police recruitment exercise. On October 2, the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) halted a similar nationwide recruitment following a petition by former MP Harun Mwau.

In his filing, Mwau contended that the Constitution grants the National Police Service independent command, meaning no one can direct the Inspector General on matters of employment, assignment, promotion, suspension, or dismissal of officers.

Subsequently, Justice Hellen Wasilwa, on Thursday, October 30, declared the recruitment advertised by the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) unconstitutional.

She ruled that the NPSC lacks authority to “recruit, train, employ, assign, promote, suspend, or dismiss members of the National Police Service.”

Justice Wasilwa emphasized that the NPSC is not a security organ and, therefore, does not have the legal mandate to handle recruitment duties assigned to the NPS.

“The Commission is not a national security organ under Article 239(1) of the Constitution. Its role is limited to policy, oversight, and disciplinary control, not recruitment or deployment,” she stated.

According to the National Police Service (NPS), applicants must be Kenyan citizens aged between 18 and 28 years, possess a valid national ID, and have at least a D+ in KCSE, including a minimum D+ in English or Kiswahili.

Candidates are expected to report to their designated centres by 8 a.m. on the recruitment day, carrying original and photocopies of their academic certificates, national IDs, birth certificates, and, where applicable, National Youth Service discharge certificates rated at least “GOOD” in conduct.

Police officers during a past pass-out parade. /FILE

University Lecturers Call Off Strike

Marvin Chege — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:41:21 +0300

The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) on Wednesday, November 5, officially ended the lecturers’ strike that had crippled university operations nationwide since September.

The move came after the government pledged to clear the outstanding Ksh7.9 billion in salary arrears owed under the 2017–2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

UASU Secretary General Constantine Wesonga announced that the union and the government had agreed to settle the Ksh7.9 billion owed to lecturers in two phases.

The deal brings an end to the 49-day strike that had been fraught with tensions and blame-shifting between the two sides.

UASU officials with those from the Ministry of Education on November 5, 2025. /BEATRICE INYANG'ALA

Speaking to reporters, Wesonga reassured university students that lecturers were committed to making up for the lost time, noting that the current semester would likely be slightly extended.

"I want to apologise to the comrades for the 42 plus days they have lost. However, our members have committed that they are going to recover the lost time fully," said the UASU Secretary General.

"It is upon the government that you honour what we have signed here today. If you honour what we have signed here today, I want to commit that there shall be no strike called by UASU up to 2030," he added.

He cautioned, however, that if the government fails to uphold its end of the deal, the union would immediately call another strike starting next week.

The agreement also opens the door for talks on the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which, under the new return-to-work formula, should be finalized within the next 30 days.

This development came a day after a meeting between the Ministry of Education, the National Treasury, the National Assembly, and UASU led to a breakthrough that provided a roadmap towards the strike eventually being called off.

The talks, chaired by the National Assembly Committee on Education on Tuesday, November 4, saw Wesonga announce that he would summon a meeting with union members to deliberate on an end to the industrial action.

“For the sake of the children and students of this country, we are going to convene, as the organs of the union, so that we can reconsider,” Wesonga announced on Tuesday, November 4.

The session sought to find a lasting solution to the strike, with Members of Parliament (MPs) bringing together all the key stakeholders to forge common ground.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, during a consultative meeting with the Moi University Council, management, and UASU leadership on September 5, 2025. /MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

Samia Suluhu Wins Tanzania Elections With 98 Percent Of Votes

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 10:08:16 +0300

Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared Tanzania’s President-elect after securing a landslide victory in the just-concluded general election.

Official results released by the Tanzanian Electoral Commission on Saturday, November 1, showed that Suluhu garnered 31.9 million votes — a commanding 97.66% of the total ballots cast.

Her closest rival, Chaumu, managed only 213,414 votes, or 0.65%. Out of 37 million registered voters, turnout was described as high.

Tanzania President Samia Suluhu casting her vote on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. /SAMIA SULUHU

The announcement came three days after the country went to the polls on Wednesday, October 29. Reports indicate that Suluhu is expected to be sworn in later today, though she has largely stayed out of the public eye since election day.

The win cements a fresh five-year term for Suluhu, who initially assumed office in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli.

However, the election was marred by unrest and allegations of repression. Protests broke out across several cities as opposition supporters decried the disqualification and detention of major challengers, including leading opposition figure Tundu Lissu, who was jailed throughout the election period.

Witnesses reported gunfire in Mwanza and violent clashes in Dodoma and Dar es Salaam, where security forces blocked major roads and used teargas and live rounds to disperse crowds.

While the main opposition party claimed that hundreds were killed in the chaos, the U.N. human rights office confirmed at least 10 deaths in three cities.

The government dismissed the higher figures as “grossly exaggerated” and rejected accusations of human rights abuses.

Authorities have since imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Dar es Salaam, with Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila warning of a zero-tolerance approach toward any attempt to disrupt public order.

Despite the crackdown, some polling stations were vandalized, with angry youths tearing up ballot boxes in protest.

Adding to the tensions, Tanzania has faced an internet and communications blackout since election day, raising concerns over censorship and the suppression of free expression.

Suluhu, running on the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) ticket, was seeking her first direct mandate as president after completing her predecessor’s term.

Police battle protesters in Tanzania as of October 31, 2025. /SENSO CRITICO

Tanzania Orders Curfew

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:35:16 +0300

The Tanzanian Police have imposed a curfew effective from 6 PM East Africa Time (EAT) following escalating unrest across the country, which had its election day on Wednesday, October 29.

This development follows Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila's assurance to the public that state agencies are “strong and ready to face any attempt to breach the peace,” warning that the government will not hesitate to act firmly against anyone who disrupts public order.

”The police force following the situation announces to all residents of the city of Dar es Salaam that from today, October 29, 2025, from 6 p.m. They should stay in their homes,” Muliro said.

The announcement followed reports of a group of youths allegedly attempting to hold protests in the Kibo area of Kimara before police swiftly dispersed them.

Tanzania police on patrol during election day on October 29, 2025. /CYPRIAN NYAKUNDI

“Even if you see there is propaganda of any kind on social media about any area of the Dar es Salaam Region, know the power that will be used to control the matter is seven times more than the force applied planning it,” said Chalamila.

Addressing reporters after the voting exercise, Chalamila emphasized the need to safeguard Tanzania’s long-standing culture of peace, urging citizens to maintain trust in the government and security forces.

“Our nation’s culture is peace. If we destroy it, we will have lost the foundation of our existence as a nation. I have traveled to different places to tell young people to come forward to exercise their right to vote, but let them do so peacefully,” he said.

He further called on Dar es Salaam residents to continue cooperating with the government to preserve the city’s reputation as a hub of stability, development, and national unity.

Earlier, police in Dar es Salaam broke up a group of youths attempting to march in the Kimara Kibo area, located between Ubungo and Kimara. Security officers maintained surveillance in the area, with patrol vehicles seen stationed along the Morogoro Road highway.

During the unrest, one polling station was reportedly vandalized as demonstrations flared up across Tanzania on election day.

Following this, foreign nationals have been urged to stay alert after the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania issued a security advisory to American citizens amid the escalating protests on election day.

In a statement released on Wednesday, October 29, the embassy advised U.S. nationals in Tanzania to remain indoors and steer clear of large crowds as security forces respond to ongoing demonstrations coinciding with the elections.

“There are reports of demonstrations in multiple locations. U.S. government personnel are advised to shelter in place,” the embassy stated.

The advisory urged foreigners, especially U.S. citizens, to maintain a low profile, follow local news updates, and stay vigilant about their surroundings.

The embassy also shared emergency contact details for Americans in need of assistance and encouraged them to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time alerts.

The warning came amid a surge of protests across several major Tanzanian cities, where young people have taken to the streets to challenge the leadership of President Samia Suluhu, who is seeking a second term.

Suluhu is reportedly heading for a decisive victory as her main rival, opposition leader Tundu Lissu, remains in custody, with his party boycotting the polls over claims of unfair conditions.

Protests break out across multiple locations in Tanzania on election day on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. /VIRAL TEA KE

Why I Signed Controversial Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Law: Ruto

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:58:08 +0300

President William Ruto has spoken out on his decision to sign the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, into law at State House, Nairobi, on Wednesday, October 15; a mere moment before the news of the death of former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, broke across the nation.

Ruto was speaking on Thursday, October 23, during the memorial service of Mzee Weston Kirocho in Thome village, Laikipia County. Mzee Weston was the father of Inspector General of Police (IG), Douglas Kanja.

The Head of State expressed that his government was determined to end the torment and suffering meted out on Kenyan youth through social media platforms through the circulation of inappropriate content, among others, that was affecting their mental health.

Our youth are being tormented and terrorised on social media by dirty and inappropriate things, pornographic matters. We must prevent that as a government- President Ruto on signing the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024 into law#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/cBW6jmcBLd
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) October 23, 2025

"We have talked about matters regarding our youth being tormented and terrorised on social media by dirty and inappropriate things, pornographic matters. We must prevent that as a government," he explained.

"Those driving that agenda of hurting our youth to the point of many of them committing suicide, hanging themselves because of terrorism on our internet. We must stop those people."

President Ruto further refuted suggestions that he approved the bill in response to the former Prime Minister’s death, explaining that the legislation had already gone through all the required parliamentary processes before being signed.

“There are people trying to tarnish Kenya’s image by all means, saying things like, ‘Oh, the President signed the law.’ But this law already existed; the amendment process began in 2024, and it was Parliament that made the amendment.

"I signed it on Wednesday because that was my constitutional duty for the day — to assent to a bill that had already gone through all the required stages and had been forwarded to me by the Speaker. Unfortunately, our elder (Raila) had already left us, but by then I was already in office,” Ruto explained.

Further, Ruto noted that the law has been in place since 2018, with amendments initiated in 2024 by Members of the National Assembly, who reviewed and passed the changes before forwarding the bill for the President’s approval.

His comments came a day after the High Court temporarily suspended the implementation of the law. In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, October 22, Justice Lawrence Mugambi issued a conservatory order suspending the enforcement, execution, and effect of Sections 27(1)(b), (c), and (2) of the amended legislation.

"Pending the hearing and determination of this application, a conservatory order is hereby issued suspending the enforcement, implementation and operation of Section 27(1)(b), (c), and (2) of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2025," the ruling read in part.

This came a day after human rights activist and gospel musician Reuben Kigame had teamed up with the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) to challenge the controversial Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, warning that it hands the state unchecked power to monitor, silence, and endanger critics.

The case was certified as urgent, with the petitioners arguing that the new law threatens freedom of expression.

A photo of the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

High Court Suspends New Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Law

Marvin Chege — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:01:25 +0300

The High Court has halted the implementation of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, which was signed into law just last week.

In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, October 22, Justice Lawrence Mugambi issued a conservatory order suspending the enforcement, execution, and effect of Sections 27(1)(b), (c), and (2) of the amended legislation.

A photo of the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

The case was certified as urgent, with the petitioners arguing that the new law threatens freedom of expression.

They further contended that several provisions of the amended Act give state agencies excessive and unchecked powers to monitor, access, and restrict online accounts without court approval — actions they say violate constitutional protections under Articles 31, 33, 34, 35, and 36, which guarantee privacy, free speech, and media independence.

In an interim order, Justice Lawrence Mugambi directed that the petition and its supporting documents be served physically within three days, with proof of service filed in court. Parties were instructed to file and serve their responses within seven days after service.

The case will return to court on November 5, when Justice Mugambi is expected to issue further directions, including whether the petition proceeds to a full hearing.

The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was published by the National Assembly on August 9, 2024, and later subjected to public participation through the Departmental Committee on Communication, Information, and Innovation, which engaged civil society and industry stakeholders.

The new amendments seek to expand the definition of computer misuse to include unauthorized system access or modification and to criminalize ICT-enabled offences targeting networks or data.

The law also introduces provisions banning the use of electronic media to promote terrorism, extremist ideologies, and cult-related practices.

Image of a blocked website. /LINKEDIN

Ruto Confers Raila With Kenya's Highest Award

Marvin Chege — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 10:41:04 +0300

The late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been posthumously awarded the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.), Kenya's highest civilian distinction.

President William Ruto conferred the honour during the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium on October 20, 2025 — just days after Raila’s passing.

“On behalf of a grateful nation and through the authority vested in me as president, I have today posthumously conferred upon the Right Honorable Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, the Chief of the Golden Heart of Kenya,” Ruto said.

Through a Gazette Notice issued on October 20, 2025, President William Ruto officially awarded the honour to the late former Prime Minister, describing him as “a statesman of exceptional moral courage, a visionary patriot, a unifier, and a defender of justice.”

President William Ruto and the late Raila Odinga at State House. /PCS

Here's how it reads:

WHEREAS, On the Fifteenth Day of October in the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Five, Kenya, Africa and the World suffered immeasurable loss with the passing of the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, EG.H., the former Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya, and one of the principal architects of Kenya’s modern. democratic order;

WHEREAS, the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga dedicated the entirety of his adult life to the pursuit of justice, freedom and the equitable development of Kenya and advancement of her people;

WHEREAS, in service to the nation, the Late Premier served as a university lecturer, Member of Parliament for two decades, during which he served on both sides of the aisle of the National Assembly. Cabinet Minister, the de facto Leader of the Official Opposition and as the Second Prime Minister of the Republic:

WHEREAS, throughout his life, whether in Government or outside of it, Ri. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga exemplified. courage, endurance, dedication, an unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and good governance, sacrifice, Pan-Africanism and faithful service to all of humanity:

WHEREAS, the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga leaves behind a towering legacy that will forever endure in the hearts and minds of all, while serving as an inspiration to the present generations of Kenyans and Africans and those yet to be born;

WHEREAS, in the passing of the Former Prime Minister, Kenya. Africa, and the World have lost a Statesman of rare moral courage, a visionary patriot, a unifier of the people and a champion of justice whose name will forever be etched in the annals of our Republic; and

WHEREAS, the unprecedented outpouring of grief across the nation and beyond our borders stands testament to his enduring influence, his extraordinary service, and the profound affection in which he is held by a grateful municipal, regional, continental and global community.

NOW THEREFORE, on this Mashujaa Day, the Twentieth Day of October in the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Five, and in reverent recognition of the Late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga’s extraordinary contribution, shining legacy, and the bottomless debt of gratitude owed to him, on behalf of the Government and People of Kenya, it is my profound honour to act under the authority of the Public Seal of the Republic so as to inscribe his name among the foremost of our national heroes.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, and on behalf of an eternally grateful nation, 1, William Samoei Ruto, PhD., C.G.H., President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, in exercise of the powers conferred by Article 132 (4) (r) of the Constitution, do posthumously confer the following title of honour RT. HON. RAILA AMOLO ODINGA Order of the Golden Heart of Kenуа

The Order of the Golden Heart is the country’s top national honour, presented by the President to individuals who have made remarkable contributions in areas such as public service, leadership, and national development. Its highest category, the Chief of the Order (C.G.H.), is reserved for heads of state, distinguished public figures, and those whose service to the nation stands out as truly exceptional.

Raila Odinga’s conferment of the award had long been anticipated, given his status as one of Kenya’s most influential political figures. Serving as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, he played a defining role in the nation’s politics over several decades.

He also made five presidential bids and was instrumental in brokering the 2008 power-sharing agreement that ended the post-election violence, which erupted after the disputed 2007 polls.

During his Mashujaa Day speech, President William Ruto lauded Raila’s lifelong dedication to Kenya, acknowledging that despite their political differences, his leadership helped steer the country toward unity and progress.

Raila was laid to rest on Sunday in a deeply emotional ceremony at his ancestral home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County, beside his father, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Following Raila’s passing, President Ruto has continued to honour his legacy with utmost respect, culminating in the decision to grant him a full state funeral.

With this, Raila joins an elite group of Kenyans who have received state funerals — including Jomo Kenyatta (1978), Michael Kijana Wamalwa (2003), Wangari Maathai (2011), Lucy Kibaki (2016), Daniel arap Moi (2020), and Mwai Kibaki (2022).

A graphic paying tribute to the late Raila Amolo Odinga. /VIRAL TEA KE

Ruto Reveals Raila's Global Trips In Battling Illnesses Before His Death

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 14:11:40 +0300

President William Ruto has shared previously unknown details about Raila Odinga’s final weeks, including some of their candid conversations before the former Prime Minister’s death.

Delivering an emotional tribute at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday, October 19, Ruto disclosed that Raila had sought treatment in several countries before eventually settling in India, where he died.

The President recounted that in one of their recent meetings, Raila confided that he was feeling weak due to the medication he was taking.

Raila Odinga's body on display at the funeral service at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University grounds in Siaya County on October 19, 2025. /PCS

"He had visited Dubai and the United States, and they told him some things about his health. After he came back, his doctors administered more medicines to him," Ruto said.

Ruto added that while on a trip to New York, he kept thinking about Raila’s condition and had planned to meet him as soon as he returned to Kenya.

"When I called him (after returning to Kenya), he told me, 'William, I have gone to Malindi as per the doctors’ advice. I will be back on Tuesday.' I told him okay," Ruto recounted.

That Tuesday, Raila was set to meet the President, but Ruto suggested they instead meet at his Karen residence.

During that meeting, Raila opened up about his health struggles. In the presence of his daughter, the President, Mama Ida, and other family members, Ruto encouraged him to seek the best treatment available — fully funded by the government.

Ruto continued, "He first thought of Germany and China, before settling on India, where he has friends. We facilitated everything that the former Prime Minister wanted."

"When we thought Baba was okay, he called many people, saying he was fine, and doctors had asked him to make a follow-up visit in six months. We had plans to visit the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium, but that obviously did not happen."

"On my way to the office (on October 15), I received a text from Oburu (Odinga) saying Raila was not well. I wondered how, since he had said he was feeling fine. I made some calls to his proxies, and a few minutes later, Oburu called me again and told me, 'It looks like Baba has left us.' That was a few minutes after 7 a.m.," Ruto narrated.

Describing it as one of the most difficult moments, Ruto said he later got confirmation of Raila’s passing from the former Prime Minister’s daughter, following a brief, uncertain exchange with Oburu Odinga.

The President went on to commend Raila’s daughter, Winnie Odinga, for her dedication and care during her father’s final days.

Ruto also admitted that fulfilling Raila’s wish to be buried within 72 hours posed serious logistical challenges, especially with the process of bringing his body back to Kenya.

He further revealed that there had been resistance from some quarters against granting Raila a state burial — opposition he chose to ignore, insisting that Raila deserved full honours as “The People’s President.”

President William Ruto and the late Raila Odinga at State House. /PCS

Gunshots, Teargas At Kasarani Stadium During Raila Odinga Body Viewing

Marvin Chege — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 13:10:51 +0300

Tension has broken out at Kenya’s Kasarani Stadium after massive crowds of mourners pushed forward in a rush to view the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Police were forced to fire tear gas and gunshots in the air in an attempt to restore order as the situation spiraled out of control, triggering chaos, panic, and a stampede-like scene inside the stadium grounds.

Footage aired on a live broadcast showed thousands of mourners gathering on the pitch of the 48,000-seater stadium before gunshot sounds rent the air, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

Teargas was lobbed in an attempt to rapidly disperse the crowd, which was scattering in all corners, frantically making their way out of the sporting facility and leaving it empty in a huff!

Teargas lobbed to disperse mourners at Kasarani Stadium on October 16, 2025. /CITIZEN TV

Reports indicate that the unrest erupted when sections of the crowd inside the stadium began hurling stones toward the pitch, prompting a forceful reaction from police officers.

Additional footage captured what appeared to be officers using batons to disperse the crowd and clear people from the stadium grounds.

Unverified reports suggest that several individuals sustained injuries during the confrontation, with at least one person allegedly shot amid the chaos.

Crowds thronged Kasarani Stadium after the venue for the public viewing of Raila Odinga’s body was shifted there from Parliament, with organizers citing limited space and logistical challenges.

The viewing had been scheduled to begin at noon, but delays emerged when the body remained at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for more than two hours with minimal movement.

When Raila’s body arrived at JKIA from Mumbai, India, members of the public broke through the VIP section, preventing President William Ruto from conducting the official reception.

The procession, which was supposed to reach Parliament by noon, was delayed after thousands of Kenyans flooded the airport to witness the arrival.

After arriving from India, Raila’s body was transported to Kasarani in a slow, hours-long procession, as military vehicles were forced to navigate through massive crowds of Kenyans walking and following on boda bodas along the route from JKIA to Thika Road.

On Friday, October 17, the government will accord the late statesman a state funeral at Nyayo Stadium — a day that has already been declared a public holiday.

A silhouette of the late Raila Odinga. /PCS

Viewing Of Raila's Body Moved To Kasarani Stadium, Thika Road Motorists Issued Warning

Marvin Chege — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 09:29:29 +0300

The planned public viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been shifted from Parliament Buildings to Kasarani Stadium.

Additionally, the scheduled procession from Lee Funeral Home to Parliament has been called off.

These changes were made after massive crowds turned up to accompany Raila’s body from JKIA, while thousands of others gathered outside Parliament.

A local security firm issued a general advisory, urging crowds at Parliament to head back to Kasarani Stadium.

Thousands surround the KDF entourage escorting the body of Raila Odinga from JKIA, October 16, 2025. /PCS

"Expect traffic congestion along Thika Road and adjoining routes leading to Kasarani," the advisory obtained by Viral Tea stated.

The public viewing, which had been scheduled to begin at noon, was delayed after the body remained at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for more than two hours with minimal movement or updates.

"Due to the surge in the number of mourners, the viewing of the body of HE Raila Amolo Odinga has been moved from the Parliament Buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani," the statement by ODM read in part.

"Members of the public are advised to proceed to Kasarani, where there shall be enough space and time to view the body."

The planned public viewing of Raila Odinga’s body in Kisumu on Saturday, October 18, has been shifted from Moi Stadium to Mamboleo Showground.

The announcement also indicated that further adjustments to the funeral schedule are expected.

Earlier in the day, when Raila’s body arrived at JKIA from Mumbai, India, members of the public broke through the VIP section, preventing President William Ruto from conducting the official reception.

The procession, which was supposed to reach Parliament by noon, was delayed after thousands of Kenyans flooded the airport to witness the arrival.

On Friday, October 17, the government will accord the late statesman a state funeral at Nyayo Stadium — a day that has already been declared a public holiday.

The following day, Raila’s body will be flown to Kisumu for public viewing at Mamboleo Showground, before his final burial at his Bondo home on Sunday.

Raila Odinga's body being offloaded from a Kenya Airways plane at JKIA on October 16, 2025. /KENYA AIRWAYS

4-Day Long Weekend For Kenyans After Govt Declares Public Holiday

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:59:56 +0300

The government has designated Friday, October 17, as a public holiday to honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed the declaration in an official gazette notice issued on the morning of Thursday, October 16.

"In exercise of powers conferred in Section 3 of the Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Friday, October 17, 2025, shall be a public holiday in honour of the former Prime Minister Rt. Honourable Raila Odinga," the gazette notice read.

The development means Kenyans are set for an even longer weekend, given that Mashujaa Day is set for Monday, October 20, which is automatically a public holiday.

The late Raila Odinga with CS Kipchumba Murkomen. /FILE

Further, this is the second long weekend in a row after the country marked Mazingira Day on Friday, October 10.

Raila passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at a private hospital in Koothattukulam, Ernakulam district, Kerala, India, at the age of 80. Following his death, President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning.

CS Murkomen stated earlier that the government would collaborate closely with the Odinga family to ensure Raila receives a dignified and fitting farewell.

The national holiday declared for Friday is intended to give Kenyans from all backgrounds a moment to honour and reflect on the life and legacy of a man widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Kenya’s political history.

Since Wednesday, flags across the country—including those at State House—have been flying at half-mast, and all government activities have been suspended to allow for a period of national mourning.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki revealed that Raila had expressed a wish to be buried within 72 hours of his passing, which likely influenced the government’s decision to declare the public holiday on Friday.

“The family informed us that it was Raila’s desire to be buried as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours,” Kindiki stated.

Raila’s body has since landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 9:30 a.m., where it was received by President William Ruto and close members of the Odinga family.

Security around JKIA was intensified ahead of the arrival, with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) set to take charge of proceedings once the plane lands.

Heavy contingent of anti-riot police officers at JKIA as hundreds of supporters gather awaiting the arrival of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/Avhg7PZx4n
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) October 16, 2025

According to the official farewell programme, Raila will be accorded a State Funeral on Friday, October 17, at Nyayo Stadium, in a ceremony expected to draw local and international dignitaries.

After arrival, his body will be taken to Lee Funeral Home before being moved to Parliament Buildings, where it will lie in state for public viewing.

Raila Odinga will ultimately be laid to rest at his family’s home in Kango Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, beside the graves of his late son Fidel and his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.

When Raila Odinga Will Be Buried [SCHEDULE]

Marvin Chege — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:43:09 +0300

The late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has released the full schedule for Odinga’s funeral, outlining a tightly coordinated state plan in line with Odinga’s wish to be buried within 72 hours of his death.

According to Kindiki, Odinga’s body will arrive in Mumbai at 1:00 AM on Thursday, October 16, before departing an hour later for Nairobi.

The aircraft carrying his remains is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 8:30 AM, where President William Ruto and senior government officials will receive it. From there, the body will be transferred to Lee Funeral Home by 10:00 AM, followed by a state procession to Parliament at noon.

The late Raila Odinga during a past address. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

A public viewing of the body will take place at Parliament Buildings from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Thursday. The State Funeral service is scheduled for Friday, October 17 at the Nyayo National Stadium, where national leaders, dignitaries, and citizens will gather to pay their last respects.

On Saturday, October 18, Odinga’s remains will be transported in a grand procession to Kisumu and later to his rural home in Bondo. The public will have an opportunity to view the body in Kisumu before it proceeds to Bondo for an overnight vigil.

The burial will take place on Sunday, October 19 at the family homestead in Kango Ka Jaramogi, Nyamira, Bondo, where Odinga will be laid to rest beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his son, Fidel.

Kindiki announced the plans on Wednesday night, October 15 after chairing the National State Funeral Committee formed earlier in the day by President Ruto.

The committee, co-chaired by Kindiki and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, was tasked with overseeing all aspects of the funeral arrangements.

Summary Of Schedule

Thursday, Oct 16

1:00 AM (IST): Body arrives in Mumbai from Kochi.
2:00 AM (IST): Departure from Mumbai to Nairobi.
8:30 AM (EAT): Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA); received by President Ruto and top officials.
10:00 AM: Transfer of body to Lee Funeral Home.
12:00 PM: State procession from Lee Funeral Home to Parliament Buildings.
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Public body viewing at Parliament.

Friday, Oct 17

10:00 AM: State Funeral service at Nyayo National Stadium.

Saturday, Oct 18

Morning: Body departs Nairobi in a procession to Kisumu.
Afternoon: Public viewing in Kisumu.
Evening: Transfer to Bondo for overnight vigil.

Sunday, Oct 19

Morning: Burial at the family home in Kango Ka Jaramogi, Nyamira, Bondo, beside his father Jaramogi and son Fidel.

Odinga, 80, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, while receiving treatment in Kochi, India. He reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest at an Ayurvedic facility, where doctors attempted CPR before transferring him to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam. He was pronounced dead at around 9:52 AM Indian time.

President Ruto, while addressing the nation from State House on Wednesday afternoon, confirmed the formation of the funeral committee, emphasizing that the government would ensure Odinga receives full state honors befitting his legacy as a national leader.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki during a public address on the evening of Wednesday, October 15, 2025. /PCS

Raila Odinga Death: Ruto Declares 7 Days Of National Mourning

Marvin Chege — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:42:59 +0300

President William Ruto has declared a seven-day period of national mourning following the passing of former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga.

"I have declared a seven-day period of national mourning," Ruto said during an address at State House on Wednesday, October 15.

Adding "during which the national flag shall fly half-mast across the Republic of Kenya and in all our missions abroad."

The Head of State added that he has suspended all his official national duties and public appearances to focus on the period of mourning.

The late Raila Odinga during a past address. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

He also announced that the late Raila Odinga will be accorded a full state burial in recognition of his immense contribution to the nation.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Raila’s elder brother, Oburu Odinga, have been appointed to co-chair the national funeral committee that will oversee the planning and coordination of the burial arrangements.

"The government of India, at the request of Kenya, has offered to facilitate the repatriation of the remains of our former Prime Minister Raila Odinga," Ruto added.

President Ruto mourned Raila Odinga as one of Africa’s most iconic leaders — a champion of democracy, governance, and justice. He said Odinga’s name will remain a permanent part of Kenya’s history, symbolizing struggle, sacrifice, courage, and the nation’s continuous quest for progress.

Ruto praised Odinga as a true patriot who devoted his life to fighting for justice and equality, noting that his principles and vision went far beyond political boundaries.

“In his passing, we have lost a patriot of uncommon courage, a pan-Africanist, a unifier who sought peace and unity above power and self-gain; an unceasing servant of the people who gave his all for the promise of a better Kenya,” the President mourned.

Earlier, India’s Mathrubhumi newspaper reported that Raila Odinga, who had been receiving treatment in the southern city of Kochi, suffered a cardiac arrest on Wednesday morning at an Ayurvedic wellness centre.

According to the publication, medical staff at the facility immediately administered CPR before transferring him to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was declared dead at approximately 9:52 a.m. local time.

During an ODM function on Thursday, October 9, his brother, Oburu Odinga, confirmed that Raila was unwell and receiving medical care, but assured supporters that he was steadily recovering.

He, however, refuted claims that the former Prime Minister was in critical condition, explaining that Odinga was only experiencing a minor ailment that prompted him to seek treatment overseas.

President William Ruto and the late Raila Odinga during a past meeting at State House. /PCS

Raila Odinga Is Dead: Ruto Takes Action As Parliament Adjourns Session

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:07:25 +0300

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is dead. According to reports, Raila, who had been receiving medical treatment in India, succumbed to cardiac arrest while taking a morning walk on Wednesday, October 15.

He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors confirmed his death at approximately 9:52 a.m. (Indian time), according to a hospital spokesperson.

Reports further revealed that his daughter and other close family members were present at the time.

Raila had travelled to Koothattukulam in Kerala’s Ernakulam district to undergo Ayurvedic therapy. The 80-year-old leader had landed in India six days earlier for treatment, drawing nationwide attention as mixed reports about his health spread online.

The late Raila Odinga during a past address. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

During an ODM function on Thursday, October 9, his brother, Oburu Odinga, confirmed that Raila was unwell and receiving medical care, but assured supporters that he was steadily recovering.

He, however, refuted claims that the former Prime Minister was in critical condition, explaining that Odinga was only experiencing a minor ailment that prompted him to seek treatment overseas.

“I want to take this opportunity to clarify this, there have been a lot of rumours about our party leader, Raila Odinga, that he is very sick, that he is almost dying, and that he is completely out," Oburu noted.

Adding: "But I want to tell you that he is out and about, and he is just like any other human being who was indisposed a little, and he is now recuperating and resting, but he was not in those conditions alleged."

Just a day earlier, Raila’s wife, Ida Odinga, had brushed off rumours about his health, stating that he was in good condition and had only travelled abroad to take some time off from the intense political scene in Kenya.

Security Meeting, Parliament Adjourns Session

President William Ruto, in response, called for an emergency meeting of the National Security Council at 10 a.m., followed by a special Cabinet session scheduled for 2:30 p.m.

At the same time, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has suspended the Wednesday morning sitting of Parliament, announcing that the House would reconvene at 2:30 p.m., when he is expected to deliver a significant announcement to MPs.

"I will invoke my authority under standing order number one and direct as follows: the sitting of this house is adjourned. We will have a sitting at 2:30 pm this afternoon when the speaker will give you some important communication," he stated.

President Ruto is expected to issue a detailed statement on Odinga’s death after wrapping up the emergency National Security Council meeting, which began earlier today.

In his address to Parliament, Speaker Moses Wetang’ula informed MPs that they would be briefed on the passing of the former Prime Minister when the House reconvenes this afternoon.

Collage of Raila Odinga speaking on March 7, 2025 and youths at Gusii Stadium on March 9, 2025. /PCS.X

Gideon Moi Withdraws From Baringo Senator Race After Meeting Ruto

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:00:17 +0300

Gideon Moi has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Baringo senatorial by-election, just a day after holding a private meeting with President William Ruto.

KANU Secretary-General George Wainaina, on Thursday, October 9, confirmed that the party would not be presenting any candidate for the seat, effectively ending speculation about Moi’s participation.

The decision has, however, triggered backlash from Moi’s supporters, who expressed disappointment and frustration, accusing the party leadership of abandoning the race and betraying their trust.

Some loyalists have also called for clarification on what was discussed during Moi’s meeting with the President, fueling speculation of a possible political realignment.

No Gidii, no elections- residents leave Kabarnet Airstrip in protest after Gideon Moi failed to present his credentials to IEBC#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/EJNYSzLgVh
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) October 9, 2025

Before the official withdrawal, Gideon Moi had failed to submit his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), sparking outrage among his supporters in his Kabarnet political base.

Hundreds of his backers had gathered at the Baringo Airstrip, expecting him to arrive and file his papers. However, despite being given a time slot between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. by the IEBC, the former Baringo Senator never showed up before the deadline.

His eventual decision to exit the race followed reports of a closed-door meeting with President William Ruto at State House, where sources indicated that the Baringo by-election was the main topic of discussion.

Gideon Moi’s visit to State House reportedly came after an official invitation from President Ruto, with sources indicating that the two leaders held frank discussions about the forthcoming Baringo by-election and broader national matters.

He was accompanied by KANU Secretary-General George Wainaina and former Baringo Woman Representative Gladwell Cheruiyot.

Moi’s decision to enter the race had stirred tension within Ruto’s UDA camp, as a potential defeat in Baringo was seen as a threat to the President’s political grip on the Rift Valley region.

Notably, Gideon had previously maintained that he would not associate himself with Ruto’s administration and was perceived to be using the Standard Group — a media company linked to him — to strongly criticise government policies and actions.

What Next?

Moi's exit from the race arguably gave the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) a free run at the polls. Just moments later, the IEBC cleared Vincent Chemitei to run for the seat under the ruling party's ticket.

Moi lost the Baringo senatorial seat in the 2022 General Election to the late William Cheptumo, as Ruto’s UDA swept through the region, capturing several positions that were once considered firm KANU territory.

President William Ruto addressing delegates at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi on March 15, 2022 during the UDA National Delegates’ Conference. /DAILY NATION

LSK President Faith Odhiambo Quits Ruto's Panel Moments After Court Ruling

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 14:13:51 +0300

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has stepped down from President William Ruto’s Victims Compensation Panel following weeks of growing pressure.

Odhiambo had been appointed by Ruto as the panel’s vice chairperson, joining 14 other experts tasked with overseeing the compensation process for victims of nationwide demonstrations and public protests.

"Earlier today, I tendered my resignation from the position of Vice Chairperson of the Compensation Panel. I will continue to agitate for Justice for all Victims and pursue all key deliverables I had set out to attain,'' Odhiambo announced.

"My resignation from the Panel takes cognisance of the crucial point at which Kenya finds itself in the quest for full constitutional implementation and lasting reform to our democratic context. This consequential moment for our country calls for all our rule of law institutions, especially the Law Society of Kenya, to remain unified and resolute in discharging the mandate bestowed upon us by law."

President William Ruto assenting to the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating of Terrorism Financing Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 at State House Nairobi on June 17, 2025. /PCS

The LSK president explained that the panel’s time-limited mandate had already been halted by a High Court order, meaning its proposed 120-day term would likely expire before the case is concluded.

Odhiambo added that even after her resignation, she remains committed to advocating for victims of police brutality through her role at the Law Society of Kenya.

"My commitment to agitate for the rights of victims remains impregnable; I will continue to take up and prosecute matters on behalf of victims of police excesses during demonstrations, and work towards safeguarding holistic justice for victims," she maintained.

Adding "Further, it is not lost on me that there remains a significant gap in our victim reparations framework, which must be addressed urgently. LSK will forthwith engage all justice stakeholders and Human Rights institutions to formulate legislative proposals to reconcile the infirmities in our laws and institutions that have left victims prejudiced and short-handed in their quest for justice."

The panel, led by Presidential Constitutional Advisor Professor Makau Mutua, was established to develop a compensation framework in response to growing demands for justice and accountability for victims of anti-government protests.

However, Odhiambo’s appointment sparked backlash from parts of the legal community, civil society, and opposition figures, who claimed her role in the panel undermined the independence of the LSK.

Among those who notably came to her defence was the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), but its statement slamming media outlets for attacking Odhiambo over her decision to join the panel attracted intense backlash from members of the public.

On September 8, the High Court temporarily suspended the panel’s operations after a petition was filed by lawyer Levi Munyeri, who reacted to her resignation by stating, "Faith Odhiambo, you have done the right thing. Better late than never. Now, let us turn our focus to the rest of the panel and ensure justice is delivered for our slain and injured patriots."

The Court Order

While Odhiambo's decision to resign is unsurprising, it comes right after the High Court extended orders suspending the operations of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests.

The decision delivers yet another setback to President William Ruto, whose task force, unveiled in August, has faced a series of legal and procedural hurdles since its formation. "The interim orders have been extended until then, and then refers to October 21 at 10 am," the court ruled.

The first conservatory orders were granted on September 8 after Justice Kizito Magare deemed the application filed on September 5, 2025, as urgent and directed that it be heard inter partes — involving both the petitioner and the respondent.

When the case came up again on Monday, October 6, at the Kerugoya Court, the judge instructed the petitioners to file their submissions within three days, while the respondents were given seven days to respond.

With the conservatory orders still in force, the State Law Office, the Ministry of Interior, and their officers remain barred from implementing President Ruto’s August 6 directive.

The original petition was brought by four activists, who argued that the President’s decision amounted to an “unlawful exercise of power.” They further contended that Ruto lacked the legal mandate to form the panel and questioned the transparency of the appointment process.

President William Ruto with Makau Mutua at State House, Nairobi on April 30, 2025. /PCS

Lawyer Kyalo Mbobu Was Shot Eight Times: Autopsy Confirms

Marvin Chege — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:58:00 +0300

Government pathologist Johansen Oduor has confirmed that slain lawyer Kyalo Mbobu died from massive blood loss and extensive injuries after being shot eight times.

Addressing the media on Thursday, September 11, after conducting a postmortem, Oduor outlined the cause of death in a case that has gripped national attention.

He added that two bullets were retrieved from Mbobu’s body, including one from his left arm, even as police had earlier disclosed that several spent cartridges were unaccounted for from his vehicle.

Further, Oduor explained that the bullets caused heavy bleeding by damaging neck vessels and also resulted in a spinal injury, though the chest cavity was not affected.

The late Kyalo Mbobu during a past event. /PPDT KENYA

He noted that gunpowder burns on the skin showed the shots were fired from close range, confirming a well-executed assassination mission by Mbobu's attackers.

"Upon having examined the body, we found that Wakili was shot a total of eight times. And with most of the gunshot coming from the right side of the body, we were able to recover two bullets, which are being given to the investigative officer for ballistic purposes," Oduor disclosed.

"There was a lot of bleeding because there was an injury to the neck vessels. There was also injury to the spine. So these injuries were severe enough to cause death."

Mbobu was gunned down by unidentified attackers in a drive-by shooting on Tuesday, September 9, while driving home along Magadi Road near the Galleria Brookside area in Karen.

According to a police report issued after the incident, investigators recovered three spent cartridges, with initial findings showing that Mbobu was shot five times in the head, leading to his instant death.

Additionally, police said they have obtained crucial CCTV footage from several locations, including private buildings, tracking the final movements of Mbobu.

The footage showed Mbobu leaving his city office on Tuesday morning and arriving at Sagret Hotel along Milimani Road at 11:05 a.m., where he held a three-hour meeting with individuals who have since been considered persons of interest. Receipts and camera timestamps confirmed they shared a lunch costing Ksh 3,800.

At 1:45 p.m., Mbobu left the hotel and returned to his office. Investigators are also analysing his phone records for possible leads.

Later that evening, at 5:09 p.m., he left Chester House and drove through Wabera Street, City Hall Way, Parliament Road, Uhuru Highway, and Nyayo Roundabout before branching onto Lang’ata Road and eventually Magadi Road.

It was along Magadi Road, just minutes from his Boyani home in Karen, that the attackers—who had reportedly been trailing him—struck. Detectives believe the killers chose this spot deliberately, knowing traffic naturally slows at the diversion, creating the perfect ambush point.

Eyewitnesses described hearing the sound of a motorbike moments before gunshots rang out. One witness revealed that they initially thought it was an attempted robbery, only to realise Mbobu had been shot. The assailants, wearing masks and helmets, fled on motorbikes toward the Galleria Mall area.

Despite the precision of the attack, police confirmed that nothing was stolen from the scene, leaving the motive behind the killing still unclear.

The brazen shooting has sparked uproar within the legal fraternity, with the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) announcing protests in the form of a Purple Ribbon March set for Friday, September 12, to protest rising violence targeting members of the legal fraternity.

Nairobi lawyer, Kyalo Mbobu's vehicle when he was shot dead in a brazen drive-by attack along Lang’ata Road on September 9, 2025. /VIRAL TEA KE

Ex-Political Parties Tribunal Chair Kyalo Mbobu Shot Dead In Nairobi

Marvin Chege — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 20:34:09 +0300

Former Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) chairperson Kyalo Mbobu was on Tuesday evening, September 9 shot dead along Magadi Road in Nairobi.

Viral Tea was first alerted by sources privy to the matter that the brazen drive-by attack happened at the Galleria-Brookhouse School section at around 7 pm, with graphic images seen by this writer which we cannot publish, showing the renowned legal mind seated on the driver's seat, motionless.

Mbobu, who was not immediately identified prior to credible media reports, was said to be driving home when he encountered a traffic jam.

It was here that unknown gunmen riding on a motorcycle pulled up to his car, shattered his window and shot him at close range, at least three times on the chin. The suspects then rode off after the incident.

Nairobi lawyer, Kyalo Mbobu's vehicle when he was shot dead in a brazen drive-by attack along Lang’ata Road on September 9, 2025. /VIRAL TEA KE

There was a massive traffic snarl-up at the time of the incident, but witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, causing panic along the busy stretch of the road.

Whereas the motive of the shooting is uncertain, preliminary findings suggest the attack was a targeted assassination, with investigators considering angles such as professional rivalry, politics, or personal disputes.

Police collected several spent cartridges at the scene and moved the lawyer’s car to Lang’ata Police Station for forensic analysis. The body was taken to the City Mortuary.

Mbobu, a prominent Nairobi advocate, had made a name in litigation and was said to be handling several high-profile cases.

Profile

He was a distinguished lawyer and governance expert with close to three decades of experience at the High Court of Kenya and was the Senior Partner at Kyalo & Associates Advocates, a Nairobi-based law firm specializing in commercial litigation, arbitration, and corporate governance. Over the years, he built a strong reputation for his expertise in dispute resolution and corporate law, making him a respected figure in Kenya’s legal circles.

Beyond private practice, Mbobu served in several leadership roles across governance and corporate spaces. He was a Board Member of the Institute of Directors (IOD) Kenya, where he worked to promote professionalism and ethical leadership in organizations.

He also chaired the PPDT, overseeing the resolution of sensitive political disputes with a focus on fairness and the rule of law.

Additionally, he served as a Trustee at Corat Africa and held chairmanship positions at Quest Holdings Ltd. and Core Capital Group Ltd., where he provided strategic direction for sustainable growth.

Mbobu was also an academic and thought leader. He lectured at both the University of Nairobi School of Law and the Kenya School of Law, where he trained future lawyers in legal practice, governance, and alternative dispute resolution.

His academic credentials were equally impressive: he held an LL.B (Honours) degree and an LL.M from Georgetown University, was a Certified Public Secretary of Kenya (CPS-K), and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb).

His contributions to legal scholarship included authoring The Law and Practice of Evidence in Kenya, a widely referenced text in legal education and practice.

In all his roles — as a litigator, lecturer, arbitrator, and corporate leader — Kyalo Mbobu left a lasting mark on Kenya’s legal and governance landscape. His career bridged the courtroom, the classroom, and the boardroom, cementing his legacy as one of the country’s most versatile and impactful legal minds.

The late Kyalo Mbobu during a past event. /PPDT KENYA

ODPP Orders DCI To Arrest Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo

Marvin Chege — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 16:47:30 +0300

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has directed the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to apprehend and arraign Isiolo Governor Ibrahim Abdi Hassan, popularly known as Guyo, and seven other individuals for serious criminal offences, including kidnapping and robbery with violence.

The orders follow a comprehensive independent review of an inquiry file submitted by the DCI to the ODPP on June 19, 2025.

Due to the significant public interest in the case, the file was escalated from the Machakos County office to the ODPP headquarters in Nairobi for assessment.

"The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) wishes to inform the public of the impending arrest and arraignment of Isiolo Governor Ibrahim Abdi Hassan alias Guyo and seven other individuals in connection with serious criminal offences," ODPP said in a statement.

Embattled Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo appearing before the Senate on July 8, 2025. /SENATE

According to the ODPP's findings, the charges stem from a violent incident at the Outbark Hotel in Maanzoni, Machakos County.

The investigation found that on the day in question, former Isiolo County Chief Officer of Health Abdirahaman Mohamed was at the hotel with 15 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) who supported the Governor's impeachment.

The ODPP states that Governor Guyo and his supporters arrived at the venue, where the Governor allegedly instructed his entourage to forcibly disarm and attack Mr. Abdirahaman. The former Chief Officer was then bundled into a vehicle and kidnapped.

The press release details that Governor Guyo personally threatened the victim before ordering his associates to transport him to the Ruai Sewage area. There, Abdirahaman was blindfolded, beaten, and abandoned. During the ordeal, he was robbed of a licensed Glock pistol with 15 rounds of ammunition, an iPhone 16, and Ksh70,000 in cash, and other personal belongings.

CCTV footage from the hotel reportedly places Governor Guyo at the scene alongside seven other suspects identified as Abdullahi Jaldesa Banticah, Dade Boru, Abdirashid Ali Diba (alias Ngila), Abdinur Dima Jillo, Ahmed Duale, Josephat Mwangi Komu, and Yusuf Maina.

Concluding that there is sufficient evidence, the DPP has ordered the DCI to proceed with arresting the eight suspects to face formal charges of Kidnapping with Intent to Cause Grievous Harm and Robbery with Violence.

"Based on the presented evidence, the DPP has directed the DCI to apprehend and arraign all the above suspects to face charges of Kidnapping with Intent to Cause Grievous Harm and Robbery with Violence," added the statement.

Just two months ago, Guyo survived impeachment after the Senate threw out the charges levelled against him by the County Assembly, citing flaws in the procedure. On July 8, the Senate upheld preliminary objections from the governor’s legal team, which argued that the County Assembly did not follow due process.

A majority of Senators agreed with the defence’s position that the Assembly had not convened on June 18 and 26 to deliberate on the impeachment motion, rendering the process invalid.

Senators also pointed out that a court order was in effect at the time, prohibiting the impeachment proceedings from taking place.

During the vote, 31 elected senators representing county delegations backed the motion to uphold the objection, effectively halting the impeachment process. Twelve senators voted against it, with none abstaining.

16 out of 18 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) in Isiolo voted in favour of removing the county boss from office. The impeachment was initiated by Sericho MCA Abubakar Godana, who accused the Governor of failing to deliver on development projects and falling short of county revenue collection targets.

A gate leading to the Isiolo County Assembly. /ISIOLO COUNTY

Super Metro Matatu Set On Fire Along Thika Road

Marvin Chege — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 16:41:25 +0300

Traffic along Thika Superhighway was briefly disrupted on Monday, September 1, after a Super Metro Sacco bus was torched on the busy route.

Photos and videos circulating on social media and seen by Viral Tea showed the vehicle engulfed in flames as onlookers gathered at the scene.

According to preliminary reports, the bus was attacked by enraged operators after it allegedly ran over and killed a bodaboda rider.

A Super Metro bus set on fire along Thika Road on Monday, September 1, 2025. /MC COLLINS

By Monday evening, the bus had been reduced to ashes, though no additional injuries were reported.

Moments before the blaze, social media users claiming to be at the scene had raised an alarm, warning that the vehicle was about to be set on fire.

It was not immediately clear whether passengers were inside the bus when the incident occurred. The accident triggered a massive traffic snarl-up stretching from the Burudani area, where the crash reportedly occurred, all the way to Juja Town.

Footage of the motorcycle involved suggests the collision happened at an exit off the superhighway rather than on the main road.

This marks the second case in under a month where boda boda riders have resorted to mob justice after losing one of their colleagues, the first being on August 7 when a City Shuttle bus was torched along Jogoo Road.

Witnesses said the rider died on the spot from the impact. Passengers were forced to disembark and seek alternative transport as the bus crew waited for police intervention. Shortly afterwards, more boda boda riders converged on the scene and set the bus ablaze.

For Super Metro, this was the second major incident involving one of its buses. On March 12, Super Metro grabbed nationwide headlines after a tout allegedly pushed a passenger out of a moving bus due to an unpaid fare.

Although the management responded by taking action against the driver and suspending him, numerous complaints had been raised about other drivers engaging in overspeeding and reckless driving.

A photo of a Super Metro matatu along Thika Road. /SUPER METRO

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai Escapes Impeachment Again

Marvin Chege — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 21:31:10 +0300

For the second time in a row, Kericho Governor Erick Mutai has survived an impeachment attempt at the Senate.

Mutai escaped being removed from office on Friday, August 29, after Senators voted to dismiss the threshold that was met during the electronic voting system; thus, the impeachment motion collapsed again.

26 senators voted that the two-thirds threshold was not met, with 16 stating otherwise. Only one abstained, meaning the Senate effectively terminated the impeachment hearing.

"Honourable Senators have tonight voted to reject a motion for impeachment of Hon Dr Erick Mutai, Governor of Kericho County. By a majority vote, Senators resolved that the threshold for his removal by the County Assembly was not met. Hon Mutai, therefore, remains in office," Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi during proceedings on August 29, 2025. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

The impeachment case against the Kericho governor originated from allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office, tabled by the county assembly.

Assembly documents submitted to the Senate indicated that the motion passed with the backing of 33 members, a figure that quickly became the focal point of dispute.

When the matter reached the Senate, the first order of business was determining whether the constitutional threshold for impeachment had been met.

Out of 42 senators who cast their votes, 25 concluded that the threshold had not been satisfied, while one senator abstained. This decision effectively nullified the county assembly’s impeachment motion and secured the governor’s continuation in office.

During deliberations before the vote, several senators cast doubt on the validity of the evidence provided by the assembly. Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi aligned himself with the governor’s defence team, pointing out alleged flaws in the electronic voting system.

He highlighted evidence showing that some votes were cast remotely, with IP (Internet Protocol) addresses traced to locations outside the assembly, including Ahero in Kisumu and Kapsabet in Nandi.

Taita Taveta Senator Danston Mungatana echoed these concerns, arguing that the constitutional requirement of 32 MCAs to support the motion had not been conclusively met.

Questions over whether the county assembly had legally attained the required threshold dominated the trial and threatened to collapse the process altogether.

However, Speaker Kingi ruled that the threshold had been achieved, allowing senators to proceed with the debate and final vote on the charges. This process ultimately cleared the governor for the second time running.

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai at his office on August 29, 2022. /ERICK MUTAI

DPP Orders Prosecution Of Governor Hilary Barchok Over Corruption

Marvin Chege — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:13:58 +0300

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga, has ordered the prosecution of Bomet County Governor Hillary Barchok over corruption allegations.

In a statement released on Thursday, August 28, the ODPP announced that Governor Barchok will face conflict of interest charges after allegedly receiving Ksh2,750,000 from companies that conducted business with the county between the 2019/2020 and 2024/2025 financial years.

The ODPP further noted that Barchok will be charged alongside Evans Kipkoech Korir, the Director of Chemasus Construction Limited.

"On 18th July 2025, the ODPP received an inquiry file from the EACC accompanied by a report under section 35 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, Cap 65 Laws of Kenya," ODPP stated in part.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga speaking at the launch of the NCAJ anti-corruption strategic guiding framework for Kenya’s justice sector on March 25, 2025. /ODPP

"The EACC recommended that the following persons be arraigned in court: Hillary Kipng’eno Barchok (E1), the Governor County Government of Bomet, and Evans Kipkoech Korir (E2), Director of Chemasus Construction Limited."

According to the DPP, both the governor and Korir will face charges of conflict of interest, money laundering, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and unlawful acquisition of public property.

Separately, the DPP also charged former Bungoma Governor Wangamati and several county officials over the alleged embezzlement of Ksh 70,205,882 through private companies.

The DPP indicated that Wangamati and the implicated officials will face charges of conflict of interest, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and willful failure to comply with procurement laws.

However, the DPP halted the immediate prosecution of governors from three other counties, citing "critical evidentiary gaps" that require further investigation by the EACC. These include:

Kiambu Governor Paul Kimani Wamatangi: Investigated for alleged conflict of interest during his tenure as a Senator, where companies associated with him and his family were awarded tenders by KENHA and KURA.
Marsabit Governor Mohamed Mohamud Ali: Probed for conflict of interest in the award of tenders worth Ksh 728.8 million to companies allegedly linked to him.
Malicha Boru Wario, the CECM for Finance in Marsabit County, concerning tenders worth Ksh 309.6 million awarded to entities he allegedly had an interest in.

An investigation into a Ksh 2.3 billion tender for an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system in Kiambu County was also returned to the EACC for further work.

The ODPP stated that the files for these four cases have been sent back to the EACC "for further investigations" to cover the identified gaps before any charges can be preferred.

In concluding the statement, DPP Ingonga reaffirmed that his office "undertakes to continue exercising its mandate in accordance with the Constitution and the relevant laws."

All accused individuals are expected to be arraigned in court in the coming days to take a plea on the various charges.

Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok during a past media address. /KENYA NEWS AGENCY

Court Blocks Ruto From Forming Powerful Team To Fight Corruption

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:11:42 +0300

President William Ruto has been dealt a huge blow after the High Court issued a conservatory order blocking the formation of a new multi-agency task force to step up Kenya's war on corruption.

In a statement on Tuesday, August 19, Ruto confirmed the creation of the Multi-Agency Team on War Against Corruption (MAT), designed to enhance synergy and improve coordination among institutions charged with fighting graft, economic crimes, and related offences.

However, the multi-agency team was challenged in court, with four activists claiming it is unconstitutional and usurps the functions of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, August 20, Justice Bahati Mwamuye granted the conservatory order, which halts all activity related to the new multi-agency team (MAT) pending the hearing and determination of a lawsuit filed by Dr. Magare Gikenye J. Benjamin, Elihu Datinidi, and two others.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /EACC

"Pending the inter partes hearing and determination of the Petitioners/Applicants' Notice of Motion Application dated 20/08/2025, a conservatory order be and is hereby issued staying the operation and implementation of, or the further operation and/or further implementation of, the Presidential Proclamation on the Establishment of Multi-Agency Team on War Against Corruption' issued under the Hand and the Seal of the President of the Republic on 18/08/2025," the orders seen by Viral Tea read in part.

The court has set an aggressive timeline for the case, demanding swift action from all parties. The petitioners have been ordered to serve all documents to the respondents by Saturday, August 23. The state, through its various agencies, must then file its responses by close of business on August 29.

A virtual mention hearing has been scheduled for September 9, 2025, at 9:30 AM, where parties will confirm compliance and argue for an expedited hearing.

Justice Mwamuye has further directed that the entire application and petition be heard and determined within 90 days of that date, urging counsel to discuss a joint proposal in advance.

"Penal Notice: Take notice that any disobedience or non-observance of the order of the court served herewith will result in penal consequences to you and any other person(s) disobeying and not observing the same," the judge warned.

The court's intervention represents a significant judicial check on executive power, placing a major campaign initiative on hold indefinitely. The ruling throws the government's strategy for a high-profile anti-corruption drive into immediate uncertainty just as it was beginning its work.

As per Ruto's announcement, the task force was to be chaired by the Executive Office of the President, while the Office of the Attorney General would oversee its Secretariat.

Other members include the National Intelligence Service (NIS), the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).

Additional institutions represented in the team are the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC), Asset Recovery Agency (ARA), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), and the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA). The framework also allows MAT to co-opt other agencies when necessary to strengthen its operations.

According to the President, the team’s mandate is to promote collaboration and coordination between anti-graft bodies, while also engaging government institutions and the private sector to reinforce the overall fight against corruption.

Further, it will assess the resource needs of each participating agency, push for support to bridge any gaps, and provide a platform for sharing strategies and best practices.

MAT is further expected to craft communication strategies that highlight progress in the anti-corruption drive in order to boost public trust. It will also work with both local and international partners to intensify the fight against organised crime, recover stolen assets, and tackle economic offences more effectively.

The announcement came barely a day after President Ruto issued a stern warning to legislators over involvement in bribery and unethical conduct.

President William Ruto (centre) and NIS Director General Noordin Haji (next to him) during a meeting with UK Foreign Intelligence agency M16 Chief of Service Richard Moore on October 22, 2024. /PCS

Ruto Appoints Gabriel Oguda To Govt Job

Marvin Chege — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 16:55:49 +0300

President William Ruto has appointed prominent political commentator Gabriel Oguda to a 5-member committee tasked with overseeing the implementation of the NADCO report.

Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Wednesday, August 6, unveiled the committee to drive the implementation of the landmark 10-point national unity agreement.

The five-member team, announced in a joint statement, will oversee the execution of the March 2025 pact between the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

The deal, designed to foster cohesion and inclusive prosperity, includes contentious pledges such as compensating protest victims, tackling national debt, and fighting corruption.

President William Ruto (left) and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at the KICC during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Friday, March 7, 2025. /KBC DIGITAL

"Today, 6th August 2025, the Principals announce the formation of a five-member committee tasked with overseeing the implementation of the 10-Point Agenda," the statement read in part.

The Committee

Chaired by former Senator Agnes Zani, the committee includes:

Agnes Zani (Chairperson)
Fatuma Ibrahim (Member)
Kevin Kiarie (Member)
Gabriel Oguda (Member) — A vocal commentator on governance and youth affairs
Javas Bigambo (Member)

A joint UDA-ODM secretariat will provide logistical support, with both parties funding the team’s operations.

Mandate and Timeline

The committee is tasked with broad public and stakeholder consultations, engaging government bodies, civil society, and the private sector.

Further, it will report progress to President Ruto and Odinga bi-monthly, with quarterly briefings to a special parliamentary caucus.

A final report on the pact’s implementation is expected by March 7, 2026, a year after its signing. The first parliamentary session to review progress is slated for August 18, 2025. "The Committee will be fully funded and facilitated by both UDA and ODM," adds the statement.

"In executing its mandate under the guidance of the Principals, the Committee shall undertake inclusive and extensive consultations with members of the public and all relevant stakeholders, including the arms of Government, Government departments, independent commissions, civil society, religious institutions, and the private sector, to ensure that the implementation of the MoU is informed by diverse perspectives and addresses the needs and aspirations of all Kenyans."

Why It Matters

The 10-point agenda addresses Kenya’s most polarising issues, including:

Protests and police reforms (Article 37 rights)
Devolution and anti-corruption
Youth unemployment and the debt crisis

Oguda’s inclusion signals a nod to grassroots and digital-savvy voices, while the committee’s bipartisan makeup tests Kenya’s often fractious political truce.`

Focus will primarily be on executing the recommendations of the NADCO report, which emerged at the peak of anti-government demonstrations in 2023 led by Raila Odinga during his tenure as leader of the Azimio la Umoja coalition.

The bipartisan committee, co-chaired by Kalonzo Musyoka representing the opposition and Kimani Ichung’wah for Kenya Kwanza, was tasked with conducting structured talks and proposing legal, policy, and institutional reforms aimed at bolstering Kenya’s democratic framework.

Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka (Left) and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah (Right) presenting the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report on November 25, 2023. /KIMANI ICHUNG'WAH

Kenyan Facing Execution In Saudi Arabia Freed

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 11:06:39 +0300

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary (PS) Korir Sing’oei has confirmed the release of Stephen Munyakho, a Kenyan who had been facing the death penalty in Saudi Arabia.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 22, Sing'oei stated that Munyakho’s release came after all conditions set by the court were fully met.

The PS noted that Kenya’s Embassy in Riyadh has confirmed Steve undertook his Umra (minor pilgrimage) after being released.

"Steve Abdukareem Munyakho, the Kenyan national who has been on death row in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is free as at 10 am today pursuant to the full satisfaction of judicial decree," Sing'oei stated on his X account.

An image of Saudi Arabia's capital city, Riyadh, at night. /FILE

"Our Mission in Riyadh has confirmed that Steve performed his Umra (minor pilgrimage) upon release. We shall provide further details regarding his arrival in the country. I commend all who have offered their support towards securing this outcome."

Munyakho was originally scheduled for execution on May 15, 2024, but the authorities extended the deadline to July 26, 2024, and then further postponed it by four months to November 26, 2024. The last postponement had come on October 24, 2024.

Munyakho is the son of veteran journalist Dorothy Kweyu, who had begged the Kenyan government to intervene and save him from the hangman's noose.

"The execution is too terrible to contemplate. Therefore, we appeal to you all to help us raise this amount," she stated, asking 1 million Kenyans to donate Ksh150 each.

The Kenyan who worked as a warehouse manager was involved in a fight with a colleague in April 2011, which resulted in the colleague’s death while receiving treatment.

Initially, Munyakho was convicted of manslaughter in 2013 and sentenced to five years in prison. However, after the victim’s family appealed the ruling, his sentence was upgraded to the death penalty.

After years of appealing the case, the family opted for the alternative solution, which is paying the blood money amounting to Ksh150 million.

He remained in custody at Shimeisi Prison in Saudi Arabia for 13 years, since April 9, 2011, until the Kenyan government stepped in.

In May 2024, following negotiations between Kenyan and Saudi authorities, the Saudi government agreed to suspend his execution.

Veteran journalist Dorothy Kweyu (left) and her son Stephen Bertrand Munyakho. /BRINGBACKSTEVO

Court Rules On Ruto's Appointment Of Erastus Ethekon as IEBC Chairperson & 6 Commissioners

Marvin Chege — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 19:45:21 +0300

The High Court has issued a ruling on the appointment of Erastus Edung Ethekon as the new chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), along with six others selected to serve as commissioners.

The court on Thursday, July 10, nullified the Gazette Notice issued by President William Ruto that formalised the appointment of the Chairperson and Commissioners of the IEBC, ruling that it violated an active court order.

The commissioners appointed before this ruling were Hassan Noor Hassan, Mary Karen Sorobit, Anne Nderitu, Moses Mukwana, Francis Odhiambo, and Fahima Araphat Abdallah.

The decision was made by a three-judge panel consisting of Lady Justice Roselyne Aburili (Presiding), Justice John Chigiti, and Justice Bahati Mwamuye. Chief Justice Martha Koome appointed the three-judge bench tasked with delivering their ruling on whether the nominees could be sworn in or if a new recruitment process was necessary — a verdict delivered just two years ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The IEBC national tallying centre at Bomas of Kenya. /BOMAS OF KENYA

While the court dismissed the main petition challenging the legality of the IEBC appointments—confirming that the selection process was legally sound—it faulted the President for proceeding to gazette the appointments despite a conservatory order that had temporarily halted the process.

“The Gazette Notice was issued in contravention of a valid and subsisting court order and is therefore unlawful,” the court ruled, declaring the notice null and void.

The ruling implies that, despite the court affirming the legality of the appointments, the commissioners are not allowed to take office until the President issues a new Gazette Notice that aligns with legal requirements.

“The appointments are not yet complete,” the court noted, adding “They must now be properly formalised through lawful means.”

The petition was filed on May 15, 2025, by activist Kevin Roy Omondi and human rights defender Boniface Mwangi.

President Ruto is now obligated to issue a new Gazette Notice that complies with the court’s ruling. Only after this step can the IEBC chairperson and commissioners be sworn in by Chief Justice Martha Koome and officially assume office.

The petition, filed earlier this year, had challenged both the makeup of the selection panel and the list of final nominees. However, the High Court ruled that the selection process adhered to constitutional standards, including transparency, merit, and public participation.

The case attracted widespread national attention after the President went ahead and gazetted the appointments in early June, despite a court order issued on May 19 temporarily halting the process. The move sparked backlash from civil society groups and legal analysts, who viewed it as a clear violation of judicial authority.

Earlier in the proceedings, Justice Lawrence Mugambi permitted Parliament to carry out the vetting of the nominees but put a hold on their gazettement and swearing-in. He emphasised that the appointment process could not be finalised until the constitutional concerns raised in the petition were fully addressed.

Recognising the importance of the case, Justice Mugambi referred it to CJ Koome, who subsequently appointed a three-judge bench to hear and rule on the matter.

President William Ruto speaking after being declared the winner of the 2022 presidential elections on August 15, 2022. /BLOOMBERG

Moses Kuria Quits Govt

Marvin Chege — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 18:38:44 +0300

Moses Kuria, a senior advisor within the Council of Economic Advisors, has formally resigned from the government, concluding his service in President William Ruto’s administration, where he held several prominent positions.

In a statement posted on his verified X account on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Kuria disclosed that he had a personal meeting with President Ruto, who respectfully accepted his decision to resign.

“This evening, I met my boss and my friend, President William Ruto. The president has graciously accepted my decision to resign from government,” Kuria stated.

Moses Kuria shakes hands with President William Ruto. Looking on in the middle is Environment PS Felix Ng'eno. /MOSES KURIA

Kuria, who initially served as Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry for 11 months before being reassigned to the Public Service, Delivery, and Performance Management portfolio for an additional 9 months, expressed pride in his role in advancing the administration’s flagship economic agenda.

He, however, did not reveal exactly his next course of action or what made him resign from the State House role, though indicating that he would be pursuing personal interests.

“I thank President Ruto for having given me an opportunity to serve as Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry for 11 months; Public Service, Delivery and Performance Management for 9 months; and Senior Economic Advisor for the last 10 months,” he added.

"As I move on to pursue personal interests, I am proud of the work the President and I did to implement the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which I designed together with the President as our 2022 Electoral Platform. Long Live Kenya."

Kuria’s resignation came just hours after he posted a cryptic message on his X bio stating, “There will be no elections in 2027.”

He did not immediately clarify whether the remark represented his personal view, a political tactic, or an indication of the government’s stance.

When Kuria was appointed to the role on August 23, 2024, the role was expected to leverage his extensive experience to bolster the implementation of the Bottom Up Economic Agenda (BETA) plan.

As a Senior Advisor, Kuria provided high-level economic guidance and strategic advice, contributing to the formulation and execution of policies intended to invigorate Kenya’s economic landscape.

At the time, Kuria had lost his Cabinet position following the Gen-Z-led protests in 2024, which prompted President Ruto to dismiss his entire Cabinet.

Kuria’s resignation represents a notable political shift within the Kenya Kwanza administration, occurring amid growing public pressure over governance challenges, youth-driven protests, and fears of increasing authoritarianism.

So far, State House and the Office of the President have not issued any official response to his departure or his controversial comments about the 2027 elections.

President William Ruto's former senior economic advisor, Moses Kuria, speaks on Citizen TV’s JKLive show on March 5, 2025. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

Raila Now Blames Ruto For Missing Kamukunji Rally

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 15:01:09 +0300

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has explained why the highly anticipated Kamukunji rally, planned to commemorate this year’s Saba Saba Day, was suddenly called off.

Speaking to the media on Monday, July 7, at Serena Hotel alongside top ODM figures — including Suna East MP Junet Mohammed, Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi, and Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai — the ODM leader said the rally was cancelled because of extensive roadblocks set up at major entry and exit routes in Nairobi.

Raila stated that these roadblocks not only restricted citizens’ freedom of movement but also prevented him and his supporters from reaching the Kamukunji grounds.

"I was going to go to Kamukunji to join other Kenyans in commemorating this very important day. Unfortunately, as you all know circumstances today, road blocks all over town, which has made it difficult for people to move to Kamukunji," he said.

Collage of road blocks erected across major roads leading to Nairobi CBD as of July 7, 2025. /VIRAL TEA KE

His remarks are viewed as him blaming President William Ruto's government for the frustration of the movement, despite the two having a signed working arrangement.

On Sunday, July 7, during a media briefing, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party stated that the symbolic return to Kamukunji aimed to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the initial Saba Saba protests 35 years ago.

The announcement marked a major shift from Raila’s earlier position, where he had been sidelined in the demonstrations spearheaded by Generation Z. Previously, the ODM leader had declared that although he would not join the youth-led street protests, he fully supported their push for stronger governance and accountability.

Speaking at a church service over the weekend, Raila condemned the government for trying to silence dissent, especially targeting the youth-led protests that have swept the country in recent weeks.

Meanwhile, Raila voiced his frustration over what he saw as the declining purpose of the Saba Saba movement, arguing that it has drifted away from its original mission.

Odinga explained that the movement was initially meant to promote multiparty democracy and unite people against dictatorship, but over the years, its commemorations have lost focus and significance.

"It is regrettable that the recognition and remembrance of Saba Saba has not been consistent in its short history of 35 years. One moment it is important, the next moment it is not.

"On this 35th anniversary of Saba Saba, we decided to remember and set the record straight in its significance, what it was and is and what we ought to do with the foundation it laid for the country," he addressed.

The Saba Saba movement — named after July 7 — is deeply symbolic in Kenya’s democratic history. On that day in 1990, Kenyans marched to demand the introduction of multiparty democracy, ultimately leading to the repeal of Section 2A of the constitution. Before that, Kenya had been a one-party state under President Daniel arap Moi’s KANU regime.

Although the 1990 demonstrations were violently crushed, they eventually opened the door to political reforms and multiparty elections.

Demonstrators pictured in Nairobi during the first-ever Saba Saba rally on July 7, 1990. /YOUTUBE

DPP Slaps Terrorism Charges Against 2 Gachagua Allies

Marvin Chege — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 11:34:56 +0300

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has approved terrorism charges against two allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Peter Kawanjiru and Serah Wanjiku Thiga have been accused of causing extensive damage to government offices in Kikuyu.

The charges brought to court by the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) and approved by the Director of Public Prosecutions claimed that the two suspects damaged not just the law courts but also other nearby government facilities.

According to a charge sheet obtained by Viral Tea, "PETER KINYANJUI WANJIRU Alias KAWANJIRU, SERAH WANJIKU THIGA : On the 25th day of June, 2025 between 1200 hours and 2300 hours in Kikuyu area within Kiambu County, you and others before court, committed a terrorist act which resulted to serious damage to Government Offices and Buildings."

Collage of Peter Kawanjiru (left) and Serah Wanjiku Thiga (right). /VIRAL TEA KE

"To wit Kikuyu Probation offices, Kikuyu Law Courts, Kikuyu Sub-County Offices, Kikuyu Chief's Office, Kikuyu Registrar of Persons' Offices, Sub-County Education Office, Sub-County Accountant's Office, Kikuyu Registrar of Lands Offices, Dagoretti Police Post and Kikuyu Deputy County Commissioners' Office among others, the property of the Kenyan Government."

On July 1, Kawanjiru, the DCP Youth leader, was seized from his home at night by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations as his family looked on.

According to relatives, the officers — dressed in civilian clothes — stormed their Limuru home around 8:30 p.m., broke down doors, and ransacked the house while demanding to take him into custody.

Witnesses and family members recounted that more than 10 vehicles surrounded the area, followed shortly by a power outage, loud banging, gunfire, and chaos.

Four days later, Kawanjiru was brought before the court. But even after the court ordered his release, chaos broke out outside the Ruiru Courts in Kiambu County when anti-terror police rearrested him. He had just been freed on bond and was leaving for home when the scene turned chaotic.

Videos obtained by Viral Tea showed anti-terror police forcibly shoving Kawanjiru into a moving van as gunshots rang out. Supporters and family tried to block the re-arrest with loud protests, but the police still managed to whisk him away.

Meanwhile, Wanjiku took to X on Tuesday, July 1, to report that unknown individuals had abducted her at Kamakis, a popular stopover along both Thika Road and the Eastern Bypass, with questions raised on how such a brazen act could occur amidst high human traffic.

Wanjiku, who has lately been outspoken on political and national issues, was abducted — an incident that has heightened concerns about the safety of young, politically engaged leaders in the country.

Aerial view of Eastern Bypass and Thika Road. /KENYA HOMES

DCI Warns That Rigathi Gachagua Could Be Arrested

Marvin Chege — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:53:29 +0300

Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohammed Amin has hinted that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua could be arrested.

On Monday afternoon, June 30, Amin addressed the media with an update on investigations, five days after protests erupted into violence across parts of the country.

During the briefing, he was pressed on whether Gachagua could be prosecuted if linked to the unrest. Amin made it clear that nobody is above the law, and if the former Deputy President is found connected to the violence that broke out on Wednesday, he will be fully prosecuted.

"It is not true that we have summoned Rigathi Gachagua. He does not enjoy any immunity against prosecution. He is subject to the laws of the land.

DCI Boss Amin Mohamed speaking during a meeting with DCI officers in Nairobi on December 2, 2023. /DCI

"In our investigations, if he is found to be involved, perpetrated, aided or abetted in any criminal activities, then appropriate action will be taken against him," the DCI boss stated.

The DCI chief also disclosed key findings from the ongoing investigations, stating that the chaos seen in different regions, including Nairobi, was deliberately orchestrated rather than spontaneous.

"Our investigations have uncovered disturbing incidents. There has been destruction of critical government infrastructure. Several firearms and police equipment were stolen, and some of these weapons have already been used in violent robberies," Amin went on.

"These actions were not spontaneous; they were orchestrated, and we are actively pursuing the mobilisers and financiers of these acts, and they will be brought to justice soon."

On Thursday, June 26, Gachagua alleged that the move to block thousands of protesters from streaming into the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) was so that the looting witnessed in the city could be carried out uninterrupted.

In a strongly worded statement, he claimed that police had erected barriers along major roads such as Kiambu Road and Thika Road intentionally, adding that no businesses were looted in those areas.

"Mr. Ruto, you are well aware that under your instructions, Genuine Gen-Z protestors were blocked in their thousands on Kiambu road and Thika road, where no businesses were looted. Your police allowed goons into town at their expense to go and cause mayhem and place the blame on the GenZs.

"We have credible information that in Nairobi, especially the downtown region, businesses belonging to people from a certain region were clearly identified by officials from the County Government of Nairobi and elsewhere; this brutal exercise was led by politicians allied to this rogue regime," he said.

The former Deputy President's comments came just hours after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen labelled the June 25 protests as acts of terrorism masked as public dissent and accused the demonstrators' financiers of plotting to overthrow the government.

Collage of thousands of protesters along Kiambu Road on June 25, 2025 and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. /X.RIGATHI GACHAGUA

Mask Hawker Boniface Kariuki Shot By Police Dies

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:30:41 +0300

Boniface Kariuki, a mask vendor who was shot by a police officer during the Tuesday, June 17 protests, has died.

According to a statement from family spokesperson Emily Wanjira, Kariuki passed away at approximately 3:15 p.m., two weeks after the incident.

He had been receiving treatment following the shooting, which occurred in the midst of a demonstration that saw several confrontations between protesters and security forces.

This development comes a day after Kariuki was declared brain dead. Addressing the media at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) on Sunday, June 29, Kariuki’s family said doctors had informed them that his brain had ceased to function.

Jonah Kariuki, father to Boniface Kariuki, a 22-year-old hawker shot by police in Nairobi CBD, addresses the press on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. /OKIYA OMTATAH

"Mwangi is confirmed brain dead. We know what it means. We are just waiting for the doctor to tell us he is no more," Wanjira said.

"We received a call from the hospital at 12.47 am saying that they needed to have a brief with us, and we have been told what is happening."

However, the family said that the life support machine Kariuki was on could not be switched off due to legal issues.

The family further stated that additional bullet fragments remained in Kariuki’s brain and were yet to be removed.

Kariuki, prior to his death, had undergone two surgeries at KNH to extract the bullet lodged in his head and had been recovering in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) under constant monitoring.

Beforehand, his father, Jonah Kariuki, disclosed that the hospital bill had already reached Ksh 1 million and was growing by the day.

"The reality of things is that Boniface Mwangi Kariuki is declared brain-dead. The hospital bill is now higher than Ksh3 million. We are praying and hoping for the well-wishers because when someone is declared brain dead, we know what it means, so the brainstem of Boniface Mwangi Kariuki is not working any longer," Wanjira continued.

Providing an update on protest-related casualties the following day, Kenyatta National Hospital CEO Dr. William Sigilai confirmed that the mask vendor had already undergone surgery to remove a bullet-like object from his brain.

While further forensic analysis was pending, Sigilai suggested the object could potentially be a rubber bullet.

As Kenyans demonstrated for justice for Albert Ojwang, who died in a police cell, two police officers were caught on camera harassing Kariuki before one of them shot him at close range, leaving him unconscious.

The two officers involved — Constables Klinzy Barasa Masinde and Duncan Kiprono — were arrested immediately and interdicted.

They were arraigned at Milimani Law Courts on Thursday, June 19, to face charges related to the shooting, and current developments put them likely to be charged with murder.

Screengrab of Police Constable Klinzy (Clinton) Barasa Masinde, the police officer who was found to have shot Eli Joshua at Nairobi CBD on June 17, 2025. /VIRAL TEA KE

Mask Hawker Boniface Kariuki Shot By Police Declared Brain Dead

Marvin Chege — Sun, 29 Jun 2025 11:16:59 +0300

Boniface Kariuki, a mask vendor who was shot by a police officer during the Tuesday, June 17 protests, has been pronounced brain dead.

Addressing the media at Kenyatta National Hospital on Sunday, Kariuki’s family said doctors had informed them that his brain had ceased to function.

The family is now awaiting the doctors’ formal declaration of clinical death. However, the family has said that the life support machine Kariuki is on cannot be switched off due to legal issues.

Family spokesperson Emily Wanjira confirmed that medics at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) stated that Mwangi's organs are still functioning.

Jonah Kariuki, father to Boniface Kariuki, a 22-year-old hawker shot by police in Nairobi CBD, addresses the press on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. /OKIYA OMTATAH

"Mwangi is confirmed brain dead. We know what it means. We are just waiting for the doctor to tell us he is no more," she said.

"We received a call from the hospital at 12.47am saying that they needed to have a brief with us, and we have been told what is happening," she disclosed.

What It Means To Be Declared Brain Dead

When someone is declared brain dead, it means there is a complete and irreversible loss of all brain activity, including in the brain stem, which controls basic life functions like breathing and heartbeat regulation.

Unlike a coma or a vegetative state, where some brain function may remain, brain death is final — there is no chance of recovery. Doctors use strict medical tests to confirm that the brain has permanently stopped working before making this declaration.

Once a person is brain dead, they are legally considered dead, even if machines keep their heart beating and their lungs working temporarily. Families sometimes struggle with this because their loved one may still look “alive” — warm, with a heartbeat — thanks to life support.

However, medically and legally, brain death is death, and life support is only maintaining the body’s organs, not consciousness or awareness. After a brain death declaration, doctors will typically prepare to withdraw life support unless there are reasons to delay, like organ donation.

The family further stated that additional bullet fragments remain in Kariuki’s brain and have yet to be removed.

Kariuki has undergone two surgeries at Kenyatta National Hospital to extract the bullet lodged in his head and has been recovering in the Intensive Care Unit under constant monitoring.

Earlier, his father, Jonah Kariuki, disclosed that the hospital bill had already reached Ksh 1 million and was growing by the day.

While further forensic analysis was pending, Sigilai suggested the object could potentially be a rubber bullet.

Tragically, shortly after the incident, the family was defrauded of Ksh 200,000, compounding their struggles as their son continued to fight for his life in hospital.

The distressed family has since appealed to the judiciary to deliver justice by convicting and sentencing the police officers involved in the shooting.

Screengrab of Police Constable Klinzy (Clinton) Barasa Masinde, the police officer who was found to have shot Eli Joshua at Nairobi CBD on June 17, 2025. /VIRAL TEA KE

Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo Impeached

Marvin Chege — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 14:23:37 +0300

Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo has been impeached. On Thursday, June 26, 16 out of 18 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) voted in favour of the motion.

The impeachment was initiated by Sericho MCA Abubakar Godana, who accused the Governor of failing to deliver on development projects and falling short of county revenue collection targets.

On Thursday, the public took part in a public participation forum where opinions were divided over the move to impeach the governor.

Opponents of the impeachment criticised Isiolo County Assembly Speaker Mohamed Roba, accusing him of coercing MCAs into supporting the motion. They warned of recalling MPs, emphasising that elected officials should maintain neutrality.

A gate leading to the Isiolo County Assembly. /ISIOLO COUNTY

On the other hand, supporters of the impeachment blamed Governor Guyo’s administration for persistent internal conflicts and expressed the need for a clean slate in county leadership.

The High Court in Isiolo had issued an order suspending the impeachment process until the case before it was fully heard and determined.

Justice Heston Nyaga, upon reviewing the application, affidavit, and petition, concluded that the petitioner had provided enough justification to warrant interim relief. He marked the case as urgent and directed that the documents be served to the respondents by close of business on June 17, 2025.

The court issued an order barring Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) from "admitting, processing, debating, or considering" the impeachment motion that had been submitted to the assembly on June 10, 2025.

The motion was initially slated for debate on Tuesday, June 17. In response, Governor Guyo filed a legal challenge against the county assembly and its speaker.

Justice Nyaga further directed the third respondent to serve the Governor with a copy of the impeachment notice and all accompanying documents within 48 hours of receiving the court order.

The court granted the respondents seven days to file their replies, while the petitioner was allowed three days to submit and serve a supplementary affidavit after receiving those responses.

In the lead-up to the proceedings, MCAs were reportedly moved from Isiolo to Nakuru and later to Machakos, where they stayed in seclusion ahead of the impeachment discussions. Once the motion was introduced, the Governor was given a seven-day window to respond to the allegations.

Earlier this week, Isiolo residents convened in various social halls across the county’s 10 electoral wards to submit both oral and written views either backing or opposing the impeachment of Governor Abdi Guyo.

Security was intensified in key urban wards like Wabera, Bulapesa, and Burat, as well as remote regions such as Oldonyiro and Ngaremara. In response to claims of bias from both pro- and anti-impeachment groups, the government deployed a large number of police officers from six stations in neighbouring Meru County last Friday to help ensure neutrality and stability during the public participation process.

In the days leading up to the crucial Tuesday session, both sides — the MCAs advocating for the governor’s removal and his supporters — rallied their supporters and heightened tensions on the ground. Authorities grew increasingly worried that the escalating political climate could erupt into clashes, especially around the County Assembly compound, which also houses the Governor’s offices.

Tensions had already flared the previous Wednesday when demonstrators allied with one group confronted anti-riot police. The standoff escalated, prompting officers to fire tear gas and gunshots in the air to break up the crowd.

Isiolo Governor Abdi Hassan Guyo speaking in a past event. /ISIOLO COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Court Blocks Communications Authority From Switching Off TV, Radio Stations

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 17:12:45 +0300

The High Court has suspended a directive by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) that all television and radio stations stop live coverage of the June 25 demonstrations.

Justice Chacha Mwita on Wednesday, June 25, also ordered CA to reinstate the broadcasting signals for the TV stations that were switched off for failing to comply with the directive.

"That a conservatory order is HEREBY ISSUED, suspending, with immediate effect, the DIRECTIVE REF No. CA/CE/BC/TV90A or any other directive issued by the Communication Authority of Kenya to all Television and Radio Stations directing them to stop live coverage of the demonstrations of 25th June 2025 or any other demonstrations, until the hearing and determination of the application and petition," stated the ruling in part.

"THAT any Broadcasting signals that may have been switched off as a result of the referenced directive be restored with immediate effect, pending further orders of the court. THAT service of this order may be effected through email and may also be served by publishing it in live Television broadcasts or through newspapers."

A photo of NTV studios at Nation Media Group headquarters in Nairobi. /FILE

The Authority, as well as Director General David Mugonyi, was also warned that any disobedience or non-observance of the order of the court "served herewith will result in penal consequences to you and any other person and not observing the same."

Justice Mwita further ordered that pleadings be served immediately through emails due to the urgency of the matter and that the respondents, being the State Law Office, and interested parties, do file and serve responses to the application and petition within three days after service.

The petitioners, being the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), will then have three days after service to file a rejoinder if need be. The matter is set for direction on July 2, 2025.

This comes moments after the Katiba Institute and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) announced that they had submitted an urgent judicial review application to the High Court on the matter, which saw signals of KTN, NTV, Citizen TV, and K24 switched off.

“Today, Katiba Institute (KI) and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) have filed an urgent Judicial Review Application at the High Court in Nairobi challenging the unconstitutional directive issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), which ordered all television and radio stations to cease live coverage of ongoing public demonstrations,” part of the statement read.

"This directive was swiftly followed by police raids on major broadcast transmission sites of Citizen TV, NTV, and KTN, leading to the unlawful shutdown of their free-to-air services. The CA threatened broadcasters with regulatory sanctions, including license revocations, should they defy the directive."

In their court filing, the two organisations argued that the Communications Authority’s directive violated three fundamental constitutional rights—freedom of expression, media freedom, and the right to access information—as outlined in Articles 33, 34, and 35 of the Constitution.

They also contended that the directive breached the right to fair administrative action and due process, as guaranteed under Article 47 and the Fair Administrative Action Act.

Additionally, they noted that the move disregarded previous court rulings, including Republic v Chiloba (2023) and Kenya Union of Journalists v CAK (2024), which had declared similar actions unlawful and reaffirmed that the CAK does not have the legal mandate to regulate broadcast content—a responsibility constitutionally assigned to the Media Council of Kenya.

Shortly after releasing the directive, the Communications Authority raided the Limuru transmission station and shut down the free-to-air signals of major TV stations. This move followed the stations’ decision to continue airing live protest coverage from various parts of the country.

Despite the blackout, the stations remained accessible through social media platforms, and viewers with satellite TV subscriptions continued to watch the broadcasts.

An image of a TV station. /KENYANS.CO.KE

Govt Sued As It Switches Off 2 More TV Stations

Marvin Chege — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 16:52:50 +0300

A lobby group has filed a court case challenging the Communications Authority of Kenya’s (CA) directive to stop the live coverage of the June 25 protests and disable free-to-air signals for KTN, NTV, and Citizen TV.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, June 25, the Katiba Institute and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) announced that they had submitted an urgent judicial review application to the High Court.

Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) headquarters in Nairobi. /FILE

They also contended that the directive breached the right to fair administrative action and due process, as guaranteed under Article 47 and the Fair Administrative Action Act.

As a result, the lobby groups are seeking three urgent conservatory orders from the High Court: to suspend the illegal CA directive, order the immediate restoration of affected TV and radio broadcasts, and prevent any further enforcement of the directive.

"Media freedom and the right to protest are pillars of Kenya's democracy. Gagging the press violates not just media rights but also the public's right to know and hold power accountable. The Applicants call on the judiciary to act swiftly to preserve the Constitution and protect the public interest," the statement concluded.

This comes as CA also abruptly shut down the broadcast signals of K24 TV and Kameme TV under Mediamax Networks Limited.

“We wish to inform our customers that the Communications Authority (CA) switched off our K24 broadcast signal in clear violation of the Constitution and a High Court decision in relation to the coverage of live events,” the company stated.

Mediamax claimed that the shutdown was triggered by what it terms an illegal directive from the CA, which ordered media outlets to stop broadcasting live coverage of the Gen Z protest commemoration.

The media house condemned the move, calling it a direct assault on press freedom and a violation of the public’s constitutional right to access information.

“We stand advised by the High Court decision that CA has no mandate to regulate broadcast content and consider the move as an affront to press freedoms and the right of Kenyans to information by a free and independent media,” Kenneth Ngaruiya, Group CEO of Mediamax, stated.

The Kenya Editors’ Guild and the Media Council of Kenya have released official statements expressing concern that the broadcast shutdown could establish a troubling precedent, threatening media independence, particularly during politically charged periods.

Kenyans protesting in Nairobi CBD on June 25, 2025. /WANJIKU REPORTS

Govt Orders All TV, Radio Stations To Stop Covering June 25 Protests

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:07:34 +0300

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has ordered that all television and radio stations stop live coverage of the ongoing June 25 demonstrations.

In a letter to all mainstream media platforms, and seen by Viral Tea, the Authority's Director General, Davd Mugonyi, on Wednesday, June 25, revealed that the ongoing coverage was in violation of sections of the Constitution of Kenya.

Mugonyi warned that action will be taken against any stations that fail to adhere to the directive.

Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) headquarters in Nairobi. /FILE

"The live coverage of the June 25th, 2025 demonstrations are contrary to Articles 33(2) and 34(1) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 461 of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998," CA stated in part.

"This is therefore to direct all television and radio stations to stop any live coverage of the demonstrations forthwith. Failure to abide by this directive will result in regulatory action as stipulated in the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998."

This move comes a day after the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) urged journalists and media practitioners to uphold the highest ethical standards ahead of coverage of the June 25 nationwide demonstrations.

In a statement signed by Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo, dated Tuesday, June 24, the media regulator reminded the Fourth Estate of the importance of complying with the Code of Conduct for Media Practice, with special emphasis on accuracy, fairness, and the “do no harm” principle.

"The Council advises journalists covering the anniversary of the 25 June Gen Z protests to remain professional and responsible, ensuring their reporting minimises harm.

"The media should follow the ‘do no harm’ principle, treating subjects, colleagues and audiences with respect and avoiding unnecessary harm to society and vulnerable groups through their reporting," MCK stated.

Meanwhile, hundreds of protesters flooded the streets on Wednesday to commemorate one year since the anti-finance bill demonstrations that claimed the lives of dozens of young Kenyans.

In Nairobi, prominent political leaders—including former Chief Justice David Maraga, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and DAP-Kenya head Eugene Wamalwa—joined the demonstrations and laid flowers near Parliament in honour of those who lost their lives during last year’s protests.

Shortly after, chaos broke out in the Central Business District (CBD) as clashes erupted between protesters and anti-riot police, who began lobbing tear gas at the crowd.

Speaking to the media after arriving at the CBD, Maraga condemned the police’s use of excessive force, stating that it violated constitutional rights.

"We strongly condemn the use of state violence against grieving families and peaceful protesters. The flagrant violation of the Constitution and human rights must stop," Maraga said.

Kenyans protesting in Nairobi CBD on June 25, 2025. /WANJIKU REPORTS

DPP Charges OCS Talaam, 5 Others Over Albert Ojwang Murder

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:18:03 +0300

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has given the green light for murder charges to be filed against Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam, Police Constable James Mukhwana, and four others in connection with the death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody.

In a statement released on Monday, June 23, DPP Renson Ingonga confirmed that the charges were approved after the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) completed its investigations and submitted the case files.

"On 10th June 2025, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), pursuant to Article 157(4) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 5(2) of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Act, Cap. 6B, directed the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang," the statement read in part.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga speaking at the launch of the NCAJ anti-corruption strategic guiding framework for Kenya’s justice sector on March 25, 2025. /ODPP

"Following the directive, IPOA submitted the inquiry file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) on 22nd June 2025 for perusal and legal guidance. Upon receipt, the DPP immediately constituted a team of senior prosecutors to undertake a comprehensive review of the file. Consequently, the DPP has approved murder charges against six individuals."

Also charged include Police Constable James Mukhwana, Peter Kimani, John Ngige Gitau - Gin Ammitou Abwao and Brian Mwaniki Njue.

The six suspects are currently appearing before the Kibera High Court to face murder charges, in line with Section 204 of the Penal Code, Cap. 63 of the Laws of Kenya, following the Director of Public Prosecutions' (DPP) decision to proceed with their prosecution.

They are accused of assaulting Albert Ojwang while he was in custody at the Central Police Station, leading to his death on June 8.

This follows a ruling by the High Court last Wednesday ordering the detention of OCS Samson Talaam for 15 days to allow investigators to complete inquiries into Ojwang’s death. Talaam was arrested on June 13 in Eldoret.

During the hearing, Magistrate Benmark Ekhubi denied Talaam bail, citing strong arguments presented by the prosecution justifying his continued detention.

Just two days earlier, the DPP had accused Talaam of attempting to cover up the incident by paying a technician to erase CCTV footage tied to Ojwang’s death.

In submissions before the Milimani Law Courts, the DPP’s legal team claimed that Talaam had interfered with critical evidence related to the ongoing probe into the death of the blogger, who was also a teacher.

According to the prosecution, the technician received Ksh 3,000 to delete the surveillance footage believed to hold key details of what transpired while Ojwang was in police custody.

Although the identity of the person who paid for the deletion was initially unclear, prosecutors alleged that Talaam—being responsible for the station's records and surveillance systems—personally arranged for the footage to be tampered with in a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice.

IPOA had previously confirmed that the interdicted OCS was a person of interest in the case, as the oversight authority revealed that Ojwang died inside a Central Police Station jail cell.

His arrest came after Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohamed Amin stated that Taalam should be deemed the prime suspect in the murder of Ojwang.

Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam during his arraignment at Milimani Law Courts over the death of Albert Ojwang on June 16, 2025. /JUSTICE TODAY

High Court Declares SHIF Deductions Illegal

Marvin Chege — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:06:50 +0300

The High Court has ruled that the 2.75 percent deduction from gross income for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is illegal.

Justice Chacha Mwita, who delivered the judgment on Monday, June 23, stated that the mandatory SHIF contribution amounts to double taxation and is therefore inconsistent with existing income tax laws.

He explained that deducting the SHIF levy directly from gross income—before calculating and applying income tax—places an unfair financial burden on workers, effectively taxing the same income twice.

Justice Mwita further emphasized that such deductions undermine constitutional principles of fairness and legality in taxation.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

As a result, the court found the move not only illegal but also unconstitutional, marking a significant setback for the government’s rollout of the new health insurance scheme.

“There can be no other gross income from which the person can again contribute 2.75 per cent to the Fund under SHIA and the regulations made thereunder. Any subsequent or other statutory eduction(s) based on the person’s gross income after income tax, is undoubtedly double taxation, charge or levy because the same gross income will have been taxed more than once under the Income Tax Act and the regulations made under SHIA as contribution to the Fund,” ruled Justice Mwita.

“By providing that a person contributes 2.75% of his/her gross income to the Fund after paying income tax from the same gross income, the regulation introduces a negative element of taxation which is double taxation and would, as a result, make such a regulation unlawful."

However, the judge refused to grant any orders, noting that a related case is already pending before the Court of Appeal.

The case was brought before the court by four medical doctors, who argued that Kenyans are receiving substandard healthcare coverage from the government, despite paying hefty premiums for private insurance.

They also challenged the transfer of their personal data from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA), raising serious concerns about data privacy and security.

Dr. Clarence Eboso, Dr. Darwin Abuka, Dr. Cherono Siele, and Dr. Bosibori Ondari claimed there was no assurance that their information would be safeguarded and stated they never gave consent to be enrolled in the new health scheme.

Additionally, they raised alarm over the involvement of Apeiro Limited—allegedly linked to the Adani Group—in the management of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) system. The doctors argued that this connection poses a major risk to data integrity, pointing out that India, where the Adani Group is based, has a reputation for cyber vulnerabilities and weak data protection standards.

Apeiro is the majority stakeholder in a consortium that secured a Ksh 104 billion contract to deliver an Integrated Healthcare Technology System (IHTS) for the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) initiative.

“The fact that the Ministry single-sourced a consortium of Health Information System providers to handle health data under the Social Health Authority, one partner of whom is originally registered in a jurisdiction with a poor data privacy record, creates a real concern that safety of our personal data is not guaranteed,” the medics claimed.

The doctors criticized the Kenya Kwanza government’s health scheme, describing it as both costly and substandard. They argued that while Kenyans will be required to pay more, the benefits and coverage provided under the new system will be significantly less.

This ruling comes close to a month after the World Bank urged the Kenyan government to scrap the mandatory Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) contributions for low-income earners in the formal sector, with critics warning that the current payroll-based model is a barrier to advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The international financial institution cautioned that this approach discourages the shift to formal employment and could deepen inequalities in healthcare access, especially in a country where almost 80 per cent of the workforce operates within the informal sector.

President William Ruto speaking during a past event and NHIF's logo before it was rebranded to SHA (inset). /PCS.NHIF

WATCH: Police Shoot Dead Protester In Nairobi CBD

Marvin Chege — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:20:02 +0300

A video clip has surfaced showing anti-riot police officers opening fire at a protester at close range during protests in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD).

In the clip obtained by Viral Tea, two police officers heavily armed in anti-riot combat gear can be seen approaching the protester and assaulting him before appearing to let him go.

However, seconds later, one of the officers could be seen pointing his gun and shooting the protester at close range. An individual could be heard saying, "Amempiga risasi kwa kichwa (he has shot him in the head)."

Here is the video:

Wait...did I just watch, and listen to, these police officers SHOOT this guy during #JusticeForAlbertOjwang protests in Nairobi CBD? ????????

Via Daily Trends East Africa (FACEBOOK) pic.twitter.com/gPCUTLK2Gr
— Marvin Chege (@marvin_chege10) June 17, 2025

In another clip, a woman who was selling facemasks could be seen wailing in despair next to a puddle of blood strewn on the street, surrounded by a crowd who claimed that the police officers had shot him dead.

Viral Tea understands that the protester has been rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) for urgent medical attention.

It has been revealed that the protester was, in fact, selling facemasks during the protests where Kenyans took to the streets demanding justice for the late Albert Ojwang, a teacher cum X influencer. This has been evidenced by a photo obtained by Viral Tea showing him still clasping a packet of masks as he lay on the ground, bleeding from his upper body.

In another clip, the police officer was seen sprinting toward a group of protesters gathered along Mondlane Street near Imenti House, emerging from a larger group of officers stationed on Moi Avenue across from the Nairobi Sports Centre.

The officer, charging toward the crowd, discharged his firearm in their direction, though no injuries were reported at that point. Moments later, the officer returned, turning off Moi Avenue onto Mondlane Street alongside a fellow officer. There, they confronted the man selling face masks.

Rather than moving past him, the two officers stopped. One slapped the man, while the other struck him with the butt of his rifle. Seconds later, the first officer raised his weapon and shot the man at close range.

Reacting to the brazen shooting, Vocal Africa CEO Hussein Khalid wrote on X, "Open and clear extrajudicial killing. Shot at point-blank range by police!"

The incident has sparked outrage among activists and ignited a wave of online calls from Kenyans demanding justice for the slain street vendor. Ironically, the protests had been organised to demand accountability from Deputy Inspector General Lagat over the alleged custodial death of Ojwang.

Tensions escalated earlier during the demonstrations when motorcycles carrying suspected hired goons entered the city, with the riders loudly declaring that no protests would be allowed.

Wielding crude weapons such as knives and clubs, the group targeted protesters and unsuspecting civilians in the CBD, seizing handbags, phones, and other valuables.

Footage circulating on social media appears to show the alleged goons operating alongside anti-riot police in efforts to break up the protest.

Hired goons escorting police vehicles during protests in Nairobi CBD#ViralVideos #JusticeForAlbertOjwang pic.twitter.com/NxPRsN4lOp
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) June 17, 2025

Murkomen Orders For All Kenya Police Stations To Have CCTV Cameras

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 12:17:21 +0300

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has directed that all police stations be equipped with Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras within the next two years.

Murkomen was speaking on Monday, June 16, during a press briefing at Harambee House in Nairobi, where he announced a raft of reforms targeting police stations across the Republic of Kenya, in the wake of the murder of teacher and X influencer, Albert Ojwang.

He further directed that the CCTV shall have external backup systems as well as live monitoring accessible by the Officer Commanding Station (OCS). Backing up this footage must be done securely to aid in future investigations.

"It shall be mandatory to equip police stations with CCTV surveillance to enhance transparency and accountability. All the police stations currently standing at 1,209 shall have CCTV surveillance within the next two years," he announced.

A photo of CCTV cameras. /EDGELANDS INSTITUTE

Murkomen also ordered that any incidents of assault or misconduct within police stations be reported within an hour, with CCTV systems expected to be a key tool in enforcing accountability.

This directive will be implemented in all 1,209 police stations across Kenya. Parliament is also preparing to pass a law that will make it a criminal offence to delete CCTV footage.

"We shall be making proposals to Parliament to enact laws that criminalise tampering with CCTV cameras. The surveillance system shall be in the custody of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), and the said officer shall be required to ensure that the system is always functioning and instances of fault shall be reported within one hour through the established chain of command," he went on.

The Cabinet Secretary further announced that Occurrence Books (OBs) will be fully digitised nationwide. This will enable every report to be tracked, audited, and verified in real-time — a move aimed at preventing manipulation and promoting transparency.

As part of broader reforms, Murkomen unveiled a community-centred integration strategy to rebuild public trust and enhance service delivery.

Police operations will now face regular independent audits to evaluate performance and identify areas needing improvement. Officers and stations that excel will be publicly acknowledged and rewarded.

"Officers will be required to work together with civil groups, religious groups, and local communities, and this shall undergo regular evaluation to see who is adhering to the set protocols," he directed.

To support these reforms, Murkomen mandated continuous professional development starting with Officers Commanding Stations (OCSs), who will undergo mandatory training in constitutional principles and professional ethics to boost discipline, uphold human rights, and improve service efficiency.

At the same time, he pointed out difficulties in enforcing Article 244 of the Constitution, which outlines the core duties of the National Police Service. He noted that although the article emphasises professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights, there are still significant gaps in meeting these standards.

Despite mounting pressure on the Cabinet Secretary to compel Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat to step aside amid ongoing investigations, the CS has maintained that proper legal procedures must be observed.

At the same time, social media is awash with calls for protests planned for Tuesday, where demonstrators are expected to demand Lagat’s resignation over his alleged involvement in the death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody.

Collage of Central Police Station where Albert Ojwang was murdered. /VIRAL TEA KE

Albert Ojwang Murder: Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam Arrested

Marvin Chege — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:36:55 +0300

Central Police Station Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Samson Talaam has been arrested in connection with the murder of teacher and X influencer Albert Ojwang.

According to reports reaching Viral Tea, Talaam was arrested in Eldoret, 313 kilometres from Nairobi. Police say he was on the run before the arrest.

Lawyer Felix Kiprono, who confirmed his arrest, stated that Talaam has been taken to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for questioning.

IPOA further confirmed that the interdicted OCS was a person of interest in the case. Meanwhile, the oversight authority revealed that Ojwang died inside a Central Police Station jail cell.

An image of slain X influencer Albert Ojwang. /ALBERT OJWANG

His arrest comes after Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohamed Amin stated that Taalam should be deemed the prime suspect in the murder of Ojwang.

While addressing the Senate, Amin pointed to Taalam as the main person to be held to account for Ojwang's death on Sunday, June 8.

Giving his brief, Amin clarified that, contrary to earlier reports, Taalam didn’t refuse to book Ojwang when he arrived at Central Police. According to Amin, this only strengthened the case for treating the OCS as the main suspect.

"When Ojwang arrived at the Central Police Station, he was booked digitally. It has further been confirmed that before the booking, the report office personnel called the OCS, that he declined to book the suspect," revealed DCI Amin.

"Talam is the officer commanding Central Police Station, and from the totality of things, he should be treated as a prime suspect in the matter."

Following the revelation of Ojwang's murder and the involvement of Central Police Station officers, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja suspended Taalam along with five other officers. In addition to Taalam, those suspended were the deputy OCS, the deputy NCO, the crime aid officer, the cell sentry officer, and staff from the report office.

The current arrest follows a first arrest made on James Mukhwana, a Police Constable (PC) attached to the Central Police Station. He will remain in police custody and be detained at the Capitol Hill Police Station as investigations into the murder continue.

Milimani Law Courts Magistrate Robinson Ondieki ordered that Mukhwana remain in custody for one week as he awaits his court hearing.

“On whether he will remain in custody or be released, the date for the ruling has been set on the 20th of this month. In the meantime, he will be detained at the Capitol Hill Police Station,” the judge stated.

This came after IPOA requested that the suspect be detained for 21 days to allow for investigations.

James Mukhwana, the main suspect in the murder of Albert Ojwang. /X

Central Police Station Officer Arrested Over Albert Ojwang Murder

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:45:58 +0300

A police officer from Central Police Station has been arrested over the murder of teacher and X influencer, Albert Ojwang.

According to a police report obtained by Viral Tea, the officer, PC James Mukhwana, was taken into custody at Capitol Hill Police Station by officers drawn from the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

He's expected to be charged with murder under Sections 203 and 204 of the Penal Code, linked to the death of Albert Ojwang.

"Please be informed that No. 260950 PC James Mukhwana of Central Police Station, Nairobi was arrested today, 12/06/2025 and placed in custody at Capitol Hill police station by officers from IAU and IPOA.

An image of the late X influencer Albert Ojwang. /ALBERT OJWANG

"He is to be charged with the offence of murder contrary to section 203 as read with section 204 of the penal code, following the death of one Albert Ojwang. IPOA and IAU dealing. More details to follow," the report read in part.

His role in the murder of Ojwang is yet to be determined. This arrest comes moments after hundreds of Kenyans took to the streets of Nairobi to protest over the murder of Ojwang, threatening to overshadow the reading of the 2025/26 budget, which went ahead in the National Assembly, uninterrupted.

Hundreds of protesters were spread in small groups across Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD), with some throwing rocks at police who fired back with tear gas, while at least two cars were set alight. AFP reporters saw at least three people wounded by rubber bullets, with one taken to the hospital.

Albert Ojwang, 31, was arrested on June 7 in Homa Bay and taken over 400 kilometres to Nairobi. He was later found dead, with reports pointing to signs of torture and visible injuries.

The case has sparked public outrage and backlash from human rights groups and political figures.

On Monday, the United Opposition released a joint statement demanding the immediate arrest of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, accusing him of ordering Ojwang’s arrest in retaliation for a critical social media post.

They also urged authorities to provide witness protection for lower-ranking officers involved in the case, citing threats to their safety.

The IPOA is leading the investigation after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) called for a fast-tracked probe.

The arrest of Police Constable Mukhwana is seen as the first significant move toward holding individual officers accountable in this high-profile case.

Public and international pressure continues to build on the government to deliver full transparency and justice as the legal process unfolds.

Protests at Nairobi CBD on June 12, 2025, over the murder of Albert Ojwang. /ADEMBA.X

Kenyan Author Ngugi wa Thiong'o Dies

Marvin Chege — Wed, 28 May 2025 19:58:06 +0300

Kenyan literary luminary and esteemed wordsmith, Prof. Ngugi wa Thiong’o, is dead.

The news was announced by his daughter, Wanjiku wa Ngugi, on her Facebook account on Wednesday, May 28.

"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, this Wednesday morning, 28th May 2025. He lived a full life, fought a good fight. As was his last wish, let's celebrate his life and his work. Rîa ratha na rîa thŭa. Tŭrî aira! ," she wrote in part.

wa Ngugi further announced that the family's spokesperson will announce details of his celebration of life soon.

The now-deceased Kenyan author, Ngugi wa Thiongo. /WANJIKU WA NGUGI

The cause of wa Thiong'o's death was not immediately revealed. He was 87 years old at the time of his passing.

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o was a legendary Kenyan writer, academic, and activist widely considered one of Africa’s most influential literary voices. Born in 1938 in colonial Kenya, he came of age during the Mau Mau uprising against British rule, and that experience deeply shaped his worldview and writing.

Originally writing in English, Ngũgĩ broke new ground in African literature with early novels like Weep Not, Child and The River Between, which explored themes of colonialism, identity, and the tensions between tradition and modernity. But his impact goes far beyond just storytelling — he became a cultural warrior who believed literature should serve the people, not just entertain elites.

In the late 1970s, Ngũgĩ made a radical and defining move: he abandoned writing in English and chose to write in his native Gikuyu language, arguing that language is a tool of power, and to truly decolonise African minds, writers had to embrace their indigenous languages. This shift wasn’t just symbolic — it was risky.

After co-writing a political play in Gikuyu that criticised post-independence corruption, he was arrested by the Kenyan government and imprisoned without trial. He famously wrote Devil on the Cross on toilet paper while in detention.

Ngũgĩ’s work since then — both fiction and non-fiction — has been focused on dismantling colonial legacies, pushing for linguistic liberation, and empowering African cultures to stand on their terms. Books like Decolonising the Mind are essential reading in postcolonial studies and remain powerful manifestos for cultural sovereignty.

Despite being exiled from Kenya for years, Ngũgĩ continued to write, teach, and challenge systems of oppression, earning global recognition and countless literary honours. He was more than just a writer — he was a revolutionary voice in the global fight against cultural erasure.

Ngũgĩ’s academic career took him to top-tier universities such as Northwestern, Yale, and NYU, before he eventually became a Distinguished Professor of Comparative Literature and English at the University of California, Irvine.

He was often seen as a strong contender for the Nobel Prize in Literature, and his long list of honours includes the International Nonino Prize in 2001 and the Park Kyong-ni Prize in 2016.

He now leaves behind a towering literary legacy and a family of writers, including Mukoma wa Ngugi and Wanjiku wa Ngugi.

Tanzania Deports Boniface Mwangi: Kenya Govt Reports

Marvin Chege — Thu, 22 May 2025 10:49:05 +0300

Activist Boniface Mwangi, who had been missing for over three days, has been found alive in Ukunda, his family confirmed on Thursday, May 22.

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary (CS) Musalia Mudavadi also confirmed his release through his spokesperson, Viral Tea has learnt. The activist was deported by road and abandoned in Ukunda, Kwale County.

While proof of life is yet to be confirmed, Mwangi's lawyer, James Wanjeri, stated that the activist has been taken to the hospital for medical evaluation.

Mwangi was reported missing on Monday after flying to Tanzania to attend a court hearing for opposition figure Tundu Lissu.

Collage of Boniface Mwangi, President Samia Suluhu and Julius Nyerere International Airport in Tanzania. /VIRAL TEA KE

The developments come moments after the Kenyan government claimed that Tanzanian officials had not shared any details about Mwangi's whereabouts, a matter that almost ignited a diplomatic clash between the two East African Community (EAC) nations.

Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs claimed they had repeatedly tried to contact Tanzanian authorities to locate Mwangi but did not receive any response. This came after Mwangi was reportedly detained in Dar es Salaam on Monday morning for obstruction and entering the country without proper documentation.

In a formal letter to Tanzania’s East African Cooperation ministry, Kenya expressed frustration over the lack of updates and raised concerns about Mwangi’s well-being.

"The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Kenya presents its compliments to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of the United Republic of Tanzania and has the honour to express its deep concern regarding the apprehension of Mr Boniface Mwangi, a Kenyan citizen, Passport No. BK 472892, being held by the United Republic of Tanzania authorities," part of the statement read.

"The Ministry notes that, despite several requests, officials of the Government of Kenya have been denied consular access and information to Mr. Mwangi. The Ministry is also concerned about his health, overall wellbeing and the absence of information regarding his detention."

In response to the situation, the Kenyan government said it had no choice but to invoke the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963), which guarantees that consular officials can freely communicate with and access their nationals in a foreign country.

The treaty also grants consular officers the right to visit detained citizens, speak with them, and help secure legal support—rights that Kenya claims have been denied in Boniface Mwangi’s case.

As a result, Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on Tanzania to "expeditiously and without delay facilitate consular access to or release of Mwangi, in accordance with international legal obligations and diplomatic norms."

"The Government of Kenya reaffirms its commitment to the cordial bilateral relations that exist between the two countries and expresses the hope that this matter will be resolved swiftly and amicably, in the spirit of regional cooperation and mutual respect," the statement continued.

Around midnight on Monday, May 19, Tanzanian authorities showed up at Boniface Mwangi’s hotel room in Dar es Salaam, demanding he leave with them. Though they claimed to be police, Mwangi said in a video posted during the encounter that they refused to show any ID.

Mwangi refused to go with them unless his lawyers were present. Later that day, reports surfaced that he had been taken into custody in Tanzania and was being held ahead of deportation.

By Tuesday, Tanzanian officials claimed Mwangi had been deported back to Kenya, but concerns grew when no one could confirm his actual whereabouts.

Later that day, Tanzanian lawyer Boniface Mwabukusi said Mwangi and Ugandan journalist Agather Atuhaire were no longer with the police but were being held by Tanzania’s Immigration Department, awaiting deportation.

Screengrabs of Boniface Mwangi confronting Tanzanian police officers on May 19, 2025. /SHAKIRA WAFULA

Gachagua Dares DCI To Arrest Him

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 19 May 2025 14:12:05 +0300

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has challenged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to track him down to his homes and arrest him in case he is found culpable of any crimes.

While speaking at his Karen residence on Monday, May 19, Gachagua hit out at events whereby DCI officers reportedly pitched camp outside his homes in Nairobi and Nyeri Counties.

According to the former second-in-command, the barricading of roads amidst reported attempts to arrest him was a plot to ambush him, given that he had come from a church service in Murang'a County on Sunday, May 18.

"The drama of waylaying us on roads should be stopped. If the government knows that I've committed a crime, as defined under the laws of Kenya, and identified in the Penal Code, they know all my homes.

Fleet of DCI vehicles spotted at Jogoo kimakia near Thika as of May 18, 2025. /FACEBOOK

"I'm here, they know my Wamunyoro home. They don't need to waylay me on the road. Let them just come here, and if I've committed a crime, they can come and arrest me," he dared.

At the same time, Gachagua emerged with explosive claims of a murder plot against him, with state-sponsored officers given specific instructions to take him out. He revealed that he was made aware of alleged instructions from the President to 'deal with him' once and for all.

The former deputy claimed that efforts to silence him using state-backed thugs failed on Sunday, leading to police stepping in to stop what he described as a plot against his life. "Since the goons sponsored by the state on several occasions had failed, police and other state security agencies had to come in," he added.

Gachagua also claimed that the government wanted to poison him using biological means on Sunday, when the contingent of officers chasing him had barricaded his home.

"After about 30 minutes, the killer squad was joined by their counterparts, who were highly trained in the use of biological weapons.

"Their instructions were to poison me through inhaled chemicals that would paralyse my brain within three months. This was the intent and the purpose of the whole operation," Gachagua added.

Furthermore, Gachagua alleged that on Sunday afternoon, he was tipped off by police officers who claimed they’d been ordered to plant weapons in his convoy as a setup to justify his arrest.

"We received further intelligence from the deployed patriotic officers who were not in agreement with the evil mission, that they had clear instructions to plant arms and weapons in our convoy to provide evidence to arrest us and get evidence that they could charge us with in court," he added.

Gachagua's lawyer, Ndegwa Njiru, took to X on Sunday, May 18, to notify major media houses that the DCI, alongside multiple security agencies, reportedly took control of the Karen and Wamunyoro residences.

The matter attracted the attention of Wiper Party Leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, who urged President William Ruto to arrest Gachagua in adherence to the law...if he wanted to do so.

Photos that went viral on social media and seen by Viral Tea showed Subaru Forester vehicles and a police vehicle barricading a road amidst the reported intent to arrest the second in command.

Recently, Gachagua warned that if President Ruto's government tries to rig the 2027 elections, it could throw the country into turmoil.

"With the mood in the country, if that IEBC tries to mess with the elections, there will be no country here, I want to tell you that 2007 will look like a Christmas party," the former DP claimed during an interview with Obinna TV.

"I want to tell those commissioners to be Kenyans and to be patriotic, and not to attempt to force William Ruto on the people of Kenya. It will not work. The people of Kenya will not accept it, people want change, and they are ready for change."

Gachagua would later clarify that he was only voicing what he heard on the ground, denying claims that he was inciting Kenyans to unrest.

Rigathi Gachagua during a church service in Gatanga, Murang'a County on Sunday, May 18, 2025. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

Governor Natembeya Arrested After Police Raid His Home

Marvin Chege — Mon, 19 May 2025 10:54:10 +0300

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has been arrested, hours after police on Monday, May 19, raided his home in Kitale, under murky circumstances, amid reports that the county chief is being probed.

The early morning raid was reportedly carried out by heavily armed anti-riot police in coordination with officials from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

Viral Tea has been reliably informed learnt that Natembeya has been arrested. His lawyer, Ndegwa Njiru, who spoke to the media, revealed that the county boss was barred from accessing any legal facility by the anti-corruption body.

"We brought our client to the EACC headquarters, but unfortunately, we are not allowed by the EACC officers to access our client. They say they have brought him for a statement recording, but he is not allowed to access any legal facility by the EACC," Njiru stated.

EACC offices at Integrity Centre in Nairobi. /FILE

"When we asked them why we are not able to access the client, they said the Director in charge of investigations is yet to decide whether or not the advocates will access their clients. They have locked in our client; he is inside here, but we are not able to access him or even give him legal counsel on the processes that are currently undertaken."

Njiru also confirmed that Natembeya was arrested in the morning hours and was never issued a summons to that effect.

Governor Natembeya's Link To Ksh1.4 Billion Scandal

EACC in a subsequent statement revealed that it is investigating allegations of procurement irregularities, abuse of office and bribery, with the arrest linked to a fraudulent acquisition of Ksh1.4 billion. The alleged irregularities are believed to have occurred in the 2022/2023 to 2024/2025 Financial Years.

The investigations, according to EACC, focus on three major projects awarded by the County Government, namely: Rehabilitation and Modernisation of Kenyatta Stadium (Phase 1A), awarded to Parbat Siyan Construction Limited, Construction of the Trans-Nzoia County Headquarters Offices, awarded to C.M. Construction Company Limited and Construction of Tom Mboya Hospital - awarded to Session Blue Contractors Limited

"The Governor is alleged to have influenced the award of tenders and received kickbacks from contractors through proxies," stated EACC.

Other than Natembeya, other persons of interest include a Chief Officer, Finance, a Chief Officer of Water, a Director of Procurement and a Contractor/Proxy to the Governor.

"In addition, the Commission is probing allegations of money laundering and accumulation of unexplained wealth by senior county officials, suspected to be part of a broader scheme to conceal the proceeds of crime. The search operation has resulted in the recovery of critical evidentiary material to support ongoing investigations," added the statement.

Tensions ran high outside the residence as large crowds of Natembeya’s supporters gathered, clashing with police in a heated standoff. Officers struggled to manage the swelling crowd, prompting the deployment of reinforcements to keep things from spiralling further.

EACC, in response, condemned the chaos during the raid on Natembeya’s home, where five of its vehicles were damaged, warning locals involved in the disruption that they could face legal action for interfering with official duties.

It also dismissed claims that the raid was politically driven, insisting it operates independently and strictly within its constitutional mandate.

"Unfortunately, during today's operation at Governor Natembeya's residence in Kitale, Commission vehicles were vandalised by a group of rowdy youths. The Commission strongly condemns the violence directed at its officers while lawfully executing their mandate. It is an offence punishable by law for any person to obstruct a Commission Officer while undertaking investigations," added the statement.

"This act of hooliganism is unacceptable and a direct affront to the rule of law. The Commission affirms that it is an independent constitutional body operating strictly within its mandate and will continue to discharge its duties with professionalism and integrity."

Trans Nzoia County residents protest looming arrest of Governor George Natembeya, deflate tyres of five vehicles belonging to DCI, EACC officials who pitched camp at his Kitale home pic.twitter.com/ZuyaoayChu
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) May 19, 2025

Police Arrest 4 Filmmakers Linked To BBC Blood Parliament Documentary

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 02 May 2025 23:18:07 +0300

Police have arrested four filmmakers in connection with the explosive British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) documentary Blood Parliament.

According to a report by NTV, the four included Nicholas Gichuki, Brian Adagala, and Mark Karubiu.

The fourth individual was, however, not immediately identified, though a statement by human rights activist, Boniface Mwangi, released on Saturday, May 3, revealed that the individual was Chris Wamae.

Their business partners disclosed that hard drives and other materials were confiscated by police who staged a night raid at their studio in Karen, Nairobi, where they were before their arrest.

Photo of arrested filmmakers Brian Adagala, Chris Wamae, Mark Karubui and Nick Wambugu. /BONIFACE MWANGI

Mwangi disclosed that the quartet were split into two groups and taken to Pangani and Muthaiga Police Stations.

"One of them managed to make a call and said they have been split into two groups, one headed to Pangani Police Station and the other to Muthaiga," Mwangi wrote, adding that they didn't take part in the filming of the documentary.

"The arrested filmmakers didn't film or contribute to #BloodParliament, and they weren't told the reason for their arrest."

Lawyer Ian Mutiso later traced the four to the police stations, where they were held. The exact reasons for the filmmakers’ arrest remain unclear, as authorities have yet to release an official statement or outline any specific charges.

Their detention has reignited concerns over press freedom in Kenya, with human rights groups condemning the move as retaliation for exposing state-linked violence.

On Tuesday, April 29, the Kenyan government, through spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, slammed the documentary, criticising its production process, claiming it appeared deliberately biased against the government.

He argued that it failed to offer a right of reply to either his office or President William Ruto, nor did it consider the government’s viewpoint.

"The problem is that they didn’t consider the government’s perspective. Even when you watch the video, the President wasn’t given a proper opportunity to speak. So, it leans to one side and seems to push a certain narrative that the media outlet was trying to emphasise," he stated.

"However, they need to know that we do acknowledge and express our condolences to the families, relatives, and friends of those who passed away as fellow Kenyans—and that’s not something we can praise or take lightly."

Blood Parliament is a powerful BBC Africa Eye investigation that revealed police and military involvement in the deadly shooting of unarmed demonstrators during the anti-tax protests on June 25, 2024. In just four days, the documentary has garnered nearly five million views globally.

The film—now at the centre of intense political and public debate—relies on Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) to reconstruct the events that led to the deaths of three young men outside Parliament: software engineer David Chege, butcher Ericsson Mutisya, and finance student Eric Shieni.

Meanwhile, efforts to hold security forces accountable for the 2024 protest killings remain stalled. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) reported receiving over 600 complaints related to the protests, including 60 fatalities and more than 200 injuries, many from gunfire, yet no prosecutions have followed.

Meanwhile, Kenyan lawmakers remain divided over the BBC exposé. While some accused the British broadcaster of unfairly singling out Kenya, others, such as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, commended the documentary and emphasised the need for police accountability.

A planned public screening of Blood Parliament in Nairobi was ultimately cancelled amid reported pressure from government authorities, though several screenings ran afterwards unhindered.

A photo of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers. /BBC

ODM MP Charles Were Shot Dead Along Ngong Road In Nairobi

Marvin Chege — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:16:29 +0300

Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong'ondo Were has been shot dead.

Were was on Wednesday, April 30 shot dead by unknown assailants at the Nairobi City mortuary roundabout in Nairobi.

The lawmaker, according to two witnesses, was gunned down by two men who were aboard a motorbike, one of whom disembarked and shot him at close range, the two fleeing the scene shortly after.

Witnesses reported that the incident happened at around 7.30 pm. Were was pronounced dead when he was rushed to a Nairobi hospital for a medical assessment.

Portrait photo of the late Kasipul MP Charles Ong'ondo Were. /CALEB AMISI

The driver of the lawmaker elected on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket, who was present when the incident occurred, however, survived the shooting. According to reports, the assailants opened fire on the MP while he was caught up in a traffic jam.

He had just departed from Parliament and was en route to Mbagathi Road when two armed individuals who had been following him launched the attack. They shattered his car window and shot him at point-blank range.

This is a matter that prompted investigators to suspect that the attack was a deliberate assassination attempt targeted at the MP, even though the motive of the killing is unclear at this point...for now.

Police reported that the assailants had been following the MP’s vehicle before one of them got out and opened fire at close range, killing the lawmaker. Traffic police stationed at the roundabout also witnessed the incident.

The body of Were lay in the emergency section of the Nairobi Hospital as several colleagues rushed there to view it. Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss Mohamed Amin, Nairobi police boss George Seda, and Principal Secretary (PS) Interior Raymond Omollo were among those at the hospital.

Detectives from the DCI are reported to be handling the case. Were was in his second term as the Member of Parliament for Kasipul constituency in Homa Bay County, first elected in 2017 on an ODM party ticket.

Before entering politics, he was a well-regarded educationist who served in the Ministry of Education and was a passionate proponent of reforms in Kenya’s public education sector.

In Parliament, he was a member of the Departmental Committee on Blue Economy and Irrigation. He held a Bachelor’s degree and a Diploma in Business Management from Mt Kenya University, along with a Certificate in Computerised Accounting from Meru University. Before his political career, Were held leadership positions within the private sector.

Leaders from ODM and fellow lawmakers condemned the killing with shock and anger, urging authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure justice is served promptly.

"While we join his constituents, the people of the great county of Homabay, his family, colleagues and friends in mourning, we call on the police to investigate the shooting incident and bring the culprits to book," read part of the statement by the ODM party.

Saboti Member of Parliament (MP) Caleb Amisi, who first confirmed his demise, revealed that "I'm deeply saddened by the tragic killing of the MP for Kasipul in Nairobi."

"His commitment to service and leadership will be remembered. My thoughts are with his family and constituents. May he rest in peace," he wrote on his Facebook page.

The car Kasipul MP Ong'ondo Were was using when he was shot dead by gunmen on a motorbike near City Mortuary in Nairobi on April 30, 2025. /FACEBOOK

Governor Kimani Wamatangi Arrested After EACC Detectives Raid His House

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 10:07:53 +0300

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has been arrested. This is just hours after detectives from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) raided his home and office.

Wamatangi has been presented at the commission's offices in Nairobi. Earlier on Tuesday, April 15, the detectives also raided the premises of nine other senior county officials amidst allegations of embezzlement of public funds and conflict of interest.

The 10 public officials have reportedly been under probe for mishandling county funds. For months, local political leaders have been pushing for investigations into the governor, who took over from the disgraced Ferdinand Waititu, now serving time for a Ksh588 million corruption case.

Back in February 2024, Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang'wa urged the EACC to look into the county’s payment system, claiming the governor had ditched the automated system in favor of a manual one.

EACC offices at Integrity Centre in Nairobi. /FILE

According to the senator, this move opened the door for ghost workers, with Ksh390 million allegedly looted through the scheme.

"The reversion to a manual payroll system, under the guise of technical issues, has created the perfect environment for theft. Suspected ghost workers have received over Ksh390 million in fraudulent payments," Thang'wa stated on February 27, 2024.

vHe further claimed that 15 county officers had raked in over Ksh500 million through the scheme, and that the county was unlawfully hiring more than 200 officials through illegal contracts.

"I urge the EACC to act swiftly and decisively in halting this plunder of public resources and bringing those responsible to justice," he stated.

Similar demands were issued by Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung'wah and his Thika Town Alice Ng'ang'a to EACC, adding to the growing pressure for the anti-graft body to take action against the county leadership over allegations of financial mismanagement.

This came after an Auditor General's report revealed glaring inconsistencies in the county government's spending.

MP Ng'ang'a accused the governor of misappropriating funds, while the National Assembly Majority Leader urged the two agencies to launch investigations to get to the bottom of the discrepancies.

The arrest of Wamatangi now marks the second time the county’s leadership has made headlines, with Waititu already behind bars over the multi-million shilling corruption case.

The commission is set to hold a press briefing and release an official statement on the arrest of the current county boss.

Ferdinand Waititu arriving in court for his sentencing on February 13, 2025. /PHOTO

REVEALED: Cause Of KDF Chopper Crash That Killed CDF Francis Ogolla

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 14:05:43 +0300

An engine malfunction has been revealed to be the cause of the chopper crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County that claimed the life of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Francis Ogolla and nine others.

This has been revealed by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in a report released following a military investigation into the crash, which reportedly occurred as early as 2.20 pm on April 18, 2024, close to a year after the crash occurred.

Findings released on Friday, April 11, revealed that technical experts from the Ministry of Defence, along with aviation investigators, determined that the Kenya Air Force helicopter experienced a major engine failure shortly after taking off from West Pokot—ultimately causing the deadly crash.

The report comes amid growing public scrutiny over how the Chief of Defence Forces, one of Kenya’s most heavily protected individuals, could lose their life in a helicopter accident.

Photo of President William Ruto and Chief of Defence Forces, Francis Ogolla. /PCS

"The Huey Helicopter KAF 1501 was assessed to have had a relatively high level of reliability, having conducted several operational and training missions, including VIP flights. Further, the flight was operated by a qualified, competent crew. However, dependent on information from the survivors, after experiencing Complete Power Loss, the Pilots of KAF 1501 attempted to control the Helicopter to a clear Landing Zone but lost positive control of the aircraft," the report obtained by Viral Tea reads in part.

"Based on facts and evidence gathered, and indicated in the findings above, the Board of Inquiry is of the opinion that the Bell UH-1H-II (Huey) Helicopter KAF 1501 crashed due to Engine Malfunction"

Consequently, in accordance with the recommendations of the BOI, the Kenya Air Force has updated and reviewed its Standard Operating Procedures to avert future occurrences.

The former KDF boss was onboard a Bell UH-1B helicopter, nicknamed the "Huey," at the time of the crash. This helicopter was developed in the 1950s and widely used by the United States (US) military during the Vietnam War.

The report considered the following parameters: aircrew and technical aspects, mission planning and execution, weather as well as character, crew cooperation and coordination. Also considered were communication and engine. All of them were deemed to be less likely contributing factors of the crash...except the engine.

"The Helicopter suffered Engine Compressor Stall (Surge), which is consistent with the witness report of a loud bang at the Engine compartment and the Measured Gas Temperature (MGT) gauge, which, when powered, displayed an Over-Exceedance of 914 °C. The Helicopter then experienced a Complete Power Loss, which was followed by 5 a left yaw, drop in Engine RPM, low RPM audio alarm and change in engine noise, as narrated by witnesses on the ground and accident scene reconstruction," added the report.

Witnesses reported to a team dispatched to investigate the accident that the helicopter, a Bell UH-1H Huey II, dropped abruptly and landed on its belly shortly after takeoff, with its propeller not in motion.

The crash impact caused the engine to collapse, and the impact caused the rooftop engine to cave in, crushing the victims on board. An autopsy confirmed that the victims had sustained multiple injuries.

Chain Of KDF Aircraft & Chopper Crashes

The crash involving a military aircraft chopper adds to the series of crashes that have raised concerns regarding the safety of military hardware. This is a trend that stemmed from the government's decision to transfer the management of civilian-owned aircraft to the military in December 2020, leading to the establishment of the National Air Support Department (NASD) at Wilson Airport in Nairobi.

On November 20, 2023, tragedy struck when KAF 1101, a Mi 171e helicopter delivered in 2011, crashed in Buna, Garissa during patrols for Operation Amani Boni.
Another incident occurred on November 9, 2023, involving an AS 550 C3 Fennec delivered in 2018, designated for attack purposes, crashing in Ol Tepesi, Kajiado.
Another accident involved a refurbished Bell UH-1M Huey 2 delivered in 2017, which crashed in Lamu county, and an AS 550 C3 Fennec delivered in 2018, which crashed in Chemolingot, West Pokot, on July 20, 2023, while accompanying Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.

The frequency of these incidents, especially considering the significant number involving a single operator (KDF) within a short span, raised concerns within the aviation industry.

According to the Aviation Safety Network, the Kenya Air Force has lost 12 aircraft since 2012, while the National Police Air Wing has lost 5, underscoring the need for a thorough review of the airworthiness of Kenya's state-owned aircraft.

Screengrab of the wreckage of the chopper crash that killed CDF Francis Ogolla on April 18, 2024. /MINISTRY OF DEFENCE REPORT

Ex-CAS Mercy Mwangangi Appointed SHA CEO

Marvin Chege — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 11:03:28 +0300

Former Health Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Dr Mercy Mwangangi has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale announced this on Friday, April 11, in a statement. "The Ministry of Health wishes to announce the appointment of Dr. Mercy Mwangangi as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Social Health Authority," the statement read in part.

Her appointment follows the conclusion of a competitive recruitment process, which saw a total of 92 applicants, out of which 12 candidates were shortlisted and interviewed.

Mwangangi, a health financing and policy expert, is expected to bring over 15 years of experience in universal health coverage (UHC), institutional reform, and health systems strengthening to the new role.

A photo of the Social Health Authority (SHA) headquarters in Nairobi. /NTV

"A proven leader in health governance, resource mobilization, and strategic partnerships, with an exceptional track record of driving policy transformation and financing reforms in Kenya's healthcare landscape, is poised to lead SHA into the next Chapter," added the statement.

Before today's announcement, Mwangangi was the Senior Health Systems Strengthening Director at AMREF Health Africa, where she spearheaded health financing and health security investments across Africa, securing development assistance funding for primary healthcare and universal coverage expansion.

Duale congratulated Mwangangi on her appointment and wished her all the best. "We are confident that she has what it takes to steer SHA and deliver on the mandate of SHA," added the CS.

Mwangangi was one of 15 candidates who made the shortlist for the position. Other contenders included Kennedy Odhiambo Akello, Robert Mbarani Ingasira, Robert Eloto Abok, Dr. Serem Kimutai Edward, and Wario Boru Tore. Also in the running were Dr. Agrippina Njoki Fernandes, Abdullahi Sheikh Abdirahman, Dr. Musa Nyandusi Lwegado, Dr. Samson Kuhora Kairang’a, Dinah Jemelly Kirwa, and Kandie Ng’ochoch.

The CEO position at SHA became vacant after Elijah Wachira was suspended. He held the role up until November 2024. "This is to inform you of the Resolution of the Board to appoint Mr. Robert Ingasira as Acting Chief Executive Officer, SHA and NHIF, effective immediately, as Mr. Elijah Wachira proceeds on Compulsory Leave," the memo read.

This appointment marks Mwangangi's return to a government position of huge interest for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic period five years ago. The sultry-voiced CAS burst into fame in 2020 during the war against the deadly virus and wowed every Kenyan, especially men, and journalists, mesmerised by her eloquent response to questions.

She joined the University of Nairobi for a degree in Medicine and graduated in 2009. The 36-year-old is an alumnus of Pangani Girls High School, and in 2015, she graduated with a Master of Health Economics and Policy from the University of Adelaide, Australia.

Mwangangi revealed that she opted to pursue medicine as the opposite of a career that was pursued by her mother, which was law.

Former Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Mercy Mwangangi, during a Breakfast Roundtable for Women Leaders in Kenya’s Health Sector. /NATION MEDIA GROUP

15 Butere Girls Students Went Missing, But Accounted For: Malala

Marvin Chege — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:27:04 +0300

Cleophas Malala, the former Kakamega Senator and screenwriter of the controversial play 'Echoes of War,' has raised concerns over missing students from Butere Girls, hours after dramatic scenes that saw the students refuse to perform the controversial play.

Speaking outside Eldama Ravine Police Station on Thursday, April 10, 2025, following a day of turmoil at Melvin Jones International School in Nakuru, Malala reported that 15 students were unaccounted for.

“Our cast comprises 38 girls. We have received information that 15 girls are missing. We want to know where our girls are. Police should produce the girls,” he told reporters after his release.

The former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General, however, did not elaborate on the exact circumstances under which the 15 Butere Girls students went missing.

An abandoned hall where Butere Girls were scheduled to perform their play on April 10, 2025. /RODGERS KIPEMBE

However, he later clarified that they were all accounted for. "There was a report that 15 girls from Butere Girls' were missing, but I want to assure all parents that they have all been accounted for. I have a very competent cast from Butere Girls," he revealed.

Earlier in the day, a bus from Butere Girls was spotted leaving Melvin Jones International School in Nakuru, the location of this year’s Kenya Schools and Colleges National Drama and Music Festival, with students onboard.

It remains unclear whether the students had gone missing before, during, or after the chaotic scenes at Melvin Jones.

The students from Butere Girls abruptly left the performance venue just before their scheduled act. Many were visibly upset, shouting and demanding answers over what they described as harassment, neglect, and intimidation by officials.

The students explained that their departure was not impulsive. They said they had been dealing with a series of frustrations leading up to the performance, including being denied a proper stage setup, with no sound system, no decorations, and no support to help them present their play.

“We were harassed by the police, they took us to the stage with nothing. We sang our national anthem and said we are not going to perform,” one of the girls stated.

Although the girls were allowed to perform, they were denied access to essential resources that other schools received, like microphones, props, and other performance gear. To make matters worse, they weren’t even given an audience for their play, which only deepened their frustration during the nationals.

The saga gained national attention after Malala broke the news of his arrest in connection with the controversial play. In a video shared online on Thursday, April 10, 2025, police are seen lobbing tear gas in the direction of the Butere Girls’ school bus as it was leaving Melvin Jones.

Some students are seen covering their noses and eyes because of the impact of the tear gas. Moments after the tear gas subsided, a number of police officers were seen leading the bus out of the venue.

Meanwhile, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba dismissed allegations that it stopped Butere Girls High School students from performing their controversial play, noting that they voluntarily declined to perform.

Here is the video:

Education CS Julius Ogamba reveals why Butere Girls students failed to perform their ‘Echoes Of War’ play.#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/CLTF4hExiO
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) April 10, 2025

I'm Being Arrested: Cleophas Malala [VIDEO]

Marvin Chege — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 17:25:09 +0300

Former Kakamega senator and United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary-General, Cleophas Malala, has claimed that he has been arrested.

Malala, who took to his social media platforms on Wednesday, April 9, alleged that he was arrested for his role in the drafting of a play titled 'Echoes Of War'.

The former legislator, in a video he shared, confirmed his arrest and expressed frustration over the fact that more than 50 police officers had been deployed to detain him simply for writing a play.

He was also seen confronting officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), demanding to know the reason behind his arrest.

Cleophas Malala claims he has been arrested over the controversial play 'Echoes of War'#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/9C3KBFIWdh
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) April 9, 2025

“I am now being arrested for scripting a play, ECHOES OF WAR. Shame!!!” Cleophas Malala wrote.

“It has reached a point in Kenya where I get arrested for writing a play, and they come with fifty police officers. What crime have I committed by writing a play script?”

Malala further claimed that officers from the DCIO were being used to arrest him solely because he wrote the play.

The play, Echoes of War, was performed by Butere Girls High School during the high school Drama and Film Festivals. However, the school faced a major setback when the play was controversially disqualified from the Western Region winners’ gala. As a result, the drama club was told to send its members home, bringing their preparations for the national competition to a halt.

This decision came despite the school's strong track record — they had won at the Butere Sub-County level and placed third at the Western Regional Drama Festivals.

But in a turn of events on April 3, Justice Wilfrida Okwany ordered the school’s principal, Jennifer Omondi, to recall the 50 students involved in the production so they could participate in the Nakuru national event. The court also halted any directives preventing the school from joining the national festival.

Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, then at Basic Education, later confirmed that Butere Girls High School would indeed perform Echoes of War at the ongoing Kenya National Drama and Film Festivals in Nakuru County.

Speaking at the official opening of the 63rd edition of the annual schools and colleges festival at Melvin Jones Hall in Nakuru, Bitok assured the public that the students would showcase their play as scheduled. “There were issues raised earlier, but they have been resolved. I don’t want us to dwell on them—I can assure the public that the play will go on,” said Bitok.

The play explores the challenges faced by young people in their fight for civil liberties, touching on themes like social justice, governance, and other issues that deeply connect with Generation Z.

Set in the imaginary Royal Velvet Emirates, the story unfolds in a post-civil war nation where youth lead efforts to rebuild critical institutions and push for reforms in healthcare, education, and the justice system.

The main character, Mustafa, is a final-year IT student who creates Telemedicine — a platform that links patients with doctors globally. But his past political commentary on social media, particularly about the war, puts him in conflict with those in power.

Another central figure, Anifa Imana, is an AI system that symbolizes both the promise and the risks of using technology in governance.

Through these characters and themes, the play critiques how digital platforms influence politics and emphasizes the pivotal role young people play in driving progress and societal transformation.

Malala has, of late, been critical of President William Ruto's government. Recently, he called out the Head of State over his projects, watering down their significance as compared to his predecessors.

While speaking at a Sunday service at PCEA Kasarani East on April 6, Malala stated that President Ruto currently lacks a major project that would define a strong legacy once he leaves office.

He specifically took aim at the affordable housing initiative — a key part of Ruto’s agenda — dismissing the units as mere “bedsitters” and arguing that they fall short of qualifying as a transformative national project.

"We remember that the former president, Mwai Kibaki, brought free primary education and the Thika Super Highway, and also for stabilising the economy during his time. During the tenure of President Uhuru Kenyatta, we saw the construction of the Nairobi Expressway, the SGR, and Mau Mau roads, but when we come to Ruto, what will we remember about him? Has he built a road?" he posed.

"Every president has their legacy, and we want to challenge William Ruto, this is your third year in power, what have you done? Your work is launching bedsitters. How can a whole president launch a bedsitter and then pose for a photo with a child in that house?"

President William Ruto (middle) alongside former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and UDA SG Cleophas Malala at the party headquarters on APRIL 2, 2024. /CLEOPHAS MALALA

KDF Deployed To Mombasa City

Marvin Chege — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 16:02:38 +0300

Defence Cabinet Secretary (CS) Soipan Tuya has gazetted the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to Mombasa City.

This marks the second ever instance that the military has been deployed to civilian streets. Tuya's predecessor, Aden Duale, had gazetted military deployment to support the National Police Service (NPS) in restoring normalcy in the country at the height of the Gen Z-led protests on June 25, 2024.

In the gazette notice, though, dated April 7, the CS explained that the deployment was to assist the Ministry of Defence and the Mombasa County Government in the emergency response to an eleven-storey building that began sinking.

The building, which began sinking on April 2, poses a significant danger to the residents of Mombasa County.

Soipan Tuya during her vetting as Defence CS Nominee on August 1, 2024. /NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

“Pursuant to Article 241 (3) (h) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, read with sections 31 (1) (a), (c) and 34 (2) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act, notice is given that on the 7th April, 2025, the Kenya Defence Forces was deployed to assist the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and the County Government of Mombasa in the emergency response towards an eleven Storey building situated at Kilifi Comer, Fayaz Estate along Abdel Nasser Road, Mombasa County, that begun sinking on 2nd April, 2025, endangering adjacent residential and commercial buildings,” read the notice in part.

Tuya: KDF Deployment Still Active Amid Ongoing Court Case

In March, Cabinet Secretary Tuya confirmed that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) deployment order issued in June 2024 is still in effect. She explained that the directive hasn't been revoked due to an ongoing court case challenging the move.

Speaking before the Senate, Tuya defended the deployment, describing it as a necessary step to assist the National Police Service in restoring order during the nationwide protests.

"On whether the deployment has been revoked. No, the deployment has not been revoked. There is a matter actively in court, but I would also want us to again remember that the deployment of June 25th is in support of the National Police Service, just like the other secondary operations that are within the country," Tuya said.

Her remarks highlighted President William Ruto’s constitutional authority, as commander-in-chief, to authorize military deployment during times of civil unrest, such as the recent Gen Z-led protests.

Tuya also emphasized that military involvement is carefully regulated and not done at random. She pointed out that each deployment is governed by gazette notices that clearly define its scope, duration, and the operational boundaries of KDF’s role.

Mombasa Governor Unveils Key Safety Measures Ahead of Building Demolition

Meanwhile, the building, located off Abdel Nasser Road, was revealed to be suffering from structural integrity issues. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff, in a statement issued on Tuesday, April 8, outlined critical safety and logistical plans ahead of the planned demolition set for 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 9.

Patient Relocation: Of the 504 patients at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, 380 are scheduled for discharge, while the remaining 124—including eight in the ICU—will be relocated to Utange and Port Reitz Hospitals. Ambulances from the County Government, the Kenya Red Cross, and Kthe enya Navy have been mobilized to facilitate the transfers.
Mandatory Evacuation Zone: A 1.2-kilometre radius around the demolition site has been declared an evacuation zone. This includes areas such as Digo Road, Hospital Road, Jomo Kenyatta Avenue, Mwembe Tayari, and parts of Ronald Ngala Road. Beach Management Units have also been directed to clear nearby waters to ensure safety.
Security Measures: The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) will control the inner perimeter of the evacuation zone, while the National Police Service and County Inspectorate will manage the outer areas. Traders within the affected zone have been ordered to vacate the area by 2:00 p.m. today.
Traffic and Public Advisory: Nyali Bridge will be temporarily closed to all traffic one hour before the demolition begins. Residents and commuters are urged to adjust their travel plans to avoid delays. Additionally, all County emergency response staff currently on leave have been recalled to boost manpower during the operation.
Community Sensitization: Local administrators and community health promoters have been tasked with educating nearby households on evacuation protocols and safety precautions to ensure full compliance.
Emergency Response and Recovery Plan: Port Reitz Hospital has been designated as the main emergency response center. Debris removal and restoration work at the site will begin once military personnel declare the area safe for access.

Bird's eye view of Nyali Bridge. /FACEBOOK

Ruto Fires Justin Muturi, Reshuffles Cabinet

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 13:35:34 +0300

Hours after labelling him as 'incompetent', President William Ruto has fired Justin Muturi as Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS).

This is as he announced on Wednesday, March 26, administrative changes impacting his Cabinet. As part of the new appointments, he nominated Hannah Wendot to lead the Ministry of Gender and Culture, while Aden Duale was reassigned to the Health Cabinet Ministry.

As part of the latest Cabinet reshuffle, the president appointed Deborah Barasa as the new Cabinet Secretary for the Environment Ministry, meaning both Deborah and Duale swapped places.

Muturi was meanwhile immediately replaced by Geoffrey Ruku in the Public Service docket.

CS Aden Duale, who has now been moved to the Ministry of Health. /FILE

"His Excellency, the President, has today instituted further changes to the senior ranks of the executives within Cabinet. By the Presidential Action, the Cabinet is set to achieve its constitutional full strength," read part of a statement shared by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed.

Mohamed stated that the changes are intended to strengthen the Cabinet’s ability to drive Kenya’s socioeconomic transformation.

"The nominees are expected to bring to Cabinet not only the knowledge and experience acquired throughout their illustrious careers but, above all, their wisdom accumulated from their inspiring and diverse life journeys," read part of Ruto's statement.

Following the announcement, Hannah Webot and Geoffrey Ruku will undergo parliamentary vetting. If approved, their names will be forwarded to the President for formal appointment.

Hannah Teriki Wendot Cheptumo is a Kenyan lawyer who is the wife of the late Baringo Senator William Cheptumo. The nomination fulfils a promise that President Ruto had made to the late legislator.

Before his nomination as Public Service CS, Ruku served as the Member of Parliament for Mbeere North. He replaces Muturi, who was dismissed after holding the position for eight months since August last year.

Muturi, who previously held various roles in President Ruto's administration, has been a vocal critic of the government, accusing it of allegedly orchestrating the abduction of young Kenyans.

This move comes hours after President Ruto called Muturi 'fairly incompetent' over his tenure as the Attorney General, despite him later appointing him to his broad-based Cabinet.

According to Ruto, Muturi's incompetence was linked to the oversight of legal processes related to the creation of a Waqf Commission, which would be responsible for managing Islamic endowments.

“I had a problem with the AG who was there before—he was fairly incompetent. But now, I have a very competent lady in the position, and I can assure you that the issues of Wakf will be sorted out within months,” Ruto stated.

Muturi would later respond by saying "Under the Waqf Act no.8 of 2022, there’s no provision for a “Muslim Endowment Fund “. It must be understood that a waqf is a religious, charitable, or benevolent endowment by a person who professes Muslim faith and is managed by the Waqf Commission."

On January 12, Muturi stirred controversy by naming senior government officials allegedly linked to the abduction of his son, Leslie, during the June Gen-Z protests. Since then, he has consistently demanded action on the issue, frequently causing tensions within the government he serves.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, in a recent interview with Al Jazeera, claimed that Muturi was on the verge of being sacked, claiming he knows 'he is on his way out'.

However, the President had been reluctant to relieve him of his current duties amidst rumours of a Cabinet reshuffle to accommodate allies of former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, well, until today.

Muturi served as Attorney General from October 2022 until July 2024, when President Ruto dissolved his cabinet, leading to Muturi's departure from the Attorney General position. He later clarified that he resigned voluntarily to allow the President to reorganize the government.

Public Service CS Justin Muturi on Citizen TV’s JKLive show on January 12, 2025. /JASE MWANGI.CITIZEN TV

Ruto Picks Raila Allies In Reshuffle Of PSs

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 14:36:46 +0300

President William Ruto has carried out a reshuffle of principal secretaries, creating six new positions and nominating 14 new officials, including some aligned with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

According to a statement from State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed on Thursday, Ruto elevated Amos Gathecha from the public service department to the role of Deputy Head of Public Services.

In a series of changes, Prof. Edward Kisiangani from the ICT Ministry has been promoted to serve as a senior advisor and a member of the president's council of economic advisors.

President William Ruto during a Cabinet meeting on March 11, 2025. /PCS

The president nominated 14 candidates for the Principal Secretary positions including Jane Kare Imbunya (State Department for Public Services and Human Capital Development), Regina Akoth Ombam (State Department for Trade), Cyrell Wagunda Odede (Public Investment and Asset Management), Caroline Wanjiru Karugu (allied to Raila, East African Community Affairs), Oluga Fredrick Ouma (Medical Service), and Ahmed Abdisalan Ibrahim(National Government Co-ordination).

Others include Judith Naiyai Pareno (Justice Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs), Bonface Makokha (Economic Planning), Prof Abdulrazak Shaukat(Science, Research and Innovation), Stephen Isaboke(Broadcast and Telecommunication), Micheal Lenasalon (Devolution), Fikirini Katoi Kajindi(Youth Affairs), Carren Ageng'o Achieng (Children Welfare Services) and Aden Abdi Millah(Shipping and Maritime Affairs).

As part of a broader restructuring to capitalize on emerging economic sectors, President Ruto has also reassigned key officials.

"In accordance with Article 155(4) of the Constitution, the following principal Secretaries have been re-assigned as stated," the president stated in the official statement.

Prof. Julius Bitok has been moved from the State Department for Immigration to the State Department for Basic Education, a move which sees him swap positions with Belio Kipsang, who takes Bitok's place at the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services.

Teresia Mbaika was also reassigned to the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development. Mbaika previously served as the PS State Department for Devolution.

Other beneficiaries in the reshuffle are Ishmael Madey who was reassigned to the State Department for Special Programmes and Harry Kimtai who was reassigned from the State Department for Medical Services to the State Department for Mining.

The president also reassigned Elijah Mwangi to the state department for sports previously held by Peter Tum.

President William Ruto and other Cabinet members during a Cabinet meeting at State House Nairobi on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. /PCS

Ruto Nominates Susan Nakhumicha For United Nations Role

Marvin Chege — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 14:27:08 +0300

President William Ruto has nominated former Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Susan Nakhumicha to a new diplomatic role following calls to have her return to government following her dismissal from Cabinet in July last year.

On Thursday, March 20, President Ruto nominated Nakhmicha to serve as the Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission of Kenya to the United Nations Habitat in Nairobi. This is according to an announcement by Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service.

Nakhumicha was nominated along with James Buyekane Muhati and Abdi Dubat Fidhow, who were appointed as Consul-Generals in Guangzhou, China, and Arusha, Tanzania, respectively.

Additionally, President Ruto selected Peter Tum as Kenya's Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and nominated Alfred K'Ombundo as Deputy Head of Mission in Belgium.

Former Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Susan Nakhumicha at her office on May 8, 2024. /MINISTRY OF HEALTH

"Per Article 132 (2) (e) of the Constitution, His Excellency the President has nominated the following persons to serve as Ambassadors, Consuls-General, and Deputy Heads of Mission in Kenya's foreign missions abroad," read part of the notice.

According to Hussein Mohamed, the nominations have been submitted to the National Assembly for consideration and approval in fulfilment of the legal requirements set out under Kenya's apex law.

The nomination came days after Nakhumicha admitted that she was not doing well since being sent home as CS in July 2024. Nakhumicha was speaking on Friday, March 7, during the late former IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati's funeral service in Trans Nzoia, where she opened up on her financial challenges following her exit from Cabinet, thus opting to venture into cabbage farming.

In her speech, she asked Kenyans to pray for her future, acknowledging that her departure from President Ruto's Cabinet resulted from the Gen Z protests.

"I was the Minister of Health, and the Gen Z came wakaanguka na mimi. The Bishop preached and said that during Moi's time, announcements were made on the radio; ours was announced on TV as we waited. I just heard that the whole Cabinet had been sent home and saw people were very happy.

"The Bishop said that we should focus on God, and since that day, that is what I have done. Right now, I am farming because, since that day, I have had no job. I do sell cabbages. I plant cabbages in Cherangany. continue praying for me so that the next time I can praise God, too," she stated.

A day later, Kiminini Member of Parliament Maurice Kakai revealed that Nakhumicha was still capable of holding another office in government, leading in calls by leaders from the Western region for Ruto to recall Nakhumicha, though in a different capacity.

Should she be successfully appointed, Nakhumicha will serve as Kenya’s official envoy to UN-Habitat, with her responsibilities including:

Representing Kenya’s Interests – Advocating for Kenya’s priorities in urban development, housing, and sustainable human settlements within UN-Habitat.
Diplomatic Engagement – Coordinating with other UN member states, agencies, and stakeholders to influence global and regional policies on sustainable urbanization and human settlements.
Policy Development & Implementation – Contributing to discussions and decisions on urban planning, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability, aligning UN-Habitat initiatives with Kenya’s national urban development goals.
Liaising with the Kenyan Government – Ensuring that Kenya’s commitments and obligations under UN-Habitat programs are effectively implemented and integrated into national policies.
Promoting International Cooperation – Facilitating partnerships, funding opportunities, and technical exchanges between Kenya and other nations to enhance sustainable urban development.
Hosting & Coordinating UN Activities – Since UN-Habitat is based in Nairobi, the representative also plays a key role in organizing and overseeing events, summits, and collaborations related to urban development.

The former Health Cabinet Secretary was removed from office in July 2024 following widespread anti-government protests across the country. Nakhumicha, along with several other ministers, was dismissed after public dissatisfaction with the government. She was succeeded by Deborah Barasa on August 8, 2024.

After her dismissal, Nakhumicha remarked that her distinct name made it difficult for people to stop recognizing her as the Health Cabinet Secretary, which in turn affected her ability to interact freely.

Former Health CS Susan Nakhumicha at her cabbage farm on December 14, 2024. /SUSAN NAKHUMICHA

NTSA Suspends Super Metro Licence, Explains Why

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 08:56:43 +0300

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has revoked Super Metro Limited’s operator license.

This will be in force until the company meets all requirements outlined in the Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014, along with other stipulated conditions.

In an official notice dated Thursday, March 20 and obtained by Viral Tea, NTSA also warned the public against using vehicles affiliated with the SACCO.

"This is to notify the Public that the Authority has suspended Super Metro Limited’s operator licence until the Company fully complies with the Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014 and other set conditions.

An image of a new fleet of Super Metro buses unveiled during launch on November 4, 2021. /SUPER METRO

"The decision was necessitated by the need to ensure the Company is not only compliant, but that it has put in place safety measures to protect the lives of its passengers and other road users," the notice read in part.

In the comprehensive statement, NTSA revealed that in compliance with the Traffic Act and the NTSA (Operation of Passenger Service Vehicles) 2014, 523 vehicles belonged to the popular Nairobi Metropolitan Sacco, but only 15 vehicles had expired inspection certificates, and eight vehicles had expired Road Service Licences (RSL).

NTSA noted that a total of five vehicles had expired speed limiter certificates and 88 vehicles were not
transmitting speed data. Further, 171 vehicles had no speed limiter records, seven had no speed limiter vendor details and 109 vehicles were operating beyond the speed limit of 80 kilometres per hour (km/hr).

Additionally, the driving credentials of the drivers assigned to the Company’s portal were deemed not to meet the required qualifications which presents a major road safety risk.

"The Company was also in violation of the provisions of the NTSA (Operation of Public Service Vehicles) Regulations 2014, Section 5, sub-section 1(e) which states: A person desirous of operating public service vehicles shall be a member of a body corporate which shall comply with labour laws and regulations including in respect to statutory deductions, health and safety of the workplace, Work Injuries Benefits Act (Cap. 236) insurance, statutory leave days and written contracts of employment for staff," added the statement.

As a consequence, Super Metro was ordered to present the 294 vehicles with various violations to the respective speed limiter vendors for compliance checks. Further, it must present 294 vehicles with violations for compliance inspection at Likoni Motor Vehicle Inspection Centre and obtain compliance reports for all the vehicles.

Super Metro was also ordered to present 42 drivers, out of the 109) drivers with speed violations, for a retest at the Likoni Driver Test Centre. "We note that 64 of the Company’s drivers failed a retest on 10th March 2025 and this led to the suspension of their respective driving licences," added NTSA.

The SACCO was also directed to immediately disengage unqualified drivers for the safety of all road
users and to present signed contracts for their drivers and other staff including proof of compliance with Section 5(1)(e), six months record of staff payroll, PAYE, NSSF and SHA remittances.

Super Metro was also ordered to conduct Road Safety Sensitization for ALL its drivers and submit to the Authority the sensitization report, photos, minutes of the session and the attendance register, an exercise that shall be facilitated by NTSA officers.

NTSA will further conduct a Compliance Audit on the company, which has been in the spotlight for the wrong reasons over a series of road accidents that have resulted in multiple fatalities. The most recent incident, on March 12, involved a tout allegedly pushing a passenger out of a moving bus due to an unpaid fare.

Although the management responded by taking action against the driver and suspending him, numerous complaints have been raised about other drivers engaging in overspeeding and reckless driving.

A photo of a Super Metro matatu along Thika Road. /SUPER METRO

High Court Upholds Governor Kawira Mwangaza's Impeachment

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:27:57 +0300

The High Court has upheld Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza's impeachment by the Senate.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye, in his ruling on Friday, March 14, upheld the Senate's decision, which validated her removal by the Meru County Assembly on grounds of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and serious constitutional violations.

Mwamuye stated that the Senate followed constitutional procedures in handling Mwangaza's impeachment. He also rejected Mwangaza's petition alleging irregularities in the process, ruling that she had not provided sufficient evidence to support her claims.

“The amended petition dated 23rd December 2024, which is the subject of the proceedings herein, is found to be without merit and is dismissed accordingly.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye of the High Court during a court session on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. /KALONZO MUSYOKA

“The Gazette Notice No 10351 Volume CXXV1 No 130, dated 20th August published on 21st August 2024 and issued by the respondent communicating the decision and the resolution of the senate to remove the petitioner from office as the Governor of Meru county by way of impeachment is affirmed,” Justice Mwamuye ruled.

With this ruling, the judge has effectively determined Mwangaza's fate, following her prolonged legal battles to retain her seat after impeachment. However, she still has the option to appeal the decision in higher courts in a bid to revive her political career.

Prior to the ruling, Mwangaza had expressed confidence that the courts would rule in her favor, even issuing a warning to her critics. She attributed her troubles to political rivals within the Meru County government, whom she accused of fearing a direct contest with her.

Despite her impeachment, Mwangaza had declared her intention to run in the 2027 General Election, but this now seems uncertain.

Following her removal, Meru Deputy Governor Rev. Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia is set to assume the governorship for the remainder of the term. According to the 2010 Constitution of Kenya, this transition ensures continuity in county leadership, preventing a power vacuum in such a crucial position.

Mwangaza was removed from office on August 21, 2024, after the Senate upheld her impeachment on grounds of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and serious constitutional violations.

On August 8, 2024, MCAs voted to impeach her on charges of abuse of office, gross misconduct and gross violation of the Constitution and other laws.

40 out of 69 members of the county assembly voted in favour of the impeachment motion tabled by Deputy Majority Party Leader Zipporah Kinya, meeting the two-thirds threshold. Another 17 voted against the impeachment motion, while three did not vote.

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza appearing before the Senate on August 19, 2024. /PARLIAMENT OF KENYA

Ruto Orders Removal Of Charges On IDs

Marvin Chege — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:40:33 +0300

President William Ruto has declared that Kenyans will now obtain national identification documents (IDs) free of charge.

This marks a shift from the previous government directive, which required citizens to pay Ksh 300 for new applications and Ksh 1,000 for renewals.

While addressing the public at Ayany in Kibra on Thursday, during the final day of his four-day working tour of Nairobi County, the President directed all government registration agencies to adhere to the new policy.

"I want to announce here at Kibra today that IDs should be issued without any charges and with a plan that is free from any sort of discrimination against Kenyans," Ruto announced.

President William Ruto speaking in Mutuini Fresh Produce Market in Dagoretti South Constituency, Nairobi on March 12, 2025. /PCS

Additionally, the President ordered that no Kenyan should face discriminatory questioning based on their background when applying for these essential documents.

"I had said that matters of being discriminated in terms of issuing IDs should be done away with. Every citizen should be given an ID card," Ruto asserted.

Ruto issued the directive in response to an appeal made during the rally by Kibra Member of Parliament Mwalimu Peter Orero. The MP urged the President to address the challenges faced by thousands of Nubian community members who had been unable to obtain identification documents due to stringent requirements.

Orero requested Ruto to not only issue the directive but also ensure its formal gazettement, similar to a previous order on ID applications in the porous North Eastern region.

However, the announcement is expected to spark mixed reactions from the public and leaders, some of whom have previously criticized Ruto's 'roadside policy declarations.'

The cost of obtaining ID cards has long been a contentious issue, with Kenyans voicing concerns over government-imposed fees for applications and renewals.

Political figures, including People's Liberation Party of Kenya leader Martha Karua, have condemned the charges, arguing that they were a deliberate attempt to prevent unemployed youth from voting in the 2027 elections.

In May 2024, then-Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki formalized the revised fees, requiring Kenyans to pay Ksh 300 for new applications and Ksh 1,000 for renewals.

Processed IDs at Nyayo House in Nairobi County. /JULIUS BITOK

Ruto, Raila Officially Sign Deal: List Of Agreements

Marvin Chege — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:13:43 +0300

After months of speculation, President William Ruto and Raila Odinga have officially joined forces.

The party leaders of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday, March 7, which brought ODM into the Kenya Kwanza administration.

The agreement was made public during an event attended by prominent leaders, including politicians from both Kenya Kwanza-affiliated parties and the ODM party.

Key agreements between the two leaders include the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, tackling youth unemployment, and enforcing the two-thirds gender rule.

President William Ruto and Raila Odinga sign partnership through the Kenya Kwanza - ODM Framework Agreement on March 7, 2025. /CITIZEN TV.VIRAL TEA KE

Additionally, Ruto and Raila are committed to fostering inclusivity among Kenyans, regardless of religious background, emphasizing that this will create equal opportunities for public appointments.

ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna stated that the leaders also pledged to uphold leadership and integrity by curbing excessive luxury among officials and establishing a legal framework to address conflicts of interest in government institutions.

Furthermore, they signed an agreement to safeguard and promote the rule of law while upholding constitutional principles.

The agreement also urged the government to uphold the right to peaceful assembly and ensure compensation for all pending claims of rights victims.

President Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also signed a deal for an immediate audit of the national debt, outlining how each loan acquired by Kenya was utilized.

Additionally, they committed to eradicating corruption and curbing the misuse of public resources, particularly by government officials.

As part of the broad-based government framework, they pledged to safeguard devolution as outlined in the 2010 Constitution, which established the 47 counties.

Here are the key points of the 10-point deal:

Full implementation of the NADCO (National Dialogue Committee) report
Inclusivity in budgetary allocations and public appointments
Protect and strengthen devolution
Economic investment in the youth
Leadership, integrity & end of opulence
The right to peaceful assembly, compensation of all pending claims of rights victims
Audit of national debt and how it was used
Fight corruption
Stopping wastage of public resources
Protect the sovereignty of the people, stop abductions, respect constitutionalism and the rule of law and respect press freedom.

This development came a day after the former prime minister wrapped up his two-week nationwide consultative tour, gathering Kenyans' views on his next political step. This is after his African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson campaigns flopped at the elections, losing to Djibouti's Mahamoud Youssouf after six rounds.

Raila was eliminated in narrow circumstances in the sixth round, leaving Mahamoud with an open road to victory in the AUC elections and making him the seventh African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson since its establishment in 2002. The other candidate, Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar, finished last.

Youssouf secured victory in the seventh round after Raila was eliminated, earning 33 votes to claim the seat for the next four years, meeting the required two-thirds majority.

ODM Leader Raila Odinga delivers a speech on June 5, 2024. /MUSALIA MUDAVADI

Fire Breaks Out At Nairobi National Park

Marvin Chege — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 19:32:59 +0300

A section of the Nairobi National Park is currently on fire.

The fire was reported to have started in the evening hours of Friday, February 28. Videos and images seen by Viral Tea revealed that it could be spotted in areas that include Mlolongo and Syokimau.

The footage showed black smoke in the evening hours and a huge blaze of red and yellow flames into the night, with the fire raging on by the time of going to press.

The extent of the fire within the park and how far it has spread remains uncertain. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the blaze started as a small bushfire but rapidly expanded.

Screengrab of a fire outbreak at Nairobi National Park. /X.MSMATEI

The fire reportedly ignited near the Standard Gauge Railway line and is rapidly spreading. Officials have not yet released a statement on the incident.

However, a group known as 'Friends of the Nairobi National Park' claims that Kenya Wildlife Service firefighters are already on-site battling the blaze.

On Thursday, February 27, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) banned the burning of vegetation near or within forest reserves in response to the rising cases of forest fires across the country.

In a statement, KFS announced that anyone planning to burn vegetation near forests must submit a written notice to either KFS or the police at least two days in advance for approval.

"Since January 2025, significant fires have been reported in Isiolo, Garissa, and coastal ecosystems. Notably, there has been an exponential increase in forest fire incidents over the past week," the statement read.

"KFS is actively collaborating with the Community Forest Association, the public, the Kenya Wildlife Service, national and county government agencies, other government agencies, and conservation partners in the ongoing fire suppression efforts."

So far this year, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has recorded over 180 fire incidents nationwide, leading to the destruction of 1,357.97 hectares of vegetation within gazetted forests in the Mau, North Rift, Coast, Central Highlands, and Eastern Conservancies.

KFS issued its directives after fires erupted in the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests, damaging several sections of the woodlands in the Embaringo section of the Aberdare Forest.

Meanwhile, this fire outbreak comes a week after a fire torched a section of grassland at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, though it did not affect normal operations at the airport.

Screengrabs of part of JKIA land on fire, Friday, February 21, 2025.

High Court Issues Orders Blocking CJ Martha Koome Ouster

Marvin Chege — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:24:30 +0300

The High Court has temporarily barred the Judicial Service Commission from considering petitions aimed at kicking out Chief Justice Martha Koome.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi made the ruling on Friday, February 21, which not only saves CJ Koome from facing an ouster from her seat but also the Supreme Court judges such as her deputy Philomena Mwilu, justices Mohamed Ibrahim, Smokin Wanjala, Njoki Ndung’u and Isaac Lenaola, and William Ouko.

‘That a conservatory order is hereby issued staying and/or suspending JSC Petition No. 35 of 2024—Dari Limited & 5 others vs Hon. Chief Justice Karambu Koome & 6 Others and JSC Petition No. 3 of 2025 Nelson Havi vs Hon. Chief Justice Martha Karambu Koome & 6 Others pending the hearing and determination of this Application inter partes,” Justice Mugambi said.

The orders originate from a petition submitted by Justice Njoki Ndung’u, requesting the court to halt proceedings aimed at removing the seven Supreme Court judges.

The Supreme Court judges had earlier moved to sue the JSC over the petitions which sought to remove the judges, terming them a 'mockery of the justice system'.

“The 1st Respondent (JSC) has no jurisdiction whatsoever to entertain any petition with regard to a Court, whether disguised as a petition initiated against all the members constituting the said Court individually or against the Court itself,” Koome stated in her petition filed to the High Court.

“Indeed, it is the Supreme Court which has the ultimate authority over the 1st Respondent on matters of removal of Judges of Superior Courts."

While this latest ruling offers the President of the Supreme Court some respite, this is the first in a series of upcoming rulings stemming from a petition filed by former Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi and others, seeking the removal of all seven judges of the Supreme Court.

On January 13, Havi submitted a petition calling for the ouster of Chief Justice Koome and the entire Apex Court bench over alleged gross misconduct. He also accused the judges of misbehaviour among other issues, urging the JSC to compel President William Ruto to form a tribunal and begin the process of firing the seven judges.

Havi's concerns stem from the Supreme Court's ruling that prohibited lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi and his law firm from representing clients before the court, a restriction imposed in January 2024.

In response, the JSC directed the judges involved to submit their explanations regarding the allegations, sparking a legal battle between the judges and their employer, the JSC. The judges countered by stating that the Commission had no authority to review the decisions and/or judges of the highest court in the land.

The JSC had instructed the seven Supreme Court judges to submit their responses to the petition seeking their removal, only for the High Court in Narok to issue a ruling dismissing a petition that sought to compel Supreme Court judges to respond to proceedings aimed at their removal from office.

Justice Charles Kariuki ordered the commission to rescind its directive requiring CJ Koome, Mwilu, and Justices Ibrahim, Wanjala, Ndung’u, Lenaola, and Ouko to respond to three petitions or any others.

The petitions before Justice Mugambi will be mentioned again on Wednesday, March 5. The case notably drew political attention with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claiming that the petitions were a scheme of President Ruto's government to disband the entire Supreme Court before the 2027 general elections.

Collage of CJ Martha Koome and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. /JUDICIARY. RIGATHI GACHAGUA

Former IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati Is Dead

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 06:55:32 +0300

Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Wafula Chebukati is reported to have passed on while undergoing treatment in a Nairobi hospital.

Chebukati had reportedly been in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for nearly a week, and had been receiving medical care at home before his condition worsened, prompting his admission.

Details regarding his illness remain private as well as the cause of hsi death, with close family sources confirming that he had been battling health complications for some time.

Prior to his death, Chebukati served as the IEBC chairperson for six years until 2023 when he retired. In the course of his tenure, he presided over the 2017 and 2022 elections.

Born on December 22, 1961, the 63 year old studied at the Lenana High School in Nairobi County, before he later joined the University of Nairobi (UoN) to study Bachelor's degree in Law.

Chebukati also pursued a master's degree in Business administration from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

As a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and International Court of Justice (ICJ), Chebukati came into the limelight in 2007 when he vied for the Saboti Member of Parliament seat.

As a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Chebukati came into the limelight in 2007 when he vied for the Saboti Member of Parliament seat.

However, despite vying for the seat on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket, the former IEBC chairperson lost the elections to Eugene Wamalwa who at the time vied on a Party of National Unity (PNU) ticket.

It was after the loss that Chebukati resigned from ODM and applied for the IEBC chairperson role to which he was nominated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

In 1990, Chebukati tied the knot with his wife Mary Chebukati and was blessed with three children, a girl and two boys, Jonathan, and Emmanuel and a daughter, Rachael, who he now leaves behind.

As of 2022, Chebukati's net worth was estimated at Ksh120 million, while his gross salary as IEBC chairperson was approximately Ksh900,000.

Sudan Recalls Ambassador To Kenya Days After Nairobi Hosted Rebel Groups

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 14:56:41 +0300

The government of Sudan has recalled its ambassador Kamal Jubbara from Nairobi, Kenya. This comes after the Kenyan capital played host to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a rebel group currently battling the Sudanese army for control of the country.

"Sudan recalls its ambassador to Kenya—again—days after Nairobi played host to sanctioned RSF for their ‘parallel government’ plans. This marks the second diplomatic walkout in a deepening rift between Khartoum and Nairobi," posted award-winning African journalist Mwangi Maina on X on Thursday, February 20.

Viral Tea has authoritatively learnt that the ambassador was recalled for consultations in protest of the meeting. This is the second diplomatic withdrawal in just over a year, following the January 2024 recall after President William Ruto met with RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo in Nairobi.

The decision comes after strong criticism from the military-led government in Port Sudan, which accused President Ruto of violating high-level assurances that Kenya would not support RSF political activities. This latest dispute underscores the increasing diplomatic tensions between Khartoum and Nairobi.

Leaders and supporters of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) who gathered in Nairobi on February 18, 2025 for the launch of a parallel government. /EASTLEIGH VOICE

On Tuesday, February 18, RSF hosted an event in Nairobi as an initial step toward establishing an alliance of political figures and armed groups to reinforce its influence in Sudan.

A treaty was reportedly set to be signed in three days, granting RSF the authority to form a separate government and govern specific regions in Sudan.

This development came a day after the Kenyan government through Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi defended the meeting in Nairobi organized by the RSF and Sudanese civil groups, claiming that it upholds Kenya’s tradition of offering impartial mediation to conflicting parties.

"We note that this is not the first time groups in Sudan have sought solutions to their crisis by leveraging the good offices of neighbouring countries. Indeed, in January 2024, parties and stakeholders to the Sudanese conflict met in a neighbouring country to chart a way forward on inclusive dialogue and return to civilian rule. Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudanese civilian groups' tabling of a roadmap and proposed leadership in Nairobi is compatible with Kenya's role in peace negotiation which enjoins her to provide non-partisan platforms to conflict parties to seek resolutions," Mudavadi stated in part.

"Kenya therefore reiterates its solidarity with the people of Sudan as they define their destiny and future political governance through inclusive dialogue. Kenya is confident that the Sudanese people will find a quick solution to the current situation, and in a manner that safeguards its security and that of the region. On its part, Kenya remains ready, individually and collectively through IGAD, AU, and other regional mechanisms, to support any efforts agreed upon by the people of Sudan, in ensuring stability and prosperity of their country and the entire Horn of Africa region."

Mudavadi added that the need for a delicate balance between security objectives and a return to civilian rule in Sudan should be prioritized to achieve democracy and prosperity for the people of Sudan.

On Wednesday, Izzadin Al Safi, the Special Advisor to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Commander, addressed the visit to Kenya, refuting allegations that it was aimed at forming a government.

“We are in Kenya not to establish a government, nor are we here to govern from outside Sudan. When the time comes to form a government, we will return to Sudan, where the people will decide their future," he said.

Al Safi reiterated the Kenyan government's stance that Nairobi was chosen as a neutral venue for facilitation and dialogue, making it an ideal location to address the underlying causes of the Sudan crisis, which has displaced approximately 11 million people.

Earlier, the Nairobi meeting did not sit well with the Sudanese government, as the country’s foreign minister argued that the event contradicted Kenya’s pledge to help end violence in Sudan. The minister also accused Kenya of fostering division among African nations by openly meddling in the internal affairs of certain states.

The foreign minister claimed that the primary objective of yesterday’s meeting was to set up a parallel government in certain regions of Sudan and overthrow the existing regime. Additionally, Kenya’s decision to host the RSF was seen as a direct violation of the United Nations Charter, the Constitutive Act of the African Union, and the fundamental principles of the modern international order.

Hostilities in Sudan escalated in April 2023 following a power struggle between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, leader of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The conflict has been marked by extreme violence, causing widespread destruction of Sudan’s infrastructure. Additionally, a health crisis has emerged, with over 70 percent of medical facilities damaged or destroyed due to the war.

Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi speaking at State House on February 10, 2025. /PCS

MP Malulu Injendi Is Dead

Marvin Chege — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 15:46:11 +0300

Malava Member of Parliament (MP) Malulu Injendi is dead. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula confirmed his demise on Monday, February 17.

According to Wetangula, in his message seen and verified by Viral Tea, Injendi passed away at the Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi after weeks of hospitalization in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

"Hon. Members, it is with profound sadness that I inform you of the demise of our esteemed colleague, the Hon. Moses Malulu Injendi, who left us this evening, 17th February 2025, at 5.15 pm at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi. He was the Member for Malava Constituency and Vice Chairman of the Departmental Committee on Education & Research," the message read in part.

As per Wetangula's statement, Injendi was serving his 3rd term as a Member of the House, having served continuously since 2013 (11th Parliament).

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula during a past House session. /FILE

The Speaker mourned him as a dedicated and passionate representative who served his constituents with unwavering commitment and integrity.

"His tireless efforts and contribution to our legislative processes particularly the Education sector and sugar industry aimed at improving the lives of Kenyan people will be deeply missed," he added.

"As we come to terms with this great loss, let us remember Hon. Injendi for his remarkable service and the positive impact he had on our nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, constituents and all those who had the privilege of knowing him."

Whereas his cause of death was yet to be made public, the legislator was reportedly enduring breathing problems in the days leading up to his passing.

In January, rumours spread that he had passed away, but his family, through Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, quickly dismissed the claims, clarifying that the MP was undergoing treatment. When pressed for details about the lawmaker’s condition, Governor Barasa declined to disclose specifics, stating that he was only authorized to provide an update on his status.

A member of Musalia Mudavadi's Amani National Congress (ANC), Injendi was serving his third term in Parliament since 2013—a testament to the electorate's confidence in his leadership.

Known for his bold and outspoken nature, Injendi earned respect for his willingness to challenge issues he disagreed with. As recently as November 2024, he criticized the church for rejecting cash donations from President William Ruto.

Injendi notably apologized to the President on behalf of the Church, asserting that it was disgraceful for the Nairobi Archdiocese leadership to refuse the President’s donations.

''We were ashamed and I would like to appeal to our bishops that you cannot do what you did to the President. May God forgive and bless you,’’ he told the President, adding that the rejection of the donations was improper since the church was in need of financial resources.

In 2019, Injendi, a University of Nairobi alumnus, made headlines by proposing a law that would require Facebook and WhatsApp group administrators to register with the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) before creating such groups.

Injendi's death is the second such loss in both Parliament and Senate. On Sunday, February 16, Baringo Senator William Cheptumo died at the age of 57 while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital.

The late Malava Member of Parliament (MP) Malulu Injendi during a past public address. /MALULU INJENDI

I'm Going Home With A Lot To Do: Raila States After Losing AUC Elections

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 20:00:00 +0300

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Saturday, February 15 hinted at returning to Kenyan politics after losing the African Union Commission's (AUC) chairperson race to Djibouti's Mahamoud Youssouf. This made him the second Kenyan to fall short of clinching the prestigious seat.

Raila suffered elimination in narrow circumstances at the sixth round, leaving Mahamoud with an open road to victory in the AUC elections, and making him the seventh African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson since its establishment in 2002. The other candidate, Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar, finished last.

Youssouf aimed to succeed Moussa Faki, who completed two terms in office. He will serve a four-year term, with the option to seek re-election for one additional term, allowing a maximum tenure of eight years.

Speaking after the results were announced, Raila congratulated his opponent for clinching the seat and wished him the best during his term.

Former Madagascar Foreign Affairs Minister Richard J Randriamandrato with former Kenya Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti ahead of the Mjadala Afrika Debate. /PHOTO

He emphasized the importance of fairness in the electoral process, suggesting that the outcome should help reinforce democracy across Africa.

“I had offered myself as a candidate, over the last few months I have run around the continent talking to different leaders of the continent canvassing for their vote and today they have expressed themselves. As it stands now, we did not succeed,” he said.

“We say that we must strengthen democracy in the African continent and I’m therefore conceding defeat, and I want us to use this as an example of strengthening democracy in our continent.”

Odinga added: “I want to wish my competitor Ali Youssouf all the best and success in his undertaking and also want to thank all those who voted for me and those who didn’t because of exercising their democracy.”

He added that he was not disappointed for coming up short in the polls, and expressed his desire to return home, though noting that he is still available to offer services to the continent in any other capacity.

"I am not bitter; I’m very happy indeed. I am still available to offer services to the continent in any other capacity. My plan now is to go back home. I have so many things to do back home," he added, his last statement hinting at a return to Kenyan politics as 2027 beckons.

Moments after, President William Ruto, who was alongside the former Prime Minister, also addressed Odinga's defeat, describing the election as a pivotal moment for the continent's future.

Like Raila, Ruto extended his appreciation to all African presidents involved in the voting process, including the newly elected AUC chairperson, Mohamoud Youssouf.

"While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering the Right Honourable Raila Odinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for giving him the opportunity to share his passion for the continent’s transformation," he wrote in part.

"To their Excellencies Mahmoud Youssouf and Selma Haddadi, the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission, I extend my sincere congratulations. You have the trust of the AU Assembly, and Kenya pledges her full support to you as you steer the Africa Union Commission to the next level."

The Kenyan president added: "This election was not about individuals or nations, it was about Africa’s future. That future remains bright and, together, we will continue working for a united, prosperous, and influential Africa on the global stage."

President William Ruto and Raila Odinga during the launch of Raila's campaign for the AUC seat on August 27, 2024. /PCS

Ferdinand Waititu Sentenced To Prison

Marvin Chege — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 10:32:10 +0300

Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has been sentenced to 12 years in prison. The sentencing came a day after he was found guilty in a Ksh588 million corruption case that has been dragging on for years.

Millimani Anti-Corruption Court Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki on Thursday, February 13 sentenced Waititu to seven years in jail or ordered him to pay a fine of Ksh53.5 million.

Waititu’s wife, Susan Wangare, on her part, was sentenced to one year in prison or pay a fine of Ksh500,000. However, the magistrate directed that the terms will run concurrently.

Ferdinand Waititu arriving in court for his sentencing on February 13, 2025. /PHOTO

Their co-accused Luka Mwangi Wahinya (former Chief Officer, Roads, Transport, Public Works and Utilities) to serve 2 years in prison or pay a fine of Ksh1 million and a mandatory fine of Ksh20 million in default to serve 5 years in prison.

Furthermore, the directors of Testimony Enterprises Limited Charles Chege Mbuthia and Beth Wangeci Mburu were jailed for 4 years or pay a fine of Ksh2 million with a mandatory fine of Ksh294 million and 3 years in jail or pay a fine of Ksh1.4 million respectively.

The magistrate ruled that Waititu's actions were inexcusable, as they violated the principles of good governance.

"This case is a typical example of a breach of public trust by the former Governor and the co-accused. The offending acts of the accused persons were deliberate, inexcusable, and undermined the tenets of good governance.

''In this case, the conduct of the accused persons shows that they derived benefits from their criminal actions. Their common motive was enrichment from public funds at the expense of service delivery to the people,'' Nzioka ruled.

He added, "A matter of concern to me is the deliberate misrepresentation and forgery of academic credentials of young graduates and at a time when unemployment is a challenge to the society."

Even worse for Waititu, he has been barred from serving in any public office for 10 years, putting a dent in any hopes for him to return to a political seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Magistrate Nzioki also instructed the prosecution to return key documents seized during the investigation, including passports and title deeds, to the accused. Furthermore, he granted Waititu and his co-accused a 14-day period to appeal both the ruling and the judgment.

On Wednesday, the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court ruled that Waititu, along with his wife and other county officials, was involved in fraudulent tender allocations, conflict of interest, and forgery.

Nzioki determined that Waititu, who was impeached from office, unlawfully profited from public funds, including Ksh25 million obtained through a company associated with him.

The court convicted him on multiple charges, holding him and his co-accused accountable for financial misconduct and abuse of office. The Chief Magistrate's ruling was based on 12 counts, with most findings indicating that the former Governor and his co-accused were responsible for violating the law.

"Count one first accused person (Waititu) guilty, count two first accused person and Saika Two Estate Developers Limited guilty, count three first accused person and Saika Developers limited guilty," read part of Nzioka's ruling.

"Inevitable conclusion, the first accused person you are viable in count number one for conflict of interest by acquiring an indirect person of interest accumulated sum of Ksh25 million."

On September 21, 2024, Waititu was found with a case to answer, with Milimani Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzyoki ruling that the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) had established a prima facie case against the accused persons.

The magistrate said that the evidence adduced by the prosecution through 32 witnesses and 741 exhibits was overwhelming to enable them to be placed on their defence.

Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

Ferdinand Waititu Found Guilty

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 11:26:43 +0300

Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has been found guilty in a Ksh588 million corruption case that has been dragging on for years.

This after the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court on Wednesday, February 12 ruled that he, along with his wife and other county officials, was involved in fraudulent tender allocations, conflict of interest, and forgery.

Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki determined that Waititu unlawfully profited from public funds, including Ksh25 million obtained through a company associated with him.

''With regards to those offenses as charged, I find the accused persons guilty as charged,'' Chief Magistrate Nzioka ruled.

Ferdinand Waititu at the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court on February 12, 2025. /PHOTO

The court convicted him on multiple charges, holding him and his co-accused accountable for financial misconduct and abuse of office.

The Chief Magistrate's ruling was based on 12 counts, with most findings indicating that the former Governor and his co-accused were responsible for violating the law.

"Inevitable conclusion, the first accused person you are viable in count number one for conflict of interest by acquiring an indirect person of interest accumulated sum of Ksh25 million."

The magistrate said that the evidence adduced by the prosecution through 32 witnesses and 741 exhibits was overwhelming to enable them to be placed on their defence.

Waititu, who was impeached as Kiambu County boss in January 2020, was charged with the irregular award of a tender of Ksh588 million.

The court had frozen his property and his vehicles pending the determination of a case filed by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

Waititu is accused by the EACC of abusing his position by engaging in business dealings that were against the public interest and accumulating wealth that was out of proportion to his known legitimate sources of income.

Prior to the commencement of the case against Waititu, the High Court granted an application by the State to freeze 18 properties and seven cars owned by Waititu. He is accused of fraudulently accumulating assets totalling Ksh1.94 billion between 2015 and 2020 while serving as governor.

EACC in May 2022 targeted properties that included houses in Runda, Lakisama, Migaa Estate, Runda Grove and parcels of land in Embakasi Ranching, Thindigua and Kayole, all amounting to Ksh280 million.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

Ruto Issues Orders To Police Over 5 Chiefs Kidnapped By Al Shabaab

Marvin Chege — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 11:05:38 +0300

President William Ruto has responded to an incident where five chiefs were on Monday, February 3 abducted by suspected members of the outlawed Al Shabaab terror group in Elwak, Mandera County.

Ruto, who spoke on Tuesday, February 4 at Moi Stadium in Mandera County, demanded the release of the five chiefs, calling out members of the terror group for resorting to scare tactics owing to the Kenyan government's hard stance in the war on terror.

The Head of State revealed that he had explained the matter to Deputy Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli, directing him to do everything possible to ensure that those chiefs return home.

Photo of soldiers around Mandera. /STRATEGIC INTELLIGENCE SERVICE

"Security is very important. The security of our country is very important. We are fighting against hooligans, crooks and criminals, alongside terrorists. Because we have given the terrorists a hard time, yesterday, because of wanting to strike fear in this area, they went and kidnapped our chiefs," he addressed.

"I want to promise the people of Mandera that those chiefs should come back home and those crooks and terrorists and hooligans, we will deal with them. I have come with the Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr Masengeli and I have explained to him that up and down, left and right, front and back, east or west, until this matter is dealt with."

A tough-talking Head of State remarked that his government has made it very difficult for the Al Shabaab to carry out terror attacks in the Republic as has been the case over the years, vowing that his administration will deal with the terrorists with finality.

Ruto also claimed that the abduction of the chiefs was meant to scare him away from his visit to Mandera County.

"We have significantly downgraded the ability of the Al Shabaab to unleash violence on the people of northern Kenya and we will not stop at anything until we make sure that northern Kenya is safe like any other part of the Republic of Kenya.

"Those stupid people had thought that if they did what they did yesterday, I wouldn't come here. They are stupid to the point of being crazy. It's not that I've come to Mandera, I came to Mandera and I'll sleep in Mandera...and if it exceeds, I can sleep here again," he added.

The head of state further emphasized that every region of Kenya is significant, and he will not allow any area of Kenya to be hit by terrorist attacks.

“I want to make it absolutely clear that every part of Kenya is important and we are not going to cede an inch of our country to criminals and those who want to unleash mayhem in our Republic,” the Head of State emphasized.

Ruto's remarks came a day after the chiefs were kidnapped while heading towards Elwak. They were hijacked between Bamba Owla and Ires Suki. A joint security team was deployed to pursue the abductors.

The officials were reportedly scheduled to meet to organise security plans for President Ruto’s upcoming visit to the region.

The suspects were thought to have escaped alongside the officials toward Somalia. In response to the incident, a multi-agency operation was initiated.

The chiefs were from the administrative units of Wargadud East, Qurahmudow, and Chachabole and were aboard a vehicle at the time of the incident.

Kenya's security multi-agency teams operating under the Special Operations Group (SOG) quick response unit encountered an IED attack while responding to the incident. This led to delays in the rescue efforts to help bring the five chiefs home, with the insurgents making away with the administrators.

In this 2010 file photo, Al-Shabaab fighters display weapons as they conduct military exercises in northern Mogadishu, Somalia. /CNN

Protesters Attack Kenyan Embassy In DRC

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 11:05:30 +0300

The Kenyan government has confirmed that the country's embassy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been attacked.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Korir Sing'Oei confirmed the attack amidst escalating tensions in the DRC. Other embassies targeted include those of Uganda and South Africa.

Sing'oei blamed protesters for the attack, stating that they were voicing their dissatisfaction with the conflict in the Eastern part of DRC.

"We are deeply concerned by the ongoing siege and attacks on Embassy Premises and personnel in Kinshasa, DRC, including the Kenyan, Uganda and South African Embassies, by marauding protesters who are voicing their discontent on the conflict in the Eastern Part of that country," he wrote on X.

Kenyan and Congolese soldiers stand at Goma airport, Democratic Republic of Congo on December 3, 2023. /VOA NEWS

He condemned the attacks, describing them as a serious breach of international law and urged authorities in the DRC to take swift and appropriate action to restore order and ensure the safety of diplomatic missions.

The PS also issued a warning to Kenyan citizens and businesspeople in the DRC, advising them to remain cautious amid the unrest.

"This development is a serious breach of international law and we condemn it in the strongest terms possible. We call on authorities in DRC to take appropriate action. Kenya stands with the DRC during this challenging time and will use all diplomatic means within its disposal to work with the rest of the region in the search for peace. We implore Kenyan citizens and business people to exercise caution during this period."

On Monday, January 27, protests erupted in Kinshasa as citizens voiced their anger over the escalating conflict in the eastern regions.

The situation in Eastern DRC has caused a severe humanitarian crisis, with military actions displacing more than a million people. The M23 rebel group announced on Monday that it had seized control of the strategic city of Goma in eastern DRC.

Residents shared distressing footage of M23 rebels patrolling the city’s streets after a swift advance against the Congolese army, which led to tens of thousands fleeing neighbouring towns.

President William Ruto is among East African leaders who have called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and renewed efforts for peace in Eastern DRC. Speaking from State House Nairobi on Monday, Ruto who also serves as Chair of the East African Community (EAC) emphasized the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

"I emphasize the obligation of all parties to facilitate humanitarian access to affected populations and urge both sides to pursue peaceful means to resolve this tragic conflict. These alarming developments, coupled with rising diplomatic tensions in the region, underscore the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to a conflict that continues to inflict untold suffering on the people, particularly women and children," he said.

Ruto also announced plans for an extraordinary EAC Summit to deliberate on the conflict and chart a path forward, noting that both President Felix Tshisekedi of DRC and his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame will participate in the summit set for Wednesday, January 29.

Owing to the volatile security situation, Jambojet, a subsidiary of the national airline, Kenya Airways, announced the suspension of flights from Nairobi to Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Displaced people are seen at the Nzulo port, near Goma, North Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), on January 23, 2025. /XINHUA

CJ Martha Koome Slams Withdrawal Of Her Security

Marvin Chege — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 17:31:04 +0300

UPDATE: Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has addressed concerns raised by Chief Justice Martha Koome regarding the recent recall of police officers from the Judiciary Police Unit, revealing that the officers were either sent on training after promotion or procedurally transferred to other stations.

The IG added that other officers have been reassigned to the Chief Justice as those who left prepare to start their promotional courses. Kanja who spoke hours after CJ Martha Koome accused the government, through the Ministry of Interior, of withdrawing her security detail, disclosed that there was poor coordination that led to the officers assigned to the Chief Justice leaving before the new ones arrived, causing the deployment gap.

He assured the public that new officers had been deployed to fill the gap. However, Judiciary staff claimed that their inquiries about the changes were brushed off before the situation escalated, adding to concerns about transparency in the process.

Chief Justice Martha Koome has had her security withdrawn by the Ministry of Interior, which has also reduced the number of officers in the Judiciary Police Unit.

The CJ protested the move on Thursday, January 23 to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, arguing that the move is tantamount to Executive interference with the Judiciary contrary to the Constitution’s demands for independence of both arms of government.

“The withdrawal of this security detail is an egregious affront to the principle of separation of powers. Such an action not only weakens trust in public institutions but also sets a perilous precedent, suggesting that key constitutional offices can be undermined through external pressure or retaliation,” CJ Koome said in a protest letter seen by Viral Tea.

CJ Koome held that the reduction of officers in the Judiciary Police Unit has exposed court users to danger. The Judiciary Police Unit was formed in 2021 and is under the National Police Service (NPS).

President William Ruto shakes hands with Chief Justice Martha Koome at State House, Nairobi on September 14, 2022. /FILE

She expressed concern at the 'weakening' of the Judiciary Police Unit, a critical component of judicial security, arguing that rather than being bolstered to meet growing demands, its capacity has been diminished by the withdrawal of a significant number of officers.

Koome believed that this not only exacerbates existing vulnerabilities but also jeopardizes the safety of judicial personnel and spaces across the country, thereby undermining the entire justice system's operational efficacy.

The CJ also revealed that the act of withdrawal sends an unmistakably damaging message: that those tasked with defending justice and constitutional liberties are susceptible to interference, adding that such a signal erodes public confidence in the Judiciary's impartiality, threatening its role as a check against abuse of power and its capacity to uphold the rule of law.

“By exposing the office (of the CJ) to vulnerabilities through withdrawal of security, the ability of the Judiciary to perform its constitutional mandate is gravely compromised.

"Security for the Chief Justice is not a personal privilege but a structural necessity to ensure the Judiciary can function autonomously and without fear. It serves as an institutional safeguard to protect judicial officers, premises, and processes from any threats that could impair the administration of justice," she continued.

The President of the Supreme Court is urging that Murkomen and Kanja restore her security detail, made up of police officers, unconditionally, and to strengthen the capacity of the Judiciary Police Unit.

"I therefore call upon the National Police Service and all relevant state actors to immediately and unconditionally restore the security detail of the Chief Justice. This step is not merely administrative but essential to reaffirming the Judiciary's independence, safeguarding the integrity of constitutional offices, and ensuring the continued growth of Kenya's democracy.

"Additionally, the capacity of the Judiciary Police Unit must be strengthened, not diminished, to address the pressing need for enhanced judicial security in a rapidly evolving environment and against the precedent of open attack of judges and judicial officers in open court," she appealed.

It is worth noting that on June 15, 2024, CJ Koome called on the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and the Office of Inspector General of Police to deploy additional officers to reinforce the complement of Officers in the Judiciary Police Unit and to reorganise the Judiciary Police Unit into a fully-fledged Police Unit under the leadership of a senior commanding officer with a fully functional Secretariat.

This followed the murder of Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti during an active court session at the Makadara Law Courts. Kivuti was shot dead by a senior police officer, Londiani police chief Samson Kipruto, who was angered by the magistrate’s decision to deny his wife, Jennifer Wairimu, bail in a case before Ms Kivuti.

Officers from the Judiciary Police Unit, who were present shot the officer commanding station, dead as he fired at them. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) called for an autonomous Judiciary Police Unit with a presence in all court stations across the country.

A building housing the Judiciary. /FILE

Kenya Cabinet Proposes To Exempt All African Countries From ETA, Except 2

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:53:31 +0300

The Kenyan Cabinet has proposed that Africans from 52 countries will be exempted from the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system introduced last year.

eTA system was introduced on January 1, 2024, and mandates all travellers, including infants and children, to obtain an approved eTA before commencing their journey to Kenya.

According to the latest dispatch as of Tuesday, January 21, the Cabinet meeting, the first of 2025 and chaired by President William Ruto at State Lodge, Kakamega, approved recommendations to enhance the eTA system to boost efficiency and improve the traveller experience.

"As part of efforts to support open skies policies and tourism growth, a key proposal is to grant eTA exemptions to all African countries—except Somalia and Libya—due to security concerns," the dispatch read in part, adding "This initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across the continent."

President William Ruto chairing a Cabinet meeting at State Lodge, Kakamega on January 21, 2025. /PCS

In the proposals, most African visitors will be allowed a two-month stay, while East African Community (EAC) nationals will continue to enjoy a six-month stay under EAC free movement protocols.

To improve efficiency, an expedited eTA processing option will be introduced, allowing travellers to receive approval instantly, with processing time capped at 72 hours based on operational capacity.

Additionally, the introduction of an Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record system will enhance prescreening, strengthen security, and streamline passenger processing at entry points.

The move now reverts the country to the old travel system that allowed citizens from 51 countries, many within Africa, to enter Kenya visa-free.

At the moment, travellers from the East African region are exempt from applying for the eTA.

Kenya has also waived the fees for Botswana, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Zambia.

Other countries include Comoros, Eritrea, the Republic of Congo and San Marino.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet Secretaries of National Treasury, Transport, Interior, and Tourism were mandated to review, report, and, within a week, propose guidelines to improve travellers’ experience at all Kenyan airports.

Gates at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). /KENYA GEOGRAPHIC

CS Justin Muturi Claims NIS Abducted His Son But Released Him After Ruto Intervention

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:56:07 +0300

Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS) Justin Muturi has implicated the National Intelligence Service (NIS) in his explosive account of the events that transpired regarding the abduction of his son, Leslie Muturi.

In a 3-page statement to police obtained by Viral Tea, the CS revealed that he learnt about NIS' involvement in his son's abduction from a friend working within the intelligence unit.

Growing increasingly concerned, Muturi reached out to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, then the Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS), for assistance. However, Kindiki called back and informed him that NIS was not holding his son.

"Between 10:00 and 11:00 AM, a friend from NIS called, informing me that my son was being held by their people. I shared this information with my friends, and it was agreed that I should call Noordin Haji again. Despite multiple attempts, he did not answer," he revealed.

CS Justin Muturi at Kilimani Police Station on January 14, 2025. /JUSTIN MUTURI

"Just before 1:00 PM, I decided to call Prof. Kindiki, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior. After explaining the entire situation, he expressed shock and assured me he would contact Noordin Haji. Fifteen minutes later, Prof. Kindiki called back, saying he had spoken with the DG of NIS, who denied holding Leslie. Despite my insistence that I had confirmed information from an NIS officer, Prof. Kindiki maintained that the DG could not be lying."

Muturi's son was allegedly picked up by 'armed, hooded gangsters' while they were travelling along Denis Pritt Road turning into Olengruone Avenue. Leslie was in the company of Mwenje and an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, Marangu Imanyara.

The report further detailed how Leslie, Imanyara and Mwenje had come together to attend a birthday party in Lavington at the time of the incident. While the inquiries continued, Muturi revealed that he sought intervention from President William Ruto by driving to State House to raise the matter with him.

Upon arriving at State House, Muturi found the President engaged in discussions with MPs and waited for the meeting to end before raising the issue with the President.

"When Mwangi Kiunjuri concluded his conversation with the President, I approached. After greetings, I informed the President about my message, and he explained that his phone had crashed due to an overload of messages. I then narrated the ordeal, including my interactions with various senior government officials who had been unable to help. I expressed my belief that NIS was holding my son," he added.

"The President joked, asking why anyone would want to arrest a young person over the GenZ demonstrations. He even mentioned that Kiunjuri's son and the sons of other officials had been involved in similar demonstrations. He then called his technician to check the status of his phone. Since it was still not functioning properly, I requested that he call Noordin Haji directly."

Muturi then revealed that he overheard Ruto's conversation with Haji inquiring if the NIS officers were holding Leslie, to which Haji confirmed. This led the President to direct him to release Leslie immediately, to which Haji responded by stating that he would be released within an hour.

"After thanking the President, I drove out of State House and rejoined my friends in Gigiri and explained what had happened. Slightly over an hour later, Leslie called me to say he had been released and was at home. I then went home to see him," Muturi continued.

Muturi recorded his statement at Kilimani Police Station earlier on Tuesday, January 14. He also detailed that he called Raymond Omollo, the PS for Interior, and explained the abduction, to which the CS revealed that Omollo assured me that he would take action. His other attempts to reach out to the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Mohammed Amin and Haji were fruitless, after which, he turned to former Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome.

"He informed me that he had alerted all personnel on all routes, suspecting it might have been a robbery. However, I told him that based on the information provided by Mwenje, the abductors appeared to be security personnel rather than robbers. He seemed unconvinced, stating that there was no planned police operation that night," he continued.

The statement gets even more interesting; Muturi revealed that police from Kilimani had gone to Royal Media Services (RMS), specifically Citizen TV, to obtain CCTV footage, but the station was initially reluctant to release it.

"Hon. Ndungu Gethenji, who had joined us, called Wachira Waruru, the CEO of Citizen TV, explained the situation and requested any information that might help identify the vehicle. Waruru later sent us footage showing the events leading to the abduction," he went on.

"The footage showed Leslie driving out, followed by Mwenje. The footage also captured the box Prado and another vehicle, resembling a Probox, following Leslie and Mwenje prior to the abduction."

Screengrabs of Leslie Muturi's car (left) emerging from Alfajiri Club in Nairobi and a white Landcruiser (right) following suit. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

Ex-ICT CS Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u Rejects Ruto's Job Offer

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 08:44:52 +0300

Former Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Margaret Nyambura Ndung'u has rejected President William Ruto's nomination as Kenya’s High Commissioner to Ghana.

The former CS had sent a letter to the Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge which explained her decision to decline Ruto's offer.

Despite expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Nyambura cited personal and family obligations as her reasons for turning down the appointment.

“I would like to give my appreciation for the invitation to appear before the departmental committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations on January 10, 2025. Pursuant to section 6(10) of the Public Appointment Parliamentary Approval Act No.3 of 2011, I wish to inform you that I would not appear before the said committee at the time and venue specified for approval hearing," the letter read.

President William Ruto and other Cabinet members during a Cabinet meeting at State House Nairobi on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. /PCS

"This has been compelled by my personal and family matters which matters taking into consideration would not allow me to take up the position as the High Commissioner to Ghana as nominated by President William Ruto."

Nyambura was scheduled to appear before the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. for her vetting but failed to attend.

On December 19, last year, Ndung'u was demoted as ICT CS after serving for only three months with William Kabogo named as her replacement.

After her demotion from the CS position, the Head of State nominated her for the high commissioner role alongside other former government officials.

President Ruto nominated her for the job alongside former Sports CS Ababu Namwamba who was nominated as permanent representative of Kenya to the United Nations Environment Programme.

Others nominated for various ambassadorial roles included Dorothy Angote, nominated for the High Commissioner job in Zimbabwe, and Andrew Karaja, nominated as Kenyan ambassador in Brazil.

Nyambura's decision sees her join the likes of Hussein Tene Debasso who rejected President Ruto's appointment as a member of the National Youth Service Council, up to February 9, 2026, with effect from November 15, 2024.

Debasso's rejection made him the fifth individual in four months to turn down an appointment by President Ruto. It all began when Roots Party Leader George Luchiri Wajackoyah’s 2022 presidential running mate Justina Wamae on Monday, July 8 turned down her appointment by President Ruto as part of a 20-member task force to address human resources for health in the country.

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, Faith Odhiambo, declined her appointment to the Presidential task force which was to carry out a forensic audit of the country's public debt, with LSK terming the task force itself unconstitutional.

Earlier in October, former Machakos Town Member of Parliament Victor Munyaka announced that he had rejected an appointment by President Ruto as the Chairperson of the Kenya Animal Genetic Resource Centre for three years.

Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga declined an appointment to the Nairobi Rivers Commission where she was meant to be a member.

Millicent Omanga with President William Ruto at State House on April 15, 2024. /MILLICENT OMANGA

By The Numbers: How Many KCSE 2024 Candidates Got As

Marvin Chege — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 10:31:03 +0300

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has released the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KSCE) exam results. This was done at the Mitihani House in Nairobi during an event.

962,512 sat for the national examinations that concluded on November 22, 2024. Out of which, 1,693 candidates obtained the highest grade of A.

"Today we are releasing the 2024 KCSE results for the 962,512 candidates, all of whom we have cleared to join various higher learning institutions to pursue careers of their choice," Ogamba announced.

He commended the learners and attributed the performance to the new grading system that was implemented in 2023. In the new system, only two mandatory subjects; Mathematics and one language (either English, Kiswahili or Kenya Sign Language) are used to compute the mean grade as compared to the previous structure that considered five subjects across three cluster groups. This included Maths, English, Kiswahili, Science and a humanities subject.

Education CS Julius Ogamba speaking during a stakeholders forum at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development on December 19, 2024. /JULIUS OGAMBA

The Statistics

Notably, this year recorded a higher number of female candidates (482,202) compared to males (480,312), representing a 7.19% increase in female participation.

Additionally, candidates aged 16 and below increased from 16,040 in 2023 to 20,546 in 2024, while the majority (684,765) fell within the appropriate age bracket of 17 to 19 years. Those aged 20 years and above constituted 259,861 candidates.

246,391 candidates scored direct entry to university grades of above C+ compared to 201,133 in 2023. Further, the number of candidates with grade C- is 476,889 (49.41 per cent) compared to 401,216 (44.2 per cent) in 2023.

Those who attained a D+ and above were 605,774 (62.76 per cent) compared to 526,222 (58.22 per cent) in the previous examinations. Candidates who scored a mean grade E were 48,333; comprising 20,112 women and 28,221 men.

CS Ogamba however confirmed that results for 2,829 candidates were withheld pending completion of investigations over malpractices. 91 teachers are facing disciplinary action over malpractices. The total number of examination results cancelled for irregularities was 840.

Subjects performance

Out of the 30 subjects examined, 17 recorded improved performance, including Mathematics (Alternative A and B), Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, and Geography. Other subjects that improved include Computer Studies, Agriculture, and Business Studies.

Conversely, 10 subjects recorded a drop in performance, such as English, Kiswahili, CRE, and Music.

How the boys & girls performed

Female candidates outperformed males in seven subjects, including English, Kiswahili, CRE, and Home Science. Male candidates, however, excelled in 23 subjects, notably Mathematics, Physics, Geography, and Computer Studies.

Before releasing the results, CS Ogamba presented them to President William Ruto in State House, Nairobi with Ruto noting an improvement in the education sector. "We are glad that our education system keeps improving as we enrich the curriculum, hire more teachers and equip our schools with more learning materials and facilities. Consequently, performance is improving in schools all over the country," Ruto noted.

To combat fears of examination leakage and cheating in this year's exams, the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) together with the Education Ministry put in place robust measures. For instance, the 2024 KCSE exams featured personalised papers that included candidates' details such as their names, index numbers, and even schools in a pre-printed format.

Further, CS Ogamba revealed the establishment of special courts to deal with persons charged with engaging in examination malpractices. Despite the staunch measures, the 2024 KCSE examinations were marred by numerous claims of exam irregularities ranging from cheating to distributing fake exam material.

Teachers were also at the centre of these irregularities after cases emerged of teachers aiding in cheating by leaking examination material. Further, cases of poor pay for exam invigilators, examination centre managers, and examination markers were also rife.

Additionally, the examinations were marred by tragic events with students in different schools across the country dying due to various causes.

Registration for 2025 examinations

The Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) announced the registration dates for the 2025 examinations. CEO David Njengere confirmed. KNEC will commence registration for the 2025 KPSEA on January 27, 2025, and the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment and KCSE on February 17, 2025.

Education CS Julius Ogamba presents KCSE 2024 results to President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi. /PCS

KCSE 2024 Results Released: How To Check

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 09:53:12 +0300

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba on Thursday, January 9, released the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KSCE) exam results at the Mitihani House in Nairobi after quite a considerable wait.

According to CS Ogamba, 962,512 sat for the national examinations that concluded on November 22, 2024.

According to Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) CEO David Njegere this represented a 7.19 per cent increase for the first time since 2020. This number is an increase from 899,453 students who sat for the same examination in 2023.

In his announcement, Ogamba announced that 17 subjects, including Maths, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, recorded improvements while 10 subjects, including English and Home Science, recorded drops in performance.

How To Check

All the candidates can now check their results through the official KNEC portal; results.knec.ac.ke The candidates need to enter their index number and the name (s) as per the registration data for the 2024 KCSE examination.

Process of checking the 2024 KCSE results. /KNEC

Process

1: Visit the KNEC website

Students can access their results by visiting the official KNEC portal results.knec.ac.ke

2: Input your details

Candidates will be required to enter their index number and any one of the name (s) as per the registration data for the 2024 KCSE examination.

After entering the Index Number, the candidate will be prompted to submit the information.

The 2024 KCSE results will be displayed on the screen if the details are correct.

Any candidate with difficulties in accessing results is advised to call KNEC's toll-free number 0800724900 or 0800721410.

3: KCSE Result Slip 2024/2025: Download & Print

Official result slips will be accessible through examination centres where the candidates sat for their exams.

Candidates, parents, and teachers are advised to carefully check the result slip for any discrepancies, such as incorrect names or grades. Any errors should be reported to KNEC within a month of the announcement of the results.

It is worth it to note that the surge in traffic owing to a high number of Kenyans accessing the results may lead to site crashes.

4: NO SMS Code

Unlike in previous years, candidates will not be able to access their KCSE results through SMS code. This was after it was discontinued before the release of the 2023 results following complaints by parents and students over the years.

This development was announced by immediate former Education CS Ezekiel Machogu when he released the 2023 results in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu.

Speaking on December 7, 2023, while appearing before the National Assembly Education Committee, Machogu revealed that the move was a response to errors which were widely called out by among others, Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, culminating from system hitches in the KCPE results.

While admitting that the release of the exams was impacted by minor errors, the CS cited a company that was contracted to manage the QR code used for relaying results as the cause of the system hitch.

"Moving forward, when we release the KCSE examinations, we will not be able to make use of the same service provider,” he stated.

The former Education CS further noted that he was engaging ICT experts to develop a portal which would be accessed by members of the public free of charge as compared to getting the results via SMS which sees one charged Ksh25 per SMS.

He however underlined that the school portals are the most reliable source as the Ministry of Education transmits results to the portal directly for school heads and parents to access.

A photo of students undertaking KCSE exams. /KENYA NEWS AGENCY

DP Kindiki, Murkomen, Oscar Sudi Demanded To Resign Over Abductions

Marvin Chege — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 19:43:12 +0300

The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has issued a statement demanding that Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and a series of Members of Parliament (MP) resign from their positions.

In a press release dated Monday, January 6, the lobby group accused the above-mentioned leaders of endorsing the recent abductions in the country. Also compelled to resign are National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah, Tiaty MP William Kamket, his Kapsaret counterpart Oscar Sudi, and Sirisia MP John Waluke Sirisia as well as Inspector-General of Police, Douglas Kanja.

"KHRC demands the immediate resignation of Ichung’wa, Kingi, Kamket, Sudi, Murkomen, Waluke, and Kindiki from their state offices over their utterances supporting abductions. We also demand the resignation of the inspector-general of police, Douglas Kanja, as abductions occurred under his watch," the commission stated in part.

Additionally, the lobby group called for an impartial and thorough investigation into their statements and potential involvement in the abductions and extrajudicial killings of state critics, adding that "Those found culpable must face prosecution and be permanently barred from holding state or public office."

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi during the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua on October 17, 2024. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

KHRC took issue with President William Ruto and his allies making statements justifying the abductions of government critics in operations that may have resulted in extrajudicial killings. The group added that the abductions escalated in 2024, a year that saw parliament breached on June 25 by youth protesting oppressive laws, when the pressure for increased accountability surged.

The no-holds-barred statement revealed that the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the KHRC, and other partners operated a joint situation room to monitor police abuses during the same period, marked by a wave of Gen-Z protests. KNCHR reported that 82 youths have been abducted since June, with 29 still missing.

"Conflicting and sycophantic comments and statements by state officers, including implicit endorsement of abductions as a legitimate response to alleged violation of the law, point to the reasonable likelihood that the rampant abductions are state-sponsored," added the civil society group.

"State security agents have publicly denied involvement, while Ruto has acknowledged their participation, saying his administration will “stop the abductions.” In his New Year’s message, Ruto conceded: “It cannot be denied that there have been instances of excessive and extrajudicial actions by members of the security services.”

Breaking down what they said individually, the group accused Ichung'wah of supporting false claims by Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli, that abductees were faking their abductions for financial gain.

"In what appeared to be an attempt to divert attention, Ichung’wa made startling claims about abductions and killings during President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure, accusing a governor of orchestrating a scheme that led to dozens of missing persons’ bodies dumped in River Yala," added KHRC. Both spoke in Bungoma on January 3, 2025, during the requiem mass of the mother of National Assembly speaker Moses Wetangula.

For Kingi, he was faulted for stating that the government would resort to brutal tactics to firmly deal with youthful critics, blaming their behaviour on a “lack of parental guidance.” He warned parents not to wail over their children when the government “takes action.” The Senate Speaker made those remarks at the same event.

Kamket was deemed to have dismissed those calling for Ruto’s resignation through online satire as “lazy bones in bed” and warned that his side could extend Ruto’s term without facing any consequences. He made these remarks during the Kerio Valley interdenominational prayers at Tot, Elgeyo Marakwet, on January 5.

At the same event, Sudi was accused of openly supporting the abduction of those sharing AI-generated satirical images against Ruto. "He said that, if he were the Interior CS, it would only take him three days to deal with those creating and sharing Ruto’s silhouette images through authoritarian actions," the statement added.

KHRC mentioned that the threats followed a denial from Murkomen, the Interior CS, that no abductions and extrajudicial killings were happening under Ruto’s watch. Murkomen’s statement in Bungoma on December 27, 2024, was viewed to have trivialized the executions of young people who exercised their right to freedom of expression in agitation against a regime that was miserably failing them.

All the politicians, the Commission said, seem to have taken a cue from Kindiki, who in September while serving in the Interior Ministry docket, appeared before the National Assembly’s Security Committee and “justified the use of excessive force by police against unarmed protestors leading to deaths and abductions”, remarks he made during his appearance before the National Assembly’s security and administration committee.

"The comments these politicians made violated our constitution. State officers are bound by the national values and principles of governance, which include human rights, the rule of law and democracy as espoused in Article 10 of the constitution. Article 9 declares that the principles in Article 10 apply to all state officers when making, interpreting and applying laws and policies. Further, article 19 expects governance and leadership that is human rights-based for which the cited state officers have abrogated," KHRC raged on.

"These state officers have terribly failed the constitutional expectations of leadership and integrity under chapter six of our constitution. Additionally, article 73 states that authority entrusted to a state officer, such as these politicians, is a public trust. It must be exercised in a manner consistent with the constitution’s purposes and objectives, demonstrating respect for the people, upholding the nation’s honour and the dignity of the office, and promoting public confidence in its integrity."

President William Ruto speaking at Kisii State Lodge on December 31, 2024. /PCS

The Civil society group also criticised President Ruto's remarks in his New Year’s message that every freedom has its limits and that public safety and order must always supersede the desire for unchecked liberty, stating that “KHRC reminds him that freedom of opinion and expression, which his regime and its supporters are hell-bent on curtailing, is the cornerstone of every free and democratic society. Any limitation on freedom of expression and opinion must be done lawfully."

It noted that currently, the arbitrary arrests, abductions, forced disappearances, torture, threats to life and killings witnessed in the country can never be justifiable as a response to alleged breaches of the law in Kenya.

KHRC announced that it is documenting all the public utterances made by the leaders supporting the breakdown of the rule of law in the country, adding that at the right time, "we are confident that they will all be held accountable."

Kibet Bull Announces His Release

Marvin Chege — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 15:32:51 +0300

Cartoonist Gideon Kibet, popularly known as 'Kibet Bull' has announced that he has been released. The visual artist took to his X account to confirm his release from captivity after being abducted by individuals suspected to be state agents.

In his first post since December 2024, he revealed that he was dropped off in Luanda Town, Vihiga County around 3-4 AM on Monday, January 6.

"They dropped me in Luanda Vihiga at 3-4 AM Leo (today). Sikuwa najua (I didn't know) where to enter or book a room," he wrote in part.

"Kidogo form ya (Gradually the plan for) Disco Matanga came in, danced mpaka (until) 6AM when I went to book a ticket."

Collage of previously abducted Kenyans Ronny Kiplangat, Gideon Kibet, Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti. /VIRAL TEA KE

James Smart, Managing Editor of the Nation Media Group (NMG) revealed on his X account that the "Family has received a call from KIBET in the last few minutes, says he is on his way home."

Human rights activist Hussein Khalid confirmed the release noting that Bull's sister told his team that the cartoonist was heading home.

"Our team Voices Of Community Activists and Leaders of Africa (VOCAL Africa) has confirmed that Kibet Bull has been released and is on his way home. This is according to his sister Mercy who spoke. This makes Kibet Bull the fifth abductee to be released today. We push for the release of all," stated Khalid.

The developments came moments after the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed the release of four abducted Kenyans; Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti as well as Bernard Kavuli and Kibet's brother, Ronny Kiplangat.

In a statement on Monday, January 6, NPS Spokesperson Resila Onyango revealed that Kavuli who was reported missing at Ngong' Police Station is currently assisting the investigators with further information.

Musyimi, who was abducted in Ngong in December 2024 had reported the matter to Moi's Bridge Police Station after his release.

With regards to cases concerning Mwangi, Muteti and Kiplangat, NPS announced that a team would be dispatched to get information on the abduction and their release.

NPS went on to reveal that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is investigating all cases of missing persons in the country with most of the cases currently pending before court and others under active investigations.

Currently, Steve Mbisi, who was also been reported missing is yet to be found.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja addressing the media on July 23, 2024. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE

Gachagua Is Behind Abductions: MP Mwengi Mutuse

Marvin Chege — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 14:40:05 +0300

Kibwezi West Member of Parliament (MP) Mwengi Mutuse, who successfully moved a motion in Parliament to impeach Rigathi Gachagua as Deputy President, has now claimed that Gachagua is involved in the recent abductions in the country.

Mutuse in a statement on Monday, December 30 claimed to have received credible information that Gachagua was collaborating with unknown individuals within President William Ruto's government and former officials to carry out activities meant to destabilise the country.

"I have received credible information regarding Hon. Rigathi Gachagua, suggesting that he, through some of his close political associates, may be collaborating with sympathetic individuals within the government and former officials to orchestrate activities designed to incite public unrest and create dissent against the current administration. Alarmingly, these activities reportedly include involvement in recent abductions," he alleged in part.

MP Mwengi Mutuse during the JLAC vetting of Abdi Mohammed, the nominee for CEO and Secretary of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. /MWENGI MUTUSE

The lawmaker challenged Gachagua to clarify his role in the allegations. "If he is indeed complicit, the police must act decisively to ensure that he and his associates face justice. No one is above the law," he added.

Mutuse further noted that it was both morally wrong and utterly irresponsible for any leader to exploit the lives of innocent citizens to further political agendas.

Gachagua has yet to respond to Mutuse's allegations. On December 27, Gachagua weighed in on the outrage surrounding the abductions in this month of December alone, which have sparked nationwide protests.

While speaking in a press conference at his Mathira home in Nyeri County on Friday, December 27, Gachagua demanded that National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji resign over the abductions, a resignation call that he extended to the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohamed Amin, referring to their statements distancing their respective agencies from the abductions.

Gachagua urged President Ruto to take full responsibility and immediately address the alleged abductions, claiming that "To remain silent or inactive is to suggest that these actions are being carried out with his knowledge and consent."

President Ruto on his part, in his first remarks since the abductions hit nationwide headlines, affirmed that he would end the wave of abductions by any means necessary.

The protests on December 30 in an attempt to push the government to release Kenyans who mysteriously went missing during the month. Many believe more than five people have been abducted including Steve Mbisi from Machakos, Billy Mwangi (Embu), Peter Muteti (Nairobi), Bernard Kavuli (Nairobi), Gideon Kibet alias Kibet Bull (Nairobi) and Rony Kiplang'at (Kiambu).

The protesters argued that the demonstrations were aimed at pressuring the government to release those believed to have been abducted, end the arbitrary arrests, and address the demands made by Generation Z in June.

The recent surge in abductions, over 10 in December alone and more than 80 throughout the year, has sparked outrage across Kenya. Despite government denials, human rights groups, victims, and youth activists called on Kenyans to join Monday’s nationwide protests to demand the release of those abducted by security agents and an end to the ongoing arrests.

The protests were not without arrests made, more prominently on Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who had joined the protesters in the demonstrations against the wave of abductions.

He was taken first to Central Police Station in Nairobi CBD before being reportedly transferred to Gigiri from Central Police Station.

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah alongside other protesters demonstrating along Aga Khan Walk in Nairobi’s city centre. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

Blow To Ruto After High Court Throws Out New University Funding Model

Marvin Chege — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 13:41:43 +0300

The High Court has declared the new university funding model unconstitutional and barred President William Ruto's government from implementing it.

According to the judgment issued on Friday, December 20, the Court cited a lack of public participation in deeming the model null and void. Justice Chacha Mwita also ruled that the new funding model, introduced by President William Ruto, is unlawful due to its lack of legal foundation and discriminatory nature.

The court found that the government did not adhere to the necessary legal provisions when creating the model.

According to the judge, public participation was necessary before enrolling the model, adding that there were legislative points that were to be tabled and subjected to the Parliament.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

"It should have been subjected to the public so that the public comments before its implementation," the court noted.

The judge has issued an order prohibiting Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migosi, the Attorney General, the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), the Trustees of the Universities Fund Kenya, and the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCPS) from implementing the new system until they comply with all legal provisions.

In October this year, the High Court froze the implementation of the model for institutions of higher learning until the case filed by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and three others was determined. KHRC and the other parties had filed a case at the Milimani Law Courts seeking to stop the new higher education funding model, arguing that it would prevent many students from getting university funds.

Similarly, they argued that the funding model is discriminatory because of the requirement that a student must be above the age of 18 to apply for funding. According to them, the funding model is a breach is the right to access information.

Additionally, they pointed out that even though the president has presidential powers, President Ruto did not follow the due process when he launched the model. According to the model which was categorised into 5 bands, students from vulnerable and extremely needy households would receive full funding while the less needy would get up to 90 per cent funding.

Justice Mwita in his ruling observed that the case took longer because the government led by Attorney General and Education CS Julius Ogamba delayed in filing its submissions.

“Conservatory orders are issued against the respondents from implementing the new education funding model until hearing and determination of the petition,” ruled the judge. The case will be mentioned on December 16, 2024, to highlight submissions.

The New Funding Model received criticism from several stakeholders after several students expected to join their first year in different universities raised complaints about the implementation of the fund.

The funding model had placed students in five bands using eight variables, including parents’ background, gender, course type, marginalization, disability, family size, and composition.

A collage of public universities in Kenya. /VIRAL TEA KE

Ruto Moves 2 Cabinet Secretaries To New Govt Posts

Marvin Chege — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 16:20:02 +0300

President William Ruto has reorganised his Cabinet again, reassigning two Cabinet Secretaries to new positions in his government.

Rather than send them home permanently, the Head of State nominated Margaret Nyambura Ndung'u and Andrew Karanja to diplomatic positions.

Nyambura was nominated as High Commissioner to Ghana while Karanja was nominated as Ambassador of Kenya to Brazil.

The two were serving as Cabinet Secretaries for ICT and Agriculture respectively, with their positions since taken by William Kabogo and Mutahi Kagwe, pending vetting by the National Assembly and approval.

Collage of Margaret Nyambura Ndung'u and Andrew Karanja. /VIRAL TEA KE

Meanwhile, Ruto reshuffled the current CSs, placing Kipchumba Murkomen as the CS for Interior, ending speculation that emerged from the position left vacant by Kithure Kindiki, who was elevated to the position of Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya.

Furthermore, Salim Mvurya, who was Trade CS, was moved to the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports.

Ababu Namwamba, who previously wielded the Sports docket, was nominated as the Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) in Nairobi.

Dorothy Angote was nominated as the High Commissioner to Zimbabwe. Additionally, President Ruto made appointments to state corporations. They include:

Ndiritu Muriithi: Kenya Revenue Authority.
Anthony Mwaura: Kenya Rural Roads Authority.
Kembi Gitura: Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital.

All nominations and reassignments will be presented to the National Assembly for consideration and approval, as required by the Constitution.

Speaking on the changes, Felix K. Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, emphasised the government’s commitment to fulfilling its development goals and ensuring the highest standards of public service.

These strategic appointments and reassignments demonstrate the administration’s resolve to address pressing national challenges while delivering on its promises to the Kenyan people.

Salim Mvurya appears before the National Assembly's Committee on Appointments for vetting on August 3, 2024. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

Ruto Picks Mutahi Kagwe As Cabinet Secretary In Latest Reshuffle

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 15:45:08 +0300

President William Ruto has nominated Mutahi Kagwe as Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.

This pick sees Kagwe make a comeback to the top Cabinet post, having been CS for Health in former President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration.

In other nominations, the Head of State picked former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo for the position of Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy.

"In accordance with Article 152 (2) of the constitution his excellency the President has nominated the following persons for appointments as Cabinet secretaries Mutahi Kagwe and William Kabogo," the statement partly read.

President William Ruto and other Cabinet members during a Cabinet meeting at State House Nairobi on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. /PCS

Additionally, President Ruto nominated former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui to fill the position of Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry.

According to the President, the action to make the changes is aimed at realigning Ministries to optimize performance and enhance service delivery as set out in the Kenya Kwanza Administration's revitalized plan under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

If successfully vetted and approved by the National Assembly, Kagwe will take over from Dr Andrew Karanja who is the current Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary.

Kabogo will be taking over from Margaret Nyambura Ndung'u, who is the current Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy.

Lee Kinyanjui is taking over from Salim Mvurya who the President has reassigned to the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports.

The nominations came days after President Ruto met Uhuru at the latter's Gatundu home in an occurrence that rattled Kenya's political scene. Ruto revealed the meeting was aimed at discussions centred on matters of national and regional importance.

During the meeting, the Head of State hailed the 4th President of Kenya's remarkable statesmanship in overseeing the peaceful transfer of power after the 2022 general elections. The meeting between the two leaders sparked speculations on an evolving political alliance between the two leaders.

However, Uhuru maintained that the meeting was normal for sitting and former presidents to engage and consult on matters of national importance for the benefit of Kenyans.

With the nomination of Lee Kinyanjui and Mutahi Kagwe, Uhuru's allies into the Kenya Kwanza government, the president has intensified the allegations of the political alliance between him and his predecessor ahead of the 2027 general elections.

President William Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta on December 9, 2024. /UHURU KENYATTA

High Court Extends Suspension Of Kawira Mwangaza's Impeachment By 4 Months

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:24:02 +0300

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza is set to remain in office for longer after the High Court extended conservatory orders, which halted the Senate's decision to impeach her, by 120 days.

On Wednesday, December 18, Justice Bahati Mwamuye ruled that the decision to uphold the orders issued by the High Court in Meru allowed Mwangaza to continue discharging her gubernatorial duties before the full and final hearing set for a later date.

This means that the embattled governor will continue serving in her capacity. The judge had found that a leadership vacuum in the county would lead to a crippling of operations at the county.

"I shall in this ruling confirm and extend the interim (conservatory) orders for a period of 120 days from the date hereof and in that time, the petitioner shall continue to serve as the governor of Meru county with a provision that a judgement in this matter may be rendered before the lapse of those 120 days on the date hereof," the judge ruled.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

While upholding the orders, the judge rejected an application by the Senate to lift the orders, which would have effectively sealed her ouster from her position.

On August 21, 2024, the Senate upheld the impeachment of Mwangaza by the Meru County Assembly, which would have made her the first governor in the Kenya Kwanza regime to be removed from office.

The judge stressed that the aspect of public interest was a significant factor in the delivery of his ruling stating that the people of Meru needed to have a leader in the office of the Governor.

Mwangaza had filed an urgent application seeking to challenge her removal from office. The court's decision which suspended her impeachment by the Senate was delivered on August 21, 2024, after considering the notice of motion application and supporting affidavit submitted by the Governor. The petition was certified as urgent.

The High Court resultantly issued several key orders including the suspension of the Senate's resolution to remove Governor Mwangaza from office.

"Pending the inter partes hearing and determination of the Application dated 21/08/2024, a conservatory order be and is hereby issued restraining the Speaker of the Senate, or any other person or authority, from publishing or causing to be published in the Kenya Gazette a notification or declaration of a vacancy in the Office of the Governor of Meru County," the orders read.

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot moved the motion to impeach Governor Mwangaza which was seconded by Senator Nderitu Kinyua. The Senators then moved to vote on the following charges against her, a process that extended beyond the midnight hours of Wednesday, August 21:

Count 1: Gross Violation of the Constitution and Other Laws- 26 voted yes, 4 no, with 14 abstentions
Count 2: Gross Misconduct- 26 voted yes, 2 no, with 14 abstentions
Count 3: Abuse of Office- 27 voted yes, 1 no, with 14 abstentions

Following the voting on the three charges, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced that Mwangaza had ceased to hold office.

“Pursuant to Article 181 of the Constitution, Section 33 of County Government Act and Standing Order 86 of the Senate Standing Orders, the Senate has resolved to remove from office by impeachment Hon. Kawira Mwangaza, the Governor of Meru County and the governor accordingly ceases to hold office,” Kingi announced.

Senate speaker Amason Kingi during a past address. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

Cabinet Approves Bill Allowing Outgoing Presidents To Skip Swearing-In Of President-elect

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:50:24 +0300

The Cabinet on Tuesday, December 17 approved the Assumption of Office of President and Transition of Executive Authority Bill, 2024, which aims to address, among others, when an outgoing President cannot attend the swearing-in ceremony of a successor.

The Cabinet meeting which was chaired by President William Ruto and is the last for this year, approved the proposed law which aims to seal gaps and ensure smoother and more unified presidential transitions in Kenya.

It consolidates the procedures for the assumption of office and the transfer of executive authority into a single legislative framework.

"The Bill, now headed to Parliament for consideration, introduces a unified law covering the assumption of office by the President-elect and the transition of executive power," a memo from the Cabinet meeting reads in part.

President William Ruto and other Cabinet members during a Cabinet meeting at State House Nairobi on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. /PCS

The bill also imposes stricter penalties for State and public officers who obstruct the transition, proposing fines of up to Ksh10 million, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both.

Another key provision in the Bill ensures that the President-elect and Deputy President-elect receive security arrangements equivalent to those of the sitting President and Deputy President.

"To account for unforeseen circumstances, the Bill addresses scenarios where the outgoing President cannot attend the swearing-in ceremony. In such cases, the handover of instruments of power will be omitted without affecting the validity of the swearing-in process," added the despatch.

In 2022, several state officials allied with former President Uhuru Kenyatta's government were accused of attempting to block President William Ruto's assumption of office.

United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party secretary general, Veronica Maina, had on August 26, 2022, accused Uhuru of being the main backer behind the Supreme Court petition filed by Azimio la Umoja that had unsuccessfully sought to annul William Ruto's presidential poll victory.

In her petition filed at the Milimani Law Courts, Veronica accused the head of state of pushing former Primer Minister Raila Odinga and Martha Karua's petition, to claim that the August 9 polls were rigged against them.

Raila and Karua had wanted Ruto, who was declared president-elect on August 15 following a tight presidential race, to be blocked from taking the oath of office.

Uhuru did attend the swearing-in ceremony of President Ruto on September 13, 2022, a day after stating that he would hand over the instruments of power to his successor, Ruto, on the material day.

"Tomorrow, I will emulate that honoured tradition and hand over the mantle to my successor Dr William Samoei Ruto. In my service to you, I was supported by the Cabinet and Principal Secretaries. Most importantly, you the people of Kenya walked with me all step of the way," he addressed the nation on the same day he hosted Ruto at State House.

"This afternoon, I hosted the incoming President here at State House. The transition process commenced on 12th August and the doors of State have been open to the technical teams from the office of the President-elect to facilitate a smooth transition."

The State House handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and President-elect, William Ruto. /PSCU

DETAILS: Ruto Visits Uhuru In Gatundu [PHOTOS]

Marvin Chege — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 13:18:49 +0300

President William Ruto on Monday, December 9 paid a surprise visit to the home of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

This impromptu visit to Gatundu was the second time the two leaders met in less than a month after their initial meeting in Embu. It was there that Ruto had reported to his former boss regarding the issues his government has managed to implement from Uhuru's administration.

"President William Ruto pays a courtesy call to former President Uhuru Kenyatta at his Gatundu home. The two leaders discussed issues of National interest," announced Uhuru through his official X account.

State House spokesperson, Hussein Mohamed further elaborated on the agenda of the surprise meeting as follows:

President William Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta on December 9, 2024. /UHURU KENYATTA

Details

During the visit, the two national leaders discussed several issues of national and regional importance. President Ruto took the opportunity to reiterate his appreciation and commendation of Kenyatta’s statesmanship in overseeing the peaceful transfer of power after the 2022 elections, as well as the goodwill the former President has continued to demonstrate towards his fellow leaders and his support for Kenya’s ongoing progress and development.

"Both leaders acknowledged the challenging global environment affecting many countries, including Kenya, caused by a complex interplay of factors: the disruptive effects of COVID-19, the war in Ukraine - which destabilised supply chains and led to high commodity prices, particularly for fertiliser and wheat - volatile currency markets, and a harsh macroeconomic climate," Mohamed revealed in part.

"They noted progress in addressing these adverse impacts, especially in reducing inflation to its lowest level in the past decade, significantly lowering food prices, stabilising the Kenyan shilling, and reducing interest rates."

President Ruto thanked President Kenyatta for laying a strong foundation that has enabled the government to implement key programs under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, and they include transforming agriculture to ensure food security, achieving universal health coverage, providing affordable housing, empowering MSMEs, developing transport and communication infrastructure, last-mile electrification, and re-evaluating and reforming the Competency-Based Curriculum and the education sector in general, among other initiatives.

Both leaders agreed on the urgent need to accelerate these and other programmes to boost household incomes and create more opportunities for Kenyans. "They also underscored the importance of cultivating a nationalistic, patriotic, and harmonious working relationship among all Kenyans and stakeholders, including the three arms of government, religious leaders, civil society, and other partners, to ensure collective national stability and progress," Mohamed added.

"Additionally, the leaders appreciated the need to achieve broader and more inclusive political consensus in the governance of our country to accelerate the attainment of inclusive growth and fulfil the national development agenda."

Ruto and Uhuru also acknowledged Kenya’s leading role in promoting peace and security in the East African region through diplomatic and peace-support initiatives, which are crucial to resolving conflicts, restoring peace, and fostering regional stability.

President Ruto commended President Kenyatta for his patriotism and tireless contributions to peace-making efforts in the region. The duo further called for the prompt resolution of the court matters regarding the constitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel, to facilitate the appointment of commissioners.

"The two leaders called on Kenyans, friends of Kenya, and international partners to support the candidacy of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga for the position of Chair of the African Union Commission. They also committed to maintaining regular engagements on matters of national importance alongside other leaders and stakeholders," Mohamed continued.

Finally, President Ruto and President Kenyatta extended their warm wishes to all Kenyans, wishing them happy holidays as they enter the festive season.

President William Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta on December 9, 2024. /UHURU KENYATTA

Gachagua Scampers To Safety After Goons Storm Burial In Limuru [VIDEO]

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 12:37:25 +0300

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was forced to scamper for safety after chaos ensued during a burial ceremony in Limuru, Kiambu County on Thursday, November 28, which he attended.

The ceremony went on as usual as former Limuru Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Mwathi was giving his remarks. However, his mic went off, which was followed by a vigorous shaking of the tent where the former DP was seated alongside his close political allies including Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang'wa.

In a video seen by Viral Tea, Gachagua and other politicians were captured seated at one of the tents that had been designated for senior congregants.

However, just before the former DP could be invited to address the crowd, a group of locals began rattling the tent, a moment that prompted those inside to rush out in fear for their lives.

Here is the video:

Breaking News Gachagua Chased like a Burukenge by Goons in Limuru Burial! pic.twitter.com/gcXDfqutQl
— Mutembei TV (@MutembeiTV) November 28, 2024

The congregants were recorded scampering for safety as a group of rivalling pacts engaged in heated wrangles that led to the destruction of furniture including chairs.

During the incident, Gachagua's car was destroyed with footage of the scene showing the former DP's black Toyota Land Cruiser's rear window smashed.

According to reports, several people also sustained critical injuries with the photos of the event further showing plastic chairs scattered on the ground. However, the cause of the drama is yet to be established.

This comes after concerns surfaced regarding Gachagua's safety. On November 20, he claimed that he was being stalked by security agents in unmarked vehicles who had pitched camp outside his Nairobi residence.

"Security agents in unmarked cars have been following me wherever I go. They are parking at the entrance of my Nairobi residence, taking note of all my visitors, and they trail me whenever I leave the house, even all the way to my rural home in Nyeri," he announced on his social media pages.

Furthermore, Gachagua's acrimonious fallout with his former boss, President William Ruto, has been a major talking point. in a recent speech, the second deputy president took a swipe at Ruto over his style of leadership.

Speaking during a church service at the AIPCA, Gachagua hit out at the Head of State for failing to heed his advice on the Adani Group deals. According to the former DP, despite warning Ruto over the deal, the president failed to listen to his advice.

While reiterating the level of impunity in the country, Gachagua said he was viewed as the enemy of the people whenever he tried to convince the president over some of the government dealings.

Collage of President William Ruto (right) and his former Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua. /PCS.DPPS

Angry Ruto Lists 34 Companies Yet To Comply With eCitizen, Gives Them One Week To Join

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 09:15:47 +0300

A visibly agitated President William Ruto on Thursday, November 28 called out 34 government agencies yet to comply with his Presidential directive on onboarding the key services they offer on eCitizen.

The Head of State strongly accused the directors of key agencies within his government of undermining government efforts in the digitisation of government services.

Speaking during the First Anniversary of the eCitizen Directorate, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, the President revealed that "These entities are yet to comply with my directive that their services, payments and revenues must be on eCitizen platform so that Treasury can follow on revenues that are being collected by the government."

As a result, Ruto directed the agencies to comply with the directive in one week or face consequences. ''They have one week to comply, otherwise, they can make use of the door,'' Ruto warned.

A screenshot of the eCitizen platform. /FILE

The unhappy President listed all the 34 state agencies that were yet to comply with the directives, maintaining that they were responsible for the revenue loopholes.

He also uncovered a scheme whereby some state agencies had onboarded themselves on eCitizen, only to craft shady ways including retreating to old payment models, to escape being noticed by the Treasury.

''We still have government agencies that have come to the eCitizen platform, but retreat once in a while to go and use alternative means of payment including games with some banks,'' he noted.

The President therefore ordered the directors of the notorious companies to adhere to a time frame of three days and submit to his office a report on the same.

''I want a record of the last three months of government agencies that are already on the eCitizen platform but have decided to use alternative means with grey spaces so that we can take action against the people who are undermining transparency,'' Ruto added.

The companies include:

The National Cancer Institute of Kenya
Kenya Hospital Authority Trust Fund
Kenya Nutritionist and Dieticians Institute
Health Records and Information Managers Board
National Syndemic Disease Control Council
Occupational Therapy Council of Kenya
Digital Health Authority
Kenya Biovax Institute Limited
Kenya National Public Health Institute
Kenya Health Human Resource Authority
Kenya Water Institute
Tanafi Water Works Development Agency
Water Sector Trust Fund
Kenya Engineering Technology Registration Board
Kenya Ports Authority
IPOA
Private Security Regulatory Authority
Nairobi International Finance Centre
Kenya Reinsurance Corporation
Financial Reporting Centre
Kenya Institute of Supplies Management
Consolidated Bank of Kenya
Development Bank of Kenya
Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board (KASNEB)
Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK)
Institute of Certified Secretaries
Energy Petroleum and Regulatory Authority (EPRA)
Kenya Power Company Limited (KPLC)
Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy(REREC)
Geothermal Development Company (GDC)
Kenya Petroleum Refineries Limited
National Defence University (NDU)
The Kenya Space Agency
The Shipyard Limited

University Lecturers Call Off Strike As Govt Commits To Ksh9.7B Deal

Marvin Chege — Sat, 23 Nov 2024 11:58:49 +0300

University lecturers, under the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), have called off their three-week-old strike which disrupted operations across all universities in Kenya since September.

The lecturers have officially agreed to return to work following the signing of a return-to-work formula with the Inter-Public Universities Councils Consultative Forum (IPUCCF).

This deal includes the government's commitment to fully implement the 2021–2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which is valued at Ksh9.7 billion.

The implementation will occur in three tranches, with the first tranche of Ksh4.3 billion covering nine months up to June 2025. The remaining Ksh5.4 billion will be disbursed in two instalments of Ksh2.7 billion each.

Machakos University staff members kicked off their strike on September 18, 2024. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

As part of the agreement, all legal cases arising from the recent lecturers' strike will be withdrawn. To address the disruption caused by the strike, UASU Secretary-General Constantine Wesonga assured stakeholders of measures to recover lost academic time.

"We will extend teaching hours during the daily schedule and over weekends to recover time lost during the industrial strike," he stated.

This resolution marks the end of a prolonged standoff between lecturers and university administrations, providing relief to students and parents affected by the disruption. The strike had paralyzed learning across all 35 public universities and constituent colleges for nearly a month.

A few days ago, the National Assembly Committee on Education held a meeting with UASU representatives, the Inter-Public Universities Council Consultative Forum (IPUCCF), and the Inter-Ministerial Committee. The lecturers' union had refused to return to work until the government affirmed its plan to pay the lecturers the remaining Ksh5.46 billion.

During the Thursday noon meeting, Wasonga confirmed the union's willingness to accept the initial amount provided the government commits to a clear payment timeline for the remaining Ksh5.46 billion over the next two financial years.

"UASU agrees to take Ksh4.3 billion immediately but the government must agree to pay the balance. In 2025/26 we will be paid half of Ksh5.4 billion and in 2026/27 the remaining half. We must agree on how to negotiate other items on the Return to Work Formula," he stated.

In the meeting, Tinderet MP Julius Melly stressed the urgency of restoring normalcy in universities. "Students are waiting to graduate and parents have paid fees. It's time for parties to compromise for the sake of our education system," he indicated.

Back in October, the lecturers issued a fresh notice of nationwide demonstrations due to the government's failure to honour the agreement reached between the union leaders and the government in September this year.

The unions accused the government of negligence despite initially promising to fulfil their demands. They declared that the job boycott would resume in 7 days.

Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, while announcing that the government would join forces with UASU in a bid to address issues raised by lecturers that led them to strike, announced on September 25 that "During the meeting, which was attended by UASU Secretary General Dr Constantine Wasonga and KUSU Secretary General Dr Charles Mukhwaya among other members, we agreed on the formation of an inter-ministerial negotiating team."

The committee would address the key concerns raised by the unions and work toward a return-to-work agreement. The team was to comprise representatives from the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Education, the National Treasury, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), public universities, the State Corporations Advisory Committee (SCAC), and the unions.

Mutua urged the team to fast-track its mandate in a bid to end the strike which affected thousands of students, a situation he believed was not pleasing to the government's eyes.

During discussions with officials from the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU) on September 25, 2024. /ALFRED MUTUA

Kenya Has Cancelled All Adani Deals: President Ruto

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:01:43 +0300

President William Ruto has directed the cancellation of all deals the Kenyan government has with the Indian conglomerate Adani Group.

This includes the Adani-Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) deal and the Adani-Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) deal.

Speaking on Thursday, November 21, during his State of the Nation address in Parliament, the Head of State asked Transport CS Davis Chirchir and his Energy counterpart Opiyo Wanday to end the ongoing public-private partnership discussion with Adani Group Holdings.

"I have stated in the past, and I reiterate today, that in the face of undisputed evidence or credible information on corruption, I will not hesitate to take decisive action," announced the Head of State in a directive followed by raucous cheers from Members of Parliament and Senators.

Chairman of Adani Group Gautam Adani. /PHOTO

''Accordingly, I now direct - in furtherance of the principles enshrined in Article 10 of the Constitution on transparency and accountability, and based on new information provided by our investigative agencies and partner nations - that the procuring agencies within the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum immediately cancel the ongoing procurement process for the JKIA Expansion Public Private Partnership transaction, as well as the recently concluded KETRACO transmission line Public Private Partnership contract, and immediately commence the process of onboarding alternative partners.”

The announcement immediately caught the attention of Members of Parliament who followed the address as they stood and heaped praises and songs to the President.

Ruto's directive handed Adani a second defeat hours after the United States (US) government indicted its founder Gautam Adani and several directors in a Ksh32 billion ($250 million) bribery case.

Adani and other executives were indicted in New York on Wednesday, November 21 by US prosecutors for their alleged roles in a yearslong, multi-million-dollar bribery and fraud scheme involving plans to develop a major solar power plant.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) said in a statement that Adani, a key ally of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and seven other executives, including his nephew Sagar Adani, promised more than $250 million in bribes to Indian government officials to secure solar energy contracts.

According to a report by CNN, the impact of the allegations, which come more than a year after a US short-seller accused Adani Group of stock manipulation and accounting fraud, was immediately felt across the sprawling conglomerate.

On Thursday, shares in the group’s listed firms fell between 10% and 20%, wiping out just under $30 billion (Ksh3.9 trillion) in total market value according to Reuters data.

The DOJ alleged that the solar energy supply contracts were projected to raise more than $2 billion (Ksh259 billion) in profits after tax over an approximately 20-year period.

Authorities stated that Adani, 62, personally met with an Indian government official to “advance” the scheme, which took place between 2020 to 2024. The defendants frequently met and allegedly discussed the bribery scheme, including evidence on several phones.

“This indictment alleges schemes to pay over $250 million in bribes to Indian government officials, to lie to investors and banks to raise billions of dollars, and to obstruct justice,” Deputy Assistant Attorney General Lisa Miller said in the statement, adding “These offenses were allegedly committed by senior executives and directors to obtain and finance massive state energy supply contracts through corruption and fraud at the expense of US investors."

Right after the indictment caused uproar in Kenya, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi stated that the developments would not affect the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) deal with Adani Energy Solutions.

Appearing before the Senate Committee on Finance on Thursday, November 21, Wandayi argued that the indictment of Adani in the bribery case was not connected to the deal.

The Indian-based conglomerate on its part in a short and sharply-worded statement penned an instant letter responding to the charges levelled by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) and the US Securities and Exchange Commission, terming the allegations against the directors of Adani Green as baseless and denied.

India's Adani Group office. /BUSINESS STANDARD

Security Agents Have Been Stalking Me: Gachagua

Marvin Chege — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 20:42:02 +0300

Former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua is now alleging that he is being followed in every step by security agents in unmarked vehicles.

Taking to his social media pages on Wednesday night, November 20, the impeached DP claimed that the agents are currently pitching camp right outside his Nairobi residence.

To prove his claim, Gachagua posted a photo of the vehicle, a Toyota Aqua, as well as a copy of records of the motor vehicle derived from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

A photo of the vehicle which was reported to have been following Rigathi Gachagua. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

As per his sentiments, the private vehicle on Sunday, November 17 followed him to a church service in Kajiado. The same vehicle was spotted where he went for his late lunch and back at the residence in the capital.

Upon perusing the vehicle records, he noticed that the number plates were registered to a lorry.

Gachagua then revealed that he felt the urge to notify Kenyans of the level of harassment he was being subjected to, and demanded that the state leave him alone to enjoy his quiet time as a private citizen.

"This surveillance and intimidation of Kenyans was last witnessed during the era of the dreaded ‘Special Branch’ during the 24 years of Moi's misrule! In this era of extrajudicial killings, forced abductions and disappearances by state agents, I have thought it important to share with Kenyans the harassment and intimidation I am going through, and inform them to hold the state responsible if I am harmed by state agents.

"I request the state to leave me alone! You hounded me out of office, and you should now allow me to enjoy my peace as a private citizen," he appealed.

On November 12, 2024, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) came out to deny that detectives in unmarked Subaru vehicles had attempted to block Gachagua from attending a church service in Nairobi. Gachagua has been making public appearances in church services and during special occasions following his impeachment by the National Assembly and the Senate.

Addressing the press outside Karen Hospital on Sunday, October 20, Gachagua, who insisted that he was still the DP, told Kenyans that he didn't feel safe. This is after he revealed that his security was withdrawn while he was admitted to hospital.

Gachagua then disclosed two attempts on his life in Kisumu and Nyeri but noted that they had failed, hence the other solution utilised was an impeachment motion against him which sailed through the National Assembly and the Senate.

"I hear many of his people were calling here asking whether I'm dead, whether I'll survive or recover. They were celebrating. It is the most unfortunate thing that has ever happened in this country that you can be so vicious to a man who helped him to be President," he went on, affirming that his only crime was telling the truth.

Gachagua then tore into the Head of State for being vicious against him to the point of withdrawing his security while he was hospitalised.

"I have been here alone without a single officer looking after me. He ordered for the withdrawal of security guards in my rural home in Nyeri, in my private home here in Karen and all officers who were close to me were disarmed and given warning that they should not be anywhere near me.

"I didn't know President William Ruto could be that vicious. I am shocked by how vicious a man I helped to be President, a man I believed in, a man that I was persecuted for supporting, could be so vicious against me when I'm literally fighting for my life in the hospital. How cruel can a man be?" Gachagua held nothing back against his former boss.

Rigathi Gachagua speaking outside Karen Hospital on October 20, 2024. /X

Catholic Church Rejects Ksh5.8M Ruto, Sakaja Donations After Uproar

Marvin Chege — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 19:32:22 +0300

The Soweto Catholic Church in Nairobi has been directed to reject donations of up to Ksh5.8 million from President William Ruto and Governor Johnson Sakaja, hours after a section of Kenyans took it upon themselves to pressure the church to reject the gifts.

Archbishop Philip Anyolo in a statement on Monday, November 18 and seen by Viral Tea declined donations of Ksh200,000 from the Governor of Nairobi, Johnson Sakaja to the choir and Parish Missionary Council (PMC), Ksh 600,000 from President Ruto to the choir and PMC and Ksh 2 million from President Ruto for the construction of the Fathers' house.

According to Anyolo, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has consistently maintained a firm stance on the matter of politicians donating money to churches, highlighting the ethical concerns and the need to safeguard the Church from being used for political purposes.

He added that the Catholic Church strongly discourages the use of church events such as fundraisers and gatherings as platforms for political self-promotion and that politicians are urged to refrain from turning the pulpit into a stage for political rhetoric, as such actions undermine the sanctity of worship spaces.

The Catholic Bishops through the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops during a press conference on November 14, 2024. /PHOTO

"The Church is called to uphold integrity by refusing contributions that may inadvertently compromise its independence or facilitate unjust enrichment. Political leaders are urged to demonstrate ethical leadership by addressing the pressing issues raised by the KCCB, including political wrangles, corruption, politics of self-interest, violations of human rights and freedom of speech, the culture of lies, issues surrounding NHIF, unfulfilled promises, misplaced priorities, selfish agendas to extend terms of elected leaders, and over-taxation of Kenyans," Anyolo urged in part.

The Metropolitan Archbishop of Nairobi called upon the Church to remain a neutral entity, free from political influence, to effectively serve as a space for spiritual growth and community guidance.

Anyolo referred to the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024 under Section 10(2), which stipulates that any person who solicits or receives money or a benefit conducts a fundraising appeal, regardless of whether the representation made was direct or indirect should seek a permit in terms of fundraising appeals in accordance with the Bill.

"Consequently, the donations made to Soweto Catholic Church on Sunday, 17th November 2024, are in violation of these directives and the law. These include the Governor of Nairobi's donation of KSh 200,000 to the parish choir and Parish Missionary Council (PMC); the President's donation of KSh 600,000 to the choir and PMC; and KSh 2 million for the construction of the Fathers' house. These funds will be refunded to the respective donors," the statement read in part.

"Furthermore, the promised additional Ksh3 million for the construction of the Fathers' house, as well as the donation of a parish bus by the President, are hereby declined."

Even though Anyolo extended a warm welcome to politicians to attend Church for their spiritual nourishment, he urged them to do so as ordinary Christians, without leveraging their positions for political gain.

This latest statement is a continuation of the frontal assault by the catholic bishops on President Ruto's government in its declaration that it has had enough of the lies, selfishness, unmet promises and other contentious issues which the government of the day is responsible for.

On Sunday, November 17, Ruto attended a church service in Nairobi where he pledged a Ksh5 million cash gift to Soweto Catholic to go towards the construction of the Father's House.

“I have been informed by the chairman that you are putting up a house for the Father of this church, I am a builder. I am building affordable housing and others. So on Monday or Tuesday, I will give him Ksh 5 million towards that. However, I will follow up on that money. I will know if you misuse it," President Ruto announced.

However, the generous donation angered a large group of Kenyans who resorted to sending emails to Archbishop Anyolo to compel him to reject Ruto's gift.

While some Kenyans claimed that a church receiving cash donations from politicians was a conflict of interest, others theorized that the Kenya Kwanza government was keen on mitigating a scathing onslaught from the church in recent days, efforts that following this directive, are becoming more impossible for them to sustain.

President William Ruto meets Kenyan Catholic bishops at State House, Nairobi, on June 28, 2024. /PCS

Meg Whitman Resigns As US Ambassador To Kenya

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 12:34:17 +0300

The United States Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, has announced her resignation from the role.

Her decision to step down on Wednesday, November 13 came after Donald Trump was elected the 47th President of the United States (POTUS) in the 2024 elections.

Whitman communicated this to her team at the US Embassy in Nairobi, and to outgoing US President, Joe Biden, in a statement obtained and verified by Viral Tea.

"Today, I announced to my team at the U.S. embassy that I submitted my resignation to President Biden. It has been an honour and privilege to serve the American people through strengthening our partnership with Kenya," she announced.

Meg Whitman with President William Ruto on September 27, 2022. /PCS

Going forth to list her achievements, Whitman expressed her pride in leading a people-centred agenda that saves lives, increases security, and creates economic opportunities for Kenyans and Americans.

In her words, from delivering emergency funding to alleviate catastrophic flooding in 2023 to the ongoing fight against malaria, HIV, and MPOX, the U.S. government prioritized the health and welfare of its friends in Kenya.

"This year, the United States elevated Kenya as its first Major Non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting the importance our countries place on standing shoulder to shoulder to protect our shared democratic values and enhance security," she went on.

"My efforts also opened the door for more American companies to do business in Kenya. When I arrived in 2022, I focused on expanding these ties with my “Why Africa, Why Kenya?” presentation to American companies and entrepreneurs. Trade, jobs, and U.S. investment in Kenya are at historic highs because of our efforts."

Whitman also praised that under her tenure, the US government responded to the skyrocketing demand for its consular services, reducing wait times for non-immigrant visa appointments from more than two years to about two months, among other enhancements.

She reiterated her previous remarks that "Like all U.S. ambassadors, I serve at the request of the President. The American people have spoken, and a new President will be inaugurated in January" as she went on to wish Trump and his new team success.

"Our Embassy benefits from highly skilled Kenyan and American employees who will continue their efforts under the leadership of Chargé d'Affaires Marc Dillard to advance the shared goals on which our bilateral relationship has long been grounded.

"I have no doubt that our 60 years of partnership will continue to strengthen and serve Americans and Kenyans as we aim to build more prosperous, healthy, secure, and democratic nations. Our relations are stronger than ever, and I am confident this trajectory will continue," she continued.

Following her resignation, Whitman is expected to depart Kenya, noting that she was "full of gratitude for the team that has worked tirelessly on my behalf, for the opportunity to serve my country, and for the friendship offered by the government and the people of the beautiful Republic of Kenya."

Her resignation followed massive pressure on social media for her to resign following Trump's win, though some saw this as a tall order given her past Republican ties as Trump was elected US president on a Republican ticket.

Following Donald Trump’s win in the US elections, and becoming the United States’ 47th president, Kenyans took to social media to congratulate and celebrate him but turned on Whitman by pushing hashtags such as 'Recall Meg Whitman' and 'Resign Meg Whitman' on X, demanding that Trump removes her as a Kenyan envoy.

Their criticism stemmed from her tenure as the US envoy to Kenya, during which, the former tech CEO and billionaire drew criticism from Kenyans who accuse her of “meddling” in Kenya’s politics and of maintaining unusually close ties with President William Ruto.

This connection was evident during Ruto’s recent U.S. state visit, where Whitman played a highly visible role in facilitating his agenda, a display that highlighted her access and influence, rare even among U.S. ambassadors.

US President-elect, Donald Trump. /ASSOCIATED PRESS

Ruto Nominates Ex-IEBC Chair Issack Hassan To Lead IPOA Board

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 12:33:13 +0300

President William Ruto has nominated former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson, Ahmed Issack Hassan as the chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

Hassan was among eight candidates shortlisted for the role. The recruitment process is in accordance with Sections 8, 9 and 10 of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act, 2011.

"The nominee is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with 30 years of experience as a legal practitioner and consultant in various countries including Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Namibia, and Afghanistan.

President William Ruto speaking at the Administration Police Training College, Embakasi, during the pre-deployment briefing of the first Kenyan Police contingent to the Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti on June 24, 2024. /PCS

IPOA Chairperson of the Selection Panel Arthur Osiya revealed on Tuesday, October 8 that the selection panel initiated the process by inviting applications for the chairperson and member positions on September 13, 2024, through print media and the PSC website.

At the close of applications on September 27, 2024, the panel received a total of 22 applications for the chairperson role and 304 for the member positions.

“Following a review of the applications, the selection panel shortlisted eight candidates for the chairperson role and 37 for the member positions,” Osiya said.

Other Nominations

Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC)

At SRC, Ruto nominated Sammy Chepkwony as the new chairperson and is set to replace Lyn Mengich.

"Mr. Chepkwony is currently the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at People Centric Management Limited. He began his career as a senior consultant at Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PWC) Kenya," read the statement in part.

"Since then, he has held various senior positions as Chairperson at Tata Chemicals Magadi Provident Fund, Human Resources Director at Kenya Airways Ltd, James Finlay Kenya Ltd and Human Resource Manager at Nairobi Bottlers Ltd."

Also nominated to SRC were Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Martin Kizito Ong'oyi, CBS (Nominee of the Defence Council), Mr Mohamed Aden Abdi (Nominee of the Senate on behalf of County Governments), Ms Jane Gatakaa Njage (Nominee of TSC) and Mr Leonid Ashindu (Nominee of the Association of Professional Societies in East Africa (APSEA).

Others were Dr Gilda Odera (Nominee of the Federation of Kenya Employers-FKE) and Dr Geoffrey Apollo Omondi (Nominee of COTU).

National Gender and Equality Commission

Hon. Rehema Dida Jaldesa was nominated by the Head of State as the chairperson while Michael Nzomo was nominated as a Member of the Commission.

Commission of Administrative Justice (CAJ)

Ruto nominated Charles Orinda Dulo as the chairperson. Musician Charles Njagua Kanyi alias Jaguar and Ms Dorothy Jemator Kimengech were named as members of the commission.

Jaguar is a well-known Kenyan politician, entrepreneur and musician who made his political debut in 2017 when he vied for and won the Starehe Parliamentary seat on the Jubilee party ticket. However, in August 2022, the lawmaker lost his seat after serving for only one term.

The former lawmaker holds a Bachelor's degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from Mt Kenya University which he obtained six years ago, in 2018.

The Commission on Administrative Justice is a government institution mandated with tackling improper governance in the public sector. As an independent institution, CAJ is mandated to investigate complaints of delay, abuse of power, unfair treatment, manifest injustice and misbehaviour within the government.

Central Bank Of Kenya (CBK)

President Ruto also nominated Gerald Nyaoma Arita as the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya.

"The nominee is a career central banker with 36 years of professional experience and is the outgoing Director of the Bank Supervision Department at the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK)," read the statement in part.

Nyaoma has previously held various positions within the Central Bank of Kenya, including Director, Financial Markets Development; Director, Banking Services; Director, Bank Supervision Department; Acting Director, Internal Audit Department; Senior Manager, National Payment Services Division; and Assistant Branch Manager, Mombasa Branch, among others.

Musician Charles Njagua Kanyi alias Jaguar. /FILE

Donald Trump Wins US Election: What Gachagua & Kenyan Politicians Are Saying

Marvin Chege — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 12:31:59 +0300

UPDATE 1.51 PM: Donald Trump has been elected 47th President of the United States (US).

The Associated Press (AP) projected just after 1.30 pm Kenyan time on Wednesday, November 6, defeating Kamala Harris in a stunning comeback. AP reported that Trump clinched victory with 277 votes compared to Kamala's 224.

Donald John Trump is on the verge of sealing a return to the White House for the first time since his first term from 2016 to 2020 after taking an early lead against incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris in what has been an intense 2024 United States of America (USA) presidential election.

The race for the top seat was always going to be a battle between Republican Trump and Harris - a Democrat who is also enjoying commendable support in a race that looked like it would go down to the wire.

At the time of publishing this story, the numbers had heavily favoured Trump and with 267 electoral college votes, he needs just three more to get to the 270 mark required to win the presidential election. Kamala on her part amassed 224 votes and even a miracle is unlikely at this point.

Despite no prominent media house calling the election yet, Trump who spoke in Florida on Wednesday morning, November 6, thanked the Americans for taking to the ballot to elect him as president. "I want to thank the American people for the extraordinary honour of being elected your 47th president and your 45th president," Trump remarked.

Live forecast of the 2024 US elections. /NEW YORK TIMES

He added," This was, I believe, one of the greatest political movements of all time and now it’s going to reach a new level of importance because we’re going to help our country heal. Our country needs to help, we are going to fix our borders and fix everything about our country."

Globally, world leaders such as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have already congratulated the projected winner. In Kenya, political leaders are monitoring the polls with meticulous precision, knowing very well the implications for Kenya whoever wins the poll.

We take a look at what they said below:

Ndindi Nyoro

The Kiharu MP is a strong affiliate of President William Ruto's regime and has been touted as a potential future Deputy President. Nyoro has been a Trump supporter and he took to his social media to lead in the early congratulatory messages for the Republican.

"Congratulations President Donald Trump, the 45th and 47th. Republican policies have always been better for Africa and the Global South. The Global Economy will definitely be better with imminent monetary easing under Trump," Nyoro said, adding "Hongera USA. We are African and Africa is our Business."

Kalonzo Musyoka

The Wiper Party leader also congratulated Donald Trump, whose victory is a matter of 'when', not 'if'. Kalonzo, who is angling towards becoming a self-styled opposition leader in Kenya, congratulated Trump, with a message to Kenya's electoral body IEBC.

"I extend my congratulations to President-Elect Donald Trump on your election as 47th President of the United States of America," Kalonzo's statement read.

"Americans have placed their trust in your ideas and leadership, as evidenced by the outcomes of the electoral college and popular vote. Over 150 million Americans voted in the historic November 5 election, and their votes were counted, tallied and announced in less than 24 hours. I believe Kenya, and in particular the IEBC can learn from the United States about how to conduct a free, fair, and credible election. I wish you every success and look forward to working with you."

Esther Passaris

The Nairobi Woman representative is a strong advocate for women's leadership and has publicly thrown her weight behind Kamala Harris. When the election process began on Tuesday, Passaris took to her social media to declare her support, saying: "Our prayers are with Kamala Harris for running one of the most vibrant issue-based campaigns ever. It’s just a matter of hour. Godspeed from the Continent of Africa."

Babu Owino

The Embakasi East Member of Parliament has declared not once but multiple times that he eventually wishes to run for Presidency in Kenya. On Wednesday, Babu congratulated Trump for an early victory, while also aiming a dig at an unnamed political rival.

"Congratulations to Donald Trump for winning US elections. This is how I will beat my unworthy opponent in 2027," the outspoken ODM legislator said on X.

Anne Waiguru

The Kirinyaga County Governor congratulated Donald Trump through her social media whilst also hailing Kamala Harris for being a worthy candidate in the Presidential polls.

"Congratulations President Donald Trump on your election as the 47th President of the United States. I wish you success as you lead the nation forward," Waiguru wrote, adding "To Vice President Kamala Harris, you ran an impressive campaign and fought the good fight. Your strength and resilience inspire women worldwide—you’ve made history and continue to blaze trails for future generations. Wishing America unity, progress, and all the best in the years ahead."

Mike Sonko

Mike Sonko, the former Nairobi governor, was also full of praise for Donald Trump, hailing the Republican as a candidate who overcame odds to win a second US Presidential election.

"Congratulations once again to the President who had faced impeachment and emerged victorious, Donald Trump," Sonko posted, adding that Kamala would "live to fight another day."

Oscar Sudi

Another ally of President Ruto, the Kapseret Constituency Member of Parliament took to his social media to congratulate Trump, albeit with a sly dig at his political adversaries.

"Congratulations, President Donald Trump, on your resounding victory. A leader like me prefers actions over words, not just grandiose speeches filled with empty rhetoric," the outspoken lawmaker, who led calls to impeach former Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, said.

Irungu Kang'ata

The Murang'a senator shared a short concise statement on the state of the US polls, saying "It was obvious Donald Trump would win."

Ababu Namwamba

The former Sports Cabinet Secretary also emphatically congratulated Trump on victory on Wednesday, saying "Congratulations President-elect Donald John Trump, the 45th and 47th. Stunning typhoon, this triumph! May the world know peace, shared prosperity, and moral values."

Samson Cherargei

The Nandi County Senator took a different approach while tipping Donald Trump to win the US elections, appearing to claim that Kenya would be directly affected by the Republicans' win amid the country's ties with Joe Biden and Kamala Harris' administration.

"Donald J Trump is becoming the 47th President of the United States of America. Trump had 277 Electoral votes against Harris's 226 electoral votes. As Republicans take control of the Senate in the USA. A major shift on the foreign policy especially to the African continent," the Senator remarked online.

Graphic of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. /VIRAL TEA KE

Rigathi Gachagua

We saved the best for last. The former Deputy President termed Trump's victory a 'comeback', which would make for hilarious reading given that he was impeached not too long ago by Parliament as the second in command.

"Congratulations President Donald Trump, for one of the greatest political come-backs of our generation. Your victory is clear proof that resilience and a never-say-die attitude will always TRUMP obstacles on the path to your destiny. God Bless You. God Bless America," he wrote.

Senate Suggests Rejecting Cherargei Proposal To Extend Term Limits

Marvin Chege — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 12:23:16 +0300

The Senate Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights has recommended the rejection of a controversial bill that sought to extend the terms of elected officials, including presidents, from five to seven years, a significant blow to Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei.

The Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2024, sponsored by Senator Cherargei, faced public opposition during the consultation phase, with 99.99 per cent of submissions expressing strong disapproval, according to a statement from Parliament released on Friday, November 1.

"The voice of the Kenyan people has been unequivocal," declared Committee Chairperson Senator Hillary Wakili Sigei while presenting the report to the Senate plenary. "Out of 168,801 submissions received, only eleven stakeholders provided specific comments on the bill's clauses, while the rest overwhelmingly rejected the proposed amendments."

The bill, which proposed extending the terms of the President, Members of Parliament, Governors, and County Assembly Members, also sought to introduce the position of Prime Minister and modify the Senate's functions within the bicameral system.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta hands over the instruments of power to Kenya's fifth President William Ruto at Kasarani Stadium. /TWITTER

"During our public hearing at the KICC Amphitheater on October 25, we witnessed an unprecedented show of unity among Kenyans," Sigei emphasized. "Save for one stakeholder, every single presenter urged the committee to reject this bill in its entirety."

The committee's decision was influenced not only by public opposition but also by procedural considerations. "We find ourselves in a position where even if some amendments proposed in the bill had merit, parliamentary practice and court decisions prevent us from severing the condemned provisions," Sen. Sigei explained.

"The Constitution demands that such amendments garner support from both the public and parliamentarians before passage."

Looking ahead, the committee has proposed significant procedural reforms. "We recommend that the Senate adopt stronger vetting mechanisms for constitutional amendment bills," stated Sigei, who added, "Specifically, we're calling for a requirement of at least 15 senators' signatures in support of any such proposal before it can be published as a bill."

The chairperson highlighted the financial implications of processing controversial constitutional amendments. "Subjecting bills to public participation incurs significant costs for Parliament. We must establish a proper sieving mechanism to ensure that proposals have reasonable support before advancing to this stage," he noted.

"This decision reflects our commitment to protecting both the spirit of our Constitution and the public interest," Sigei concluded, adding that Senators cannot proceed with amendments that face overwhelming opposition from the Kenyan people.

The fate of the Bill now rests in the hands of its sponsor, Cherargei, who retains the right to move it to the Second Reading despite the committee's rejection. For the bill to advance, President William Ruto's ally has to first secure a seconder for the motion, and then marshal sufficient support from his fellow Senators.

Without adequate backing from the Senate, the bill will not proceed to Second Reading and will effectively collapse at this stage.

Why It Matters

If the proposal contained in the Bill had been actualised it then meant that if one is elected president he or she would be in office for 7 years with the possibility of extension by another 7-year term.

Currently, Article 142 of the Kenyan 2010 Constitution indicates that: (1) The President shall hold office for a term beginning on the date on which the President was sworn in, and ending when the person next elected President in accordance with Article 136 (2) (a) is sworn in. The President, however, is prohibited from holding office for more than two five-year terms.

As of now, President Ruto is serving the first two years of his five-year term and is allowed to contest for another term in the 2027 general elections. However, if the Bill were to be passed before then, it would mean that should Ruto be re-elected in 2027, his second and final term would conclude in 2034.

The latest development came a few days after Cherargei stood firm on his proposal to extend the term limits, even claiming that the majority of Kenyans were in support of the Bill.

As of October 25, the Senate had received more than 200,000 submissions, which crashed its email system following the high number of views received from Kenyans.

“Senate has so far received 500,000 emails reacting to my Bill. As of now, 60 per cent of Kenyans are supporting my Bill and 40 per cent are opposing,” Cherargei revealed while speaking in the Senate on October 29. The ground however said otherwise.

“I have been a victim of a data breach for the last week, my phone has been called, and I have received insults and praises. As we speak today, my phone has over 12,000 messages, close to 20,000 WhatsApp messages. I have also received calls and there is a data privacy breach that no one is addressing,”

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi during the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua on October 17, 2024. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

Kithure Kindiki To Be Sworn In As Deputy President After 3-Judge Bench Makes Ruling

Marvin Chege — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 14:53:11 +0300

Kithure Kindiki's wait to be sworn in as the next Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, replacing Rigathi Gachagua, is officially over.

This is after the High Court in Nairobi on Thursday lifted the conservatory orders that stopped Kindiki's appointment and swearing-in as the newest second in command.

The three-judge bench consisting of Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Fridah Mugambi noted that lifting the conservatory orders would not have an impactful effect on the operations of the court and that staying the orders even further would immensely hamper the operations of the government as mandated by the constitution.

According to Justice Anthony Mrima, the public interest and constitutional provision demanded that the office of the deputy president should not remain vacant.

High Court Judges Eric Ogolla (centre) Anthony Mrima and Frida Mugambi. /FILE

"We are convinced and find that the current constitutional framework does not envision any scenario in which the office of the DP would remain vacant except during the brief period required to fill a vacancy," noted Justice Anthony Mrima.

"The applications for conservatory orders are hereby disallowed. The conservatory orders on October 18, 2024, in Kerugoya High Court are hereby discharged and set aside," Justice Eric Ogolla pronounced.

The ruling comes after lawyers representing the National Assembly led by former Attorney General Githu Muigai urged the three-judge bench to lift the conservatory orders to pave the way for a swearing-in.

While addressing the court, the lawyer argued that the office of the deputy president was vacant and that the conservatory order had been overtaken by events.

This order now paves the way for the swearing-in of Kindiki during a ceremony to proceed. Kindiki, who will now have to relinquish his role as the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, was barred by the High Court from taking up the Deputy President's office.

The court in Kerugoya issued the conservatory orders following a suit filed by David Mathenge and Peter Kamotho who challenged the Senate's decision to impeach Rigathi Gachagua from office.

Rigathi Gachagua and Kithure Kindiki at a past event. /FILE

Blow To Ruto In Moving Gachagua Impeachment Case To Supreme Court

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 14:15:48 +0300

President William Ruto has suffered a blow after the High Court dismissed his plea that the case involving the impeachment of former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua be referred to the Supreme Court.

Justice Fridah Mugambi of the three-judge bench consisting of Justices Eric Ogolla and Anthony Mrima ruled that the High Court had jurisdiction to hear the case.

Per her determination, the hearing of the petition challenging the impeachment of the deputy president was a constitutional process and thus the High Court, just like the Supreme Court, had equal powers to determine the case.

"The jurisdiction to hear disputes arising from the impeachment of a president and deputy president does not lie with the Supreme Court within the realm of original and exclusive jurisdiction," noted Justice Mugambi.

A 3-judge bench of the High Court during court proceedings as of October 23, 2024. /X.JOHN MBATI

"It is undisputed that the impeachment of the deputy president is a constitutional process & the authority to determine whether the merits and procedure of such impeachment process falls squarely within the jurisdiction of the High Court. We do hereby find and hold that this court has the jurisdiction to sit and determine the matter that is before it."

On Tuesday, October 22, President Ruto's legal team challenged the High Court's powers to hear petitions filed by Gachagua, arguing that the High Court cannot hear and determine the cases, given that such a matter was spared for the Supreme Court.

"The honourable court lacks jurisdiction to entertain the instant petition for reasons that, by dint of Article 165 (5) (a) of the Constitution, the honourable court cannot determine the petition as canvassed and/or grant the prayers sought, being a matter reserved for the exclusive jurisdiction of the Supreme Court," President Ruto's lawyer Adrian Kamotho Njenga argued.

The lawyers thus argued that it was an abuse of the court process. This came after the impeached Deputy President moved to court to block nominated deputy president Kithure Kindiki from being sworn into office.

Ruto's legal team, as a result, wanted the High Court to recuse itself and hand it over to the Supreme Court.

"The Petition violates the provisions of Article 143 (2) of the Constitution as and the express order of the Supreme Court at paragraph 2117 (iv) of the decision in Attorney-General & 2 others v Ndii & 79 others; Dixon & 7 others (Amicus Curiae) (Petition 12, 11 & 13 of 2021 (Consolidated)) [2022] KESC 8 (KLR) (31 March 2022) (Judgment), to the effect that civil proceedings cannot be instituted in any court against the President or the person performing the functions of the office of the President during their tenure of office in respect of anything done or not done under the Constitution of Kenya 2010," the lawyer stated in court documents.

On October 24, the legal team dropped out of the case, declaring that they would no longer be representing the Head of State in the matter.

Kamotho argued that the Head of State's decision to join the case was against the law, and referred to a Supreme Court judgement in 2022 that ruled that the president could not be enjoined to any legal proceeding such as the one filed by the former deputy president, to which President Ruto had been listed as the sixth respondent from the ongoing court case.

President William Ruto during a meeting with Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and his team on October 17, 2024. /PCS

Supreme Court Explains Why Finance Act 2023 Is Legal

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 15:54:42 +0300

The Supreme Court of Kenya on Tuesday, October 29 set aside the Court of Appeal's decision that declared the Finance Act 2023 unconstitutional.

In their ruling, the seven judges of the apex court, led by Chief Justice Martha Koome stated that the Finance Act 2023 is lawful, meaning that the Act remains in effect. This move now allows the government to continue revenue collection and fiscal operations under the Act’s legislative framework.

The judges ruled that public participation on the Finance Act 2023 was lawfully conducted. "The preliminary objection on this Court's jurisdiction is overruled," ruled the Supreme Court adding, "We hereby set aside the Court of Appeal's finding declaring the entire Finance Act, 2023 unconstitutional."

The judges upheld the Court of Appeal’s decision that the question relating to Section 84 (Affordable Housing Levy) introduced by the Finance Act, 2023 before the Court of Appeal was moot.

President William Ruto signs Finance Bill 2023 into Law at State House, Nairobi on Monday, June 26, 2023. /PCS

They also concurred with the Appellant court that Sections 76 and 78 of the Act amending Section 7 of the Kenya Roads Act, 1999; Section 87 of the Act amending Section 28 of the Unclaimed Financial Assets Act, 2011 are unconstitutional as they were neither incidental to nor directly connected to a money Bill.

“The Consideration of the Finance Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 14 of 2023)’ met the threshold of a reasonable measure for considering proposals, views and suggestions from the public, with respect to the public participation exercise conducted on the Finance Bill, 2023. m),” the highest court in the country ruled.

“In line with Article 221 (6) of the Constitution, Estimates of Revenue are not a component of the Appropriations Act. The preparation and tabling of the estimates of revenue and expenditure precede the preparation and tabling of the Appropriation Bill. The Estimates of Revenue and expenditure for the FY 2023/2024 were tabled and considered before the National Assembly as required by law.”

The seven Judges also maintained that estimates of Revenue and expenditure for the FY 2023/2024 were tabled and considered before the National Assembly as required by law. They also ruled that public participation was lawfully conducted and Parliament is not required to undertake fresh public participation.

“Bearing in mind the time-sensitive nature of a Finance Bill, it is unreasonable to require, or subject amendments intended to give effect to proposals and suggestions from a public participation exercise to another fresh round of public participation,” the Apex court said in its ruling.

With this ruling, the Act therefore remains in force, and all taxes collected under this Act are valid. On August 20, the Apex court issued conservatory orders temporarily halting the Court of Appeal's decision that declared the Finance Act 2023 null and void.

The interventional move by the apex court granted the government a crucial reprieve, allowing it to continue enforcing the Finance Act 2023 while the legal battle progressed.

The Court of Appeal's previous judgment, handed down in July, had found that the Finance Act, 2023, contravened Articles 220(1)(a) and 221 of the Kenyan Constitution, as well as sections 37, 39A, and 40 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), which outline the budget-making process.

This ruling sparked widespread uncertainty among employers and taxpayers, who had been grappling with confusion over applicable tax bands and financial regulations.

The 2023 Finance Act was met with intense scrutiny and legal battles, primarily due to contentious measures such as a significant increase in the value-added tax on fuel, the introduction of a housing tax, and a hike in the top personal income tax rate. These changes sparked a wave of political opposition and violent street protests.

This latest Supreme Court ruling comes as a reprieve to President William Ruto's administration, which had been operating without a Finance Act to govern taxation and related financial issues. Further complicating the situation was a vote by members of Kenya's National Assembly to delete the entire Finance Bill 2024 in its entirety.

Chief Justice Martha Koome and the judges of the Supreme Court of Kenya. /JUDICIARY

Gachagua Runs To Court Of Appeal To Stop High Court Case On His Impeachment

Marvin Chege — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 12:42:25 +0300

Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Monday, October 28, filed a petition at the Court of Appeal seeking to stop the ongoing proceedings at the High Court with regard to his impeachment case.

In this edition, Gachagua is contesting a decision that revealed that Deputy Chief Justice (DCJ) Philomena Mwilu acted lawfully when she constituted a three-judge bench to hear cases touching on his ouster.

Gachagua in his appeal has asked the Appellate Court to suspend the proceedings before the High Court which resume on Tuesday, October 29.

The three-judge bench consisting of Justices Eric Ogola, Anthony Mrima and Fridah Mugambi is set to hear an application by the Attorney General and National Assembly seeking to set aside orders blocking Prof Kithure Kindiki from assuming the office of the DP.

Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu. /FILE

Through Advocate John Njomo, the former DP is citing errors in the three-judge bench ruling finding that Mwilu can assign a bench. He contends that the Constitution only grants the Chief Justice power to empanel and assign Judges and not any other judicial officer.

“The applicant contends that the stated ruling is based on not only a misinterpretation of Article 165 (4) of the Constitution but also a violation of Articles 25, 27, 47, 48, 50 (1) and 260 as the Constitution accords the power to empanel and assign judges to only the Chief Justice of Kenya...therefore the DCJ has no power to assign and empanel Judges,” the Petition read in part, adding ''That the actions and omissions of the impugned Bench are not only, wrong and unlawful but incorrect, and unprocedural."

According to the petition, Gachagua also argued that should the Court of Appeal fail to rule in his favour, he would be denied the right to a fair hearing. He is thus calling for his prayers to be answered so that his appeal does not become null and void.

''That unless the said orders are issued, any delay shall result in irreparable prejudice of the Applicant's rights to a Fair Trial & Hearing and ultimate loss of the substratum of his Petition E565 of 2024 which shall ultimately render both the intended Appeal herein and the Petition E565 of 2024 a nugatory, superfluous and moot,'' the Petition added.

On October 23, the three-judge bench declined to recuse itself from the hearing and determination of the case filed by Gachagua, the bench ruling that the constitution granted DCJ Mwilu the powers to choose a bench of judges to determine a case.

Justice Mrima while ruling on the matter, referred to Article 165 (4) which he stated had granted authority to the DCJ to act on behalf of the Chief Justice on distinct occasions such as the one challenged by Gachagua's legal team.

"It is, therefore, our finding that the constitutional function of the CJ to assign benches, being an administrative function, can be performed by the DCJ when the CJ, for good reason, is unable to perform," noted Justice Mrima.

"In this case, we do not find any fault in the honourable DCJ assigning judges to sit in this bench more soon when the honourable Chief Justice has not raised any red flag," he added.

The 3-judge bench of the High Court during court proceedings as of October 23, 2024. /X.JOHN MBATI

Court Blocks Govt From Signing Ksh95.7B Deal With Adani

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 12:17:31 +0300

The High Court has suspended the implementation of a deal between Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) and Adani Foundation Energy Ltd worth Ksh95.7 billion to operate and maintain transmission lines and substations for 30 years in a bid to curb power blackouts.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye on October 25 issued conservatory orders suspending the implementation of the deal following a petition filed at the court.

"Pending the inter partes hearing and determination of the Application dated 23/10/2024 a conservatory order be and is hereby issued suspending the implementation of any project agreed", the order by Justice Mwamuye read.

"That any project between the respondents jointly and any if its related companies and entities with regard to the development of transmission lines, substations, or any other electrical power infrastructure " the order continued.

A collage of Adani Group CEO Gautam Adani and the logo of his company. /INDIA TODAY

A Mombasa-based non-governmental organization (NGO) petitioned the high court to stop KETRACO and the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) from awarding electricity transmission infrastructure contracts to Adani Energy Solutions Limited.

The Commission for Human Rights and Justice (CHRJ) in the petition was also seeking the two state agencies to be ordered to share information about the deal as required in Article 35 of the constitution and provisions of the Access to Information Act.

While delivering the ruling, the court cited concerns over secrecy, public participation, and constitutional compliance.

“THAT pending the inter partes hearing and determination of the Application dated 23/10/2024. a conservatory order be and is hereby issued suspending the implementation of any Project Agreement between the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th Respondents jointly and severally and the 2nd Respondent and/or any of its related companies and entities with regard to the development of transmission lines, substations, or any other electrical power Infrastructure,” reads part of the ruling.

A conservatory order has also been issued restraining KETRACO and EPRA from entering into any new agreement or furthering any existing agreement concerning Adani Limited or any of its related companies and entities with regard to the development of transmission lines, substations, or any other electrical power infrastructure. The next hearing is set for November 11, 2024.

This blow came a day after President William Ruto defended the involvement of Indian conglomerate Adani in key infrastructure projects across Kenya, urging Kenyans to embrace private partners as they can finance mega-projects in the country.

Speaking in Nakuru on Thursday 24, October during the groundbreaking of the the 35MW Orpower 22 Power Plant, Menengai, Nakuru County, Ruto was in support of Private Partnerships, including Adani, arguing that their capacity can alleviate the tax burden on Kenyans and cut overdependence on loans.

"The Adani group is investing in the transmission line with their own money, Ksh95 Billion. We would have otherwise gone to borrow that money and burden the people of Kenya, but this is now a private-sector investment. We will pay for that transmission line using a willing charge that has been negotiated," Ruto announced.

"It is important for us as a nation to appreciate that a partnership between the public and private sector gives us a win-win situation where we can deliver public services using the efficiency and investment of the private sector as a way of supporting overall development in our country."

On the other hand, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 13 addressed critics' concerns about transparency and investor integrity. He stressed the Adani group's track record and ongoing interest in Kenya, which dated back to 2010.

The controversy revolves around proposed Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for the modernisation of JKIA and Kenya's power transmission sector, with Kenyans heavily scrutinising the processes leading up to Adani's involvement, but Raila defended the firm's credibility by citing firsthand experience with their projects in India.

Photo of a power transmission line system. /KETRACO

Judges Refuse To Recuse Themselves From Gachagua Impeachment Case

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 11:34:40 +0300

A three-judge bench of the High Court has for the second time in a week declined to recuse itself from the impeachment case involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Eric Ogola, who is part of the three-judge bench, ruled that the applicant’s request for the judges to recuse themselves “has been disallowed.” However, the petitioners were allowed to file and serve an amended petition if the need was within five days of this order.

In view of the nature of the pending applications of conservatory orders, Ogola stated that the applications seeking to discharge, view and set aside the orders shall be deemed as responses to applications of the conservatory orders.

“Parties are at liberty to file and serve any responses and any further responses to the applications or together with substantial submissions within two days of this court,” Ogola ruled. The said applications are set for hearing on Tuesday, October 29 at 10:00 AM at Milimani Law Court.

Ousted DP Rigathi Gachagua with Cleophas Malala at the Milimani Law Courts on October 22, 2024. /X

The bench was to decide on Friday, October 25 whether to stay or proceed with Gachagua’s impeachment trial, following his request to have the judges disqualify themselves from the case.

Gachagua, through his legal team, had argued that the presiding judges; Justices Eric Ogola, Anthony Mrima, and Frida Mugambi, have potential conflicts of interest that could compromise their impartiality. With claims of connections to high-profile political figures, Gachagua’s lawyers sought to challenge the judges’ ability to remain neutral.

Popular city lawyer, Ndegwa Njiru on Thursday, October 24 opened a can of worms as he joined fellow advocates representing Gachagua in staging their defence for their case to have the three-judge bench recuse themselves from the matter.

During a session at the Milimani Law Courts, Njiru, in raising concerns about the judges’ impartiality, singled out Justice Ogola's spouse, wildly claiming that she was a beneficiary of the 'shareholding' in the Kenyan government, a matter whose remarks by Gachagua formed the first out of five grounds for his impeachment by the National Assembly and the Senate.

Njiru specifically pointed out that Justice Ogola's wife holds a position in the Kenya Water Towers Agency, an appointment made by the presidency, arguing that this showed evidence of the shareholding sentiments that Gachagua stood firm on, numerous times.

"One of the issues that was before the impeachment, was that the Deputy President, the petitioner herein, indicated that Kenya is a shareholding country. There are shareholding agreements before you and positions either in parastatals or cooperations were to be shared in accordance with that share agreement," he argued, adding "It is my client’s submission that Justice Eric Ogola’s wife may have been a beneficiary of that shareholding."

Njiru went on to outline that the application also indicated that Justice Ogola's spouse serves in the Kenya Water Towers Agency, an appointment that was done according to a gazette notice for and on behalf of the presidency by Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya, adding that the averment was that this was a matter that should have been disclosed at the inception of the proceedings.

Advocate Kibe Mungai backed Njiru's sentiments, revealing the close relationship between Justice Murima and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, a respondent in the case.

"The honourable Judge Mrima and the fourth respondent, Speaker of the Senate Amason Kingi are very close friends. The respondent attended the wedding ceremony of the judge and he took a photograph with him," exposed Mungai, further highlighting how Speaker Kingi captioned images from the wedding, where he described the judge as his "long-time friend."

At the same time, Justice Ogolla while reading the judgement, also declined to set aside the conservatory orders that stopped the swearing-in of nominated Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. The judge, instead, announced that the court would decide whether to lift the orders on Tuesday, October 29.

"Given the pending application of the conservatory orders and those seeking to set aside the conservatory orders, we hereby direct as follows; the applications shall be deemed as responses for the conservatory orders. The set applications are thereby fixed for hearing on October 29 this month," noted Justice Ogolla.

Rigathi Gachagua and Kithure Kindiki at a past event. /FILE

Ruto's Lawyers Withdraw From Gachagua Impeachment Case

Marvin Chege — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:14:25 +0300

President William Ruto's lawyers have dropped out of the ongoing court case challenging former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment.

While appearing before the three-judge bench consisting of Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima and Fridah Mugambi on Thursday afternoon, the Head of State's lawyers declared that they would no longer be representing the Head of State in the matter.

President Ruto's lawyer Adrian Kamotho Njenga argued that the Head of State's decision to join the case was against the law.

Kamotho referred to a Supreme Court judgement in 2022 that ruled that the president could not be enjoined to any legal proceeding such as the one filed by the former deputy president, to which President Ruto had been listed as the sixth respondent from the ongoing court case.

A 3-judge bench of the High Court during court proceedings as of October 23, 2024. /X.JOHN MBATI

"My Lord with your kind permission, I wish to bring to the attention of the court that we shall no longer be acting for the sixth respondent in this matter and to that effect, we have filed a notice to cease acting on account of the Supreme Court decision that the President cannot be subject to civil proceedings," Kamotho informed the court.

"So in that regard, we will not be able to act contrary to an express court order and we have therefore filed a notice to cease acting and we ask the court to deem that to be a sufficient notice that the person named as the sixth respondent is now unrepresented in these proceedings."

This impeachment case is a civil proceeding given it is between Gachagua and various State officials and agencies such as the Senate and the National Assembly.

On Tuesday, October 22, the legal team challenged the High Court's powers to hear petitions filed by Gachagua, arguing that the High Court cannot hear and determine the cases, given that such a matter was spared for the Supreme Court.

The lawyers thus argued that it was an abuse of the court process. This comes after the impeached Deputy President moved to court to block nominated deputy president Kithure Kindiki from being sworn into office.

Ruto's legal team, as a result, wanted the High Court to recuse itself and hand it over to the Supreme Court.

On Wednesday, October 23, the three-judge bench declined to recuse itself from the hearing and determination of the case, ruling that the constitution granted Deputy Chief Justice (DCJ) Philomena Mwilu the powers to choose a bench of judges to determine a case.

"In this case, we do not find any fault in the honourable DCJ assigning judges to sit in this bench more soon when the honourable Chief Justice has not raised any red flag," he added.

This is after the impeached deputy president through his legal team led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite on Tuesday, October 22 protested the decision by the three-judge bench to hear and determine the case, arguing that only Chief Justice Martha Koome could appoint a bench of judges to hear and determine a petition filed by Gachagua.

Rigathi Gachagua with William Ruto during a past press conference. /CAPITAL GROUP

3-Judge Bench Refuses To Keep Off Gachagua Impeachment Case

Marvin Chege — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 14:58:34 +0300

A three-judge bench of the High Court on Wednesday, October 23 declined to recuse itself from the hearing and determination of the case filed by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

The bench led by Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima and Fridah Mugambi ruled that the constitution granted Deputy Chief Justice (DCJ) Philomena Mwilu the powers to choose a bench of judges to determine a case.

Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu. /FILE

"In this case, we do not find any fault in the honourable DCJ assigning judges to sit in this bench more soon when the honourable Chief Justice has not raised any red flag," he added.

The bench had also dismissed Senior Counsel Muite's claims that the three-judge bench was constituted at night without a formal sitting.

According to Justice Fridah Mugambi, the transfer of documents by the judicial officers could have as well been done using electronic means and not necessarily physical means as alleged by Gachagua's legal team.

“We don’t find any difficulty affirming that the DCJ’s mandate can be administrative and political. It’s a constitutionally administrative function…On our part, we find the DCJ can deputise the CJ in judicial functions but not in the affairs of the JSC," ruled Justice Mrima.

Gachagua's lawyers had demanded to know if the CJ was involved in the selection of an uneven number of judges to determine all petitions challenging the impeachment process.

Also under scrutiny was the same three-judge bench which dismissed his application seeking conservatory orders which 'hastily' declined to lift an order blocking Deputy President nominee Kithure Kindiki from assuming the position.

"The judges further considered and issued directions in Kerugoya High Court and issued similar directions for hearing on October 22, 2024." the letter read in part.

On Sunday, Gachagua made his first remarks since being admitted to the hospital with chest pains while on the verge of getting cross-examined by the National Assembly's counsel. During his press briefing, the ousted DP made it clear he would fight his impeachment in court, urging CJ Koome to ensure justice was served.

Collage of embattled Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Chief Justice Martha Koome and the Supreme Court of Kenya building in the background. /VIRAL TEA KE

High Court Issues Important Deadline On Formation Of IEBC Selection Panel

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 15:44:04 +0300

The High Court has ordered Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya to nominate its candidate to the selection panel of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in two days, an important step in the road to reconstituting the country's main electoral body.

On Tuesday, October 22, the court set aside and vacated the Political Parties Dispute Tribunal judgement in the case involving the National Liberal Party leader Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli against the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition & PPLC and 2 interested parties.

This follows the Court’s declaration that Dr Augustus Muli was not validly nominated and elected in the Cluster of Minority political party/coalition of parties under the IEBC Amendment Act.

According to the court, the Political Party that nominated Kyalo Muli is not a Parliamentary party within the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition for the simple reason that it does not have representation in Parliament.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

“For the foregoing the court holds the view that costs of these consolidated appeals must be awarded to Dr. Augustus Muli, to reimburse him of the monies he expended after he was cleared by the Azimio Coalition to contest for the position when it knew, or ought to have known that Dr. Augustus Muli lacked the requisite capacity to do so for reasons stated above,” the ruling reads in part.

Consequently, the court directed that fresh elections be conducted in regard to a representative of the Minority Coalition Political Parties pursuant to Paragraphs 1 and 2 of the IEBC (Amendment) Act, 2024.

The elections are to be conducted in a strict timeframe of within 48 hours and not later than 3:00 p.m. on October 24, 2024.

"The court further directs and orders that Fresh Election for Minority Coalition Cluster for nominees to the IEBC selection panel be held in strict compliance with provisions of Sections 2(B) and 2(C) of the First Schedule of IEBC (Amendment) Act 2024, within 48 hours of this judgment/orders, and in any event not later than 3.00 pm on 24/10/2024," added the ruling. Azimio was ordered to bear the costs.

The PPDT ruling had declared Augustus Kyalo Muli as the legitimate representative of small parties on the IEBC selection panel. Ambassador Koki Muli filed the case, which was scheduled for mention on Thursday, September 26, before Lady Justice Janet Mulwa.

It has been over two months since President William Ruto assented to the IEBC Bill, which set the stage for the reconstitution of the electoral body through the appointment of commissioners and a chairperson in preparation for the 2027 general election. However, the nomination process for the IEBC selection panel, responsible for recruiting the commissioners, was thrown into disarray.

Ambassador Koki Muli and the Azimio la Umoja coalition appealed against the tribunal's ruling that named Augustus Kyalo Muli as the nominee, arguing that the tribunal failed to provide Ambassador Koki Muli the opportunity to be heard, lacked jurisdiction under the Political Parties Act to consider the complaint, selected an inappropriate representative for Azimio la Umoja, and did not uphold the two-thirds gender rule.

They contended that the tribunal overstepped its authority by infringing on Azimio's right to choose its nominee for the IEBC selection panel. In response, Augustus Kyalo Muli labelled the new suit as an act of impunity and an attempt to undermine the electoral body.

"What we are seeing here is impunity. The court has already pronounced itself. Do we want a divided IEBC? Azimio has a significant role in this. I stand for justice. It is time for the president to clarify his position. We are considering withdrawing from Azimio and will elect our own leader, as we represent the majority," he stated.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula had in July this year revealed that the selection panel will consist of nine members, including representatives from the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC), the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), and the Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC).

The demand for a new IEBC has been put as a priority following the nationwide protests which were led and involved by Kenya's Gen Z between June and July. President Ruto has been under pressure to sign the Bill, despite promising on Sunday, June 30 that he would appoint a new-look IEBC in 10 days. With calls for Members of Parliament (MP) who voted in favour of the Finance Bill 2024 to be recalled and bolder calls for Ruto to resign, the youth had believed that the paralysis concerning the reconstitution of the IEBC could not be allowed to continue.

With one of the demands released online previously reading “Constitute the IEBC within the next 30 days to facilitate our move to recall all rogue MPs and hold fresh elections," the IEBC has been viewed as a critical body in having their wish for the lawmakers to be recalled and sent back to the ballot.

IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein with the former commissioners including former chairperson, Wafula Chebukati, during a past media address. /FILE

One of the main triggers for the anti-Finance Bill protests was the controversial Finance Bill which sailed through Parliament on Tuesday, June 25 after 195 Members of Parliament voted to pass it while 106 others rejected it. This has ignited calls for the recall of MPs accused of betraying Kenyans, a process that involves the IEBC.

Furthermore, reconstituting the IEBC early is also viewed as important given that the next general elections are in 2027- three years away from now.

High Court Hands Blow To Kenyans Seeking To Throw Out Housing Levy

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 14:26:08 +0300

The High Court has ruled that the Affordable Housing Act of 2024 was properly enacted per the Constitution. This ruling allows the government to continue with the program and to keep imposing the affordable housing levy that is currently at the rate of 1.5% of gross salary.

Justice Olga Sewe, John Chigiti and Josephine Mong’are on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, ruled that the Act is constitutional and that there was adequate public participation.

Six petitions challenging the housing levy among other provisions of the Affordable Housing Act were filed but later consolidated, including one filed by 22 senators led by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and seven other human rights defenders. They sought to quash the Act in its entirety.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

The petitioners in the matter had specifically taken issue with a section of the new Act that seeks to appoint the Commissioner General of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) as the collector of the affordable housing levy, and sections 4 and 5 of the Act, which impose the levy.

The judges observed that their ruling solely focused on key issues that were raised by the petitioners in regard to the Affordable Housing Act. The key issues for determination included; whether there was adequate public participation on the matter, whether Articles 27,40 and 43 of the Constitution were infringed, on whether the Act clawed on devolution.

The court was also supposed to determine whether the government illegally used public land to construct the houses without involving the National Lands Commission (NLC).

This comes after Chief Justice Martha Koome on March 19 appointed a three-judge bench to hear and determine a string of cases challenging the implementation of the new Affordable Housing Act.

Earlier on July 14, the Court had declined to issue orders stopping the imposition of the affordable housing levy. This came after it considered among other issues arguments advanced by the state that it would be difficult to reverse the effects if the orders were granted because contracts have already been signed and infrastructure projects initiated.

“We have no doubt that the affordable housing levy is a matter that has generated a lot of public interest. We are also convinced that the public interest tilts in favour of not granting the order but in prioritizing these petitions for hearing and determination,” the judges said.

This ruling deals another huge blow to thousands of salaried Kenyans who had sought to bar the government from deducting from their hard-earned salaries to fund the Affordable Housing Programme.

The government will now be able to continue with the affordable housing levy deductions, that it imposed at a standard rate of 1.5 per cent on the gross salary of an employee or the gross income of a person received or accrued.

Employers will also contribute a 1.5 per cent deduction from their employees' salaries, bringing the total contribution to the government to 3 per cent.

This was the first new deduction which rattled Kenyans because they were having their salaries deducted amidst a harsh economy in the country, and the fact that some of them were being made to pay for houses they had not budgeted for.

President William Ruto signed the Housing Bill into law at State House Nairobi on Tuesday, March 19, which cast the deductions from monthly salaries in stone.

The new legislation ropes in workers in the informal sector for the regulations to be in agreement with the High Court ruling that rendered it unconstitutional last year. Still, it did not soften the tempers of Kenyans and led to court cases against it.

President William Ruto overseeing the laying of the foundation of an affordable house in Murang'a on February 14, 2024. /PCS

DCI Summons Rigathi Gachagua Over Claims Of Govt Agents Trying To Poison Him

Marvin Chege — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 18:30:08 +0300

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has summoned ousted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over two attempts to poison him in Kisumu and Nyeri.

In a statement to newsrooms, the investigative agency revealed that the summons are crucial in its investigations over the matter.

Gachagua has been compelled to appear before the DCI headquarters on Kiambu Road on Tuesday, October 22 to shed more light on the claims.

Here is the full statement:

On October 20, 2024, during a press conference, you publicly stated that there had been multiple assassination attempts on your life. You were quoted saying, "On August 30, in Kisumu, undercover security agents entered my room, bugged it, and one of them tried to poison my food. We detected it and were able to escape the scheme. I was supposed to be killed by food poisoning."

You went further to state, "On September 3rd, another team from the National Intelligence Service came to Nyeri and tried to poison food that was meant for me and the Kikuyu council of elders."

Officers stand guard outside the DCI headquarters along Kiambu Road. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE

These are serious allegations emanating from a person of your stature and cannot be taken lightly. In light of the seriousness of this matter, we kindly request your presence on 22nd October 2024 at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Headquarters, Mazingira Complex-Kiambu Road, to formally record your statement to enable prompt and thorough investigations into the matter.

We understand the sensitivity of the allegations and assure you that this matter will be handled with the seriousness it deserves. Your statement is a crucial component of our investigation.

Gachagua then revealed that the two attempts on his life, in his view had failed, hence the other solution utilised was an impeachment motion against him which sailed through the National Assembly and the Senate.

He also revealed that President William Ruto's allies had reached out to Karen Hospital many times inquiring about his condition, however, they were not doing so with caring hearts.

Gachagua then tore into the Head of State for being vicious against him to the point of withdrawing his security while he was hospitalised.

He therefore cast doubt on his safety urging that following the withdrawal of his security, President Ruto should bear the full responsibility if anything happened to him.

Ousted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accompanied President William Ruto on a three-day tour of Kisii and Nyamira Counties. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

Govt Agents Tried To Poison Me, I Was Supposed To Be Killed- Gachagua

Marvin Chege — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 12:48:06 +0300

Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has renewed his attack on the National Intelligence Service (NIS), alleging deliberate attempts by some agents in Nyeri County to poison him.

"I want to tell Kenyans that I don’t feel safe. On 30th August in Kisumu, undercover agents entered my room and bugged it. One of them tried to poison my food but we detected and we were able to escape the scheme," he stated. "I was supposed to be killed through poisoning."

"In Nyeri, another team from NIS (National Intelligence Service) also came and tried to poison food that was meant for me and the Kikuyu Council of Elders. I did report this matter to the NIS and the officers who were assigned to my office I asked them to leave because I felt I was not safe."

Rigathi Gachagua inspecting his farm in Nyeri County on March 29, 2023. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

However, the two attempts in his view had failed, hence the other solution utilised was an impeachment motion against him which sailed through the National Assembly and the Senate.

Gachagua also revealed that President William Ruto's allies had reached out to Karen Hospital many times inquiring about his condition, however, they were not doing so with caring hearts.

Gachagua then tore into the Head of State for being vicious against him to the point of withdrawing his security while he was hospitalised.

He noted that he had trusted the President well enough not to need a memorandum of understanding like his peers, Musalia Mudavadi and Moses Wetangula, but the decision ended up costing him.

"I bear no grudge against anybody but I had not seen that in President William Ruto, the man I am seeing is not the one I thought that I knew," Gachagua stated.

"It's unfortunate that while I was in the hospital, my brother and friend, William Ruto, ordered the withdrawal of my security detail. I no longer have any officers assigned to protect me. I never imagined Ruto could be that vicious, especially after I helped him become president. As of today, the Deputy President of Kenya has no security."

Gachagua, therefore, cast doubt on his safety urging that following the withdrawal of his security, President Ruto should bear the full responsibility if anything happened to him.

''I want the people of Kenya to know today that as I go home today, I have no security, and is good that they know that if anything happens to me or my family today, President Ruto must be held to account,'' he added.

Rigathi Gachagua speaking outside Karen Hospital on October 20, 2024. /TV47

Gachagua Attacks Ruto For Withdrawing His Security While In Hospital

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 12:04:09 +0300

Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has confirmed that his security detail was withdrawn when he was hospitalised on Thursday, October 17.

Speaking to the media while he was discharged from Karen Hospital in Nairobi, Gachagua accused President William Ruto of ordering the withdrawal. "It is unfortunate that my brother and friend, President William Ruto, ordered for the withdrawal of my security from the hospital here."

He also strongly accused the Head of State for being ruthless against him after 766 days of putting his faith in his leadership.

"I didn't know President William Ruto can be that vicious. I am shocked by how vicious a man I helped to be President, a man I believed in, a man that I was persecuted for supporting him, could be so vicious against me when I'm literally fighting for my life in hospital. How cruel can a man be?" Gachagua held nothing back against his former boss.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accompanied the President on a three-day tour of Kisii and Nyamira Counties. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

He informed Kenyans while being discharged that he doesn't have a single bodyguard protecting him and that "it's good that they know that if anything happens to me or my family, President William Ruto must be held to account," he stated.

The ordeal, per his sentiments, was so bad that there were efforts from government officials to prevent him from flying to Kwale for the Mashujaa Day celebrations. Gachagua further mentioned that the government warned all helicopter owners and operators not to lease their helicopters to him.

“I know there were concerted efforts that I should not go to Kwale for the celebrations, Wilson airport was told that I should not go through their airport,” he said. “All owners of helicopters were told that I should not use any of them to go to Kwale."

Gachagua said he trusted President Ruto together with residents of the Mt. Kenya regions ahead of the 2022 general elections, adding that no one of the current political leaders trusted Ruto even after they won the elections and were preparing to assume office.

He revealed that Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi and Labour CS Alfred Mutua demanded to sign a Memorandum of Association (MOU) before they formed government.

However, Gachagua said he was the only person who trusted Ruto verbally since they were Christians and went to Church together. The DP mentioned that his impeachment was a culmination of continuous persecution and stress for the last one year.

Meanwhile, following his discharge from the hospital, Gachagua narrated the status of his health after he failed to show up to the Senate to testify. Appearing weak and in a sombre mood, the besieged DP stated that were it not for quick medical intervention, he would have been no more.

"After being examined, I was admitted for observation and treatment. Once I stabilized, the doctors informed me that if I had been late for another 20 minutes, we would be talking about a different story," he revealed while leaving Karen Hospital where he was receiving medication.

“As we speak, I am okay. I little bit weak but I feel better. The chest pains have gone away,” he added noting as a man he has nothing but to endure.

Gachagua took the opportunity to thank the people who visited him.“I want to thank those who took their time to see me. I want to say I would remain forever indebted to them,” he said.

Additionally, he narrated that he took lunch normally with senators from the Mt. Kenya region without any mishap. Moments later as he was preparing before the Senate, he developed complications which led to him to be rushed to the hospital.

"On my way to the office to pick up my notes, I suddenly developed a very intense pain in the chest. I sat down, the pain continued, it was very sharp. I called my doctor and described how I was feeling. As we were speaking, I started having shortness of breath," he empathetically recounted.

Rigathi Gachagua during a past event. /DPPS

Sharp Twist As Gachagua Obtains Court Orders Blocking His Impeachment

Marvin Chege — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 12:31:54 +0300

The High Court in Nairobi has issued conservatory orders stopping the Senate's decision to impeach Rigathi Gachagua.

This came at the same time Members of the National Assembly approved President William Ruto's nomination of Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki as the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya.

While issuing the directive on Friday, October 18, Justice Chacha Mwita noted that the petition raised monumental constitutional issues touching not only at the heart of a functioning constitution but also its fundamental tenets of the rule of law and human rights.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

"THAT in the meantime, due to the issues raised in the petition and application, and the urgency demonstrated, a conservatory order is hereby issued staying implementation of the resolution by the Senate upholding the impeachment charges against the petitioner, the Deputy President of Kenya, including the appointment of his replacement, until 24th October 2024 when the matter will be mentioned before the bench to be appointed by the Chief Justice, for appropriate orders and action," the ruling seen by Viral Tea read in part.

Justice Chacha Mwita ordered the petitioner to immediately serve the application to the respondents with the judge further directing the respondents to file their applications in the next three days.

According to the High Court judge, the petition raised substantial questions of law and public interest and therefore fit to be heard by a bench of uneven number of judges to be appointed by Chief Justice Martha Koome.

"That due to the significance of issues raised in the petition and application, I certify this matter as raising substantial questions of law and public interest and therefore fit to be heard by a bench of an uneven number of judges to be appointed by the Hon. The Chief Justice.

"The file be placed before the Hon. Chief Justice immediately for consideration in that regard," added the ruling.

Following the injunction, the High Court resolved to set October 24, 2024, as the date for the hearing of the matter which was certified as urgent by Justice Chacha Mwita.

At least four petitions have been filed seeking to stop President William Ruto from appointing Professor Kindiki as the new Deputy President.

This is after the National Assembly approved Kindiki for appointment by the President and Speaker Moses Wetangula gazetting the decision of the MPs.

The petitions, filed by various individuals and organizations, challenge the impeachment process of Rigathi Gachagua and the subsequent nomination of Kindiki. They argue that the entire process was unconstitutional, marred with procedural inconsistencies, and driven by political motives.

A collage of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Parliament Buildings. /NTV.PARLIAMENT

Parliament Approves Ruto's Nomination Of Kithure Kindiki As Deputy President

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 10:50:04 +0300

Members of the National Assembly have approved President William Ruto's nomination of Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki as the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya.

The MPs voted through a roll call method. They were to initially vote electronically as per the House Business Committee’s directive, but the electronic voting system malfunctioned.

A total number of 236 MPs have voted in favour of Kindiki’s nomination, with zero abstentions. This now makes the former Tharaka Nithi Senator a Deputy President-elect, ahead of his appointment by Ruto and swearing-in.

"Honourable members, the vote of the nominate of Professor Kithure Kindiki to fill the vacancy of the office of the deputy president of the Republic of Kenya is as follows, abstentions are nil, no is nil and ayes are 236, the vote is overwhelming yes," Speaker Wetangula declared.

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula during a past House session. /FILE

"The nomination is hereby declared passed by the house and the speaker will transmit the results to the president and the speaker will also sign a gazette notice with this effect and the nominee for the position of the deputy president has been voted by the house and will be transmitted to the appointing authority," the speaker added.

This comes after Ruto forwarded Kindiki's name to the National Assembly on Friday morning, aiming to replace Rigathi Gachagua who was impeached by the Senate on Thursday.

The announcement was made on Friday morning, October 18 by Speaker Moses Wetangula in a communication to the National Assembly.

"Pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 42(1), I wish to report to the House that today morning, I have received a message from the President regarding the nomination of Kithure Kindiki to fill the vacancy which has occurred in the Office of the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya following the impeachment of the previous office holder," stated Wetangula.

The approval means that Kindiki will have to relinquish his role as Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration.

He required approval from the National Assembly before assuming the role of Deputy President. The Assembly had to vote on the nomination within 60 days of receiving the name.

The nomination came merely hours after the Senate voted to impeach Gachagua following a two-day process that involved extensive evidence and hours of cross-examination.

Gachagua was removed after Senators supported five of the 11 grounds presented for his impeachment key among them gross violation of the Constitution.

"Now Honourable Senators, pursuant to articles 145 and 150 of the constitution, the Senate has resolved to remove from office by impeachment, Rigathi Gachagua, the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya. Accordingly, he ceases to hold office," announced Senate Speaker, Amason Kingi.

Grounds in Which Gachagua Was Impeached

Ground 1 - Shareholding remarks
Ground 4 - Undermining the Independence of Judges
Ground 5 - National Cohesion & Integrity Act
Ground 6 - Crimes under the National Cohesion Act
Ground 9 - Gross Misconduct by publicly attacking the NIS

Speaker Amason Kingi in Senate and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua (inset). /FILE

Deputy President: Ruto Nominates Kithure Kindiki To Replace Rigathi Gachagua

Marvin Chege — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 08:28:40 +0300

President William Ruto has nominated Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki as the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya.

Kindiki's name has been forwarded to the National Assembly, aiming to replace Rigathi Gachagua who was impeached by the Senate on Thursday.

The announcement was made on Friday morning, October 18 by Speaker Moses Wetangula in a communication to the National Assembly.

Prof. Kindiki, currently serving as Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, will require approval from the National Assembly before assuming the role of Deputy President. The Assembly must vote on the nomination within 60 days of receiving the name.

President William Ruto and Prof. Kithure Kindiki at State House, Nairobi. /PCS

Once approved, the nominee will be formally appointed by the President as his deputy. Although the Constitution does not specify a timeframe for this appointment, it is expected to occur immediately after Parliament's approval.

Look Back

Recently, Kindiki amassed a significant endorsement of 48 elected leaders from the Mt Kenya region and the diaspora as their kingpin over Gachagua, a move which could still dramatically tip the scales in the 2027 general elections. In political terms, a kingpin refers to a politician who controls the ethnic politics of a region and one must be a kingpin to have realistic chances of winning the presidency in Kenya.

It is also worth noting that Kindiki was also highly considered to be President William Ruto's running mate in the run-up to the 2022 general elections, and was said to have won in both the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Electoral College and opinion polls conducted to pick Ruto's running mate. The chance was however handed to Gachagua.

Opinion

An opinion poll by Infotrak last week showed that Kindiki was the most preferred Gachagua replacement amongst Kenyans. The poll conducted by Infotrak showed at least 20 per cent of the respondents preferred the Interior CS.

Other big names tipped to replace Gachagua included; Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga, Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and even opposition leader Raila Odinga.

Previous Experience

Prof Kindiki has been ranked as the highest performing Cabinet Secretary in President Ruto's administration despite the high level of criticism levelled against the current government.

A survey done by Infotrak earlier this year gave the Interior CS a B grade positioning him as the best amongst peers, especially in terms of addressing issues affecting Kenyans. In the survey, the CS was ranked highly in areas of competence, service delivery and communication.

However, the CS came under fire due to the high amount of abductions during the Gen Z demonstrations that rocked Ruto's government in June this year.

The nomination comes merely hours after the Senate voted to impeach Gachagua following a two-day process that involved extensive evidence and hours of cross-examination.

Gachagua was removed after Senators supported five of the 11 grounds presented for his impeachment key among them gross violation of the Constitution.

Gachagua's Lawyers Move To Challenge Impeachment

This is as former Deputy President Gachagua's legal team on Friday morning, October 18 moved to court to challenge the impeachment.

The legal team led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite faulted the Senate plenary's decision noting that the impeachment took place in the absence of the former deputy president who was a key witness.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua with lawyer Paul Muite in Senate. /X

Senate Gazettes Rigathi Gachagua's Removal As DP

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 23:06:27 +0300

At breakneck speed, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has gazetted the removal of office, by impeachment, of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

This officially informs members of the public that Gachagua is now a former Deputy President. It follows his earlier communication to Senators regarding the impeachment of the second-in-command.

Read an excerpt of the Gazette Notice:

IT IS notified for the information of the general public:

THAT pursuant to Article 150 (1) (b) and (2) of the Constitution, as read together with Article 145 (2) of the Constitution, on Tuesday, 8th October, 2024, the National Assembly approved a motion to remove from office, by impeachment. His Excellency Rigathi Gachagua, E.G.H., Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya:

AND that by a message, dated the 8th October, 2024 and received in the Office of the Speaker of the Senate on Wednesday, 9th October, 2024, the Speaker of the National Assembly informed the Speaker of the Senate of the approval of the motion by the National Assembly and further forwarded to the Speaker of the Senate documents in evidence of the proceedings of the National Assembly:

A copy of the Gazette Notice dated October 17, 2024. /KENYA GAZETTE

AND FURTHER THAT pursuant to Article 145 (3) of the Constitution and standing order 78 (1) of the Senate Standing Orders, the Senate, at a sitting held on Wednesday, 9th October, 2024, resolved to investigate the proposed removal from office, by impeachment, of His Excellency Rigathi Gachagua, E.G.H., Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, in plenary:

AND THAT pursuant to Articles 145 (7) and 150 (1) (b) and (2) of the Constitution and Standing Order 78 (8) of the Senate Standing Orders, on Thursday, 17th October, 2024, the Senate resolved to remove from office, by impeachment, His Excellency Rigathi Gachagua, E.G.H., Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya

Gachagua was ousted on the grounds of (as depicted by the Gazette notice):

1. Gross violation of Articles 10 (2) (a), (b) and (c); 27 (4), 73 (1) (a) and (2) (b); 75 (1) (c), and 129 (2) of the Constitution and Article 147 (1), as read together with Article 131 (2) (c) and (d) of the Constitution;

2. Gross violation of Article 160 (1) of the Constitution on the Institutional and Decisional Independence of Judges;

3. Gross violation of Articles 3 (1) and 148 (5) (a) of the Constitution on the fidelity to the Oath of Office and Allegiance;

4. Serious reasons to believe that H.E. the Deputy President has committed crimes under sections 13 (1) (a) and 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act; and

5. Gross misconduct that is incompatible with the high calling and dignified status of the Office of the Deputy President and a member of the Cabinet and the National Security Council. Gachagua was also accused of publicly attacking and undermining the work of the National Security Intelligence Service (now NIS) and its Officers.

During the voting process, 53 lawmakers voted in favour of Gachagua's impeachment over gross violation of the Constitution while 13 voted against his ouster. This is in honour of regulations that indicate that if at least two-thirds of all the members of the Senate vote to uphold any impeachment charge, the DP shall cease to hold office.

However, 45 senators voted to rescue Gachagua from impeachment over the accusation that he violated the Fourth Schedule to the Constitution by undermining devolution. Only 19 approved the impeachment while 3 abstained.

With his official impeachment, he makes history as the first sitting Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya to be impeached by both the Senate and the National Assembly.

Gachagua's impeachment followed the Senate's resolve to continue with the impeachment hearing despite a request by the deputy president's legal team for the adjournment of the hearing to October 22. This is in light of the embattled second-in-command confirmed to have suffered severe chest pains that prompted him to seek medical attention.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at Parliament on October 17, 2024. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

Senate Impeaches DP Rigathi Gachagua, Who Is In Hospital

Marvin Chege — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 20:57:27 +0300

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been impeached by the Senate. This is despite being admitted at the Karen Hospital in Nairobi, in stable condition.

With his official impeachment, he makes history as the first sitting Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya to be impeached by both the Senate and the National Assembly.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua speaking at the National Prayer Altar at the Official Residence in Karen on October 6, 2024. /DPPS

Grounds in Which Gachagua Was Impeached

Ground 1 - Shareholding remarks
Ground 4 - Undermining the Independence of Judges
Ground 5 - National Cohesion & Integrity Act
Ground 6 - Crimes under the National Cohesion Act
Ground 9 - Gross Misconduct by publicly attacking the NIS

Gachagua's impeachment followed the Senate's resolve to continue with the impeachment hearing despite a request by the deputy president's legal team for the adjournment of the hearing to October 22.

This is in light of the embattled second-in-command confirmed to have suffered severe chest pains that prompted him to seek medical attention.

“The sad reality is that the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya has been taken very sick and as I address Mr Speaker and this House, he is in the hospital. That is the sad reality," Muite informed the plenary.

The news of Gachagua's illness immediately sent the Senate into an abyss of confusion. Earlier, Gachagua was reported to be missing during the plenary session.

The Deputy President's legal team was forced to raise concerns at the Speaker of the Senate, requesting more time for them to look for the deputy president who was nowhere to be found. The Senators hearing the proceedings requested for Speaker Amason Kingi to adjourn the proceedings until Gachagua was located. As a result, Speaker Kingi adjourned the proceedings momentarily.

But Muite's plea to have the session adjourned to a later date was opposed by the Senators who insisted on commencing with the debate on the DP's ouster through the night. Gachagua's counsel had earlier requested to have the trial pushed back to Tuesday next week, owing to his uncertain medical conditions.

Speaker Kingi, however, left the decision to the Senators in the house, saying such a decision was typically supposed to be made to the Senate, not the Speaker. The Senators in turn dismissed the request and vowed to push on with the proceedings, a move which prompted Gachagua's lawyers to walk out as the proceedings continued.

"Mr Speaker, through you, let me recognise the right of this Honourable Senate to decide any issue put to it democratically which Mr. Speaker is what has happened," Muite stated, adding "Arising for that decision of this Honourable Senate, was the legal team representing the DP are not able to continue appearing without instructions. We humbly and with a lot of requests take your leave Mr Speaker and the leave of this honourable house."

Following the deputy president's legal team's decision to walk out, Speaker Kingi permitted the representatives from the National Assembly to deliver their closing statements in Gachagua’s impeachment trial. The Senate then adjourned for thirty minutes after which a voting exercise was conducted.

In their presentation, the National Assembly's representatives led by Rarieda lawmaker Oteinde Amollo accused the DP of breaching the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) Act.

"He (DP Gachagua) talked about sharing positions in coalition and not in government, and to try and mislead this house makes it an aggravation of a rule, and I invite you, Mr Speaker to find that there was a breach of this. We were shown a clip of the deputy president saying he had no apology," lawyer Otiende Amollo argued.

281 members of the National Assembly voted to impeach Gachagua, the majority of the entire August House. Only 44 voted to save the embattled DP on Tuesday, October 8. The road to kicking out Gachagua began following the introduction of a Special Motion by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse.

It outlined 11 charges against the Deputy President, including gross violation of the Constitution, undermining the President and the Cabinet, undermining Devolution, and compromising judicial independence by publicly attacking a judge.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accompanied the President on a three-day tour of Kisii and Nyamira Counties. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

DP Rigathi Gachagua Taken To Hospital- Lawyer Informs Senate

Marvin Chege — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:30:13 +0300

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has fallen ill and has been rushed to hospital. This came just minutes before his scheduled appearance at the Senate.

His lawyer Paul Muite revealed that his client had been taken ill following a lunch break at the impeachment trial, a matter which prompted the intervention of Senate Speaker, Amason Kingi.

The news immediately sent the Senate into an abyss of confusion. Earlier, Gachagua was reported to be missing during the plenary session.

The Deputy President's legal team was forced to raise concerns at the Speaker of the Senate, requesting more time for them to look for the deputy president who was nowhere to be found.

Lawyer Paul Muite. /FILE

The Senators hearing the proceedings requested for Speaker Amason Kingi to adjourn the proceedings until Gachagua is located. Muite then told the Senate, “The sad reality is that the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya has been taken very sick, and as I address Mr Speaker and this House, he is in the hospital."

He added, “That is the sad reality.” Muite has not revealed what hospital the country’s second in command has been rushed to, or what ailment he is suffering from.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has since suspended the sitting until 5.00 pm. "Rule 11 overrules the procedure where the DP fails to appear, the Senate can actually proceed or for exceptional reasons to be recorded permits a late appearance before the Senate of the DP.''

"Having considered the two sides, my directions are as follows that we will suspend this sitting and resume exactly 5:00 pm. So we expect the DP then to take the witness stand at 5:00 pm. This is a time-bound process, unfortunately. It is so ordered," directed Kingi.

Gachagua was meant to be cross-examined by the lawyers representing the National Assembly led by Senior Counsel James Orengo.

Following the events, the Speaker was compelled to grant lawmakers time for consultation while also engaging with the legal counsels representing both the National Assembly and Gachagua to determine the next course of action for the House.

Gachagua’s defense team asked the Senate to grant him time to visit and evaluate the situation before reporting back to the House on the condition of Gachagua. “My proposal is that you give me at least the rest of the day to go and have an assessment of his (Deputy President) situation and maybe even come back here by 5 pm,” Muite told the Senate.

However, the National Assembly legal team opposed this and argued that this process is time-bound. ''I have heard what Senior Counsel Paul Muite has said, and Mr. Speaker, you have made it quite clear that these proceedings are time-bound."

"It is not so much about the situation in which the Deputy President finds himself, it is about the Senate complying with the provisions of the Constitution. That within that timeframe you must make a decision,'' Orengo contested.

The chain of events came after Gachagua was reported to be a no-show, confusing the House as it was meant to resume for the afternoon session.

"The DP was going to take the stand. We came in here, I communicated the programme for the afternoon, and I said we are going to execute it with military precision owing to the fact that we needed to conclude business today. SC Paul Muite indicated that he cannot get hold of his client, that is not the concern of this house, so time is running out. The floor is available to the DP and no other Senator," stated Speaker Kingi.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua arriving in Parliament on October 16, 2024. /X

3-Judge Bench Lets Senate Proceed With Gachagua Impeachment Hearing

Marvin Chege — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:39:49 +0300

Embattled Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua will face the Senate plenary between Wednesday, October 16 and Thursday, October 17 after the three-judge bench appointed by Chief Justice Martha Koome to hear and determine petitions filed by the second in command dismissed a last-minute petition to halt his impeachment.

The three-judge bench presided by Judges Eric Ogola, Fridah Mugambi and Anthony Mrima ruled that the Constitution outlined separation of powers thus barring the High Court from stopping the Senate's proceedings.

The court had ruled that DP Gachagua's petition to stop his impeachment raised constitutional issues that required further judicial interrogation.

According to the High Court judges, the Senate's proceedings to impeach the second in command were lawful and the Senate plenary would equally determine all the issues raised by the petitioner in his suit.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

"It is our view that this is not one such case where intervention is automatic. The issues raised by the parties will be required to be interrogated. We, therefore, find that the enhancement of the constitutional principle of separation of powers will be best served by declining the application at this point," the court ruled.

"The Senate will conduct a trial where all the issues raised before the court will be addressed. At the moment, we are being called upon to anticipate an outcome of a process that is yet to be completed, the application in this stage is premature."

This ruling means nothing stops the Senate from hearing and determining Gachagua's impeachment, more than a week after 281 Members of Parliament voted to oust him.

However, Gachagua was offered a chance to appeal his dismissal by the Senate plenary at the Court of Appeal, should the Senators decide to uphold his impeachment.

"On the issue that has been raised that as soon as the Senate impeaches the DP, if at all that happens, that the DP immediately ceases holding office and that it cannot be reclaimed, we take the view that every office holder can only assume office legally and constitutionally," the court stated.

On Tuesday, October 15, the High Court refused to issue conservatory orders barring the Senate from moving ahead with debating the impeachment of the second in command.

Justice Chacha Mwita dismissed Gachagua’s petition that sought to block the Senate from acting on the National Assembly’s resolution passed on October 8. Mwita opined that the Constitution has delegated the impeachment process to Parliament, and the court must show prudence in meddling with it.

The DP, through his legal team, had applied for a certificate of urgency to prevent Parliament’s trial chamber from considering the ouster motion.

Gachagua's petition, filed last week, argued that the impeachment motion was flawed and deviated from the original accusations against him. He requested a conservatory order to stop the Senate hearing, insisting, "Pending the hearing and determination of the substantive petition herein, a conservatory order should be issued restraining and prohibiting the Senate from proceeding with the impeachment hearing."

Gachagua’s legal team criticised the impeachment as a personal attack on him and his family, claiming that the accusations did not meet the threshold of gross misconduct. He also argued that the motion violated the legal doctrine of exhaustion, asserting that alternative remedies should have been explored before resorting to impeachment.

However, Justice Mwita ruled that there was no basis to halt the Senate’s proceedings, noting that the court could not interfere with the constitutional mandate of Parliament. As it stands, Gachagua's fate is set to be decided on Wednesday, October 16, and Thursday, October 17, when he faces the Senate.

Even before the High Court's ruling, the Senate through Speaker Amason Kingi on Monday, October 14 affirmed that no court orders could stop Parliament from fulfilling its constitutional duties.

Inside the Kenyan Senate chambers. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

UoN Vice Chancellor Stephen Kiama Fired

Marvin Chege — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 17:05:53 +0300

The University of Nairobi (UoN) Council has announced the termination of Professor Stephen Kiama as the Vice Chancellor of the country's premier tertiary institution.

In a statement to the UoN community obtained by Viral Tea, the council's chairman, Prof. Amukowa Anangwe revealed that Kiama's tenure as VC ceased with effect from September 27, 2024.

"Reference is made to the communique issued by the Council to the university community on 2nd August 2024.

"The Council wishes to inform the University community that Prof. Stephen Gitahi Kiama's services as an employee of the University of Nairobi were terminated effective 27th September 2024. Reasons for his termination were promptly communicated to him," announced the council.

Signpost at the entrance of the University of Nairobi. /BUSINESS DAILY

Prof Anangwe however assured the university community that whenever called upon, the Council would rise to the occasion and discharge its mandate faithfully and within the beacons of law.

"The Council calls for individual and collective commitment to dedicated service in the pursuit of the university's vision and mission to our society, our country Kenya and the world at large," added the statement.

While the reasons for his ouster were not openly disclosed by the council, the ouster is the culmination of a row between the professor and the university. In August, the University Council suspended Kiama for three months, stating his failure to meet the requirements for a second term, which the council argued was not suitable for him to remain in office.

The Council went ahead and appointed Prof. Margaret Hutchinson as the acting vice-chancellor.

In April, Kiama dismissed a previous communication that directed him to go on leave, directing members of the university staff and students to ignore the directive, assuring that he was still in office.

This came after the UoN council sent him on compulsory leave on Friday, April 19 and appointed Prof. Ayub Njoroge Gitau as the acting Vice-Chancellor. News regarding the VC's leave sent mixed reactions as well as raised concerns across sections of the university community.

In September 2023, the council gave Kiama the green light to proceed on six-month leave from August 1 pending the expiry of his contract, only for him to return to the university a month later.

Kiama assumed the position of vice-chancellor at the University of Nairobi on January 5, 2020, succeeding Peter Mbithi, who was placed on compulsory leave. He was appointed for a five-year term that was set to conclude in 2025, as indicated in a letter from the then Council Chair, Julia Ojiambo.

University of Nairobi Chancellor, Professor Patrick Verkooijen and Prof Stephen Kiama, whose tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the institution was terminated on October 15, 2024. /UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI

High Court Allows Senate To Continue With Gachagua Impeachment Hearing

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 13:46:53 +0300

The High Court has refused to issue conservatory orders barring the Senate from moving ahead with debating the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Justice Chacha Mwita delivered the ruling on Tuesday, October 15, dismissing Gachagua’s petition that sought to block the Senate from acting on the National Assembly’s resolution passed on October 8.

Mwita opined that the Constitution has delegated the impeachment process to Parliament, and the court must show prudence in meddling with it.

The DP, through his legal team, had filed a last-minute application under a certificate of urgency to prevent Parliament’s trial chamber from considering the ouster motion.

Inside the Kenyan Senate Chambers. /SENATE KENYA

The Deputy President contended that the motion amounted to a "vicarious assault" rather than a legitimate inquiry, alleging that the proceedings were marred by intimidation and undue influence on MPs. He accused the National Assembly of rushing the process to avoid judicial oversight, thus undermining constitutional principles.

Even before the High Court's ruling, the Senate through Speaker Amason Kingi on Monday, October 14 affirmed that no court orders could stop Parliament from fulfilling its constitutional duties.

“Any injunction interfering with the work of Parliament has no effect on Parliament in the exercise of its constitutional functions,” Kingi stated, reaffirming the Senate's readiness to proceed with the debate.

Efforts to derail the impeachment are nonetheless intensifying, with 26 cases now filed in court. The petitions, including one from Gachagua himself, challenge the legality of the National Assembly’s vote endorsing his removal, but Kingi made it clear that the Senate would move forward, regardless of the mounting legal battles.

Meanwhile, Chief Justice Martha Koome named a bench of three judges who will hear and determine petitions filed by Gachagua in a last resort to save him from certain impeachment, with chances of a repeat by the National Assembly last Tuesday looking more likely at the Senate.

When it comes to voting, Senators will vote on every one of the 11 charges against him separately, and should at least two-thirds of all the Senators find him guilty of even one, they will uphold the impeachment from the National Assembly.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua speaking at the National Assembly on October 8, 2024. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai Escapes Impeachment

Marvin Chege — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 15:20:06 +0300

The Senate has terminated the impeachment hearing of Kericho Governor Eric Mutai on a procedural technicality

Governor Mutai survived the impeachment on Monday, October 14 after 34 senators voted to discontinue the hearing against 10 voted in support. There were no absentees.

"Honourable Senators, the result for the division is as follows; Ayes are 34, Nays 10 and abstention at zero so the ayes have it," Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced, adding "Honourable senators, the motion having been approved, the hearing proceedings on the proposed removal from office by the impeachment of honourable Dr Erick Kimutai, the Governor of Kericho County, hereby terminates and the senate now stands adjourned."

34 Senators voted to uphold Governor Mutai’s objection in a delegation electronic vote. Governor Mutai had argued the county assembly failed to achieve the two-thirds threshold required by Law a matter that was disputed by various Senators.

Inside the Kenyan Senate chambers. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

Senators took to the ballot to determine the objection of the two-thirds threshold raised by the governor where 31 MCAs out of 47 voted in support of Mutai's ouster.

“The High Court has already pronounced itself on the matter of rounding off a decimal to the nearest whole number in the case of Tana River County,” Senator Enoch Wambua of Kitui chimed in.

On his part, Counsel Elias Mutuma stated, “It is a scientific fact that 47 MCAs divided by two-thirds is 31.3 MCAs. It is not possible for a human being to be a fraction. What do you want the Governor to prove?”

Counsel Hillary Kiplangat argued, “The Speaker of the County Assembly of Kericho was guided by a decision of the High Court that when rounding off, one round off to the nearest whole number. Two-thirds of the Kericho County Assembly is 31.3 MCAs rounding off to 31 members."

Earlier, the embattled county boss denied all the charges brought against him by the Kericho County Assembly as his impeachment hearing kicked off before the Senate. Appearing before Senators on the first day of the proceedings, Governor Mutai rejected every accusation read to him by Clerk of the Senate, Jeremiah Nyegenye, asserting his innocence in the face of allegations that threaten his leadership.

The Accusations

Governor Mutai faced a wide array of accusations, with the most prominent being gross violation of the Constitution and mismanagement of County Finances. The County Assembly alleged that the Governor misappropriated, misallocated and engaged in illegal drawings of County Revenue and County Finances. The charges accused him of violating several provisions of the law, including Articles 10, 183, and 201 of the Constitution, as well as Sections 102 and 109 of the Public Finance Management Act.

One of the issues raised against the Governor was his alleged refusal to implement an automated system for revenue collection, despite the requirements of the Kericho County Rating Act No. 5 of 2019. According to the Assembly, this failure to automate revenue collection left the County's Finances vulnerable to pilferage, misappropriation and theft leading to significant revenue losses.

In addition, Governor Mutai was accused of obstructing the implementation of a tender awarded on 14th December 2023, for the procurement of the Integrated County Revenue Management System. Despite the tender being responsive, the County Assembly claimed that the Governor frustrated the process, allegedly preventing crucial improvements in the County's Revenue Management System.

The Assembly further accused him of disregarding a Valuation Roll that had been prepared and passed by the County Assembly back in 2016 and continuing to collect property rates based on an outdated Valuation Roll, which has resulted in substantial revenue losses for the County.

Another accusation levelled against the Governor involved the launch of the ‘Equalizer Kazi Mtaani’ Initiative. According to the charges, the Governor launched the programme on August 31, 2023, and allocated County funds to it without any legislative backing. Moreover, the initiative was allegedly undertaken without public participation or approval from both the County Assembly and the Controller of Budget, raising further concerns about transparency and accountability.

The County Assembly also blamed Governor Mutai for misusing the County Emergency Fund in response to the Londiani accident, in which several victims were compensated using public funds. The Assembly argued that the Governor's actions were a cover-up for funds that had been raised by the public to support the victims but were misappropriated by a committee formed by the Governor to steer the fundraising efforts. Over Ksh9 million of public-raised funds reportedly went missing and the Assembly held the Governor accountable for this misappropriation.

In the second charge of abuse of office, Governor Mutai stood accused of making illegal appointments, carrying out unlawful dismissals and transferring employees in violation of the law. The County Assembly claimed that the Governor usurped the constitutional and statutory functions of the County Public Service Board and in doing so not only violated the rights of County employees but also undermined the integrity of the county administration. In addition, the Assembly accused Governor Mutai of impeding the oversight role of the County Assembly which is constitutionally mandated to hold the executive accountable.

On the question of gross misconduct, Governor Mutai was accused of engaging in acts of bullying, incitement and vilification of political opponents. He was also accused of indecent sexual conduct. The charges detailed multiple complaints of the Governor’s indecent and unnatural sexual behaviour by several women, who claim that the Governor forced them into unconsented anal sex and engaged in other forms of dangerous and unprotected sexual activity. These allegations, the Assembly argued constitute gross misconduct and unfitness to hold public office.

Governor Mutai becomes the sixth governor to survive impeachment. Others who narrowly survived impeachment are Mwangi wa Iria former Governor of Murang’a, Paul Chepkwony former Governor of Kericho, Granton Samboja former Governor of Taita Taveta and the late Nderitu Gachagua of Nyeri all of whom survived their ouster.

Other than former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, no governor has ever been successfully impeached since the position itself was created following the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution...including intervention from the courts.

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai at his office on August 29, 2022. /ERICK MUTAI

Kenya Records First Mpox Death

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 14:46:36 +0300

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has reported that one person has succumbed to Mpox, making this the first death recorded in Kenya related to the disease.

Speaking on Monday, October 14 Health Director General Patrick Amoth stated that the patient succumbed since he was also battling existing health complications.

“Eight of those have recovered and have gone home, four are still admitted in the hospital,” said Dr Amoth.

This is as the total case tally of the deadly virus in Kenya rose to 13. The cases were detected from 236 samples that were tested in laboratories and the cases were confirmed in 10 counties.

A laboratory technician handling samples of tests for Mpox virus. /FILE

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Mpox virus spreads from person to person through close contact, which includes skin-to-skin (such as touching or sex) and mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-skin contact (such as kissing) and can also include being face-to-face with someone who has it (such as talking or breathing close to another), which can generate infectious respiratory particles.

This comes as the country received Mpox testing kits and medicines for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) from the World Health Organization (WHO), USAID, and other health partners. These supplies will strengthen the country’s efforts to combat these diseases.

During the handover, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Barasa, acknowledged the significance of these contributions in addressing health challenges faced by vulnerable communities.

She highlighted the importance of mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns in controlling NTDs, including lymphatic filariasis, soil-transmitted helminths, and schistosomiasis, particularly in high-burden regions.

Dr Barasa expressed appreciation for the support from WHO and partners in ensuring essential medicines reach those most in need, with the upcoming MDA campaign targeting areas with the highest disease burden.

In addition, she welcomed USAID’s donation of Mpox testing kits, which will improve the country’s ability to detect and respond to cases effectively.

WHO Representative to Kenya, Dr. Abdourahmane Diallo, confirmed the donation of 15,215,000 tablets of NTD medicines valued at USD 1.6 million, intended for this month’s MDA.

He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s goal of eliminating NTDs, including schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases, by 2030.

Health CS Deborah Barasa speaking during a press briefing on October 14, 2024. /MINISTRY OF HEALTH

High Court Orders Immediate Closure Of Hillside Endarasha Academy Boarding Facility

Marvin Chege — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 19:15:05 +0300

The Nyeri High Court has ordered the immediate closure of the boarding facility at Hillside Endarasha Academy.

The court issued the ruling on Friday, October 11, following petitions from the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and other concerned stakeholders.

Justice Dennis Magare Kizito cited serious safety and health concerns for pupils after a tragic fire in September that claimed 21 lives.

"The matter is certified as urgent noting that the best interest of the children is at stake. I do not find it necessary to bar the re-opening of the school, noting that, I take Judicial notice that schools close this month," Justice Magare ruled in part.

The scene at Hillside Endarasha Academy following a fire tragedy on September 6, 2024. /MACHARIA WANGUI

"However, I am satisfied that there is a threat to the safety and health of the minors. Consequently, I direct that a conservatory order is issued forbidding re-opening of the boarding facilities or in any way accommodating the children within the 3rd Respondent's school pending inter partes hearing."

The court directed that the respondents, which include the Hillside Endarasha management, Nyeri County Director of Education and six others be served for directions on October 17, 2024.

They were also asked to file Health and safety reports together with reports on the structural integrity of the dormitories before October 16, 2024, failure to comply is likely to lead to more stringent penalties or a prolonged closure of the boarding facilities.

This order follows the September 5 fire that razed one of the school's dormitories in the Kieni constituency, tragically killing 21 boys and injuring over a dozen others. The fire’s cause remains unknown, intensifying calls for more thorough investigations and accountability from the school administration.

The school, which reopened on Wednesday after a month-long closure, was not expected to close its boarding facilities so soon.

The Ministry of Education had given the green light for the school to resume operations after quality assurance officers conducted assessments and deemed it safe for students to return. However, the court's latest ruling throws that assurance into doubt, as structural concerns remain unresolved.

The boarding facility that caught fire had been home to 152 boys on the night of the inferno, just four short of its 156-student capacity. While renovation works on the damaged dormitory have been ongoing, the court's decision now forces the school to address safety concerns more comprehensively before students can return to any of the dormitories.

The tragedy prompted a public outcry hours after its occurrence, and groups like the KHRC and the Elimu Bora Working Group constantly demanded action to protect students from future fires. These organisations, along with a concerned parent, David Karani, filed the petition, arguing that the school was not fully equipped to guarantee the safety of students despite efforts to repair the damage.

Jane Njogu, the Nyeri County Director of Education, had previously assured parents that significant repairs had been made. She noted that masons were working around the clock, ensuring that all was ready for the students' return.

"They are moving very fast; they have done a lot of constructions and reconstructions to ensure that the learners are comfortable when they come back to school," Njogu stated.

In light of the fire, President William Ruto on Monday, September 9 affirmed that schools have no choice but to get in line with government regulations in his move to tame the recent and rising trend of school fires in the aftermath of the Hillside Endarasha fire disaster.

President William Ruto (centre) meets officials from Education and Interior Ministries over the Hillside Endarasha Academy tragedy. /PCS

Govt Inks Ksh95.7B Deal With Adani: CS Opiyo Wandayi Confirms

Marvin Chege — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:31:52 +0300

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi has announced that Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) and Adani Foundation Energy Ltd have inked a Ksh95.7 billion agreement to operate, and maintain transmission lines and substations for 30 years in a bid to curb power blackouts.

Wandayi on Friday, October 11 remarked that the deal is a game changer given that it marks a huge shift in the power transmission across the country.

"I am pleased to announce the successful signing of the Project Agreement between the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) and Adani Energy Solutions Limited today (the Project Company). This agreement marks the beginning of a transformative initiative to develop, finance, construct, operate, and maintain key transmission lines and substations across Kenya," he revealed in a statement.

The contract, finalised on October 9, 2024, comes after four months of intense negotiations, during which the Adani Group faced scrutiny regarding its operational practices.

A collage of Adani Group CEO Gautam Adani and the logo of his company. /INDIA TODAY

Despite concerns surrounding the Adani Group, which has been embroiled in various controversies, Wandayi has defended the partnership, highlighting the critical need for enhanced electricity infrastructure to support Kenya’s burgeoning economy.

"All Kenyans are well aware of the significant challenge that our country faces with persistent power blackouts. These projects are designed to significantly enhance our national electricity infrastructure (transmission lines and substations), ensuring reliable and widespread access to power that will support Kenya's growing economy and development goals," he continued.

Wandayi announced that as part of this infrastructure development, the Project Company will raise all the funding in the form of debt and equity that will be repaid over the 30-year period of the project agreement.

The project cost, which is currently estimated at Ksh95.68 Billion (USD 736 million) will be crystallised through a competitive bidding process, that will be jointly handled by KETRACO and the Project Company, thus ensuring significant value for money for the country.

The CS assured that the competitive bidding process will prioritise local content and ensure that the government prioritises business opportunities for Kenyans.

"It is important to note that the Government of Kenya will not incur any financial expenditure for this project. The country will benefit from world-class energy infrastructure ensuring value for money, further demonstrating the government's commitment to prudent fiscal management," he went on.

"Adani Energy Solutions will manage the transmission line for 30 years, ensuring long-term sustainability and efficiency, and thereafter transfer the project and all its assets to KETRACO."

Before signing the agreement, KETRACO conducted comprehensive due diligence on Adani Energy Solutions as the project proponent, along with thorough stakeholder engagement. This ensures that all concerns have been addressed and the project is primed for successful execution.

Deal Particulars

The deal involves the construction of three high-voltage power transmission lines and two substations, strategically located to enhance connectivity and stability in the national grid. They include:

400kV (Double-Circuit) Gilgil-Thika-Malaa-Konza Line: Spanning 208.73 km
220kV Rangai-Kenegut-Chemosit Line: Covering 99.98 km
132kV Menengai-Ol Kalou-Rumuruti Line: Extending 89.88 km

Additionally, critical substations will be developed at various locations, including Lessos and Thura Buru, to support the 400kV transmission network and expand local distribution grids.

The project aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 development plan and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. It aims to:

Expand access to electricity across the country
Create job opportunities
Stimulate economic activity in grassroots communities
Support industrial growth and improve power reliability

Wandayi emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the timely implementation of such transformative projects. The initiative is expected to not only bolster energy infrastructure but also contribute significantly to the economic and social transformation of Kenya.

Kenya Power technicians at work on a transformer. /THE STAR

MPs Impeach DP Rigathi Gachagua

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 19:22:10 +0300

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been impeached by Members of the National Assembly.

281 MPs voted in favour of Gachagua's impeachment (a figure that was way above the required 233 threshold), 44 voted to save the second in command while one abstained, bringing Gachagua ever closer to being impeached by Parliament as a whole.

The road to kicking out Gachagua, potentially the first time in the history of the Republic of Kenya, began following the introduction of a Special Motion by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse.

A bird's eye view of Parliament as of June 6, 2024. /PARLIAMENT OF KENYA

Additional accusations included making inciteful statements, committing economic crimes, spreading false, malicious, divisive, and inciteful remarks, publicly insubordinating the President, and persistently bullying State and public officers.

Before the vote, Deputy President Gachagua appeared before the National Assembly where he defended himself against the allegations for about two hours. He dismissed the claims as "outrageous and baseless propaganda" aimed at tarnishing his reputation and removing him from office.

Gachagua condemned the impeachment proceedings, calling them the "most shameful act" in the history of the House, asserting that legislators were attempting to oust a democratically elected leader based on fabrications.

Court Orders Another Public Participation On Gachagua Impeachment Motion

Marvin Chege — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 12:28:09 +0300

UPDATE: The National Assembly has extended the public participation exercise on the special Motion for the impeachment, of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua by a day, until Saturday, October 5. The Clerk of the National Assembly stated that the High Court of Kenya sitting at Kerugoya acknowledged the public hearings and further ordered that the National Assembly organize similar public hearings closer to the citizens at least at the constituency level on each constituency.

“Now therefore, it is notified to the general public that further to the public participation exercise which commenced on 2 October 2024, and the collection of views across the Venues and Constituency/County Women Representative Offices on 4th October 2024, the 290 Constituency Offices and 47 County Women Representative Offices of all Members of the National Assembly, which are offices under the Parliamentary Service Commission, shall remain open on Saturday, 5th October 2024 from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm to facilitate further public participation on the Special Motion,” read the statement in part.

The High Court's order was to enable the constituents of Members of Parliament responsible for the impeachment process nationally to engage with and participate in hearings and/or any other suitable modes by which citizens at that level can participate and offer their representations.

The High Court has ordered that a second public participation be conducted by the National Assembly regarding the impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

This is as the initial public participation exercise on the impeachment motion which was announced by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula commenced on Friday, October 4 morning across all 47 counties.

In a ruling seen by Viral Tea, Justice Richard Mwongo directed that a second round of public participation be conducted at the constituency level in each constituency in the Republic of Kenya.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

“That the public Hearings to be held on 4th October 2024 may proceed as a first stage of public participation; and that the 1st to 5th Respondents shall organize similar public hearings closer to the citizens at least at constituency level on each constituency in Kenya to enable the constituents of Members of Parliament responsible for the impeachment process nationally to engage with and participate on hearings and/or any other level can participate and offer their representations,” reads part of the ruling.

The Court had deemed that the public participation limited to the county level as directed by the Speaker of the National Assembly to be insufficient thereby ordering an expanded public participation exercise.

Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Maina had on Wednesday filed a petition at the High Court in Kerugoya, Kirinyaga County, challenging the adequacy and the effectiveness of public participation which began today.

"To be clear, the consequence of the orders of the Honourable Court is that the ongoing impeachment process cannot proceed until a proper public participation exercise led by each Member of Parliament in their respective constituencies is undertaken," she said in a press statement.

"Members of Parliament must understand that the impeachment of an elected Deputy President is a grave matter and the ultimate say must come from the people who elected him. A boardroom signature is therefore insufficient and must be explained to and approved by the citizens of Kenya."

The ruling came even though the National Assembly proceeded to undertake the exercise at county levels across the country. On Friday, the exercise commenced in most centres across the country but has since been marred by challenges leading to confrontations among delegates.

Residents in the Mt. Kenya region counties of Nyeri, Murang’a, Nakuru and Kiambu took to the streets to protest against the government’s decision to conduct the exercise in paperwork. The locals instead, demanded that public participation be done using digital means.

In addition, Nyeri and Kiambu residents protested against the attempt to kick out the DP claiming that he was elected alongside President William Ruto and hence dismissing one would require the other to step aside as well.

In Nairobi, chaos at the Bomas of Kenya led to lawyer-turned-activist, Morara Kebaso, being attacked by delegates at the Bomas of Kenya during the public participation exercise to the point of suffering injuries.

On October 1, Speaker Wetangula issued directives on how public participation should be conducted. The speaker in his speech, noted that the move was in line with Article 182 of the Constitution which mandated Parliamentary facilitation of citizen engagement in such a motion.

"In consideration of the special motion and the modalities of such an exercise, it would be absurd for any person to imagine that such a motion would be concluded without the participation," Wetangula stated. "Article 182 of the Constitution categorically enjoins Parliament to facilitate public participation and involvement in the legislative and other businesses in Parliament and its committees," the Speaker added.

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula during a past House session. /FILE

Court Refuses To Stop Public Participation On Gachagua Impeachment Motion

Marvin Chege — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 13:03:58 +0300

UPDATE: Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has suffered a blow after the High Court declined to stop Friday’s public participation on a motion before the National Assembly seeking to impeach him.

Even though the court certified the petition as urgent, the parties were directed to appear before it on October 10 for further directions on the matter.

“The Application dated 02/10/2024 shall be mentioned on 09/10/2024 virtually to confirm compliance and to take directions on the expedited hearing and determination of the matter,” read the court papers, adding “The Court may on that day issue such interim conservatory orders or further directions as shall be deemed just, fit, and proper to issue pending the hearing and determination of the matter.”

This is after Gachagua filed an urgent application in court seeking orders to stop the exercise, citing a lack of legislative procedure.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has filed a petition at the High Court in his latest move to stop an impeachment motion against him lodged in the National Assembly from sailing through successfully.

In the petition filed at the Milimani Law Courts, Gachagua on Thursday, October 3 claimed that the motion had contained a collection of falsehoods and misrepresentations of facts aimed at influencing the public against him.

The deputy president claimed that the charges accusing him of accumulating wealth valued at Ksh5.2 billion had the goal of soiling his reputation.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

"I verily believe that the motion to impeach me is entirely founded on falsehoods, outright lies, deceit, misrepresentations and suppression of material facts which have been peddled to the public so as to achieve the collateral, improper and unconstitutional purpose of a choreographed political lynching designed to defeat the sovereign will of the Kenyan people expressed at the presidential election held in August 2022 and prematurely end, for all time, my long and productive career as a public servant," reads part of the petition Gachagua filed through his lawyers.

"For instance, the motion, at Ground 7 at page 17, falsely and sensationally alleges that I have “ inexplicably amassed a humongous property portfolio estimated at Kshs 5.2 billion” so as to unlawfully prejudice my reputation and standing with the public and my family."

He went on to accuse National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and Deputy, Gladys Shollei of bias for openly declaring their stance on the trajectory the motion would take.

The second in command also accused the National Assembly of allocating minimal time for public participation which he termed as grossly insufficient to facilitate any meaningful and reasonable public engagement.

In his plea to the court, the deputy president sought an order prohibiting the National Assembly from processing, passing, and transmitting to the Senate any resolution made from the motion filed on September 26.

Gachagua's petition now adds to three petitions which were filed at the High Court in the hope of putting a stop to the impeachment motion, but all of them were thrown away, thus leaving room for the motion to be tabled in the August House.

The third petition on September 30 sought to stop Gachagua's impeachment was filed by a Kenyan against the Senate and National Assembly, but a 3-judge bench of the Constitutional Division of the High Court declined to issue interim orders, directing the parties, however, to appear before it on October 10 for mention.

In the second one, a lobby group moved to court to stop the impeachment that was eventually tabled before Parliament on Tuesday, October 1.

Judge Mwita declined to answer the petitions by the Sheria Mtaani group and instead deferred the motion for a later hearing date on October 9, 2024.

Beforehand, the High Court declined to issue interim orders to stop the impeachment, and High Court Judge Bahati Mwamuye refused to give an interim order after Gachagua allies led by former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala moved to court on Monday.

This fourth petition comes ahead of public participation by the National Assembly across 47 countries to take place on Friday, October 4, as part of impeachment proceedings against DP Gachagua.

Today’s sitting has been suspended to allow administrative arrangements necessary to facilitate the programme for public participation in the impeachment of the second in command.

DP Rigathi Gachagua addressing residents on September 28, 2024. /DPPS

High Court Stops Ruto's Higher Education Funding Model

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 09:28:56 +0300

President William Ruto‘s new Higher Education Funding (HEF) model for institutions of higher learning has been dealt a huge blow after the High Court stopped its implementation.

This is until the case filed by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and three others is determined.

KHRC and the other parties had filed a case at the Milimani Law Courts seeking to stop the new higher education funding model, arguing that it would prevent many students from getting university funds.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

Additionally, they pointed out that even though the president has presidential powers, President Ruto did not follow the due process when he launched the model.

According to the model which was categorised into 5 bands, students from vulnerable and extremely needy households would receive full funding while the less needy would get up to 90 per cent funding.

Milimani High Court Justice Chacha Mwita in his ruling observed that the case took longer because the government led by Attorney General and Education CS Julius Ogamba delayed in filing its submissions.

The New Funding Model has received criticism from several stakeholders after several students expected to join their first year in different universities raised complaints about the implementation of the fund.

As of late August 2024, close to 10,000 aggrieved students registered appeals through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal contesting the new university funding model. Over 14,000 students who were placed in universities in 2024 have not yet reported to their respective schools raising the viability of the new university funding model.

Despite the Ministry of Education's projection of 138,538 students joining institutions of higher learning, only 124,364 students have so far reported.

The funding model places students in five bands using eight variables, including parents’ background, gender, course type, marginalization, disability, family size, and composition.

Read also: Revealed: How Much In Fees Each University Student Will Pay, Grouped In 5 Bands

President Ruto notably hosted students for a town hall meeting to explain the funding model. He lamented that the old funding was almost putting Kenya’s education at a point of no return because of the imbalanced distribution of funds.

“The new student-centred funding model has 5 bands. The banding did not start with this model. We started the banding in 1996. There has always been banding. I know there is a push that maybe this banding started with this model, but it did not, it has always been there. All we did, instead of having 4 bands we made it 5,” Ruto explained.

In accordance with Ruto’s directive when he unveiled the new funding model in May 2023, the government said that students from vulnerable and extremely needy households would receive 100 per cent of funding while the needy and less needy would get 93 per cent of government funding.

A collage of public universities in Kenya. /VIRAL TEA KE

Wetangula Outlines 2 Next Steps As Gachagua Impeachment Motion Gathers Momentum

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 17:47:13 +0300

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula on Tuesday, October 1 left it to members of the public and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua himself to determine what next before an impeachment motion against him is determined.

Speaking in Parliament after the tabling of the impeachment motion against the DP, Wetangula revealed that Gachagua will have a chance to rescue himself through a hearing on October 8, 2024, spanning two hours. This will come after public participation, which is expected to be concluded by Friday this week.

In his address to MPs, the speaker further revealed that the DP will be allowed to present himself in person or have a lawyer represent him.

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula during a past House session. /FILE

This comes after 291 Members of Parliament signed a motion to impeach Rigathi Gachagua as the Deputy President accusing him of 11 accounts.

Kenyans in all 47 counties will be expected to table their opinions on the ouster of the Deputy President on Friday.

The Members of Parliament gathered on Tuesday in Parliament where the National Assembly speaker approved the motion to impeach DP Gachagua, stating that all the 11 grounds meet the constitutional threshold.

Gachagua has been accused of using his two sons, to allegedly, massively launder money, conceal proceeds of crime, corruption, and benefit from influence peddling.

Other grounds for impeachment include; going against the oath of office, violating the National Cohesion and Integration Act, amassing property illegally, and misleading the public on critical matters.

During the debate, the 291 MPs who voted for Gachagua's ouster called upon Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja to provide them with security.

“I want to get your assurance as the boss of this House that the 291 MPs who have signed this motion, their safety and security will be guaranteed because the motion does not end at the notice but it will go through to voting,” said Junet Mohamed, National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed

“We want those 291 MPs to turn up here on the day of voting without any one of them missing. We have just passed the IG of Police Mr Kanja to guarantee the safety of the 291 MPs. What we are doing is not a small thing; when Trump was being removed from the US, we knew what it was trying to do. Let us not begrudge anyone because what the House is doing is Constitutional. When the MPs were signing that is what they told me; we are in support but we want things done legally inside and outside parliament.”

Echoing his sentiments, Dadaab MP Farah Maalim opined that the protection should be extended to President William Ruto, who if the DP were to be ousted through the motion, would be expected to assent to it.

The MP went on to allege that he is privy to intel that some unnamed individuals might make reckless attempts to alter the outcome of the motion by eliminating the President, thereby invoking the Constitution for the DP to then assume power and succeed his boss.

Similarly, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who has been at loggerheads with the DP, appealed to security organs to ensure the MPs are protected inside and outside Parliament.

"The security of MPs is paramount. We have seen it on social media and we have been told by certain quarters that before March 2025, they say flags will fly at half-mast. These are weighty issues. You must direct the IG of police who was approved by this House less than a month ago to ensure that when this House is sitting within the precincts of Parliament and even outside and including committees of this House, members are secured and even in their homes they are secured," he appealed.

Gachagua's impeachment motion was tabled by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse who presented a 100-paged document to the August House indicating he had satisfactory evidence to support his grounds and prove that Gachagua was not fit for the Office of the Deputy President.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accompanied the President on a three-day tour of Kisii and Nyamira Counties. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir Confirms Being Summoned By DCI

Marvin Chege — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:30:10 +0300

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir on Monday, September 30 confirmed that he was summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) alongside his 74-year-old mother. The two were summoned as part of investigations into the brutal sexual assault of Mombasa blogger Bruce John.

The governor held a press briefing at his office shortly after the release of his right-hand man - the Mombasa County Executive Committee Member for Lands Mohamed Hussein, alias Amadoh, stating that he was a victim who expressed determination to clear his name.

"If there is anyone who wants to clear their name in this matter, it is none other than myself. The summons were to delay, we were requested not to go today anymore," he stated.

He claimed that political motives are behind the allegations linking him to the gang rape, mentioning that both his and his mother's homes have been attacked twice before the blogger's abduction and gang rape.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir at a meeting on September 28, 2024. /ABDULSWAMAD NASSIR

The Mombasa County boss also claimed that armed men had been following his vehicle, but despite reporting this to authorities, no action has been taken. However, he did not provide an OB number to substantiate his claims when questioned by journalists.

Nassir, during the presser, also revealed that his mother's home was invaded by unknown persons who made away with electronics.

“I want to now give my version. I have tried to hold on for so long. About a couple of weeks before the unfortunate incident that is said to have been done on this young man, I live next to my mother, and her house was invaded twice and we reported the incidents.”

“During the invasion, nothing else was taken except a laptop and a mobile phone, and CCTV footage were provided. When a video started circulating talking of words I cannot state about my mother, the first thing I did was speak to my family and we decided to leave this to all mighty,” he said.

In addition, he indicated that the blogger had earlier sent him over 800 messages which he did not respond to.

Describing it as a trying time for himself and his family, the governor was adamant that his name was getting dragged in the mud by his enemies.

"I've been in politics for in excess of a decade and throughout my life, neither myself nor any of my family members have ever crossed the line of metting any form of violence on anyone," he told the press adding, "When I go out on public platforms, my policy is a policy of never mentioning anyone, talking vulgarly, or doing anything."

He went on, "It's a bit shocking that it is now being deemed for the public perception that both myself and my 74-year-old mother would be part and parcel of a heinous act of this magnitude. We have never nor will we ever stoop that low."

Governor Nassir was accompanied to the press briefing by Jomvu MP Badi Twalib, Mvita MP Mohamed Soud Machele, and other county officials.

The 24-year-old was allegedly abducted on September 12 by a group of about 20 county officers from his home in Bamburi.

The group reportedly assaulted and sodomised him before leaving him at a dump site. He says they forced him to apologise for criticising the Mombasa County government.

Four people, Muthoni John (alias Totoo), Violet Adera (alias Vayoo), Abdul Hassan Athman (alias Sindimba), and Haji Babu Ndau Mohamed (alias Achkobe), were initially arrested on Thursday in connection with the conspiracy to abduct and abuse the blogger.

The court heard that the four abducted the blogger at the Bamburi Jitegemee area in Kisauni. Two of the suspects faced further charges of injuring the victim using blows and kicks.

Officers stand guard outside the DCI headquarters along Kiambu Road. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE

Lawyer Confirms Arrest Of Morara Kebaso

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:44:44 +0300

Lawyer and activist Morara Kebaso has been arrested, as confirmed by his lawyer. According to reports, he was taken from his main office in Kahawa Sukari, Nairobi following a raid by police officers.

A video which surfaced online showed the lawyer who followed the police car, a Subaru Forester, along Thika Road to Nairobi Regional Police Headquarters.

The lawyer, Pareno Solonka, a close associate of Morara, while addressing the press outside the police headquarters, revealed that the team was blocked from accessing the facility.

"They have restricted access and have strict instruction from the top not to allow any person to access Morara including lawyers, media personnel, and any other persons," the lawyer said.

Lawyers follow a Subaru Forester along Thika Road following the arrest of Morara Kebaso on September 30, 2024. /X

‘’The question is what type of police do we have here? They have no respect for the constitution, they have no respect for the ruler of the law. The head is rotten all the way from the Minister of Interior including all the officers that we have here holding Morara and we should condemn it in the strongest way possible."

Following news of his arrest, Kenyans took to social media decrying an abduction given that the video showed the lawyers following the Subaru closely behind along the busy highway.

The cause of the arrest is yet to be immediately known. However, some reports claim that he was arrested for allegedly conning Kenyans and insulting President William Ruto. About 30 minutes before he was arrested, Morara posted a video calling for the arrest of Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir.

In the audacious video, Kebaso goes on to recount Bruce's abduction ordeal which was carried out by 20 individuals in the county under the guise of taking him to apologise to the Mombasa Governor. He was then tortured and sodomised and not brought to the Governor as he had previously believed.

Kebaso then gave the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja an ultimatum to arrest the Governor to answer to charges of being an accessory to crime and being a conspirator to crime.

"The governor should be investigated and arrested. If it is not done then I am ready to suspend all activities for nationwide demonstration," Kebaso's last post on X reads.

As it stands, Kenyans on social media continue to express their support for Kebaso and #FreeMorara has already kicked off.

Kebaso had spent the better part of the weekend in Bomet and Kericho counties carrying out his usual civic education rallies and exposing stalled government projects on the President’s turf.

On September 22, Morara was involved in an accident between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm but luckily, no one sustained injuries. According to him, he was hit by a drunk driver while returning from Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties, where he was conducting his countrywide civic education campaign.

Screengrabs of Morara Kebaso's vehicle involved in a road accident on September 22, 2024. /MORARA KEBASO

Blow To MPs After High Court Declares NGCDF Unconstitutional

Marvin Chege — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 15:44:15 +0300

The High Court of Kenya has declared the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF) unconstitutional, in what hands Members of Parliament (MPs) in Kenya a significant blow of epic proportions.

On Friday, September 20, a three-judge bench ruled that the Constitution of Kenya does not give the National Assembly the powers to implement functions at the constituency level.

The three-judge bench comprising Judge Kanyi Kimondo, Justice Mugure Thande and Lady Justice Roselyne Aburili also found that the NGCDF Act created multiple activities or wastage of scarce resources.

However, two of the judges voted to give the fund more time to allow the completion of pending projects. As a result and in line with the final ruling, the NGCDF will cease functioning on June 30, 2026, at midnight.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

“For all the above reasons and conclusions, we now make the following declarations, that the National Government Constituency Development Fund Act of 2015 as amended in 2022, and 2023 is hereby declared unconstitutional,” stated the three-judge bench.

Justice Mugure Thande who dissented on the decision to extend NGCDF’s lifespan argued that extending the fund beyond the financial year would allow the continuation of a matter that has been declared illegal.

On the question of whether the NGCDF Act of 2015 violates the structure of devolution, the judges emphasized the importance of devolution in Kenya and took issue with duplication of functions.

In 2016, Katiba Institute challenged the constitutionality of the Act on behalf of the Petitioners, who argued that the Act offended the principles of separation of powers, public finance and devolution.

The CDF fund was introduced in 2003 after the late former President Mwai Kibaki took power in December 2002. The fund was designed to support constituency-level, grass-root development projects and was aimed to achieve equitable distribution of development resources across regions and to control imbalances in regional development brought about by partisan politics.

It targeted all constituency-level development projects, particularly those aiming to combat poverty at the grassroots.

The CDF program facilitated the putting up of new water, health and education facilities in all parts of the country, including remote areas that were usually overlooked during funds allocation in national budgets.

The Act provided that the government set aside at least 2.5 per cent of its ordinary revenue for disbursement under the CDF program.

Three-quarters of the amount was divided equitably between Kenya’s 210 constituencies whilst the remaining 1/4th was divided based on a poverty index to cater for poorer constituencies.

It was renamed the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF). This meant that there was more money for schools and security-related projects such as police stations and police posts, as well as bursaries.

The CDF Fund was accused of being a pet project of MPs, who over the years have been using it to buy loyalty and financial muscle to campaign against their opponents.

A logo of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF). /TENDER YETU

Gilbert Masengeli Set Free As Court Throws Out 6-Month Jail Sentence

Marvin Chege — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 14:39:54 +0300

The High Court has set aside the conviction, and the six-month sentence issued to Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli after he was found guilty of contempt of court.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi in his ruling found that the court had confirmed and was satisfied that Masengeli had regretted and was genuinely remorseful of his actions in the court.

Additionally, Justice Mugambi declared that he recused himself from the case for some personal reasons well known to him.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

"The intention of the court was not to punish Masengeli for the sake of it but to ensure that the sentence restores the dignity and the authority of this court. Masengeli was cross-examined by advocates and my observation is that his answers appeared genuine. This court is convinced that Masengeli regrets and is generally remorseful for the situation he finds himself in," Justice Mugambi ruled.

"Masengeli through this purging process has purged his guilt for contempt of court & thus both the conviction and sentence passed are set aside. I am making my decision to recuse myself from further proceedings of this case for personal reasons."

This comes hours after Justice Mugambi of the Milimani Law Courts on Friday, September 20 allowed the former Acting Inspector General of Police to redeem himself after he was sentenced to six months in prison.

At the High Court in Nairobi, the Judge thus suspended the sentencing of Masengeli, which was to start today, by seven days and granted the Deputy Police IG the opportunity to apologise and explain skipping summons by up to seven times.

Masengeli was represented by Attorney General Dorcas Oduor and lawyer Steve Ogolla. Before the adjournment, Masengeli had begun to defend himself by arguing that his priority was protecting the country's borders.

The case which attracted public attention was lodged by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) which sought the court to compel the police IG to release the three Kitengela abductees, Bob Njagi, Jamil Longton and his brother Aslam Longton.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi issued the ruling on September 13, 2024, which sentenced Masengeli to six months in prison, stating that the deputy police boss could avoid imprisonment by appearing in court within seven days to address the issues he had neglected.

On September 20, 2024, Masengeli submitted an affidavit to the High Court, apologizing for his previous absences and acknowledging his contempt of court.

In the affidavit, he expressed remorse for not attending court hearings related to the disappearance of three individuals, citing operational challenges in security operations as the reason for his absence.

Earlier on Friday, in his defence, AG Oduor cited numerous assignments that Masengeli was engaged in at the time the summons was issued, assignments she argued were matters of national security that could not be left unattended.

"When orders of August 26th were served on August 29th, Mr Masengeli, as the acting IG, was in Lamu for official duties. When the matter was mentioned on September 5th, he was still engaged in security operations in the Coast region. On the 13th of September, when he was sentenced for contempt of court, he was in Marsabit County coordinating security operations," she revealed.

"It has been wildly but incorrectly alleged that the summons issued by the court were either ignored or defied by Gilbert Masengeli. This is further from the truth because every time his attendance was required, he was disabled from doing so by pressing exigencies of duty out of Nairobi."

Acting Police IG Gilbert Masengeli speaking during a press briefing on August 7, 2024. /PHOTO

Parliament Approves Douglas Kanja's Appointment As Police IG

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 16:01:28 +0300

Members of the National Assembly on Wednesday, September 18 approved the appointment of Douglas Kanja as the new Inspector General of Police.

The decision was arrived at during a vote on the motion that was tabled by the committee that vetted the police boss. "Members of the National Assembly have approved the appointment of Mr Douglas Kanja Kirochi as the Inspector-General of the National Police Service," read a statement by the National Assembly.

The Assembly upheld his appointment after Gabriel Tongoyo, the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and National Security, submitted to the house that his committee had approved the appointment.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula announced the approval following a report of two joint committees from both the National Assembly and the Senate, which are the Departmental Committees on Administration and Internal Affairs and the Senate Standing Committee on Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations, that recommended his appointment following his exemplary discharge of duties as Deputy Inspector General.

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula during a past House session. /FILE

''Taking into consideration the findings of the joint committees of the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Affairs and the Senate standing committee on Defence and Foreign Relations in its report on the vetting of Douglas Kanja Kirocho for approval as the Inspector General of the National Police Service. This house approves the appointment of Douglas Kanja Kirocho as the Inspector General of the National Police Service,’’ Wetangula stated.

Kanja was nominated by President William Ruto on July 25, 2024, at the height of anti-government protests which led to his predecessor, Japhet Koome, tendering his resignation on July 12. As Kanja waited for his appointment to be confirmed, Gilbert Masengeli served as the Inspector General of Police in an acting capacity.

All eyes will be on Kanja, especially on how he plans to address the issues of police reforms, and brutality as well as those relating to the strained relationship between the National Police Service (NPS) and the Judiciary.

‘’Kanja has been a very good officer in the service and his commitment cannot be questionable, when he was the DIG, he could attend to your issues as soon as you called him and I hope and know that that is what he will also do to the citizens,’’ Owen Baya, the Deputy Majority Leader reiterated.

''It is coming at a time when the Acting Inspector General is demonstrating impunity against a judge and unexplained forced disappearances,'' noted Otiende Amolo, Rarieda MP.

Kanja was on April 12, 2023, appointed as the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service by President Ruto. He has had a distinguished career in the National Police Service (NPS), marked by several key positions and notable achievements. His extensive experience and leadership in various capacities had suited him well for his role as the acting Inspector General, before today.

Kanja;s role as the Deputy IG of Police saw him wield a powerful office which controls almost 70,000 personnel of the more than 100,000 officers under NPS. The other personnel are in the Administration Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

He had served as commandant of the General Service Unit since 2018 and under his leadership, the GSU played a critical role in maintaining public order, responding to emergencies, and executing high-risk operations.

As per his profile described by the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), Kanja also served in various capacities, including as the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI), where he was instrumental in significant improvements in crime detection and prevention.

Kanja was also the Commandant of the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU), where he led Kenya's fight against terrorism. His leadership in this unit was pivotal in countering terrorist activities and ensuring national security.

He also worked as the Director of Operations at the National Police Service (NPS). Here, he coordinated nationwide police operations, streamlined procedures, and improved response times to incidents. His strategic planning and operational oversight were crucial in maintaining law and order.

He has also served in various parts of the country, including Nairobi, Coast, Eastern, and Rift Valley regions, meaning he brings with him a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the diverse challenges faced by the police force in different areas.

Douglas Kanja, named acting Inspector General of Police. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE

Cabinet Approves New Product Of Hustler Fund Loan Targeting 2 Million Kenyans

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 18:19:38 +0300

The Cabinet on Tuesday, September 17 approved the introduction of a third product of the Hustler Fund loan focusing on the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector.

According to a despatch from the first broad-based Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto, the new product was approved for rollout in commemoration of its second anniversary.

The special loan, State House notes, will target 2 million beneficiaries who have demonstrated a strong credit history with the Fund.

"In commemoration of the Fund’s second anniversary, Cabinet directed the rollout of a third product offering specifically focused on the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector. This new product will initially target the 2 million beneficiaries who have demonstrated a strong credit history with the Fund," the despatch read in part.

President William Ruto being taken through how to access the Hustler Fund during its launch on November 30, 2022. /PCS

The Cabinet noted that the groundbreaking initiative aims to create a pathway for banking the targeted beneficiaries, further deepening financial inclusion within the SME sector.

During the meeting, the Cabinet members were apprised of the progress made in advancing financial inclusion through the administration’s flagship initiative, formally known as the Financial Inclusion Fund.

"Cabinet noted that, to date, the Fund has disbursed Ksh57 billion to Kenyans, with at least 2 million customers now regular daily borrowers. Additionally, in keeping with the Administration’s pledge to inculcate a culture of saving for posterity, the Fund has successfully mobilized Ksh3.2 billion in savings," added the despatch.

The Hustler Fund is arguably a premium flagship project of the Kenya Kwanza administration that had promised to ensure financial inclusion through the provision of loans with more friendly conditions.

Launched in 2022, the loan has been termed as a game-changer in the MSMEs sector and many times has President Ruto hailed its achievements. Besides providing credit for Kenyans, the program was also aimed at bringing about a culture of savings in the country's mainstream atmosphere.

However, concerns about high default rates among borrowers threaten the Fund's sustainability, with statistics from the National Treasury as of August this year revealing that the number of defaulters stood at 9.9 million people, 27 percent of the total borrowers.

Cabinet Secretary of Cooperatives and MSMEs Wycliffe Oparanya in an interview earlier in September revealed that Ksh12 billion was held by defaulters who have not paid their borrowed amounts.

President William Ruto and CS Wycliffe Oparanya at the Mabole Primary School Grounds in Butere for the thanksgiving ceremony for the latter on August 24, 2024. /PCS

Security Attached To Judge Who Sentenced Acting Police IG Gilbert Masengeli Withdrawn

Marvin Chege — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 12:03:33 +0300

The security detail attached to High Court Judge Lawrence Mugambi has been immediately withdrawn.

This comes two days after the judge sentenced acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli to six months in prison. Masengeli was found guilty of contempt of court after failing to appear at the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi for the sixth time.

Chief Justice Martha Koome, while addressing the media over the matter, confirmed that "a disturbing action was taken by the National Police Service over the weekend: the security detail assigned to Hon. Justice Mugambi were disarmed and withdrawn."

"This deliberate and punitive measure represents a direct assault on judicial independence, an affront to the rule of law, and a violation of the principles enshrined in our Constitution," she slammed.

Acting Police IG Gilbert Masengeli takes oath of office at the Supreme Court on July 25, 2024. /FILE

She cited Article 160 of the Constitution which unequivocally protects judicial independence, stating that the Judiciary is subject only to the Constitution and the law, and shall not be subject to the control or direction of any person or authority.

"Additionally, any benefits or conditions of service related to a Judge's position, including their security, must not be varied to their disadvantage, particularly in retaliation for the lawful execution of their judicial duties. Security for Judges is an accrued benefit that cannot be withdrawn whimsically," she continued.

“The act of withdrawing the security of a sitting Judge, following a judicial decision that displeased certain authorities, is deeply concerning. It sends a chilling message to the Judiciary and the public at large: that those entrusted with upholding justice and safeguarding our rights can be intimidated, bullied, or retaliated against for their rulings."

The Chief Justice thus called on all state actors, especially the National Police Service, to immediately restore the security of Justice Mugambi.

Mugambi had been assigned security after he raised concerns about being stalked by police officers concerning several summonses issued to the acting IG. According to the judge, senior police officers had made several inquiries of Mugambi's whereabouts, reaching out to his driver and bodyguard.

The commandant of Security of Government Buildings Lazarus Opicho was at the centre of the controversy, having been the one calling the driver and the bodyguard. However, appearing before the court on Friday under the summon of Judge Mugambi, Opicho said that the calls were made out of genuine concerns for the judge's security, especially after the shooting of a magistrate at Makadara Law Courts.

In an apology to the judge, he said “After the Makadara Law Court shooting incident, I found it prudent to personally call the police assigned to the judge for a briefing."

Asked why he had chosen to contact his aides instead of him directly, Opicho apologised for that as well and promised to be more direct the next time. “I endeavour to serve you diligently and all the judicial officers and this will not happen again," Opicho stated.

Noting that the Acting IG was holding the judge at ransom, Judge Mugambi consequently sentenced him to 6 months in prison after missing court summons up to seven times, though Masengeli is yet to start serving his sentence although he has been given a period of seven days to present himself.

When Masengeli was found guilty, Judge Mugambi on Monday, September 9 ruled that the interim police boss held the court at ransom and ought to be punished accordingly. According to the ruling, Masengeli must abide by the Constitution being a public official.

Masengeli had instead sent his Deputy Eliud Lagat, the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, to represent him at the High Court to answer for the disappearance of two siblings and an activist in Kitengela Town.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

Acting Police IG Masengeli Jailed For 6 Months

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 09:43:27 +0300

The High Court has sentenced acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli to six months in prison. This is after he was found guilty of contempt of court after failing to appear at the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi for the sixth time.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi delivered the ruling on Friday, September 13 and granted an order for the police boss to surrender himself to the Commissioner General of Prisons to serve his sentence within the next seven days.

"Mr Gilbert Masengeli is sentenced to six months imprisonment, he is ordered to submit himself to the Commissioner of Kenya Prisons to ensure he is committed to a prison facility to commence serving a sentence," stated Justice Mugambi.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

The judge further ruled that if Masengeli fails to present himself to serve the sentence, the Cabinet Secretary should take the necessary steps to ensure the acting Inspector General commits to his sentence.

"The court finds it desirable to impose this sentence as a coercive order as opposed to a punitive order. In that regard, Mr Masengeli may avoid serving this sentence and in that regard, the court shall suspend this sentence for seven days only. The Acting police IG may redeem himself and comply by availing himself before this court in person to answer to issues he has been avoiding. In default, the sentence shall automatically become effective," ruled the judge.

Through lawyer Nelson Havi, petitioners questioned the court regarding Masengeli keeping them waiting so that he avail himself and thus should not only be convicted but also ousted from office.

“At the end of this, we will ask the court to do two fundamental things; to convict the acting IG for contempt of court and to sentence him to the highest permissible legal consequence.

"We want Gilbert Masengeli not to hold public office because it is not his personal property. Masengeli was attending a concert. In Kenya, a concert is treated as a matter of national importance. How shameful!” he blasted.

Today's ruling followed an application filed by the accused who sought the court's decision to postpone his sentencing for a later date.

Masengeli, who was again a no-show and had sent lawyer Cecil Miller to represent him, wanted the court to suspend his sentencing on grounds that he was focusing on critical matters on security operations and other threats to national security.

He alleged that the ongoing security operations were paramount and required his immediate attention, thus justifying his non-attendance.

Acting police IG Gilbet Masengeli and DCI director, Mohamed Amin board a police chopper at Wilson Airport, Nairobi on September 9, 2024. /X

Court Orders Arrest Of Governor Jonathan Bii & His Ex-Deputy John Barorot

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 10:41:54 +0300

A Nakuru Court has ordered the arrest of Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii and his former Deputy Governor John Barorot.

The arrest order comes after the two failed to appear in court to testify in the Ksh1 billion Finland education scholarship scandal.

Senior Principal Magistrate Peter Ndege ordered the arrest of five people including the two who had been bonded by the prosecution to appear in court but failed. The three others include Hillary Ruto, Stephen Lel and Edwin Lel.

The court further issued summons for two witnesses including Mercy Tarus and Dr Joel Koech. Tarus, who is the popular witness in the case, has been asked to appear before the court on September 11, 2024.

Immediate former Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor John Barorot. /UASIN GISHU COUNTY GOVERNMENT

The witnesses were to testify against Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago and two others charged with misappropriating Ksh1.1 billion meant for overseas education scholarships for needy children.

The scandal came to light in early 2023 when parents of students who had been awarded scholarships to study in Finland complained that their children risked being deported after accruing tuition fees. Some students were forced to return to Kenya after the situation worsened.

Parents accused the county government of shortchanging and duping them into paying large sums of money to unscrupulous agents.

The saga drew a nationwide uproar but it was through viral graduate Tarus' hard-hitting speech to the senator as well as the Uasin Gishu County leadership that included Governor Bii that threatened to turn the saga into an international headline.

In August 2023, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) revealed that it was finalising its investigations into the controversial Uasin Gishu overseas study programme.

Of EACC's key focus was the Uasin Gishu Education Trust Fund Account which was opened in May 2021 and by December 2022 a total of Ksh957,167,143 had been credited to the account by parents of the students.

The anti-corruption body went on to state that 233 students were studying in Finland while 45 were in Canada.

The commission also mentioned that the matter elicited overwhelming public interest and had been prioritized to finalize the remaining aspects within a short time.

Mandago, in response to having his name dragged through the mud in the scandal, recorded a statement with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), revealing that he had presented himself to the DCI headquarters in Kiambu Road following the Finland scholarship saga.

Mercy Tarus speaking during a baraza convened by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii. /TWITTER.ALINUR MOHAMED

Ruto Declares 3 Days Of National Mourning Over Hillside Endarasha Academy Fire

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 20:29:43 +0300

President William Ruto has declared three days of national mourning following the devastating inferno at the Hillside Endarasha Academy that claimed the lives of 18 students.

The period of mourning will commence on Monday, September 9, and conclude on Wednesday, September 11.

"Now therefore, in deep sympathy and honour of the memory of these innocent lives lost and those who were injured in this tragedy, I, WILLIAM SAMOEI RUTO, under the authority vested in me as President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, do hereby ORDER and DIRECT," Ruto announced in a heartfelt statement late on Friday, September 6.

"That, as a solemn testament to the indelible mark left upon the nation's consciousness by the spirits of the seventeen departed children, Kenya shall observe a three-day period of national mourning."

Scene at Hillside Endarasha Academy following a fire tragedy on September 6, 2024. /MACHARIA WANGUI

Further, Ruto directed that during the period of national mourning, the Flag of the Republic of Kenya and that of the East African Community (EAC) shall be flown at half-mast.

This shall apply at State House, all Kenyan Diplomatic Missions, Public Buildings, Public Grounds, all Military Bases, Posts, Stations, all Naval Vessels of the Republic of Kenya, and throughout the entire territory of the Republic of Kenya,

The directive will start at dawn on Monday, September 9, 2024, until sunset on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.

The President expressed the collective heartache of the nation, extending his deepest condolences to the families who lost their children in the fire, acknowledging the profound pain of losing children so young, between the ages of 9 and 13 and grades 4 to 8, noting the unique sense of anger and emptiness that such a tragedy evokes.

Ruto noted that 14 other boys who survived the blaze are currently receiving treatment for their injuries, further assuring their families that all available public medical resources are being deployed to ensure their full recovery.

“This incident compels us to ensure accountability in all schools across the country and to take every action we can to safeguard the lives of our school-going children. No child should lose their life in a place that is meant to be a safe haven for education, growth, and social development,” he stated.

“I assure all the affected families that every public medical resource is at their disposal to ensure that all injured children receive the highest level of care. As your President, I pledge that the difficult questions that have been asked such as how this tragedy occurred and why the response was not timely will be answered; fully, frankly, and without fear or favour.”

President Ruto added: “All relevant persons and bodies will be held to account, and we shall do all that is required to ensure that, as far as possible, we shall never again find ourselves in the grips of such a tragedy.”

The inferno, the details of which are still emerging, has continued to send shockwaves across the country with the loss of such young lives striking deep into the hearts of members of communities across Kenya.

But what is even more dire is the students missing from the inferno as the search continues, the government and humanitarian agencies working tirelessly to account for those affected by the catastrophic inferno at the school in Nyeri.

The blaze, which engulfed the school’s dormitory in the early hours of Friday, has raised urgent questions as families and authorities grapple with the aftermath.

Earlier, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua revealed that 70 students are still unaccounted for. This figure does not necessarily indicate casualties but includes students who might have been taken home by their parents or remain lost amidst the chaos.

The inferno has tragically claimed the lives of 18 boys following the confirmation that one student succumbed to injuries in hospital.

We still have 70 Hillside Endarasha Academy pupils that are unaccounted but that does not mean that they have perished or they are injured- DP Rigathi Gachagua#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/TYS7oElR9Q
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) September 6, 2024

The blaze consumed the dormitory of a boarding school housing 311 students, including 156 boys, all of whom were present when the inferno erupted.

According to Gachagua, the government has managed to confirm the whereabouts of 86 students. Of these, 27 are hospitalised with injuries, and 37 have been located with their parents. Despite these efforts, the remaining 70 students’ whereabouts are still unknown, leaving families in a state of desperation and distress.

70 Children Missing As Death Toll From Hillside Endarasha Academy Fire Rises To 18

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 16:42:37 +0300

As the country still remains in shock over the Hillside Endarasha Academy fire tragedy, it is now emerging that 70 students are unaccounted for following the devastating fire that broke out at the school dormitories.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who spoke during his visit to the school, revealed that the figure did not, however, represent casualties but children who may have been taken home by parents or those still lost in the chaos.

This is as the government moves mountains in their search for the students alongside humanitarian agencies following the devastating inferno that occurred at the school in Kieni West Sub County, Nyeri County, on Thursday night, September 5.

"We still have 70 kids that are unaccounted but that does not mean that they have perished or they are injured, the word is that they are unaccounted for," he revealed.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua speaks to the media at the Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri on September 6, 2024. /DPPS

He urged parents and residents to report any children who were taken from the scene during the confusion. “I am appealing to each and every parent who took their child to report to us so that we know where those children are,” he added.

According to Gachagua, the government can account for 86 students, with 27 pupils currently hospitalised with injuries, and 37 others have been located with their parents. Despite this, the whereabouts of the remaining 70 students remain unknown, leaving families desperate for news.

Per statistics from the Ministry of Education, the school has a total enrolment of 824. Of these, 402 are boys while 422 are girls, further broken down to 156 boys and 160 girls being boarders while the rest are day scholars. All the 156 boys boarders were accommodated in the ill-fated dormitory.

Meanwhile, the death toll has now climbed to 18 from the incident after Gachagua revealed that one child succumbed to injuries in hospital.

We still have 70 Hillside Endarasha Academy pupils that are unaccounted but that does not mean that they have perished or they are injured- DP Rigathi Gachagua#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/TYS7oElR9Q
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) September 6, 2024

He thus called for patience and cautioned against sharing unverified information about the incident as he urged neighbours who may have given refuge to pupils who managed to escape to volunteer such information through the number 1199 provided by the Red Cross.

As the nation reels from this tragedy, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura confirmed that a multi-agency investigation has been launched. "We are working with the Ministry of Education, Interior, and security agencies to determine the cause of this fire," Mwaura stated, further assuring the public that the government would leave no stone unturned in establishing what led to the disaster.

Local resident Phillip Gathogo was one of the first on the scene and recounted the harrowing events. “We saw several children in there that had been burnt,” he said, visibly shaken. “I was just lucky to save one of them, but I heard that he later died. It was a very troubling and sad tragedy."

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki, during his earlier visit to the site, directed any person who gave refuge to a Hillside Endarasha Academy pupil to avail them, saying the pupils need medical support and counselling following the tragic incident. Following the outbreak of the incident, the learners fled from the school after the fire broke out and ran into nearby homes.

The CS who met a team of security agents coordinating operations at the school revealed that the children had yet to come back to the school out of being traumatised from the experience. However, he argued that returning the learners to school will help in contract tracing.

Notably, Kenya's history with fatal school fires does not make for pretty reading. In 2017, nine students were killed in a dormitory fire at a Nairobi school, which was later attributed to arson.

The most tragic incident occurred in 2001 when 58 students perished in a dormitory blaze at Kyanguli Secondary School.

Scene at Hillside Endarasha Academy following a fire tragedy on September 6, 2024. /MACHARIA WANGUI

CS Opiyo Wandayi Explains Cause Of Second Nationwide Blackout In A Week

Marvin Chege — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 13:34:50 +0300

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi has revealed that a trip at the 220kV High Voltage Loiyangalani transmission line at the Suswa substation plunged the country into a second blackout in one week.

The CS in a statement to newsrooms revealed that the blackout which occurred on Friday, September 6 at 8.56 am was caused by the trip that occurred while evacuating 288MW from the Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) plant.

"This was followed by a trip on the Ethiopia – Kenya 500kV DC interconnector that was then carrying 200MW, resulting in a total loss of 488MW. The total demand in the system at the time was 1790 MW.

"The loss of 488MW, accounting for 27.3% of the total generation, resulted in cascade failure and partial collapse of the grid. This affected most regions of the country except parts of Western Kenya, which was supported by supply through the interconnector to Tororo, Uganda," Wandayi stated in part.

Power blackout in Kenya. /STANDARD DIGITAL

According to the CS, restoration efforts commenced immediately and in earnest, and as of 11.30 am this morning, power supply was normalised to parts of North Rift, Central Rift, Nairobi and Mount Kenya regions.

This includes major towns and cities such as Nyeri, Embu, Kirinyaga, Nanyuki, Nakuru, Naivasha, Thika, Eldoret, Kericho, Kakamega, Siaya, Busia, Vihiga, Kisumu, Bungoma and Webuye.

A team from the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) has since been dispatched to inspect the transmission power line while the restoration efforts, Wandayi says, are progressing.

"As at now about 70% of the country has been restored and we are fast-tracking the restoration process for the rest of the county and we will be taking more loads as generation picks and we expect normalcy by late this afternoon," he added.

"What we are witnessing today has built up over time and is as a result of sub-optimal investment in energy infrastructure. The sector is looking into short-term and long-term interventions to address this challenge including bringing onboard private sector capital to supplement Government efforts."

Wandayi's statement came hours after Kenya Power announced the nationwide outage that swept through several parts of the country except for some parts of the North Rift and Western region.

Beforehand, the CS expressed the ministry's commitment to reducing frequent power outages, even stating that the government has set up a special team to respond to blackouts in record time.

“I am not here to tell you that blackouts are a thing of the past. What I am here to tell you is that we have put in place measures and systems that would first and foremost mitigate the blackouts.

"But if they happen, there will be a system to respond swiftly to the blackout and restore power in the shortest time possible,” Wandayi told Citizen TV.

Kenya Power technicians at work on a transformer. /THE STAR

Moses Lenolkulal: Ex-Samburu Governor Fined Ksh83M, Blocked From Vying For Public Office

Marvin Chege — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 17:39:35 +0300

Former Samburu Governor Moses Kasaine Lenolkulal has been hit with a mandatory fine of Ksh83.4 million, a day after he was found guilty by the Anti-Corruption Court in Milimani alongside 12 others.

Alternatively, he has been sentenced to a total of eight years in prison following his conviction in the Oryx Filling Station scandal.

For the offence of conflict of interest, Lenolkulal was ordered to pay a fine of Ksh1 million or serve four years in jail.

For unlawful acquisition of public property, the former Governor and his co-accused were also ordered to pay Ksh1 million or serve four years in jail.

Former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal during a past court session. /NTV

The Anti-Corruption Court in Nairobi made history by convicting and punishing Lenolkulal, marking the first time a former county governor has received such a verdict.

Lenolkulal has further been hit with a severe punishment, that is being barred from vying for public office for 10 years.

Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzyoki ordered Lenolkulal to pay a fine equivalent to twice the amount of the unlawfully acquired funds while co-accused persons are each required to pay Ksh1 million or serve a four-year imprisonment.

Lenolkulal was in 2019 charged with abuse of office and graft-related counts in relation to the Ksh84 million Oryx Filling Station scandal, where he, as the owner, supplied his county, leading to conflict and abuse of office.

Trial Magistrate Thomas Nzyoki ruled on Wednesday, August 28 that from the evidence produced in court by the ODPP, there is no doubt that Lenolkulal and his proxy Hesbon Ndathi were the ultimate beneficiaries of the public funds.

He found overwhelming evidence that Lenolkulal being the governor of Samburu at the time the offences were said to have been committed acted in a conflict of interest.

The magistrate relied on over 200 payment vouchers and lpos as evidence of Lenolkulal's direct trading with the county, adding that private interest compromised his integrity.

"A public officers must taken keen interest in the affairs of his office. They should always adhere to principles of good governance. In law a governor stands prohibited from trading with his county government," said Nzyuki.

He also faulted the county secretary who was the second accused person in the case for the role he played, stating that the county secretary signed and approved payments while aware Lenolkulal was the owner of the Oryx service station.

"The accounting office flatly lied on oath that they didn't know Lenolkulal was the owner of Oryx. They shouldn't have approved the payments to Oryx," said the court.

The magistrate said the evidence adduced in court by the DPP led by prosecution counsel Wesley Namache was overwhelming in that Lenolkulal co-accused persons used their officers to improperly approve payments to Oryx.

Lenolkulal was charged with four counts of abuse of office and conflict of interest leading to the loss of Ksh84 million in public funds from the Samburu county government and was accused of using his company- Oryx service station- to supply petrol and diesel to the county government.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) cited this as a clear case of conflict of interest, with the charge sheet showing Lenolkulal ‘knowingly acquired direct private interests in contracts between Oryx and Samburu county government for the supply of fuel”. The ex-county boss was charged alongside Hesbon Ndathi and eight others.

Then Deputy President William Ruto with Embu Governor Martin Wambora, and Samburu’s Moses Lenolkulal, March 26, 2022. /TWITTER

Parents Allowed To Send Their Children To School As KUPPET Insists Teachers' Strike Still On

Danflow Lindwe — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 17:12:46 +0300

The Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) has given the green light for parents to send their learners to their various institutions on Monday, August 26 despite insistence by the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) on the teachers' strike.

KESSHA National Chair Willie Kuria on Sunday, August 25 announced that the association will work with the Ministry of Education and the Teachers Service Commission to ensure learning is not disrupted.

“With regard to the looming teachers' strike occasioned by a labour dispute between teachers’ unions and the TSC, KESSHA in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the TSC would wish to assure all the parents and the learners countrywide that the learner’s welfare and well-being would be safeguarded while in the institutions of learning,” Kuria said.

“Subsequently, parents are advised to prepare learners for third term school reopening starting 26th August 2024.”

KESSHA chairperson Willie Kuria during his homecoming celebrations on July 3, 2024, at Murang'a Boys High School. /THE STAR

This comes amidst disagreement amongst teachers' unions over the teacher’s strike. The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) had both announced the planned industrial action, aimed at pushing for salary increments as per the 2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

KNUT had announced on Sunday that its National Executive Council (NEC) had voted to call off the strike. However, KUPPET reported that its National Governing Council (NGC) had given the green light for teachers to proceed with the strike.

This divergence in decisions has created uncertainty on the eve of the anticipated strike, leaving teachers and parents awaiting further developments.

KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori said despite the fact the KNUT withdrew its call for the strike, their call still stands for all teachers in the republic.

“Notwithstanding the sectoral representation between the two trade unions, the CBA between KUPPET and the Teachers Service Commission has no discrimination as to Job Groups. The union will protect the rights and interests of all teachers participating in the strike irrespective of their union membership,” Misori said.

Additionally, he warned that school heads should not open schools for the third term, saying “The NGC sent a clear message to the National Association of School Principals, cautioning them against opening schools when there will be no teachers to handle learners during industrial action."

Both KNUT and KUPPET had announced the planned industrial action, aimed at pushing for salary increments as per the 2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Following the announcement of the strike earlier this month, the teachers' unions had a consultative meeting on August 21 at the Kenya School of Government with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), who is the employer.

KUPPET reported that TSC gave assurance that it would close the payroll that same day and pay teachers’ salaries with increment arrears from July the following day on 22nd August and remit third-party deductions. However, as of the expiry of the Strike Notice, no such payments had been made, according to Misori.

“The union will determine the veracity of the promise once teachers receive their monthly salaries for August,” Misori said.

KUPPET also revealed that out of 73 members present, 68 voted in favour of the strike while five abstained. KNUT said all their members had, without coercion, agreed to call off the strike.

Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) officials during a past press briefing. /PHOTO

KUPPET called upon all its members, the entire teaching fraternity, parents and other like-minded Kenyans to join the fight for teachers’ labour rights until the members’ grievances are addressed.

As KUPPET moves forward with the teacher’s strike, the union seeks full implementation of the 2021-2025 CBA that will see tutors get a salary raise. It also wants the immediate confirmation of 46,000 intern teachers into permanent and pensionable employment. “The promotion of 130,000 stagnated teachers who have been shortlisted and interviewed for new grades as well as restoration of Teachers Medical Scheme to original limits,” Misori said.

Additionally, the union boss demanded that 20,000 new teachers be recruited for JSS learners.

Teachers Call Off Monday Strike- KNUT Announces

Danflow Lindwe — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 13:49:10 +0300

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has announced that it has called off the teachers' strike planned for Monday, August 26.

KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu on Sunday, August 25 directed that teachers report to schools on Monday.

Oyuu revealed that the National Executive Council has agreed to withdraw a strike notice they had earlier issued. The notice was set to expire at midnight.

"The NEC has, therefore, today, agreed to withdraw the strike notice action which was elapsing midnight on 25th August 2024 since we have commenced addressing the remaining matters administratively," Oyuu announced.

Teachers during a past strike. /BBC

The KNUT boss gave assurance that the Union is committed to resolving the matters causing contention. However, he warned that in the event the matters are not resolved, the union will once again call for a strike.

"In light of the latest developments, we direct our teachers to resume duty effective Monday, August 26, 2024," the SG directed.

The teachers were to protest over their salary increments as read out in a Collective Bargain Agreement (CBA) signed by KNUT and the Teachers Service Commission in 2021.

Oyuu added that following the Strike Notice, TSC invited the Union in a letter dated August 19, 2024, to the Kenya School of Government from 10.00 am.

Following the meeting, Oyuu announced that they agreed that the 2nd phase of the Salary Award for teachers was to be given and factored into their salaries in arrears for August 2024.

"This gives room for the commencement of the CBA 2025/2029 cycle in respect to Section 3 on effective date and duration and specifically Section 3.3," he said.

He said the meeting saw that Third-party deductions were remitted to Commercial Banks, Teachers' Saccos, Teachers' Investment Schemes and other legal liabilities therein.

On the promotion of teachers, Oyuu revealed that the Commission has already promoted 51,232 teachers through competitive interviews and the process is ongoing, adding that the Commission only informed that they had so far promoted 51,232 teachers.

"It did not provide both the time frame and the framework through which the remaining 78,768 will be promoted," Oyuu divulged, adding that the union regards it as an ongoing process.

"On teachers' Medical Scheme, the Commission asserted that teachers will continue accessing both Public and Private hospitals for services."

Further, Oyuu raised concern about political utterances and unconfirmed promises from Public Leaders and Government representatives that are confusing some sensitive matters.

"For instance, the conversion of 46,000 intern teachers to Permanent and Pensionable and the employment of 20,000 more to address teachers' shortage. This remains a serious matter that if addressed will help improve the quality of education even as the Nation transits from curriculum to CBC," he said.

Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Julius Ogamba in a statement acknowledged KNUT's decision to call off the strike, even though the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) National Executive Council (NEC) at the same time insisted that the strike is still on.

"In this regard, therefore, parents and guardians are advised to ensure that their children report to their respective schools for the third term, in accordance with the school calendar. As earlier notified, the Ministry has already disbursed Ksh. 21.8 as capitation to all basic education institutions, to facilitate a seamless resumption of school operations," Ogamba stated.

Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) led by their leaders National General Secretary Akelo Misori, Jeremiah Omboka Milemba (chairman) and his Vice Julius Korir address the press in Eldoret. /STANDARD DIGITAL

Kenya Confirms Second Mpox Case

Marvin Chege — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:55:14 +0300

Kenya's Ministry of Health has reported a second confirmed case of Mpox (monkeypox), a few days after five new suspected cases were detected.

In a statement on Friday, August 23, Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa revealed that the laboratory-confirmed case of the disease in the country was an adult male truck driver.

He had presented to the Port Health screening desk at the Malaba One Stop Border Post- Busia County with salient symptoms of the disease and a history of travel to the epicentre of the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

"The patient has been isolated and is under active management in one of our health facilities in Busia County. Further, active surveillance for suspected cases has been enhanced in the region and across all counties to ensure the spread of the disease is controlled," the statement read in part.

Health CS Deborah Barasa during a meeting on August 23, 2024. /MINISTRY OF HEALTH

CS Barasa also revealed that to date, a total of forty-two (42) samples have been submitted to the Ministry's laboratories for Mpox disease testing out of which forty (40) samples have tested negative for the disease.

In addition, 426,438 travellers have been screened at various Ports of Entry across the country.

"The Ministry emphasizes that our health facilities are adequately staffed and well-equipped to diagnose and manage this disease and therefore its identification should not be a cause for alarm," Barasa added.

Barasa called on Kenyans to regularly wash their hands with soap and running water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser, practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting Mpox-like symptoms.

She also advised members of the public to avoid sharing personal items such as towels, utensils, or clothing materials.

On August 17, Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health & Professional Standards, confirmed that a total of 29 suspected cases of Mpox were identified, the five coming in the past 24 hours. Of these, however, 23 tested negative for Mpox, while six cases were pending confirmation from the reference laboratory.

The Ministry also confirmed receiving samples from a case suspected to have emerged in Kiambu County and earlier reported as true by its county government.

The country has been heightening its public health defences against the potentially deadly Mpox virus, leveraging the very protocols that proved crucial in battling the COVID-19 pandemic just a few years ago.

With over 500 lives lost to Mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) now classifying the virus as a global public health emergency, Kenya has adopted a vigilant stance, particularly in light of its porous borders with neighbouring East African countries.

The reporting of the suspected case in Kiambu County is an indication of the seriousness of the matter with the government leaving nothing to chance, stepping up surveillance at Kenya’s borders which have become critical control points.

The common COVID-19 control measures which included active equipment like thermoguns, thermoscanners, personal protective equipment, handwashing facilities, and hand sanitisers are now in full force in an effort to mitigate the spread of the disease, with the government also sensitising the masses on what they need to do to prevent Mpox.

The strategy is a deliberate echo of the tactics that helped Kenya navigate the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital thermometers, now an essential tool in the fight against viral outbreaks, have once again taken centre stage.

These devices, equipped with infrared sensors, can swiftly measure body temperature without physical contact, making them ideal for screening large groups of people at border points. During the COVID-19 crisis, they were vital in identifying potential cases and curbing the virus's spread.

Mpox, caused by a virus in the same family as smallpox, is generally less severe but still poses a significant threat. Originally transmitted from animals to humans, it now spreads primarily through close human contact.

A nurse takes a sample from a child declared a suspected case of Mpox - an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus that sparks off a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. /NBC NEWS

Senate Upholds Impeachment of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza

Marvin Chege — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:14:30 +0300

The Senate has upheld the impeachment of Governor Kawira Mwangaza by the Meru County Assembly, making her the first governor in the Kenya Kwanza regime to be removed from office.

Following the confirmation of her impeachment, Deputy Governor Mutuma M'Ethingia is set to take Mwangaza's place and become the fourth governor of Meru County.

The Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot moved the motion to impeach Governor Kawira Mwangaza which was seconded by Senator Nderitu Kinyua.

The Senators then moved to vote on the following charges against her, a process that extended beyond the midnight hours of Wednesday, August 21:

Count 1: Gross Violation of the Constitution and Other Laws- 26 voted yes, 4 no, with 14 abstentions
Count 2: Gross Misconduct- 26 voted yes, 2 no, with 14 abstentions
Count 3: Abuse of Office- 27 voted yes, 1 no, with 14 abstentions

Senate speaker Amason Kingi during a past address. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

Following the voting on the three charges, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced that Kawira Mwangaza had ceased to hold office.

The embattled, and now former county boss, had on Monday, August 19 refuted all charges brought against her by the Meru County Assembly.

During the first day of Senate hearings regarding her proposed removal from office through impeachment, Governor Mwangaza dismissed the three charges presented to her during the morning session. The charges include gross violation of the Constitution and other laws, gross misconduct, and abuse of office.

The Accusations

In the first charge, Governor Mwangaza is accused of grossly violating among others Articles 10(2), 27,41,47,73,232,235,236 and 251 of the Constitution. She was accused of violating the Public Officer Ethics Act, of 2003, the Leadership and Integrity Act, of 2012, the County Government Act, of 2012, the Public Appointments (County Assemblies Approval) Act, the Fair Administration Action Act, the Meru County Investment and Development Corporation Act, the Meru County Revenue Board Act.

The County Assembly accused Governor Kawira of illegally revoking the appointment of CPA Virginia Kawira Miriti as Secretary/CEO of the Meru County Public Service Board, without a vote of not less than 75 percent of all the members of the County Assembly and in the usurpation of the powers of the County Assembly contrary to sections 58(4) & (5) and 59A of the County Governments Act.

In addition, she was blamed for failing to appoint the Chairpersons of the Meru County Revenue Board, Meru Microfinance Corporation, Meru Youth Service Board, and Meru County Investment and Development Corporation Board as required by law thus failing to operationalize the said Boards, and/or illegally appointing the said Chairpersons without vetting and approval by the County Assembly contrary to section 4 of the Public Appointments (County Assemblies Approval) Act.

Furthermore, the Assembly accused the Meru Governor of Illegally dismissing Dr Ntoiti (CEO of the County Revenue Board), Paul Mwaki (CEO of Liquor Board), Kenneth Kimathi Mbae (Managing Director of Meru Microfinance Corporation) and Joseph Kithure Mberia (CEO, MEWASS).

In the second charge, Governor Kawira was accused of deliberately and knowingly misleading the public by giving false information that Ksh86 million had been raised through mobile banking means established after the murder of Daniel Muthiani alias Sniper while the correct position was that only Ksh286,516.00 was raised thus violating the moral and ethical requirements expected of State Officers.

In the third charge, the Meru County Assembly faulted Governor Kawira for irregular payment of emergency call allowances to 161 doctors and medical officers using the wrong rates leading to excessive payment of Ksh74.3 million and sse of manual payroll to pay personnel emoluments amounting to Ksh102.94 million (3.1 percent of Personnel Emoluments costs).

Embattled Meru Governor, Kawira Mwangaza during her swearing-in on September 11, 2022. /KAWIRA MWANGAZA

"The Members of the County Assembly are pointing fingers at the Governor for employing a bloated workforce, of at least 111 personal staff in the office of the Governor, thus contributing to an increase in the wage bill by more than Kshs. 500 million and an excessive wage Bill that is 49% of the annual revenue allocation far beyond the 35% limit set.

"She is further accused of paying Kiambi Christus Manyara, a Public Communication Officer in the office of the Governor his full salary and benefits while in remand and despite being accused of murder contrary to section 4.2 of the Public Service Commission Discipline Manual for the Public Service clarification," Parliament revealed in a statement.

On Thursday, August 8, MCAs voted to impeach her on charges of abuse of office, gross misconduct and gross violation of the Constitution and other laws.

Supreme Court Halts Court Of Appeal Ruling Nullifying Finance Act 2023

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 09:55:23 +0300

The Supreme Court of Kenya on Tuesday, August 20 issued conservatory orders temporarily halting the Court of Appeal's decision that declared the Finance Act 2023 unconstitutional.

The interventional move by the apex court now grants the government a crucial reprieve, allowing it to continue enforcing the Finance Act 2023 while the legal battle progresses.

Its judges, while issuing the order, considered the uncertainty regarding the revenue-raising measures and the difficulty that may arise in the operations of the two levels of government.

"We are not convinced that the consequences of declaring the entire finance act as unconstitutional would be reversible should the appeal before us be successful," said the Judges.

Chief Justice Martha Koome and the judges of the Supreme Court of Kenya. /JUDICIARY

This ruling sparked widespread uncertainty among employers and taxpayers, who have been grappling with confusion over applicable tax bands and financial regulations.

The Supreme Court's stay order thus specifically targets Order No.6 from the Court of Appeal, which had provided Kenyans with a temporary relief from the contentious Finance Act 2023. This Order effectively halted the implementation of the Act, leaving a void in the tax landscape as the Finance Bill 2024 was withdrawn and the previous legislation was invalidated.

In addition, the Supreme Court added that public interest tilts in favour of granting the order sought by the National Treasury to maintain stability in the budget and appropriation process pending the determination of the appeal.

The Supreme Court has thus mandated that the consolidated appeal be scheduled for mention before the Deputy Registrar.

The court has set a timeline for further proceedings, with virtual hearings scheduled for September 10 and 11, 2024, starting at 9 am on each day.

Finance bills, presented to Parliament at the start of each financial year, are crucial tools for the government to outline its revenue-raising strategies, including tax increases and new levies.

The three-judge bench of the Appellate Court had found that the failure to comply with these constitutional and statutory requirements rendered the entire Act unconstitutional and void from the outset.

One of the critical points of contention was the lack of adequate public participation in the legislative process, with Parliament being obligated to provide reasons for adopting or rejecting proposals received from the public during the public participation process.

"Accordingly, we hereby issue a declaration that the enactment of the Finance Act, 2023 violated Articles 220 (1) (a) and 221 of the Constitution as read with sections 37, 39A, and 40 of the PFMA which prescribes the budget-making process, thereby rendering the ensuing Finance Act, 2023 fundamentally flawed and therefore void ab initio and consequently unconstitutional," the ruling read in part.

The court also found that several sections of the Finance Act, 2023, including those amending critical taxation laws such as the Income Tax Act, Value Added Tax Act, and Excise Duty Act, were passed without adhering to constitutionally mandated legislative procedures.

Specifically, the court highlighted the failure to conduct adequate public participation as required by Articles 10 and 118 of the Constitution. As a result, these sections, and by extension the entire Act, were declared unconstitutional, null, and void.

The appeals related to certain sections of the Act that were already rendered moot by the passage of time or subsequent legislative changes were dismissed. The court determined that these issues no longer presented live controversies requiring adjudication.

This ruling placed the various tax amendments introduced by the Finance Act, 2023, in a state of uncertainty, and effectively left President William Ruto's administration without a Finance Act to govern taxation and related financial issues.

Further complicating the situation was a vote by members of Kenya's National Assembly to delete the entire Finance Bill 2024 in its entirety.

A bird's eye view of Parliament as of June 6, 2024. /PARLIAMENT OF KENYA

Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor John Barorot Resigns; Here's Why

Marvin Chege — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 10:25:18 +0300

UPDATE: Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim has revealed the next course of action following the resignation of his deputy, John Barorot, during an address on Monday, August 19.

In a statement, Bii revealed that when the position falls vacant officially at the start of September, he would spearhead the process of picking Barorot's replacement.

"With the position falling vacant from September 1, 2024, I will nominate a replacement within the coming weeks. The new Deputy Governor nominee will be transmitted to the County Assembly for vetting and approval before appointment," he announced.

Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor John Barorot has resigned from his position.

According to media reports, Barorot had announced his resignation during a meeting with senior county staff at the Eka Hotel in Eldoret in the presence of Governor Dr Jonathan Bii.

Governor Jonathan Bii was present when his deputy made the announcement, but the governor is expected to make the official communication public at a press briefing.

Viral Tea has learnt that Barorot resigned on good terms with his boss, and stepped down because he reportedly secured a well-paying job with a multinational organisation in the ICT sector.

Immediate former Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor John Barorot. /UASIN GISHU COUNTY GOVERNMENT

In a subsequent press briefing, Governor Bii disclosed that Barorot was moving away from politics to the cooperate world.

"Today we announce the exit of our deputy governor Engineer John Barorot who has secured a position as a Chief Executive Officer of an international organization in the ICT sector. His last day of work will be August 31, 2024," Governor Bii stated.

The move comes barely a week after he dismissed claims that he had quit office, the claims emerging after Barorot on August 15 skipped President William Ruto’s event for conferring City status to Eldoret sparking speculation over his whereabouts.

There has been speculation over his working relationship with Governor Bii but two weeks ago during a prayer meeting at the county headquarters, Governor Bii told the gathering that Barorot was on leave.

Engineer Barorot missed almost all preparations for the elevation of Eldoret to City status except one where he praised the role of the media in branding and marketing the new city.

Barorot is known to be a very reserved person who embraces a simple lifestyle and most of the time drives himself in the town.

His departure nonetheless comes after a period of service that has seen him contribute to various development projects and initiatives within the county on its way to having its headquarters elevated to a City.

Barorot, a distinguished professional with a background in engineering and strategic management, holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Strategic Management from Moi University.

He also earned a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology from the same institution.

Per his LinkedIn account, he worked in various capacities at three major telecommunication firms being Safaricom, Airtel and Telkom Kenya. At the latter, he served as Chief Technology Officer.

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii speaking at the Eldoret Sports Club in Uasin Gishu County duirng the conferment of City status to Eldoret Municipality on August 15, 2024. /PCS

Kiambu County Reports Suspected Mpox Case

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sat, 17 Aug 2024 14:26:14 +0300

The Kiambu County government has confirmed that there is a suspected case of Mpox (monkeypox) within the county.

In a press release dated Saturday, August 17 and seen by Viral Tea, the county government took cognizance of social media reports regarding the suspected case of Mpox in the county.

"We wish to confirm that there is indeed a suspected case, which is currently under thorough laboratory investigation. We are awaiting the official lab results and will provide a comprehensive update as soon as they are available," the statement read in part.

However, Kiambu County residents were assured that there was no need for alarm at this stage, the county government adding that "through the Department of Health Services, has activated all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents."

A nurse takes a sample from a child declared a suspected case of Mpox - an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus that sparks off a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. /NBC NEWS

The details regarding the suspected case were yet to be revealed. The Ministry of Health has also yet to comment on the matter by the time of publishing this story.

"The County Government of Kiambu is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to respond promptly and effectively to any developments. We urge the public to remain calm and to follow official channels for updates and information," added the statement.

Viral Tea has reliably learnt that the suspected Mpox case was reported on Saturday at Vineyard Hospital in Thika of a 21-year-old lady working in an avocado exporting factory in Kenol.

She had been in contact with customers and drivers from Uganda, Tanzania, Bungoma, Sondu Miriu, and Nandi Hills who bring fruits to the factory.

This comes as Kenya has heightened its public health defences against the potentially deadly Mpox virus, leveraging the very protocols that proved crucial in battling the COVID-19 pandemic just a few years ago.

As Mpox looms on the horizon, Kenya’s borders have become critical control points. Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health & Professional Standards, confirmed that measures akin to those deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic are now in full force.

“At the border points, you will find active equipment like thermoguns, thermoscanners, personal protective equipment, handwashing facilities, and hand sanitisers. We are also sensitising the masses on what they need to do to prevent Mpox,” she told Citizen TV on Friday.

The virus is transmitted through close contact, including sexual contact, skin-to-skin interaction, and even through respiratory droplets. It can also spread via contaminated objects such as bedding, clothing, or towels. This makes public education and hygiene critical components of Kenya's response.

Early symptoms mirror those of many viral infections: fever, headaches, swelling, back pain, and muscle aches. However, the disease's progression can be distressing. Once the fever subsides, a rash often appears, usually starting on the face before spreading across the body.

The rash, which can be intensely itchy or painful, progresses through several stages before scabbing over and eventually falling off. In severe cases, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, the lesions can cover the entire body, including sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth, and genitals.

Kenya’s vigilance is especially crucial given its porous borders with East African neighbours, where the virus could easily slip through. However, the Ministry of Health moved quickly to reassure the public, with Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa announcing on Friday that 12 people who had interacted with the country’s only confirmed Mpox case were traced, tested, and found negative.

Additionally, six other suspected cases also tested negative, leaving Kenya with just one confirmed Mpox case, a truck driver who was transiting from Uganda to Rwanda via Kenya. This individual, who was identified on July 29, 2024, has since made a full recovery.

An illustration of the Mpox virus. /WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Mpox Declared Global Health Emergency

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 20:05:02 +0300

The World Health Organization on Wednesday, August 14 declared the ongoing Mpox outbreak in Africa a global health emergency.

WHO convened its emergency Mpox committee amid concerns that a deadlier strain of the virus, clade Ib, had reached four previously unaffected provinces in Africa.

This strain had previously been contained to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which had earlier seen over 14,000 cases and 511 deaths reported.

Independent experts on the committee met virtually to advise WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on the severity of the outbreak.

World Health Organization offices in Geneva, Switzerland. /THINK GLOBAL HEALTH

After that consultation, he announced that he had declared a public health emergency of international concern, the highest level of alarm under international health law.

Also known as PHEIC (Public Health Emergency of International Concern), this is a status given by WHO to “extraordinary events” that pose a public health risk to other countries through the international spread of disease.

These outbreaks may require a coordinated international response, according to the organization.

With such a status, there will be increased scrutiny among travellers from African States affected by the disease including Kenya as well as more joint efforts to stem the spread of the disease.

The highly contagious disease, characterised by flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, has spread beyond Congo's borders, affecting countries such as Burundi, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Rwanda.

On August 13, the disease was declared a public health emergency by the Africa CDC. Kenya, despite reporting just a single case of Mpox, finds itself on high alert alongside several other African nations as the continent grapples with a rapidly spreading strain of the virus.

The public health emergency declaration was expected to galvanise government efforts across the continent, enabling better coordination in response strategies and potentially unlocking a crucial influx of medical supplies and humanitarian aid to the hardest-hit regions.

The declaration of a public health emergency is expected to facilitate better coordination of response efforts and potentially increase the flow of medical supplies and aid into affected areas. However, significant challenges remain.

Despite the urgent need for vaccines, the availability of doses is severely limited. Reports indicate that only 65,000 doses might be available for the entire region in the coming months, with vaccination campaigns unlikely to begin before October.

Read also: Kenya Confirms Outbreak Of Mpox: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

The spread of Mpox has been particularly alarming in Congo, where the country is battling what experts describe as a "severe outbreak." With over 14,000 cases and 511 deaths reported, the situation is dire, and the threat of the virus spilling over into neighbouring countries has become a reality.

An illustration of the Mpox virus. /WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza Impeached For 3rd Time

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 12:34:44 +0300

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has been impeached for the third time by the Meru County Assembly.

On Thursday, August 8, MCAs voted to impeach her on charges of abuse of office, gross misconduct and gross violation of the Constitution and other laws.

Earlier, chaos and disruptions rocked the Meru County Assembly ahead of the debate on the fifth ouster motion against the clearly embattled governor.

Standoff between Governor Kawira Mwangaza's supporters and rival groups at Meru County Assembly as MCAs debate Mwangaza's 5th impeachment motion on August 8, 2024. /X

Some pro-Mwangaza officials had clashed with their counterparts who were in support of the impeachment motion outside the Meru County Assembly.

From several videos, the officials were recorded engaging each other in a conversation before turning into pull-and-push altercations. The reason for their confrontation was not immediately established by the time of publishing this story.

The latest move adds to the times she has faced impeachment since her election as governor in the 2022 August general elections.

She survived two of them before this one, thanks to the Senate, which she will rely on to save her fortunes for the third successive time.

Mwangaza was first impeached in December 2022 but was saved by the Senate on December 30, 2022. She was again impeached by the Meru MCAs on October 26, 2023, but the senate again threw out the charges fronted against her.

On July 30, Kinya withdrew the latest impeachment motion tabled against the county boss. This motion marked the fourth attempt in less than two years to throw the embattled governor out of office, adding to the series of political disagreements that have impacted the county.

The withdrawal came moments after the Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders refused to be involved in the motion after the High Court referred it to them.

While declining to mediate the case, the elders stated that they could not intervene in terms of political matters of the county.

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza speaking during an address on July 17, 2024. /KAWIRA MWANGAZA

Parliament Approves 19 Cabinet Secretary Nominees

Marvin Chege — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 11:01:31 +0300

UPDATE: The National Assembly has unanimously voted for the approval of 19 out of 20 individuals nominated as Cabinet Secretaries by President William Ruto. The nomination of Stella Soi Lang'at for the Gender docket has been rejected.

Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah announced the committee’s decision, endorsing 19 of President Ruto’s 20 nominees. This significant development came as President Ruto pushed through his commitment to form a broad-based government, incorporating five members from Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to connect political sides.

“THAT, taking into consideration the findings of the Committee on Appointments in its Second Report on the vetting of the nominees for appointment to the Offices of Cabinet Secretaries, laid on the Table of the House today, Wednesday, August 2024, and pursuant to the provisions of Article 152(2) of the Constitution and sections 3 and 8 of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval Act, 2011.”

“This House rejects the appointment of Ms. Stella Soi Lang’at as the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts & Heritage,” Ichung’wah said on Wednesday while giving a notice of the motion to approve the nominees.

The National Assembly Committee on Appointments has approved 19 Cabinet Secretary nominees picked by President William Ruto to occupy positions in his Cabinet.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah read the approvals on Wednesday, August 7. However, the nomination of Stella Soi Lang'at as the Cabinet Secretary nominee for Gender, Arts and Culture was rejected.

"Honourable Speaker, I beg to lay the following paper on the table of the house today, August 7, 2024, the second report of the Committee of Appointments on the vetting of persons for appointment to the Offices of Secretaries volumes 1, 2, 3A and 3B," the Majority Leader stated.

President William Ruto speaks at State House, Nairobi on Friday, July 19, 2024. /PCS

The list of those approved now includes:

Kithure Kindiki - Interior
2. Debra Barasa - Health
3. Alice Wahome - Lands
4. Julius Migos - Education
5. Soipan Tuya - Defence
6. Andrew Karanja - Agriculture
7. Aden Duale - Environment
8. Eric Mugaa - Water
9. Davis Chirchir - Roads
10. Margaret Ndung'u - ICT
11. John Mbadi - Treasury
12. Salim Mvurya - Investments and Trade
13. Rebecca Miano - Tourism
14. Opiyo Wandayi - Energy
15. Kipchumba Murkomen - Sports
16, Hassan Joho - Mining
17. Alfred Mutua - Labour
18. Wycliffe Oparanya - MSMEs
19. Justin Muturi - Public Service

Notably, the approved list contains those who were formally members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, a move many believe is a threat to opposition politics in the country.

In the new lineup, ex-ODM Chairman John Mbadi will be in charge of the nation's public coffers while former deputy party leaders Joho and Oparanya will be in charge of Mining and Cooperative dockets respectively.

Additionally, Ugenya MP Wandayi will relinquish his position as the National Assembly Minority Leader to take up the position of Energy and Petroleum.

The vetting process came against the backdrop of an aggressive push by Kenyans to ensure only leaders of integrity join the Cabinet.

The dissolution of the previous Cabinet by President Ruto followed weeks of sustained protests from Kenyans who demanded far-reaching reforms including an overhaul of the Cabinet.

The protests led by Gen Z and millennials forced the President to fire 11 of his former CSs as part of his concessions.

The committee on appointments generated the report after concluding the approval hearings on Sunday having vetted 20 Cabinet nominees.

Lawmakers were expected to debate the report later on Wednesday before taking a vote to adopt, reject or amend it accordingly. Once approved, the names will be forwarded to the President for appointment.

If a nominee is rejected, the President is required to submit a new name that will go through the vetting process.

Cabinet Secretary nominee for Gender, Arts and Culture Stella Lang'at before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments for vetting at County Hall in Nairobi on August 4, 2024. /PARLIAMENT KENYA

Cleophas Malala Kicked Out Of UDA- Founders Announce [VIDEO]

Marvin Chege — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:00:42 +0300

Former Kakamega Senator, Cleophas Malala, is no longer the Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party under President William Ruto.

Joe Khalende, the chairman of the founding members of the UDA party, who addressed the media on Tuesday, July 30, accused Malala of abdicating his role and his duty as the SG of the ruling party.

The SG is the spokesperson of the party and is charged with communicating as well as initiating meetings on behalf of the party.

Khalende further accused Malala of dumping the party in favour of the opposition and supporting the agendas which go against the ruling party.

"He has gone against our party leader. He is at the forefront against the formation of a broad-based government. I'm here to confirm that he is no longer the Secretary General of the UDA party," Khalende announced, adding that he would take over as the SG.

"Going forward, the UDA party is going back to its members. It was formed as a people-centred party, it was not formed on an individual within the party. We were formed as UDA to ensure that if we take over power, we initiate the bottom-up economic principle, but clearly, Cleophas Malala has gone against the UDA party."

Khalende went on to reveal that going forward, the grassroots elections will go on as planned and rebranding as well as recruitment will continue.

Furthermore, according to Khalende, the opportunity was ripe for UDA members to extend an olive branch to members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party "and tell them that we are welcoming them in government, they come so that we can build the government together, we lift the lives of Kenyans from the bottom going up in the plan that the President and Raila Odinga have formulated in the broad-based government."

"Going forward, anybody who will transact business, who will do business with one Cleophas Malala, he will be doing business on his own, not as the Secretary General of UDA," Khalende added.

The founding member further claimed that the party had issued Malala a show-cause letter last month on why he has persistently failed to honour the party ideals, which he failed to honour, and allegedly frustrated the process of disciplining him within the party.

"They have gone ahead with other cartels within the party to be getting fake court orders to stop the party grassroots elections. So clearly, he has been a man on the run but trying to hide his plans by frustrating the true process of ensuring that we have a good election and new leadership within the party," Khalende added.

Malala was yet to respond to the announcement by the founding members regarding his ouster by the time of publishing this story.

Cleophas Malala with President William Ruto during a past campaign rally. /FILE

Ruto Nominates Female Attorney General & EAC CS

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 14:06:49 +0300

President William Ruto has nominated Dorcas Odour for the position of Attorney General.

If approved after vetting by the National Assembly, she will replace Justin Muturi, the former National Assembly Speaker and Attorney General, and make history as the country's first female Attorney General.

Before Muturi, past Attorney Generals since Kenya gained independence in 1963 were all men and they included Charles Mugane Njonjo (1963–1979), James B. Karugu (1980–1981), Joseph Kamere (1981–1983), Matthew Guy Muli (1983–1991), Amos Wako (1991–2011), Githu Muigai (2011–2018) and Paul Kihara Kariuki (2018–2022).

Dorcas Oduor Profile

Senior Counsel Dorcas Oduor has vast legal experience spanning over 30 years of practice within the public sector.

Attorney General nominee Dorcas Oduor. /FILE

"In her long and distinguished career as a jurist who has contributed immensely to the development of law in Kenya through litigation, draughtsman, and legal advisories; Senior Counsel Oduor has demonstrated unimpeachable integrity, impressive professional competence and steadfast commitment to the rule of law. If approved by the National Assembly, Dorcas Agik Oduor will become our nation's first female Attorney-General," a communique by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei read in part.

The AG Nominee was admitted to the bar as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya in 1992, having attained her Bachelor of Laws Degree (LL. B) in 1990 and a postgraduate Diploma from the Kenya School of Law in 1991.

Oduor is currently serving as Secretary of Public Prosecutions within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).

Her nomination comes hardly two weeks after President Ruto nominated the former Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano to the same position before being reshuffled to the Tourism docket.

Beatrice Askul Moe Profile

At the same time, President Ruto nominated Beatrice Askul Moe as the Cabinet Secretary for the East African Community (EAC).

Askul is a Social Scientist and a Consultant, having previously served as the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Water, Irrigation, Agriculture and Land Reclamation in Turkana County Government.

She has previously served as a Director of the Rift Valley Water Services Board, Chairperson Technical Committee of the Rift Valley Water Services Board, Chairperson Audit Committee of the Rift Valley Water Services Board, Project Officer of AMREF Kenya Turkana Project and Relief Officer for the Oxfam Turkana Relief Program.

The CS nominee has specialized skills in the development and management of community affairs, towards behavioural and social change in communities.

She has also undertaken various certifications and pieces of training including a County Induction Course at Kenya School Government (Turkana County Government); Corporate Governance Course (CGC) while serving as a member of Rift Valley Water Services Board; Training on Audit Committees by KCA University (Institute for Capacity Development; Training of Trainers (TOT) Course for Community-based development by AMREF Kenya; and Training in Methodologies for Conducting Baseline Assessment Survey for Food Security and Nutrition Improvement Project Turkana.

Askul holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Sciences (Social Work) from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) and is pursuing a Masters Degree in Governance and Ethics.

"His Excellency the President has transmitted the nominations for appointment to Cabinet to the National Assembly for consideration and approval in fulfilment of the legal requirements set out under our nation's supreme law," added Koskei.

President William Ruto assents to the Appropriations Bill 2024 at State House, Nairobi on June 28, 2024. /PCS

Martha Karua's NARC Kenya Quits Raila's Azimio

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 15:49:02 +0300

NARC Kenya and its party leader, Martha Karua, have left the Azimio la Umoja coalition.

Karua took to her social media platforms to share a letter from the party dated Thursday, July 25, which reads "Kindly take note that our stay in Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition is not tenable due to the prevailing political developments."

"As NARC Kenya by way of this letter, we are giving notice to exit the Coalition as stipulated in the exit clause (s) in the Coalition Agreement. This notice is effective from the date of this letter," reads the letter in part.

Martha Karua with Raila Odinga during a past Azimio la Umoja event. /FILE

The exit means that her political relationship with Azimio's leader, Raila Odinga, is over. She exits having been the presidential running mate to Raila Odinga during the 2022 general elections.

Her later came in the backdrop of political turbulence within the Azimio la Umoja Coalition over courting the Kenya Kwanza government, one the coalition had opposed for close to two years, and even before they lost the 2022 general elections.

In an earlier interview with Ghetto Radio, Karua offered a hint that the coalition is walking on a tightrope in terms of its lifespan and it is only a matter of time before it is dissolved for good.

Karua asserted that the coalition had been pulling in different directions since the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) began its talks.

"Azimio is shaky and I think after yesterday, it's done. I'm saying shaky because, since the NADCO talks, we've been pulling in different directions.

"The only thing that has saved us is that we said at the beginning of this year, let every party go and build itself. So I've been busy with Narc-Kenya and not busy with Azimio," Karua remarked.

On President William Ruto's nomination of four ODM members to the cabinet, the NARC Kenya leader noted that she was not surprised.

"I was not surprised because of Ruto's modus operandi, his way of working, he is everything. He is a jack of all trades. I am sure that he can appoint the CSs, but he will be the one running the ministries. It is a one-man show," Karua stated.

On Wednesday, President Ruto nominated John Mbadi, Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya and Opiyo Wandayi to the cabinet, all under Azimio, a matter which caused chaos between the coalition's party affiliates.

A section of leaders have come out guns blazing over the move conflicting with the outcomes, saying that the nominations were not agreed upon in both the Orange Democratic Movement and Azimio la Umoja's Parliamentary Group Meetings.

Some ODM Members of Parliament held a press briefing on Thursday, July 25, distancing themselves from the move by some leaders to work with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

The party leader, Raila Odinga, threw a twist and even though he denied that he was entering into a coalition with the government, he did not reveal whether he held talks with his political rival nor did he really comment on the nominations.

Azimio Leader, Raila Odinga delivers a speech on June 5, 2024. /MUSALIA MUDAVADI

MPs Vote To Delete The Entire Finance Bill 2024

Marvin Chege — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 14:40:34 +0300

The Finance Bill 2024 is now dead and buried after members of Kenya's National Assembly have voted to delete it in its entirety.

On Thursday, July 25, the lawmakers voted to delete all 69 clauses of the controversial bill. This followed a Committee of the Whole House which voted in agreement with President William Ruto's reservations and recommendations to delete all clauses.

They include clauses 2-26 relating to the Income Tax Act (Cap 470), clauses 27-35 relating to the Value Added Tax Act and clauses 36-42 relating to the Excise Duty Act.

Other clauses deleted included (43-49) relating to the Miscellaneous Fees and Levies Act, clauses (50-62) relating to the Tax Procedures Act and clauses (63-69) relating to the Miscellaneous Act.

President William Ruto signs into law the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, 2024 on April 24, 2024. /PCS

"I beg to report that the Committee of the Whole House has considered the President's recommendations to the Finance Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 30 of 2024) and its approval thereof, without amendments. Therefore, deleting all clauses of the Bill," National Assembly Deputy Speaker, Gladys Shollei announced.

Following this, none of the clauses proposed in the Bill which ultimately triggered nationwide protests, shall have legal effect.

"The House has voted in agreement with the President's reservations and recommendations to delete all clauses of the Finance Bill 2024. Following this decision the Bill has been rejected in its entirety.

"I wish to clarify that the import of the decision of the House is that the Bill is lost... In this regard strictly speaking there is no Bill for the Speaker to present to the President for assent as contemplated under Article 115(5) of the Constitution. To signify the decision that the House has taken on the Bill I shall only convey the effect of the decision which is that the Finance Bill 2024 has been rejected. The House is accordingly guided," the Speaker, Moses Wetangula, communicated to the House.

Any move to negate the deletion of all 69 clauses would have required the support of at least 233 members, that is, a two-thirds majority.

On Tuesday, June 25, the MPs passed the Finance Bill 2024 after the third reading, after 195 Members of Parliament voted to pass it while 106 others rejected it and three votes were spoiled, paving the way for Ruto to assent it into law before Ruto's announcement that he rejected the Bill, following the Gen Z-led protests which nearly brought the country to its knees.

Constitutional Procedure for Returning a Bill

According to Kenya's constitution, the process of returning a bill to Parliament involves several critical steps:

After a bill is passed by Parliament, it is presented to the President for assent. The President has 14 days to either assent to the bill or refer it back to Parliament with a memorandum outlining specific concerns.

In this case, President Ruto exercised his constitutional right to refer the Finance Bill 2024 back to Parliament. The memorandum detailed the particular clauses or provisions the President disagreed with and suggested necessary amendments. However, all the 69 clauses were erased.

Upon receiving the President's memorandum, Parliament must reconsider the bill, which it did. According to Article 115 of the Constitution, if the President refers a bill back, Parliament can either accept the proposed amendments or reject them.

If Parliament agrees with the President's recommendations, the bill is amended accordingly and sent back to the President for assent. However, if Parliament disagrees with the President's amendments, it can override the President's veto.

To do this, the National Assembly must pass the bill again with a two-thirds majority. If successful, the bill becomes law even without the President's assent, and in this case, it would have been likely if the MPs attempted the near-impossible.

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula during a past House session. /FILE

Ruto Nominates Douglas Kanja As Inspector General Of Police

Marvin Chege — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 12:49:32 +0300

President William Ruto has nominated Douglas Kanja as the next Inspector General of the National Police Service (NPS).

It was notified that following the recommendation of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), President Ruto has begun instituting changes affecting the top command of the NPS.

"In accordance with Article 245 (2) of the Consitution, His Excellency the President has nominated Mr Douglas Kanja Kirocho for appointment as the Inspector General of the National Police Service," a statement to newsrooms by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei read in part.

According to Ruto, Douglas Kanja, an Acting IG, boasts a stellar career spanning nearly 40 years in law enforcement, a period which saw him rise through the ranks to the top command of the service.

Douglas Kanja, named acting Inspector General of Police. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE

Before his current role, Kanja's role as the Deputy IG of Police saw him wield a powerful office which controls almost 70,000 personnel of the more than 100,000 officers under NPS. The other personnel are in the Administration Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

The DIG KPS is in charge of all eight regional police commanders, 47 county commanders, formation commanders, Sub County Commanders, Officer Commanding Station (OCS) and all uniformed officers. He also controls the General Service Unit (GSU), Traffic Department and Kenya Police College in Kiganjo.

Kanja at the time of his appointment replaced Edward Mbugua who retired after attaining the mandatory retirement age.

Kanja is set to be vetted by both the National Assembly and the Senate. If his nomination is approved, he would replace Japhet Koome who stepped down two weeks ago.

In the same press release, the Head of State also appointed Eliud Langat to the position of Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service. Ruto also appointed Gilbert Masengeli as the new Deputy Inspector-General (Administration Police Service).

Immediate former Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome. /CAPITAL GROUP

Ruto Nominates More Cabinet Secretaries, Reassigns Rebecca Miano, Names Mbadi & Joho

Marvin Chege — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 11:32:39 +0300

President William Ruto has announced the second batch of the broad-based Cabinet, with more individuals nominated as Cabinet Secretaries.

He spoke during an address to the nation at State House, Nairobi on Wednesday, July 24 when he announced the next members of his new-look Cabinet.

Of the most surprising picks is John Mbadi, who has been nominated as the Cabinet Secretary of the National Treasury.

Rebecca Miano has been reassigned to the Ministry of Tourism, having been previously nominated as the Attorney General.

Raila Odinga speaking during a press briefing on April 11, 2024. /CALEB AMISI

List of More Nominated Cabinet Secretaries

The proposed Cabinet Secretaries are; John Mbadi (National Treasury), Salim Mvurya (Investment Trade and Industry), Rebecca Miano (Tourism and Wildlife), Opiyo Wandayi Energy and Petroleum), Kipchumba Murkomen (Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports).

Others appointed were Hassan Joho (Mining and Blue Economy), Alfred Mutua (Labour and Social Protection), Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives and MSME Development), Justin Muturi (Public Service), and Stella Lang'at (Gender, Culture, Arts & Heritage).

The nomination makes the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) the largest winner in the new cabinet reforms with its members taking prime positions in Ruto's cabinet.

This is despite earlier assertions by the Raila Odinga-led party that its members would not accept any ministerial appointments from President Ruto.

"A narrative has been woven that ODM is desperate to join the government when all along we have been clear that what we seek is a national conversation preceded by the creation of the necessary environment through the implementation of the conditions above.

"Some of our members have also fallen for the campaign of lies and misinterpreted our stance as a license to engage the Kenya Kwanza leadership and canvass for ministerial and/or other positions in the Ruto government," read the statement in part from the party on Tuesday, July 23.

In the new lineup, ODM Chairman John Mbadi will be in charge of the nation's public coffers while deputy party leaders Joho and Oparanya will be in charge of Mining and Cooperative dockets respectively.

Additionally, Ugenya MP Wandayi will have to relinquish his position as the National Assembly Minority Leader to take up the position of Energy and Petroleum previously headed by Davis Chirchir.

On Friday, July 19, President Ruto nominated the first batch of cabinet secretaries and attorney general, which was initially given to Miano but now hangs in the balance.

The nominees were; Prof Kithure Kindiki (Interior and National Administration), Aden Duale (Defence), Alice Wahome (Lands, Public Works, Urban Development and Housing), Soipan Tuya (Environment, Climate Change and Forestry) and Davis Chirchir (Roads and Transport).

Others were; Dr Debra Mulongo Barasa (Health), Julius Migosi Ogamba (Education), Dr Andrew Mwihia Karanja (Agriculture and Livestock Development), Eric Muriithi Muuga (Water, Sanitation and Irrigation) and Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u (Information, Communication and Digital Economy).

President William Ruto flanked by Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka speaking after the assenting of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2024 at KICC, Nairobi on July 9, 2024. /PCS

Ruto Reshuffles Soipan Tuya and Aden Duale

Marvin Chege — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 13:32:23 +0300

In a surprise move, President William Ruto has allocated new responsibilities to Cabinet Secretary nominees, moving Aden Duale away from the Ministry of Defence and handing the docket to Soipan Tuya instead.

Duale confirmed on his social media accounts on Tuesday, July 23, expressing his appreciation to the Head of State.

"I am grateful to President William Ruto for reassigning me from the Defence Ministry to the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry. I look forward to serving in my new portfolio and ensuring the focus is on sustainable environmental management, combating climate change, and promoting reforestation and conservation efforts," he wrote in part.

Side by side images of Cabinet Secretary nominees Soipan Tuya (left) and Aden Duale (right). /SOIPAN TUYA.ADEN DUALE

"Indeed, 'And it may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows, but you do not know.' - Quran 2:216."

The changes were also communicated by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula in Ruto's submission to Parliament when sessions resumed on Tuesday.

Wetang’ula thereafter referred the letter from President Ruto to the Committee of Appointments which he indicated they would have 28 days to submit their report to the House to enable the MPs to consider the nominees.

The President's attempt to overhaul his team comes amid mounting criticism and pressure from various sectors, including youth groups, church leaders, and civil society organisations.

This cabinet realignment follows the unveiling of Ruto's initial list of nominated Cabinet Secretaries on Friday, July 19. The proposed appointments had already stirred controversy, with many critics accusing Ruto of lacking genuine reform and continuing to favour established figures over new, invigorating voices.

On Friday, July 19, Ruto, while unveiling a list of 11 Cabinet nominees, added that he would announce more nominees later on.

However, a majority of the nominees consisted of those who were retained from the disbanded Cabinet and included Kithure Kindiki (Ministry of Interior), Duale, Davis Chirchir (Ministry of Transport and Roads), Tuya and Alice Wahome (Lands and Public Works), with Rebecca Miano, a former Trade CS, nominated as Attorney General.

Meanwhile, Wetangula has assured that all the CS nominees, including those recalled, will be subjected to vetting by the National Assembly.

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula during a past House session. /FILE

Ruto Picks 11 Cabinet Secretaries: Kindiki, Duale, Soipan Tuya Make Comeback

Marvin Chege — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 14:21:54 +0300

President William Ruto has announced that he has begun to form a broad-based Cabinet, with 11 individuals nominated as Cabinet Secretaries.

He spoke during an address to the nation at State House, Nairobi on Friday, July 19 when he announced the first 11 members of his new-look Cabinet.

"I have started the process of forming a new broad-based cabinet to assist in driving the urgently needed and irreversible transformation of our country. I nominate the following first batch of 11 individuals for consideration and approval by the National Assembly," stated Ruto.

Some of the names unveiled include Kithure Kindiki who served as the Interior CS in the last Cabinet and was proposed to retain his position in the Interior docket.

Aden Duale (left) and Kithure Kindiki (right) at State House during a past Cabinet meeting. /FILE

Former CSs who were recommended to retain their positions include Alice Wahome (Lands), Aden Duale (Defence) and Soipan Tuya (Environment).

Meanwhile, former Energy CS Davis Chirchir was nominated to the Roads and Transport docket.

Full list of Ruto's nominated Cabinet Secretaries:

Ministry of the Interior and National Administration - Prof Kithure Kindiki
Ministry of Health - Dr Debra Mlongo Barasa
Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development - Alice Wahome
Ministry of Education - Julius Migos Ogamba
Ministry of Defence - Aden Barre Duale
Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development - Dr Andrew Mwihia Karanja
Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry - Roselinda Soipan Tuiya
Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation - Eric Muriithi Muuga
Ministry of Roads and Transport - Davis Chirchir
Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy - Margaret Nyambura Ndung'u
Attorney-General - Rebecca Miano

"Further consultations are ongoing after which, I will announce more names in due course," Ruto announced.

Ruto also indicated that he would be announcing a new direction for his new Cabinet expressing that his administration would be focusing on job creation, accountability, and debt management among others.

"We are enhancing, broadening and deepening the national economic turnaround Plan set out in the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda to incorporate a wider range of ideas, programmes and interventions that will facilitate job creation, robust debt management, enhanced transparency and accountability in the use of public resources and enhanced domestic resource mobilisation, and optimise public expenditure," he announced.

How the cabinet is appointed (Next Steps)

The President names his nominees for the cabinet whose names are communicated to the house by the National Assembly.

The House Business Committee is charged with the responsibility of nominating members to sit in the Appointment Committee which vets the cabinet nominees.

The parliamentary approval process mandates the committee to assess a candidate's academic qualifications, professional training, experience, personal integrity, and background.

Subsequently, the committee endeavours to correlate the candidate's experience with the relevant Ministry's scope of responsibilities.

A bird's eye view of Parliament as of June 6, 2024. /PARLIAMENT OF KENYA

Police Ban Protests In Nairobi CBD & Environs 'Because They Are Leaderless'

Marvin Chege — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 20:50:30 +0300

The National Police Service has announced that it has banned protests in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) and its environs. This is in response to the planned demonstrations by Kenyan youth on Thursday, July 18.

In a press statement, Acting Inspector-General of Police, Douglas Kanja lamented that since the commencement of the demonstrations by the Gen Z in June this year, the country has experienced enormous losses, that is, people have been injured, lives lost, property and businesses destroyed, and livelihoods lost.

The police boss also revealed that criminals have continued to infiltrate the protesting groups, resulting in a troubling trend of disorderly and destructive conduct.

Douglas Kanja, named acting Inspector General of Police. /FILE

Kanja was however quick to note that while the Constitution of Kenya under Article 37 provides for the right, peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, to picket, to demonstrate and to present petitions to public authorities, the Constitution equally provides for the critical role that the National Police Service plays in the national security of the country.

"In keeping with our Constitutional role and in the interest of national security, we wish to inform the public that we have credible intelligence that organized criminal groups are planning to take advantage of the ongoing protests to execute their attacks including looting.

"Acting on this information and in accordance with international security standards for public assemblies, which require a designated leader to coordinate, collaborate and cooperate with police for peaceful demonstrations, the lack of designated leadership in previous demonstrations has made it difficult to enforce safety protocols. As a result, no demonstrations will be permitted in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety," Kanja stated in part.

He appealed to all members of the public to remain vigilant in crowded areas and to support the police's collective safety and security by sharing any information that may aid them in crime detection and prevention.

"As a Service, we wish to reiterate our commitment to partner with members of the public and media to keep our country safe and secure for all of us," he added.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) on Tuesday, July 16 recorded 50 deaths spanning four weeks of demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024, which began on Tuesday, June 18.

Furthermore, 413 people have so far been injured, though there are fears that the aforementioned numbers could rise in the coming days.

Some of the victims succumbed to injuries while they were undergoing treatment while other bodies were discovered under the debris of the burnt Sunbeam Mall in Nairobi.

The dead are from Nairobi (21), Nakuru (3), Laikipia (2), Narok (1), Kajiado (3), Uasin Gishu (4), Kakamega (2), Kisumu (3), Kisii (1), Mombasa (3), Siaya (1), Kiambu (1), Nandi (1), Embu (1), Homabay (1), Nyeri (1) and Bungoma (1).

At the same time, KNCHR noted that 59 people have been abducted by authorities with 682 others being arrested.

“We condemn the abductions and arrests and demand an immediate and unconditional release of all the illegally detained persons in relation to the protests. The Commission has moved the court for orders of Habeas Corpus in a quest to seek accountability for missing and abducted persons,” the Commission revealed in a statement.

Kenyans during a past protest in Nairobi. /FILE

Petition Filed Challenging Firing Of AG Justin Muturi By Ruto

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 15:25:31 +0300

Nakuru Doctor and law student, Dr Magare Gikenyi, has moved to court to challenge the dismissal of Attorney-General Justin Muturi by President William Ruto.

Muturi was among those dismissed by the Head of State who announced the dissolution of the entire Cabinet, a move that saw 21 Cabinet Secretaries sent home on the spot on Thursday, July 11.

Viral Tea is in receipt of the petition filed by Dr Gikenyi and six other Kenyans who argued that the removal of the AG was illegal, irregular, and unconstitutional.

The doctor had argued that the AG can not be removed from office at the pleasure of the president.

Dr Benjamin Magare Gikenyi during a past press briefing. /MTAA WANGU

"I have read the Notice of motion Application dated 11/07/2024, the certificate of urgency of even date together with the affidavit in support sworn by Dr. Magare Gikenyi J. Benjamin and direct as follows:

"Service of the Application be effected within the next 14 days. Responses be filed and served within 14 days from the date of receipt of responses. If need be, the Applicant/Petitioner may file a rejoinder within 14 days from the date of receipt of responses," read court orders in part, with the date set for September 30, 2024, for further directions.

In the petition seen by Viral Tea, the doctor argued that the President terminated Muturi from his post through a pleasure doctrine despite Section 12 of the Attorney General’s Office Act No 49 Of 2012 in which it established statutory grounds upon which he can be removed which inter alia enshrined the principle of fair hearing and protection of public servants pursuant to Articles 47 and 236 of the Constitution.

Making reference to Section 12 of the aforementioned Act, he noted that the President could only remove the AG or the Solicitor-General from office only for serious violation of the Constitution or any other law, gross misconduct, whether in the performance of their functions or otherwise, physical or mental incapacity to perform the functions of office, incompetence or bankruptcy.

Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), the President may, upon election under the Constitution, appoint a person who is qualified as Attorney General in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and the Act referenced by the doctor.

"That from the above, the president has no powers to dismiss the honourable attorney general without adhering to the said statutory conditions within the principle of fair hearing as established in article 47 as read with article 236 of the constitution and/or upon the election of the new government," the petition reads in part.

It is worth noting that Article 236 prevents a public officer from being victimised or discriminated against for having performed the functions of office in accordance with the Constitution or any other law; or being dismissed, removed from office, demoted in rank or otherwise subjected to disciplinary action without due process of law.

While arguing that the office of the AG is an independent office protected by the Constitution, Dr Gikenyi noted that the holder cannot be removed whimsically without following statutory and constitutional processes.

"THAT the absence of the substantive holder of the office exposes the government to inadequate defence of numerous cases filed against the government since the said office holder is important in giving direction to the office," the petition added.

He worried that if the court does not stop the illegal actions and/omissions done by the president and/or respondents then constitutional violations will continue against principles of good governance.

President William Ruto and his Cabinet posing for a photo after a meeting on July 4, 2024. /PCS

DCI Arrest Prime Suspect In Killing Of 42 Women In Mukuru, Seize 17 Items [LIST]

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 11:10:06 +0300

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Monday, July 15 announced the arrest of Collins Jumaisi Khalusha, the main suspect in the heinous Kware killings that have sparked uproar across the nation.

In a press statement, DCI boss, Mohamed Amin revealed that the 33-year-old was arrested in the morning hours at Soweto in Kayole Sub-County at around 3 am in a joint operation by the DCI Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau and Operations directorates.

He was revealed to have been at a club where he had gone to watch the Euro 2024 football finals between Spain and England when the detectives outside the premises accosted him.

His pursuit and subsequent arrest followed forensic analysis of a mobile phone belonging to one of the victims, Josphine Mulongo Owino, where mobile money transactions conducted on the day she went missing pointed to the suspect.

Some of the exhibits recovered by DCI detectives from Collins Jumaisi Khalusha, the main suspect in the heinous Kware killings. /DCI

"Upon his arrest, the suspect led officers to his single-room rented house in Kware, which is located about 100m from the crime scene where the bodies and body parts have been recovered," read the statement in part.

A quick search was conducted in the house, which led to the recovery of the following crucial exhibits:

1. 24 SIM cardholders with new SIM cards

2. 8 smartphones, two feature phones

3. One Laptop and one hard drive

4. Two flash drives and one phone memory card

5. One Machete

6. 12 Nylon Sacks

7. One pair of industrial rubber gloves

8. 6 ID cards for men and 2 ID cards for women

9. One pink female handbag

10. 2 female panties

11. 5 rolls of bhang

12. 4 huge clear sellotape

13. One nylon rope

14. One reflector Jacket

15. 2 title deeds

16. 2 notebooks

17. Assorted documents

On interrogation, the suspect confessed to having lured, killed, and disposed of 42 female bodies at the dumping site, all murdered between 2022 and Thursday, July 11, 2024.

"The suspect alleges that his first victim was his wife namely Imelda Judith Khalenya whom he strangled to death before dismembering her body and disposing it at the site," added Amin.

From his interrogation, all his victims have been murdered in like manner. Investigations are still ongoing and the suspect's house and the dumping site remain active crime scenes.

Amin appealed to families who reasonably believe that their loved ones may have fallen prey to these macabre murders to report to DCI headquarters or any DCI office near them.

The Confession

The DCI boss, who spoke to the press, revealed that the suspect had been disposing of the bodies at the dumpsite and was in the process of luring yet another victim before his arrest.

The suspect explained that he was triggered into becoming a serial killer after starting a business for his wife who reportedly failed to sustain it leading to its collapse. However, the type and nature of the business in question were not immediately revealed.

The suspect was further revealed to be in the process of starting yet another business which collapsed as well. According to the narration, this upset him as he was angered to the point of killing his wife.

"Apparently he is a person full of vengeance and hatred and he had a special predilection for special women according to what he told us," he revealed.

DCI director, Mohamed Amin speaking during a press briefing on February 9, 2023. /DCI

The victims' bodies are being held at the City Mortuary as the detectives wait for the autopsy results to aid in the investigations and ensure all involved are brought to book.

As investigations continue, Amin revealed that the suspect will be arraigned in court most likely on Tuesday.

Inspector General Of Police, Japhet Koome Resigns

Marvin Chege — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:15:46 +0300

UPDATE 6.37 PM: Former Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome appreciated the National Police Service (NPS) following his resignation, hailing the service for supporting him throughout his tenure.

"During the brief handing/taking over ceremony held at NPS Headquarters this afternoon, the outgoing IG Koome expressed his profound gratitude to the National Police Service Officers for the support they accorded him while he was in office and added that Kenya is a beautiful Country and bigger than all of us," the National Police Service (NPS) revealed in a statement.

"The incoming Ag. IG Mr Douglas Kanja on his part thanked the former police chief for his strategic leadership and wished him well."

Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome has resigned.

According to a statement from State House, President William Ruto accepted Koome's resignation as the IG of the National Police Service (NPS) on Friday, July 12.

While announcing the changes within the police service, Ruto expressed his gratitude to the outgoing IG, Japhet Koome, for his service to the nation.

Following Koome's decision to resign, President Ruto has designated Douglas Kanja as the acting Inspector General of Police pending the nomination, parliamentary approval and appointment of Koome's replacement.

Former Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome. /FILE

"The Head of State has, in accordance with Section 16 of the National Police Service Act, designated Douglas Kanja, CBS the Deputy-Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service as the acting Inspector-General of the National Police Service," the statement read in part.

On September 27, 2022, Koome was nominated by President Ruto as the Inspector General of Police, moments after Hillary Mutyambai was confirmed to have resigned.

Ruto indicated then that Koome would succeed Mutyambai who resigned and proceeded to terminal leave. He underwent vetting in Parliament before being approved on November 8, 2022, and was sworn in as dictated by the Constitution.

Koome took the reins from Noor Gabow who served in an acting capacity as the Police IG.

The police veteran had disclosed during the vetting that he was worth Ksh89 million, comprising of his investments, property and shares. Lawmakers however challenged him to explain the sources of his income and in particular, his net worth.

"I have a share capital in the Police Sacco, I have vehicles, two tractors for farming, 37 acres of land in my rural home, two plots within the local shopping centre, my land in Nairobi where I have lived for 22 years and another two plots in Kitengela," he said.

He added that his anticipated streams would be his dairy farming practice which he claimed rakes in about Ksh9 million annually, on top of his salary as police IG.

Koome made his case clear before the vetting panel, arguing that his 31 years of experience in the force coupled with a clean record was enough for him to handle the role effectively.

However, this clean record has come under scrutiny over the tenure of his reign at the helm of the police force, consisting of police brutality aplenty, especially during anti-government demonstrations in 2023 and 2024.

Other Changes

Meanwhile, President Ruto announced the appointment of Patrick Mwiti Arandu as the Commissioner General of Prisons, taking over from Brigadier John Warioba, who is proceeding on terminal leave pending the end of his tenure of office.

President Ruto also announced the redeployment of Noor Gabow, within the Public Service and designated Eliud Langat as the acting Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service.

James Kamau was named the acting Deputy Inspector General under the Administration Police Service.

Douglas Kanja, named acting Inspector General of Police. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE

Ranson Lolmodooni was appointed the Commandant of the General Service Unit (GSU) and Gilbert Masengeli as the Commandant of the Administration Police Training College (APTC) in Embakasi, Nairobi.

Ruto further appointed William Yiampoy as the Director of Operations within the Police Headquarters. Additionally, he appointed Kainga Mathiu as the Commandant of the National Police Leadership Academy (NPSA) in Ngong, Nairobi.

"The changes notified within our homeland security agencies take effect immediately," read part of State House Spokesperson, Hussein Mohamed's statement.

High Court Declares Social Health Insurance Fund Unconstitutional

Marvin Chege — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 10:18:20 +0300

The High Court has declared the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) unconstitutional.

A three-judge bench ruled on Friday, July 12, giving Parliament 120 days, until November 20, 2024, to make amendments to the said Act.

Justices Alfred Mabeya, Robert Limo and Fridah Mugambi instructed Parliament to undertake adequate public participation in accordance with the constitution before enacting the same act and amending the unconstitutional provisions.

"This should be done within 120 days. If they fail to, the Act shall remain suspended," the judges ruled.

A logo of the Social Health Authority. /FILE

In layman's terms, the verdict declared all laws enacted by President William Ruto’s administration to overhaul the health care system as "null and void."

“A declaration is hereby issued that the entire Social Health Insurance Fund Act 2023, the entire Digital Health Act 2023, and the Primary Health Act 2023 are all unconstitutional and therefore legally null and void," the judges further ruled.

It was the court's finding that the programme had burdened a few salaried individuals, thus creating a disparity in the contribution.

The decision effectively puts a stop to the implementation of SHIF, a project designed to replace the embattled National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

The Social Health Insurance Act, No. 16 of 2023 (SHIFA), which received presidential assent on October 19, 2023, and became effective on November 22, 2023, aimed to establish the Social Health Authority.

This body would manage social health insurance, fulfilling Article 43(1)(a) of the Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to health care services.

This ruling comes just 81 days before the scheduled rollout of SHIF, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the transition. Kenyans had expressed concerns that the July 1 deadline was too soon, indicating a lack of preparedness for the new health scheme, a matter that saw the rollout pushed to October 1.

This is notably the second time the SHIF has encountered turbulence at the High Court. A ruling on November 27, 2023, suspended the Act which sought to introduce the following bills: The SHIF, Primary Health Care Act, and the Digital and Digital Health Act. The suspension was lifted on January 19, 2024.

SHIF carried the most significance since this is the one that abolished the NHIF officially for the first time since 1966.

By revoking NHIF and replacing it, President Ruto seeks to attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as set out within his plan for a healthier nation espoused under the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

This latest ruling now represents a significant setback for President Ruto’s administration, which had touted SHIF as a critical component of its healthcare strategy.

President William Ruto signs four Universal Health Coverage Bills into law on October 19, 2023. /PCS

Ruto Fires All Cabinet Secretaries, Except One

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 13:30:46 +0300

President William Ruto has announced that he has dissolved his entire Cabinet, thus firing all Cabinet Secretaries.

However, he has retained just one, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, who doubles up as the Foreign Affairs CS. Also retained is Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Ruto, who addressed the nation at State House on Thursday, July 11, revealed that the drastic move, the first-ever in the 2010 Constitution, came following pressure from Kenyans, moreso during the nationwide demonstrations.

President William Ruto and his Cabinet posing for a photo after a meeting on July 4, 2024. /PCS

The Head of State also cited a holistic appraisal of his Cabinet as the reason for this radical decision.

"Upon reflection, listening keenly to what the people of Kenya have said and after a holistic appraisal of the performance of my Cabinet and its achievements and challenges, I have, in line with the powers given to me by Article 152(1) and 152(5)(b) of the Constitution and Section 12 of the Office of the Attorney-General Act, decided to dismiss with immediate effect all the Cabinet Secretaries and the Attorney-General from the Cabinet of the Republic of Kenya except the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs," he announced.

"I will immediately engage in extensive consultations across different sectors and political formations, with the aim of setting up a broad-based government that will assist me in accelerating and expediting the necessary, urgent and irreversible, implementation of radical programmes to deal with the burden of debt, raising domestic resources, expanding job opportunities, eliminate wastage and unnecessary duplication of a multiplicity of government agencies and slay the dragon of corruption consequently making the government lean, inexpensive, effective and efficient."

Furthermore, Ruto announced that operations of the government will continue uninterrupted under the guidance of Principal Secretaries and other relevant officials.

It is worth noting however that President Ruto had on Friday, July 5 denounced calls by a section of Kenyans to conduct a complete overhaul of his Cabinet and send home CSs labelled incompetent in their roles.

Speaking during the X Space Conversation hosted jointly with influencer Osama Otero dubbed #EngageThePresident, Ruto clarified that he would explore other alternatives to address matters raised by Kenyans regarding some Cabinet Secretaries.

“I will not dissolve Cabinet because I am in the process of looking at things differently,” President Ruto clarified.

However, the President warned cabinet secretaries against engaging in corrupt activities, stating that he was ready to fire any CS dragged to court over graft allegations.

“Several staff of the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) are in court to answer for their involvement in the fertilizer scandal. The day any CS is taken to court, I will fire them,” Ruto stated.

"If there are verified allegations against a minister or any state official and they are taken to court, I will fire them. I will not wait for the court process."

Ruto's clarification came amidst growing calls from members of the public to dismiss some of the Cabinet Secretaries on account of alleged non-performance.

One of the demands raised by protesters during the recent anti-government protests was a call for the Head of State to crack the whip on some of the government officials.

President William Ruto during a Cabinet meeting which was attended by his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua and cabinet secretaries at State House, Nairobi on June 11, 2024. /PCS

High Court Judge David Majanja Dies

Marvin Chege — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 19:41:15 +0300

High Court judge and commissioner of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) Justice David Majanja is dead.

Majanja died on Wednesday evening, July 10, at a Nairobi Hospital. Initial reports indicated that he had checked in at the hospital for surgery.

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo eulogised the late judge, terming his demise as a sad day for the country's legal fraternity.

"It is with deep remorse that I have learnt of the passing on of High Court Judge and JSC Commissioner, Justice David Majanja. It is a profoundly sad day for Kenya and the legal fraternity as we have lost one of the fine minds on our bench.

"His studious contributions to our country's Jurisprudence and commitment to upholding standards of excellence in Judicial service formed a remarkable legacy for which he will be fondly remembered and greatly missed," she wrote on her X account.

The late High Court judge, David Majanja. /FILE

"On behalf of the Law Society of Kenya and myself, I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the Kenya Judiciary fraternity, may the good judge rest in peace."

Chief Justice Martha Koome also penned her message of condolence, stating on X that "On behalf of the Judiciary and the Judicial Service Commission, it is with profound sadness that I announce the sudden passing of Hon. Justice David Amilcar Shikomera Majanja, Judge of the High Court of Kenya and Commissioner of the Judicial Service Commission.

"We are all heartbroken. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Judiciary and JSC fraternity during this time of deep sorrow and sadness."

According to CJ Koome, Justice Majanja will be remembered as a towering figure in the development of the country's transformative post-2010 jurisprudence and a crucial pillar in the institution-building of the JSC and the Judiciary."

"We stand in solidarity with the family, friends, and the entire Judiciary and JSC community during this very difficult period of mourning," she added.

CJ Koome further announced that the Judiciary and the JSC family called for sensitivity and compassion as the judicial fraternity comes to terms with this sudden loss and "share in grief with one another and with the people of Kenya."

Further, more information will be shared in due course.

CJ Martha Koome during Supreme Court proceedings on the 2022 presidential election petition. /ZAKHEEM RAJAN

Govt Starts Reducing Number Of Advisors In Letter To All CSs

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 13:55:12 +0300

Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has directed that all Cabinet Secretaries (CS) select at least one advisor to be retained, thus paving the way for the rest to be fired.

In the letter dated July 8, 2024, Koskei stated that this was in reference to President William Ruto's directive on the same as announced on Friday, July 5, among a raft of austerity measures and other State interventions geared towards enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the Government.

"The Address outlined policy interventions aimed at ensuring that the sacrifices made by taxpayers are matched by fiscal discipline in the public service. The measures announced also seek to restore faith in public institutions by enhancing accountability, transparency, and the strengthening of good governance within them.

"In that regard, it is notified that His Excellency the President directed THAT the number of advisors in government be reduced by 50% with immediate effect," the letter read in part.

President William Ruto speaking during a Kenya Kwanza Parliamentary Group meeting at State House, Nairobi on June 18, 2024. /PCS

Following the directive, the number of advisors assigned to each Cabinet Secretary has been revised from two to one.

Additionally, the number of personal staff attached to the CSs will remain as set out in the Public Service Commission (PSC) guidelines being two (2) staffers.

"Consequently, you are requested to assess the requirements of your office and indicate the advisor you would wish to retain to support you in the discharge of your portfolio mandate. Any advisors beyond the set threshold will be immediately phased out from the Public Service," Koskei added.

The CSs were consequently directed to submit to the PSC) the full name of the advisor to be retained, with a copy to Koskei's office, by the close of business on Thursday, July 11, 2024.

On July 5, President Ruto announced a 50 percent reduction in the number of advisors within the public service, days following the retraction of Finance Bill 2024 which had aimed to raise over Ksh300 billion to finance the 2024/25 financial year budget.

During a roundtable interview with journalists at State House on Sunday, July 30, he revealed that he was exploring trimming the advisory board, adding that his administration was thinking about who to let go in an effort to regain public trust in the government.

"It is something to think about. It is something that will exercise my mind. I have heard you and it is something I will think about going into the future. That's a possibility," he explained.

President William Ruto (R), Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wah and economist David Ndii at a retreat. /NAIROBI NEWS

Ruto's Daughter Appointed To Top Diplomatic Job

Marvin Chege — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 19:11:15 +0300

President William Ruto's daughter, June Ruto, has been appointed as the Director of Foreign Service and participant at the National Defence College.

A credible source confirmed to Viral Tea that the appointment was made on Wednesday, July 3 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The National Defence College, led by Lt. General Juma Shee Mwinyikai, is a military institution with a mission to prepare selected senior military officers and civil servants from Kenya and allied countries for higher responsibilities in security and public policy management.

The College's curriculum is implemented by military and foreign affairs ministry members, who identify resource personnel, moderate discussions, and direct presentations.

Entrance to Ministry of Foreign Affairs office. /MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

They also provide tutorials and research guidance to participants throughout the course period.

Viral Tea has also learnt that Simon Wanyonyi was named as Deputy Commandant-Civil at the National Defence College.

As a participant at the National Defence College, June will undergo a specialised training program geared towards preparing senior military, foreign affairs officials, and equivalent civil servants for elevated responsibilities in foreign policy management.

This comprehensive year-long program includes intensive coursework, discussions, and exercises aimed at sharpening strategic thinking and leadership acumen and deepening understanding of national and international security matters.

The opportunity is usually reserved for top-tier individuals within the service and as highly esteemed as it is, it aims to groom leaders for pivotal roles in defence and foreign affairs sectors.

Before her latest appointment, June was domiciled at the Protocol Department at State House, Nairobi. Her previous stints also include the Chargée d’Affaires in Poland, a matter which first emerged in 2019 when then-Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Monica Juma (now Ruto's National Security Advisor) posted photos of her being received in Poland.

This role was controversial because Kenya had no diplomatic presence or embassy in Warsaw. Not only that, it saw Ruto (then Deputy President) come under fire for being hypocritical after criticising leaders who appointed their family members to top government positions.

June's appointment came days after President Ruto, during a press interview at State House, alleged that his children were also affected by the unemployment crisis in the country.

"Youth unemployment is something we must resolve. You Kenyans out of school out of college including my own children they speak to me, and they have no opportunities to work or to monetise their talents," he stated.

Other than June, Ruto's children include; Nick Ruto, Charlene Chelagat Ruto, Stephanie Jepchumba Ruto, George Ruto and Nadia Cherono Ruto. They have ventured into different fields including law, communication, and international relations.

President William Ruto with his wife Rachel and children. /PCS

CS Moses Kuria Refuses To Increase PSs, CSs Salaries, Issues Directive To SRC

Marvin Chege — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 12:39:54 +0300

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has written to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) declaring that he will not implement its Gazette Notice on salary increments for public servants.

The CS on Wednesday, July 3 in the letter seen by Viral Tea, noted that while he recognized that SRC is within its Constitutional mandate to set and regularly review the remuneration and benefits of all State Officers, he made reference to the Resolutions of the Third National Wage Bill Conference held on April 15-17, 2024 to reduce the Wage bill to 35 per cent of revenue as provided in the Public Finance Management Act 2012 and the prevailing austerity measures announced by President William Ruto occasioned by the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024.

"I reiterate my observations during the Conference that it is not sustainable to have 900,000 public servants from both levels of Government consume Ksh1.1 trillion annually, which is equivalent to 47 percent of national revenues, leaving the rest of 54 million Kenyans with 53 percent, with debt servicing and development to cater for, among other expenditure. I believed then, just as now, that this is more of a moral and ethical issue than an economic issue," he wrote in part.

SRC chairperson Lyn Mengich. /FILE

Kuria cited the PFM Act, 2012 which provides that Kenya's public Wage bill should not exceed 35 percent of the national budget, adding that the current trajectory indicates a continual rise in expenditure on salaries, allowances, and benefits for public servants, placing immense strain on our national finances.

"This is not a challenge we can afford to ignore. Reducing the public wage bill requires a multifaceted approach, one that balances fiscal prudence with a commitment to fair compensation for our public servants.

"As the Cabinet Secretary responsible for Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management therefore, I decline to implement the gazette notice on increased salaries as applies to the Executive arm of National Government and urge the Commission to degazette the implementation of the new salary structure, in its entirety, across all levels of Government," he added.

Consequently, he urged SRC and other institutions in the public sector on the need to make sacrifices that the government expect other Kenyans to make.

Meanwhile, President William Ruto has directed the National Treasury to review the Gazette Notice dated August 9, 2023, from the SRC regarding the remuneration & benefits for State officers in the Executive of the National Government, the Senate and the National Assembly, in light of the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024 and the fiscal constraints expected this financial year.

"The President has emphasised that this is a time, more than ever before, for the Executive & all arms of government to live within their means," State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed stated on X.

As detailed in the Gazette Notice published by SRC in August 2023, the increments were reported to have taken effect on July 1. Per the new rates, speakers of both houses in Parliament were to get an increase from Ksh1,185,327 to Ksh1,208,362.

Furthermore, their deputies would get a pay rise from Ksh948,261 to Ksh966,690 while Majority Leaders would see a Ksh15,251 increase. The leaders who include Kimani Ichung'wah, Opiyo Wandayi, Senator Aaron Cheruiyot and Stewart Madzayo were set to earn Ksh800,019 from Ksh784,768.

New salaries for MPs and Senators were to be Ksh739,600 from the past Ksh725,502.

In the executive, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries and the Attorney General got a salary raise of Ksh33,000, with the officers taking home Ksh990,000 from Ksh957,000 last month.

However, only President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua were revealed to have their salaries retained. Ruto will continue earning Ksh1,443,750 as Gachagua continues to earn Ksh1,227,188.

President William Ruto during a Cabinet meeting which was attended by his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua and cabinet secretaries at State House, Nairobi on June 11, 2024. /PCS

Deployment Of KDF In Anti-Finance Bill Protests Is Allowed- Court Rules

Marvin Chege — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 17:16:50 +0300

The High Court has allowed the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers to provide assistance to the police in quelling unrest as a result of the anti-Finance Bill protests.

However, in its ruling on Thursday evening, June 27, the High Court gave the government two days to state the scope, duration and areas of military intervention.

Speaking to Viral Tea, a source who has been following the matter detailed that the court declined to declare the deployment unconstitutional, but the government must share details on where the KDF will be deployed, what they will be expected to do and the duration of that deployment.

This is so that the members of the public do not feel deprived of their rights.

KDF officers along Mombassa Road on June 27, 2024. /CITIZEN TV

The KDF was deployed in the streets of Nairobi and was seen protecting the State Houses of Nakuru and Kisumu. In Nairobi, the heavily armed soldiers with armoured cars and tankers made routine patrols and came face-to-face with protestors along Moi Avenue.

In one such video, the officers were seen aboard a vehicle snaking through Tom Mboya Avenue flanked by hundreds of protesters who cheered their presence.

KDF soldiers have been deployed in Nairobi as the government moves to shore up security, acting on planned demonstrations after a section of Kenyans threatened to march to State House to protest despite President William Ruto withdrawing the Finance Bill, 2024.

This move was in response to Members of Parliament approving the deployment of KDF officers to support the police during the anti-Finance Bill protests.

However, this was challenged in court by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) which filed a petition challenging the legality of the deployment of KDF officers during protests and urged the court to suspend the move.

Judiciary's National Blooper

Meanwhile, the Judiciary suffered a moment of national embarrassment during the highly-anticipated ruling. As of 6.45 pm, the High Court, which had earlier in the day boasted about the 1,000 number of participants in the virtual court session, encountered numerous technical difficulties. These issues forced the court to halt the broadcast and restart it.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi, who was delivering the ruling, experienced a sudden microphone failure. In the televised session, the Judge's visible frustration was clear as he tried to resume the broadcast.

The Zoom call, which had approximately 800 participants, saw attendees vocally expressing their frustration over the muted microphone.

The hitches came as the ruling that was first expected to be released at 3 pm was moved to 5 pm and eventually, the ruling started being released at about 6:30 pm.

This incident comes just a few months after the Judiciary transitioned to digital operations. In March, Chief Justice Martha Koome oversaw the launch of the e-filing system across all courts.

The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. /FILE

This event also introduced the Data Tracking Dashboard and the Cause List Portal, marking significant advancements in the court's digital infrastructure. The electronic system, initially launched by former Chief Justice David Maraga, has been pivotal in streamlining court processes.

Chief Justice Koome's announcement in March 2023 detailed plans to roll out electronic case filing to all court stations nationwide. This followed a successful implementation in Nairobi, setting a precedent for the rest of the country.

Noordin Haji Must Resign As Director-General- DP Gachagua Calls Out NIS

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 16:41:48 +0300

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has boldly demanded that National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji should resign over what he termed as laxity in disseminating intelligence to President William Ruto.

Speaking during a live press conference in Mombasa, Gachagua on Thursday, June 26 claimed that the country's intelligence system was faulty, blaming the NIS for failing to gather enough intelligence that could have been used to avert the fatal demonstrations on Tuesday.

Gachagua pinned the blame on Haji, the former Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for failing to gather accurate intelligence which led to Ruto receiving unactionable information.

Former DPP Noordin Haji. /THE STAR

"Noordin Haji must take responsibility for the deaths, mayhem, failing President Ruto and Kenya for not doing his job. He must do the honourable thing, not just taking responsibility but resign," Gachagua stated.

"We have a dysfunctional NIS that has exposed the government and the people of Kenya. Had the NIS briefed the president two months ago about how the people of Kenya feel about the Finance Bill 2024, so many Kenyans would not have died. There would have been no mayhem, but they slept on the job."

Gachagua further claimed that the brewing rage that led to Kenyans storming Parliament was the most evident sign of failure since such actions had never been witnessed before in Kenya's history.

He also claimed that a day before his press conference, Noordin Haji was trying to put up a team together to drive propaganda and attribute the chaos to a section of targeted leaders including him and former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

"Yesterday, Noordin Haji was trying to put up a team together and propaganda and attribute the chaos to leaders including myself and former President Uhuru Kenyatta. It is very clear and the President has admitted that the protests were caused by the anger of Kenyans on the Finance Bill," Gachagua added.

He also blamed the NIS for what he termed as incompetence in the briefing of security officers leading to the breach in Parliament, an event never seen before in the country's history.

"Senior officers have told me in confidence they did not have an advance intelligence brief so that they prepare in advance," stated Gachagua.

Gachagua's sentiments come hours after President William Ruto announced that he had conceded and would not sign the Finance Bill 2024.

The Head of State, while speaking during a press briefing at State House on Wednesday, June 26, announced that he has returned the bill to Parliament for further amendments.

Ruto had announced that his administration had heard the cry of the citizens who were demanding that he drop the bill in its entirety and reduce the cost of living.

President William Ruto speaking while presiding over the inauguration of the Pending Bills Verification Committee on November 7, 2023. /PCS

Ruto Refuses To Sign Finance Bill 2024

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 14:47:47 +0300

President William Ruto has announced that he has conceded and will not sign the Finance Bill 2024.

The Head of State, while speaking during a press briefing at State House on Wednesday, June 26, announced that he has returned the bill to Parliament for further amendments. He has also shared some amendments to be incorporated in the bill.

"Having reflected on the conversation surrounding the bill and listening to the people of Kenyan who have said they want nothing to do with the bill. I concede and therefore I will not sign the bill. It will be subsequently withdrawn and that becomes our position," he stated.

President William Ruto signs into law the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, 2024 on April 24, 2024. /PCS

Ruto had announced that his administration had heard the cry of the citizens who were demanding that he drop the bill in its entirety and reduce the cost of living.

He reiterated his push to engage the young people of Kenya, the Gen Z, who have been leading the protests against the Finance Bill 2024 for more than a week now.

"Because we have gotten rid of the Finance Bill 2024, we must have a conversation on how to manage the affairs of the country and the debt situation together.

"I will propose an engagement with the young people and listen to our sons and daughters," he added.

The Head of State explained that the bill was aimed at increasing the country's revenue adding that Kenya was burdened by debt.

He added that the revenue raised through the bill would be used to subsidize fertiliser, pay Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) teachers, finance the last mile connectivity project, operationalise the Universal Health Coverage plan, and pay coffee and sugar cane farmers among other government projects.

What Happens Next?

President Ruto directed the reduction in expenditure allocations for several sectors within the government, with the Executive arm not spared. Among the cuts under the executive arm of the government include allocations meant for travel, hospitality, purchase of motor vehicles and renovations.

"In this regard, I direct immediate further austerity measures to reduce expenditure, starting with the Executive Office of the President," Ruto stated.

Protesters in Nairobi against the Finance Bill 2024. /THE STAR

Ruto also directed the Judiciary, the county governments and the Legislature to work handily with the National Treasury to facilitate budget cuts.

"County Governments working with the National Treasury also undertake budget cuts and austerity to ensure that we do what I have always advocated for, that we live within our means," the Head of State announced.

MPs Allow Deployment Of KDF To Curb Anti-Finance Bill Protests

Marvin Chege — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 10:48:24 +0300

The Members of Kenya's National Assembly have approved the Defence Council's request to deploy the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to help tame the anti-Finance Bill protests ongoing across the country.

This follows a Gazette Notice by Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale allowing military deployment to support the National Police Service (NPS) in restoring normalcy in the country.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah had earlier tabled a motion to legally ratify the government's decision to deploy military troops on Kenyan soil.

Kenya Defence Forces troops during a past training exercise. /KENYA DEFENCE FORCES

"THAT, pursuant to Article 241(3)(c) of the Constitution and sections 31(1)(b), 31(1)(c) and 32 of the Kenya Defence Forces Act, Cap. 199, this House accedes to the request of the Defence Council dated 26th June 2024 and, in the interest of national security, approves the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in support of the National Police Service in various parts of the Republic of Kenya affected by ongoing violent protests that have caused destruction to critical infrastructure until normalcy is restored," read the motion in part.

Duale in the notice, explained that the decision to use the KDF was in light of the demonstrations that escalated and caused significant damage to critical government infrastructure.

“Under Article 241 (3) (b) of the Constitution of Kenya as read with sections 31 (1) (a), 31 (1) (c), 33 (1), 34 (1) and 34 (2) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act, (Cap. 199), the Kenya Defence Forces is deployed on the 25th June, 2024 in support of the National Police Service,” read part of the gazette notice.

“This is in response to the security emergency caused by the ongoing violent protests in various parts of the republic of Kenya resulting in destruction and breaching of critical infrastructure.”

That announcement was however not taken kindly by members of the public who accused the state of illegally deploying the military to handle unarmed protesters leading to the alleged Githurai 45 massacre.

Expressing their opinions, Kenyans claimed that KDF officers should only be deployed under two scenarios, when there is a situation of emergency or disaster, or to restore peace in any part of Kenya affected by unrest or instability.

In both instances, however, the National Assembly should be notified and give a stamp of approval.

What followed was President William Ruto's short address to the nation where he issued a stern warning to those allegedly behind the chaos, noting their acts were treasonous.

He said he would continue to lead a government fully committed to protecting Kenya's sovereignty and protecting lives.

"The country shall treat every threat to the state as an existential danger to Kenya's security. The government will provide a swift, full and effective response to today's treasonous event," he said. His speech drew public criticism as well.

A police officer stands near a burning vehicle at the Parliament buildings during a demonstration against Kenya's proposed Finance Bill 2024/2025 in Nairobi, on June 25, 2024. /REUTERS

Police Have Abducted Attorney General Justin Muturi's Son- Azimio MP [VIDEO]

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 22:42:27 +0300

Embakasi West Member of Parliament (MP) and National Assembly Deputy Minority Whip, Mark Mwenje, has demanded the immediate release of Leslie Muturi, the son of Attorney General Justin Muturi.

Viral Tea has learnt that Leslie was allegedly abducted by police officers alongside those from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) while he was alongside the Azimio la Umoja lawmaker.

Speaking in a video shared online, Mwenje, who voted against the Finance Bill, decried that Leslie was taken by the police on the road within the Lavington and Kilimani areas while Mwenje was following him.

"My friend Leslie Muturi, son to Justin Muturi AG has just been hijacked by the police here on the road. I was the one following him," Mwenje revealed, showing the car he was riding in as well as the car Mwenje was following him. The duo were in the company of their friends.

Here is the video:

BREAKING: Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje demands the immediate release of Leslie Muturi, the son of Attorney General Justin Muturi

Leslie was allegedly abducted by DCI and police officers while he was in the company of Leslie.#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/oR4dRWxNch
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) June 22, 2024

The lawmaker added that he had notified members of the public regarding the incident, appealing for help to track down the police officers who had abducted him, in the hopes of finding Leslie.

"The police who have taken him, we are here and we are going to find you guys. Release him right now," Mwenje demanded.

"We have informed everybody in this Nairobi. Gen Z, help us find Leslie Muturi...today we won't sleep, and the cops are telling us they don't know where he is."

Mwenje furthermore disclosed the description of the officers responsible, which he said he captured alongside the vehicle they were riding in and its number plate when the incident occurred.

"The guys who have taken him are cops and I'm the one who has seen it. It is a white hardtop Land Cruiser the old one. We saw you guys, dressed in combat...we know you guys, we have the plates. Release Leslie Muturi right now," he reiterated.

Justin Muturi has yet to issue a statement on the alleged abduction, which comes moments after the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) confirmed the release of content creator Billy Simani, also known as “Crazy Nairobian”.

Billy was reportedly abducted by five police officers at his home in Mwihoko, a matter that drew social media and nationwide uproar, with many Kenyans demanding to know his whereabouts.

It is worth noting that Viral Tea had its attention drawn to several posts, particularly on X of notable individuals being sought after by police following the protests on Thursday against the punitive tax proposals on the Finance Bill.

Influential people took to social media platforms declaring fear for their safety following the protests, some telling us that they were followed by plainclothes police officers.

Protestors react after police use teargas to disperse them during a demonstration against the proposed Finance Bill 2024/2025 in Nairobi. /REUTERS

Billy 'Crazy Nairobian' Released, LSK Confirms [VIDEO]

Marvin Chege — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 21:05:20 +0300

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has confirmed that the group had managed to secure the release of content creator Billy Simani, also known as “Crazy Nairobian”.

Speaking in a video released on Saturday, June 22, Odhiambo, who stood alongside Billy, opened up on the moments leading up to Billy's release, from the moment they were notified of Billy's reported abduction by five police officers following a wave of anti-Finance bill protests sweeping across Kenya.

"Hello everyone, I want to confirm that we have been able to rescue Billy and he is safe and sound...and I hope you can confirm that this is the Billy, I know we got a notification earlier and so as LSK we had thought that Billy had been free," Odhiambo narrated.

Billy Simani alias Crazy Nairobian speaking after the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) secured his release#FreeBilly #ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/pbhhww6PJ0
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) June 22, 2024

"But when we sent someone to the station, we found that Billy was not there and he had not been booked. So the moment we got a tipoff, we ran immediately to try and find Billy."

Billy on his part, with few words to say, thanked Kenyans who rallied on social media to push for Kenyan authorities to set him free.

"I'm safe, thanks everyone, thanks to LSK for coming to my rescue...I am fine guys," he said.

As Odhiambo captioned the video "Free at last", on X, it garnered more than 590,000 views, 13,000 reposts and 18,000 likes. Billy's reported abduction by the police officers at his home in Mwihoko drew social media and nationwide uproar, with many demanding to know his whereabouts.

For the whole of Saturday, an X space titled “Good Morning Kenya: Where is Crazy Nairobian,” began as a call for the release of Billy and morphed into the ongoing conversation on the Finance Bill for the better part of the day.

By 12:30 p.m., the space had attracted over 50,000 listeners, including accounts linked to politicians and the government spokesperson’s office. At some point, even the account of President William Ruto made a short appearance as the attendance neared 60,000.

Participants questioned the whereabouts of Billy, who was arrested on Friday from his house. They also questioned why protestors are being threatened for exercising their right to picket and demonstrate.

“Last night we were told Billy is at Muthaiga Police Station, but he is not here. Where is Billy?” asked Osama Otero, one of the space’s hosts.

Digital strategist Dennis Itumbi responded, saying Simani was arrested for allegedly sending threatening messages. “I have checked with the police why Crazy Nairobian, Billy, is under arrest. I understand he sent threatening messages. I will reach out to the complainant to see if they can withdraw,” he wrote on X.

However, Itumbi later clarified that the released individual was not Simani but another content creator, Wafula Bwire, who had allegedly been detained for threatening a senior government official.

“CLARIFICATION: THE content creator arrested for threatening a senior public servant is WAFULA BWIRE – he was FREED this evening after the complaint was withdrawn. His relatives received him,” Itumbi explained, though his later statement sparked outrage among Kenyans on X

Itumbi also mentioned the release of Stephen Kariuki, held in Nakuru on a similar charge, prompting questions about Simani’s location. He noted efforts to verify Simani’s status with the police.

Earlier, 25 human rights associations of content creators, lawyers, medical officers and human rights defenders across the country called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to clarify the whereabouts of Billy.

The agencies which include the Bloggers Association of Kenya, The Law Society, the Kenya Medical Association, the Defenders Coalition, the Independent Medical Legal Union and Amnesty International Kenya rallied behind Simani.

"We also call for the immediate release of any other content creators currently under arrest.

"The Government of Kenya to issue a public undertaking that no content creators or any Kenyan for that matter will be arrested for expressing their opinion online or for supporting the current protests," the coalition stated in a press release on Saturday, June 22.

A picketer being arrested by police officers on June 20, 2024. /HOLYCK.X

Big Win To Finance Bill 2024 As It Moves To Next Stage, Despite Protests

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:44:46 +0300

Members of Kenya's National Assembly have voted to proceed forward with the controversial Finance Bill 2024 despite uproar from members of the public.

A total of 204 MPs voted in favour of progressing the Bill and 115 voted against it, with zero abstentions.

The Bill is now set for the Committee of the Whole House stage (the Third Reading) set for Tuesday, June 25, where the whole House will sit in the form of a Committee to consider the Bill clause by clause.

At the Committee of the whole House stage, any proposed amendments are to be Bill and a vote is taken on each.

The decision follows a contentious vote after the Bill's Second Reading, signalling lawmakers' intent to move forward amidst growing opposition from citizens demanding its rejection.

Molo MP Kuria Kimani speaking during a Kenya Kwanza Parliamentary Group meeting at State House, Nairobi on June 18, 2024. /PCS

The legislative manoeuvre, however, does not confer immediate legal status upon the bill. The bill still has two more stages before before becoming law.

The Finance Bill now enters a critical phase where all MPs will have the opportunity to shape its final form through further deliberations and amendments.

A subsequent vote, expected next week, will determine whether the Bill progresses to adoption, thereby enacting it into law effective July 1.

Failure to pass the Finance Bill would precipitate a fiscal crisis. The outcome holds significant implications for Kenya's national budget and economic policy moving forward.

Led by Molo MP Kuria Kimani, the National Assembly Finance Committee had previously proposed some changes aimed at reducing the punitive measures contained in the bill.

Top of the list to be struck off is the plan to impose a 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on bread, financial services and foreign exchange transactions.

"We are all in agreement that there are two things we must do. One of them is to protect Kenyans from the increased cost of living and therefore the proposed 16 percent VAT on bread has been dropped," Kuria stated.

"To support again on reducing the cost of living, we're doing something about vegetable oil so that we do not make it expensive for Kenyans."

On the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and Housing Levy statutory deductions, the MP noted that the deductions would be allowable to Pay As You Earn (PAYE), thus saving salaried Kenyans from paying an additional PAYE on them.

"Levies on the Housing Fund and Social Health Insurance will become income tax deductible. This means the levies will not attract income tax, putting much more money in the pockets of employees," he remarked.

Regarding the Eco Levy, Kuria clarified that it would only apply to imported finished products, thus sparing those manufactured within Kenya. He further specified that diapers and sanitary towels produced domestically would not be subject to this levy.

"Consequently, locally manufactured products, including sanitary towels, diapers, phones, computers, tyres and motorcycles, will not attract the Eco Levy," he stated.

Protesters in Nairobi against the Finance Bill 2024. /THE STAR

Govt Removes VAT On Bread & 9 Others After Uproar From Kenyans

Marvin Chege — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 10:13:54 +0300

The Kenya Kwanza Parliamentary Group has confirmed the removal of several punitive tax proposals in the Finance Bill 2024, during a press briefing held on Tuesday, June 18 at State House.

Speaking after the Group’s session, Finance Committee Chair Kimani Kuria announced that the government was able to respond to the feedback of Kenyans through the reduction of taxes.

Top of the list to be struck off is the plan to impose a 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on bread, financial services and foreign exchange transactions.

Image of a loaf of bread. /BON APPETIT

"We are all in agreement that there are two things we must do. One of them is to protect Kenyans from increased cost of living and therefore the proposed 16 percent VAT on bread has been dropped," Kuria stated.

"To support again on reducing the cost of living, we're doing something about vegetable oil so that we do not make it expensive for Kenyans."

"Consequently, locally manufactured products, including sanitary towels, diapers, phones, computers, tyres and motorcycles, will not attract the Eco Levy," he stated.

Other amendments include:

16% VAT on bread removed
Excise duty on vegetable oil removed
VAT on transportation of sugar removed
2.5 per cent Motor Vehicle Tax removed
Eco Levy on locally manufactured products removed
eTims receded from farmers and small businesses with a turnover of below Ksh.1 million
Excise duty imposed on imported table eggs, onions and potatoes to protect local farmers
No increase in mobile money transfer
VAT on financial services and foreign exchange transactions has also been removed
The threshold for VAT registration has been increased from Ksh5 million to Ksh8 million. This therefore means that many small businesses will no longer need to register for VAT

According to the MP, pension contributions exemption will increase from Ksh20,000 per month to Ksh30,000.

Kuria noted that President William Ruto informed the Kenya Kwanza PG that the Executive and Legislature will continue making the right decisions no matter how difficult they are.

"The President also commended national institutions for working effectively in a democratic Kenya. The National Assembly has changed the Finance Bill that was prepared by the Executive. This is as it should be," Kuria concluded.

Parliament will receive a report later today that includes the amendments.

Molo MP Kuria Kimani speaking during a Kenya Kwanza Parliamentary Group meeting at State House, Nairobi on June 18, 2024. /PCS

EPRA Decreases Fuel Prices For June-July: Diesel Drops By Ksh6

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 09:17:34 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has reduced fuel prices for the period between Saturday, June 15 and Sunday, July 14.

In a statement, EPRA announced that the prices of Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene all went down by Ksh3, Ksh6.08 and Ksh5.71, all per litre, respectively.

"The prices are inclusive of the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020," stated EPRA in part.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on June 14, 2024. /VIRAL TEA KE

The new prices now read as follows: Nairobi motorists will pay Ksh189.84 for Super Petrol, Ksh173.10 for Diesel and Ksh163.05 for Kerosene. The prices take effect at midnight.

EPRA attributed the decrease to the decrease in the landing cost of the three fuel products as well as the stabilisation of the shilling against the dollar.

"The average landed cost of imported Super Petrol decreased by 1.95 per cent from US$765.87 per cubic metre in April 2024 to US$750.95 per cubic metre in May 2024," EPRA explained.

"Diesel decreased by 3.92 per cent from US$719.21 per cubic metre to US$690.99 per cubic metre while Kerosene decreased by 6.84 per cent from US$728.97 per cubic metre to US$679.14 per cubic metre."

Currently, the country imports all its petroleum product requirements in refined form and the products are traded in international markets based on a pricing benchmark.

"The purpose of the Petroleum Pricing Regulations is to cap the retail prices of petroleum products which are already in the country so that importation and other prudently incurred costs are recovered while ensuring reasonable prices to consumers," EPRA stated.

"EPRA wishes to assure the public of its continued commitment to the observance of fair competition and protection of the interests of both consumers and investors in the energy and petroleum sectors."

Breakdown by Town/City

In Mombasa, the price for Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene was set at Ksh186.66, Ksh169.13 and Ksh160 for the month.

Motorists in Kisumu will be purchasing Super Petrol at Ksh189.66 and Diesel at Ksh173.31 per litre while a litre of Kerosene will be sold at Ksh163.34 for the next 30 days.

In other notable places such as Nakuru and Eldoret, the price of Super Petrol was capped at Ksh188.90 and Ksh189.67 respectively, while Diesel prices were set at Ksh172.54 (Nakuru) and Ksh173.31 (Eldoret).

Photo of a petrol station. /FILE

Cop Killed After Shooting Magistrate At Makadara Law Courts

Marvin Chege — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:59:17 +0300

A police officer is reported to have been killed after shooting a female Principal Magistrate at the Makadara Law Courts in Nairobi on Thursday, June 13.

According to reports, the Magistrate, Monica Kivuti, who has since been rushed to hospital was shot by a police officer during an active court session.

She was rushed to hospital for emergency medical attention. The officer who shot the Principal Magistrate was shot dead.

The altercation ground proceedings at the law courts on Thursday to a halt. It was reported that the senior police officer opened fire while the Principal Magistrate was leading the court session.

An undated photo of the Makadara Law Courts. /MAKADARA LAW COURTS

In retaliation, other security personnel in the courtroom took action and shot the police officer.

Detectives were deployed to the scene to investigate the matter, whose motive was yet to be immediately established. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) was yet to issue a statement, neither was the Judiciary.

However, it was believed that the officer shot at the magistrate after she sentenced his wife to life imprisonment.

This alarming event has left the Makadara Law Courts community in shock, highlighting the critical importance of security measures in maintaining the sanctity and safety of judicial proceedings.

According to police reports, the senior officer involved in the shooting is a police commander in Kisumu who had travelled to Nairobi to address a case involving his wife.

The court session was being held in a tent outside the main court buildings.

After the magistrate ruled on the case, the officer went behind the tent and shot her, as stated by Nairobi police chief Adamson Bungei.

In the chaos, another member of the public was also injured. The area was cordoned off as investigations commenced with officers from the Anti-Terror Police Unit (ATPU) guarding the premises.

A court gavel. /FILE

Kenyan Banker Cheruiyot Kirui Found Dead At Mt Everest

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 22 May 2024 20:55:24 +0300

Kenyan banker Cheruiyot Kirui, who attempted to scale Mount Everest without using supplementary oxygen has been found dead, a few metres below the summit point.

This was announced on Thursday, May 23 by Everest Today on X, sharing the unfortunate news of his passing.

"He was on a daring mission to reach the summit without supplementary oxygen and was accompanied by a Nepali climber Nawang Sherpa, whose fate is still unknown (was missing with him).

"His indomitable will and passion for mountaineering will forever be an inspiration. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this time of sorrow. Rest in peace, Cheruiyot," the statement read.

A Kenyan mountain climber and his guide who attempted to scale Mount Everest without using supplementary oxygen has gone missing near the summit.

The Himalayan Times reported on Wednesday, May 22 that the climber, Cheruiyot Kirui, and his Sherpa guide went out of contact from above 8,000m in the morning hours.

According to Mingma Sherpa, Chairman of Seven Summit Treks (SST), Kirui who attempted to scale Everest without using supplemental oxygen remained out of contact from the Bishop Rock, a few metres below the summit point.

"Kirui, a banker working with a local bank, and his Sherpa guide Nawang were last contacted at the Bishop Rock," Sherpa was quoted as saying.

Kenyan banker Cheruiyot Kirui posing in front of his gear before climbing Mt Everest. /CHERUIYOT KIRUI

Kirui, who wanted to climb Everest without supplemental oxygen, showed abnormal behaviour with his guide, Sherpa quoted Nawang as saying. "Then, the duo went out of contact," he added.

SST has mobilized two Sherpa rescuers to search for them. "They have reached above balcony area," he added.

In the same vein, a Romanian climber died at the same mountain, with expedition organisers led by Mohan Lamsal, Managing Director at Makalu Adventure revealing that Gabriel Tabara of Romania was found dead inside his tent at Camp III on Tuesday, May 21.

Tavara, 48, was attempting to climb Lhotse, the fourth-highest mountain on Earth, after Mount Everest, K2, and Kangchenjunga, without using supplementary oxygen.

Mt Everest, which lies at a latitude of about 28 degrees, straddles the borders of Nepal and China. There are many possible routes, but most Everest climbers usually choose between two: the south route in Nepal, and the north route in Tibet.

Climbing Mount Everest has become a popular expedition, however, summiting it requires a lot of experience in mountaineering elsewhere, a certificate of good health, equipment and a trained Nepalese guide.

The snow and ice on the mountain create deadly hazards, such as avalanches, and there is only a limited climbing season due to bad weather conditions.

At 8,849 metres, Everest’s summit has approximately one-third the air pressure that exists at sea level. This significantly reduces a climber's ability to breathe in enough oxygen. Because of this, scientists have determined that the human body is not capable of remaining indefinitely above 6,000 metres.

The chances of success are much less than when climbing without supplemental oxygen, and with a less than 40 per cent success rate, one needs to be extremely fit, compared to a success rate of almost 80 per cent with supplemental oxygen.

Climbers who ascend higher than 8,000 metres on Mount Everest enter the "death zone". In this area, oxygen is so limited that the body's cells start to die, and judgment becomes impaired.

An image of Mt Everest. /FILE

EPRA Reduces Fuel Prices For May-June

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 14 May 2024 17:11:47 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has reduced fuel prices yet again for the period between Wednesday, May 15 and Friday, June 14.

In a statement, EPRA announced that the prices of Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene all went down by Ksh1, Ksh1.20 and Ksh1.30, all per litre, respectively.

"In accordance with Section 101(y) of the Petroleum Act 2019 and Legal Notice No.192 of 2022, we have calculated the maximum retail prices of petroleum products, which will be in force from 15th May 2024 to 14th June 2024," stated EPRA in part.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on May 14, 2024. /VIRAL TEA KE

Last month, the fuel prices read as follows: Ksh193.84 for Super Petrol, Ksh180.38 for Diesel and Ksh170.06 for Kerosene.

For this month, Nairobi motorists will pay as follows: Ksh192.84 for Super Petrol, Ksh179.18 for Diesel and Ksh168.76 for Kerosene.

The regulator further noted that the landed cost of importer Super Petrol increased by 3.82 per cent between March and April, diesel decreased by 0.46 per cent and Kerosene by 0.050 per cent during that period.

EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo added that the purpose of the Petroleum Pricing Regulations is to cap the retail prices of petroleum products which are already in the country so that importation and other prudently incurred costs are recovered while ensuring reasonable prices to consumers.

In terms of fuel price breakdown by major city and town, in Mombasa, a litre of super petrol will retail at Ksh189.66, diesel at Ksh176.01, and Kerosene at Ksh165.59.

Motorists in the city of Nakuru will part with Ksh191.90, Ksh178.62, and Ksh168.26, respectively for Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene.

In Eldoret, Super Petrol will cost Ksh192.67, Diesel Ksh179.39, and Kerosene Ksh169.02, while in Kisumu, Super Petrol will retail at Ksh192.66, Diesel at Ksh179.39, and Kerosene at Ksh169.01.

CS Mithika Linturi Survives Impeachment

Marvin Chege — Mon, 13 May 2024 16:38:24 +0300

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi has escaped having his impeachment confirmed by the National Assembly.

This is after the 11-member select committee consisting of Members of Parliament (MP) formed to investigate the CS found that "the allegations against Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi are unsubstantiated."

The committee presented its findings on the floor of the National Assembly on Monday, May 13.

“The allegations under Ground 1 on gross violation of the constitution, Ground 2 on serious reason for believing that the cabinet secretary has committed a crime under national law and Ground 3 on gross misconduct, as outlined in the special motion, are unsubstantiated,” the committee said in its report.

The National Assembly in session on June 14, 2023. /PARLIAMENT OF KENYA

Seven members of the committee out of the 11 MPs voted to save the CS while four voted against his rescue.

MPs from the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition who were part of the committee include Naomi Waqo, Samuel Chepkonga, George Murugara, Jane Maina, Moses Injendi and Kassim Tandaza.

Azimio la Umoja was represented by Robert Mbui, TJ Kajwang, Catherine Omanyo and Yussuf Farah whereas Jubilee Party which was recognised as a minority party in Parliament by Speaker Moses Wetangula was represented by Racheal Nyamai.

CS Linturi was mainly accused of overseeing the distribution of substandard fertiliser through National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stores.

This is owing to his position in the Ministry of Agriculture, with the responsibility of implementation of President William Ruto’s subsidised fertiliser program falling under his docket.

Bumula MP Jack Wamboka, whose impeachment motion received the support of 110 signatures from legislators, had listed three grounds in the impeachment motion against CS Linturi: gross violation of the Constitution or any other law, serious reasons to believe the CS has committed a crime under national law, as well as gross misconduct.

Linturi, through his counsel, urged the committee to dismiss the impeachment motion, arguing that the mover had failed to provide proof implicating the CS in the fake fertilizer scandal.

“That the fact that the man appearing before you has an issue with character and image is itself inadmissible. It is in this context that the Constitution presumes one innocent until proven guilty,” Muthomi Thiankulu, Linturi’s lawyer, said on Friday.

Linturi’s other lawyer added: “The accusers are basing their evidence on perception. Why? Because he has been perceived as an evil person by the media for 5 years. His linen was laid bare. The guilt of Linturi has not been proved, he is innocent.”

The CS had attributed the impeachment motion to persecution from his adversaries and a former partner with whom he had intimate relations before a bitter fallout.

“All these cases revolve around an individual that unfortunately we were friends and for whatever reason that relationship could not hold and out of her own volition she decided to bring so many cases which I was forced to defend,” the CS told the Committee, and had to be consoled after he broke down.

“There is case number 74 where I was being sued to take responsibility for children who are not mine,” he continued in tears.

Wamboka however argued that his legal team presented watertight evidence against Linturi, dismissing the CS's affirmations of substandard fertilizer.

“There’s nothing like substandard fertilizer, this is fake fertilizer. I, Wamboka, have tried; I leave the ball in your court. Remember Kenyans will never forget these proceedings. There are so many ways of killing the rat. The committee is one of them. Mithika Linturi Must Go!” he stated.

On Thursday, May 2, 149 MPs voted to proceed with the impeachment process for CS Linturi while 36 of them opposed it. Only 3 did not take part, a move that paved the way for the investigative committee to be formed.

This committee was allocated a tight deadline, with just 10 days to examine the evidence against Linturi and deliver a report to the Assembly.

“The Select Committee shall within 10 days report to the assembly whether it finds the allegations against the Cabinet Secretary to be substantiated or otherwise. If the Select Committee report finds that the allegations are unsubstantiated, no further proceedings are taken thereafter,” read part of the Speaker’s ruling.

“However, if the Select Committee report finds that the allegations are substantiated, the House is required to afford the CS an opportunity to be heard and a vote whether to approve a resolution requiring dismissal of the Cabinet Secretary.”

Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi speaking during a fundraiser in aid of St. Theresa's Catholic parish in Imenti Central on April 28, 2024. /MITHIKA LINTURI

Doctors' Strike Is Over- Govt Signs Last Deal

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 08 May 2024 17:13:29 +0300

The Ministry of Health has announced the end of the nationwide doctors' strike which has been running for 56 days.

The announcement was made on Wednesday, May 8 through its official channels after the government had reached an agreement with the Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists Dentists Union (KMPDU), effectively ending the go-slow that has crippled healthcare services in the country.

"After 56 days, KMPDU signs agreement, ending nationwide doctors' strike," the Ministry announced.

Doctors on strike outside Parliament Buildings and Bunge Tower on April 30, 2024. /MARVIN CHEGE.VIRAL TEA KE

The signing of the deal was in line with the directive issued by the Labour Relations Court, giving both the government and the striking doctors 48 hours to reach an agreement and conclusively end the strike.

As the signing is now complete, KMPDU will issue directives on when the doctors will return to work. However, the matter of interns' pay is still in contention.

KMPDU on Tuesday presented before the court a separate document from what the government had presented, prompting the judge to issue the Wednesday deadline, saying failure to which it would be forced to determine the matter.

The union and the government entities - through the Council of Governors (CoG) and the Ministry of Health - were for the better part of Tuesday evening locked in a meeting in a bid to resolve the stalemate once and for all.

The doctors' strike had been running since March 12 as called by KMPDU Secretary-General, Davji Atellah, demanding the government to increase their salaries in line with the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Since March 14, doctors have abandoned their duty stations and have been protesting the government’s failure to post medical interns and obey the CBA on medics’ labour terms.

They have held long-running negotiations with a ‘Whole of the Nation Approach' committee bringing together the Ministry of Health, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission and the Head of Public Service.

The talks stalled after the government presented a Ksh70,000 stipend offer to the medical interns instead of the Ksh206,000 depicted in the 2017 CBA.

The signing came hours after Azimio la Umoja urged the government to reach an agreement with the striking doctors within 48 hours, failure to which, the strike would manifest to the return of nationwide protests.

"We note that the Labour and Relations court has ordered the striking doctors and the government to reach an agreement within 48 hours. While we have seen the efforts by the doctors to end the strike, we are yet to see the commitment from the government side to do the same.

"We, ask the Kenya Kwanza regime to take advantage of the 48-hour window given by the courts and immediately reach an agreement with doctors that will see a resumption of normalcy in public hospitals, failure to which, we shall mobilize the public and other unions to join in a national," Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka threatened.

Wiper Party Leader, Kalonzo Musyoka flanked by Azimio la Umoja principals while addressing the media on May 8, 2024. /KALONZO MUSYOKA

Friday, May 10 Declared Public Holiday-Ruto

Marvin Chege — Wed, 08 May 2024 12:02:13 +0300

President William Ruto has declared Friday, May 10 a public holiday.

He revealed on Wednesday, May 8 that the day will be set aside to honour those killed by floods and to start a tree-planting programme for climate change mitigation.

Earlier, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura affirmed that the government would set aside Friday, May 10, as a National Tree Growing Day.

"We shall be having a National Tree Growing Day on Friday 10th May 2024. A gazette notice shall be issued to this effect. Hon Soipan Tuya, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Forestry & Climate Change shall hold a press conference today to give further directions," his statement on social media read in part.

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto planting a tree at the Groove of Nations at Jerusalem Forest on May 9, 2023. /PCS

This is however not the first time Kenya set aside a public holiday to grow trees, the last coming on November 13, 2023. On November 6, Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki gazetted the day as a public holiday to allow Kenyans to engage in tree-growing exercises across the country.

Trees play a crucial part in preventing flooding as they help keep soil in place, and their roots soak up water. (This is called reducing erosion and anchoring topsoil.)

Even trees’ leaves help prevent flooding. When raindrops bounce off them, the water doesn’t hit the ground as hard, thus when a forest suffers from deforestation, the risk of flooding increases.

Clear-cutting trees has another side effect. Since the soil isn’t anchored in place by tree roots, it gets carried downstream by heavy rainfall, with the dirt and mud washing into rivers and streams, which means riverbeds get clogged and can carry less water, worsening the flooding situation.

Meanwhile, current government statistics indicate that over 238 people have lost their lives to the countrywide flooding menace that began as far back as March.

Mwaura's flooding situation awareness update as of Tuesday revealed that 75 people are still missing with 223,000 impacted.

174 individuals are nursing critical injuries while 47,000 households were displaced, with the capital city, Nairobi, bearing the greatest brunt of the affected individuals at 164,000 followed by the Nyanza region (40,000), and the Eastern region (5,957).

"The government has deployed varied mechanisms to handle the disaster and to manage the ongoing evacuations. The KDF and NYS have been deployed to assist in the search and rescue operations while the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) have been mobilized to assist residents to move to safer areas,” stated Mwaura.

“We have about 30 designated evacuation centres; we have churches and schools on raised grounds. Please don’t wait until the water comes because you will not manage it. Disaster management is a joint responsibility."

To curb the casualties, President Ruto directed that all Kenyans living in fragile ecosystems that include riparian lands to vacate immediately.

On the bright side, he announced that 40,000 households who were evacuated for their own safety due to the ongoing floods in the country will receive a Ksh10,000 stipend each from the National Government.

A man carrying goods through floods in Kenya. /UK IN KENYA.X

Schools To Reopen On Monday, May 13

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Wed, 08 May 2024 11:48:31 +0300

The government has announced that all schools will reopen for the second term on Monday, May 13, 2024.

This was announced by Secretary of State Functions, Mike Gitonga, days after President William Ruto had announced that the reopening of schools had been postponed until further notice.

"Schools to re-open on Monday 13th May 2024," he posted on X.

President William Ruto, while speaking to Kajiado and Laikipia leaders on Wednesday, May 8, said that the government will release funds to enable schools damaged by floods to be rebuilt.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu during the release of 2024 Form one placement results at Lenana School on December 18, 2023. /MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

In particular, government agencies will coordinate with the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) to facilitate the construction of damaged schools.

It was noted that the reopening of schools set for Monday was informed by advisories issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department.

Kenya Met predicted that the rains are projected to reduce in intensity from this week.

Schools were meant to reopen on Monday, May 6, having been postponed initially on Monday, May 29 owing to the flooding crisis in the country.

Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Machogu had previously insisted that the schools be opened on Monday.

According to a circular dated Thursday, May 2, the CS asked parents to ensure children arrive at school on time just as the institutions work to keep the learners safe amid the ongoing heavy rains and flooding.

"Ahead of the schools opening on May 6th, 2024... the prevailing weather conditions pose accessibility challenges due to flash floods, swollen rivers and landslides thus affecting the transport system for learners to and from school. Parents are, therefore, required to ensure that their children safely report to school on time," Machogu stated.

"All heads of institutions, field education officers, parents and stakeholders are urged to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of learners, teachers and school community guided by the Meteorological Department weather forecast reports released from time to time."

On Friday, May 3, President Ruto directed the Ministry of Education to postpone the school reopening.

"The Ministry of Education is directed to postpone the dates of reopening of all schools in the country for the second term until further notice," he announced.

Floods affecting Mathare slums on April 24, 2024. /RACHAEL MWIKALI

5-Storey Building Collapses In Uthiru, But All Occupants Safe

Marvin Chege — Tue, 07 May 2024 21:52:31 +0300

UPDATE: The Nairobi County government has confirmed that all 34 residents of the collapsed building in Nairobi’s Mountain View Ward, Uthiru have been located and are safe. There are no casualties.

"Earlier concerns about four missing residents, including a 10-year-old girl, have been cleared. The building was sinking slowly, and all the residents were able to jump out and manage to exit the building," a statement to newsrooms by Chief Officer of Disaster Management, Bramwel Simiyu read in part.

"The Nairobi City County emergency team continued to scour the scene while awaiting assistance from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) from Kahawa Barracks, who will bring the sniffer dogs to ensure and eliminate any possibility of individuals trapped in the debris. There is one house with a gas flame that will be allowed to burn out safely."

A five-storey building has collapsed in Uthiru, a settlement transversing in both Nairobi County and Kiambu County on the northwest side of the city centre of Nairobi.

According to the Kenya Red Cross, the building is located near the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) along Naivasha Road.

"In Uthiru, Nairobi County, a building has collapsed, response teams are en route to the scene," stated Kenya Red Cross on X.

Five-storey building collapses in Uthiru on May 7, 2024. /STACY ODHIAMBO

Photos and videos seen by Viral Tea showed the building partially collapsed at its base with the apartment block tilted to its left-hand side.

At the time of the incident, lights were still on within the housing units as onlookers raised the alarm.

The Nairobi County government Chief Officer of Disaster Management, Bramwel Simiyu, in a statement seen by Viral Tea, revealed that its emergency response team was swiftly deployed to the scene and continued to assist in evacuating residents to safety.

"As of 10:00 PM, all the families except four persons have been accounted for. The four missing persons include a nanny and two children from one household, as well as a 10-year-old girl from another residence.

"The father of the girl has arrived at the scene and informed the responders that the girl was home alone," read the statement in part.

With rescue efforts continuing, the county government has mobilised specialised equipment, with further updates expected to be provided in due course.

"The cause of the collapse remains unknown. Detailed investigations will commence tomorrow," added the statement.

The collapse comes as the country has been grappling with heavy rains and flooding that has not spared the capital city.

Earlier this year, two middle-aged construction workers died during working hours on Monday, February 19 after a crane had collapsed on them in the Makutano area of Meru County.

Residents at the accident scene in Meru where two workers lost their lives. /OMWAMBAKE

Riots Erupt After 17-Year-Old Boy Dies In Mathare North During Demolition Of Houses

Marvin Chege — Mon, 06 May 2024 16:54:36 +0300

Protests erupted on Monday, May 6 after a 17-year-old boy was reported to have died in Mathare North as a bulldozer demolished houses in the informal settlement.

Speaking to Viral Tea, sources revealed that the boy was struck fatally on the head as the demolition exercise believed to target homes on riparian land was ongoing.

"Yes, there's been riots since morning. Residents reluctant to leave have been protesting," the source revealed.

An eyewitness told Viral Tea that the demos are taking place at Area 1 in the estate pitting youth against police officers.

Screengrab of a police car at Mathare North on May 6, 2024. /THE EASTLEIGH VOICE

The boy was believed to have been handling power cables by pulling them from the building that was being torn down before a wall caved in on him, leading to his death.

The protests reportedly turned chaotic, with the police and crowds engaging in confrontations. The former was forced to lob teargas to disperse the crowds, as per videos seen by Viral Tea.

A woman was further injured by a stray bullet and taken to hospital. The demolition exercise was part of evacuation orders issued to residents living on riparian land to avert more tragedies as a result of the flooding menace.

Police at the time of publishing this article are yet to issue a statement on the matter.

Earlier, President William Ruto made an impromptu visit to Mathare, which is not far from the scene of the protests, to asses the flooding situation and check on the victims displaced by heavy rains.

The President toured the Kiamaiko area in the company of Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki, where he addressed locals assuring them of government support.

Ruto promised that the government would support affected families with a Ksh10,000 stipend to help them seek alternative accommodation for three months as the government seeks a lasting solution.

"Everyone in 40,000 households that have been relocated for their safety, the government will give them Ksh10,000 to look for a place to stay as they await the government's next course of action," he announced.

"For every household that we have relocated from here, we have taken your names and we will make sure that those who lived here, we will give you money to look for a place to rent for the next three months as the government plans on how you'll be assisted."

President William Ruto addressing residents of Mathare, Nairobi County on May 6, 2024. /PCS

Ruto Postpones Reopening Of All Schools

Marvin Chege — Fri, 03 May 2024 14:27:53 +0300

President William Ruto has announced that the reopening of schools for the second term has been postponed until further notice.

The Head of State was speaking on Friday, May 3 at State House, Nairobi where he directed the Ministry of Education to postpone the school reopening.

"The Ministry of Education is directed to postpone the dates of reopening of all schools in the country for the second term until further notice," he announced.

"Members of Parliament are requested to re-organize their CDF allocations to prioritise the reconstruction of school infrastructure that has been damaged as a result of the floods

Schools were meant to reopen on Monday, May 6, having been postponed initially on Monday, May 29 owing to the flooding crisis in the country.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu during the release of 2024 Form one placement results at Lenana School on December 18, 2023. /MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Machogu had earlier insisted that the schools be opened on Monday.

However, the Ministry said that some of the schools that have been gravely damaged by floods and their infrastructure destroyed will remain closed as learning may not take place.

Machogu argued that some of the sanitation facilities may have been affected and therefore may pose health risks to students.

"In some cases, the school infrastructure may be unsafe for use by learners thereby affecting their readiness to resume learning... This poses a health risk due to contamination of water sources, which may lead to an outbreak of waterborne diseases. BOMS, headteachers and principals are directed that students and staff should not be hosted in life-threatening buildings," Machogu noted.

As part of the measures by the government to guarantee the safety of learners, CS Machogu noted that Education officials had been tasked to come up with mitigation ways on how to facilitate learning and safer accessibility to institutions.

Since many schools are currently hosting people displaced by rains, Machogu ordered field education officers to work with local government officials to provide alternative accommodation for learners.

Education officials were also directed to oversee resource sharing among neighbouring institutions for the learning activities to continue without disruptions.

Consequently, school Boards of Management (BoMs) have been directed to assess the situation of the impact of the floods, convene urgent meetings and submit reports to the County Education Boards (CEBs) who would do the same and report to the CS.

Floods affecting Mathare slums on April 24, 2024. /RACHAEL MWIKALI

MPs Approve Impeachment Motion Against CS Mithika Linturi

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 02 May 2024 13:32:07 +0300

Members of Parliament (MP) are moving closer to making history by approving a proposed dismissal of embattled Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi.

On Thursday, May 2, 149 MPs voted to proceed with the impeachment process for CS Linturi while 36 of them opposed it. Only 3 did not take part.

For the motion to proceed, it required garnering support from at least one-third of the members of the National Assembly, totalling 117 members. This now paves the way for the formation of an investigative committee of 11 members.

The composition of the select committee reflects a balance of parliamentary representation, with 6 slots allocated to the Kenya Kwanza Coalition, 4 to the Azimio la Umoja Coalition, and 1 to the Jubilee Party.

MPs protesting in Parliament as they seek the impeachment of Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi on May 2, 2024. /NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

In his communication, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula stated, ”In nominating the members, parties are to ensure the nominees to the committee reflect the diversity of the house including regional and gender considerations.”

This committee will have a tight deadline, with just 10 days to examine the evidence against Linturi and deliver a report to the Assembly.

Earlier, there was a moment of commotion in the National Assembly after Members of Parliament differed with Linturi's impeachment.

The commotion began after a section of legislators rose from their seats and began shouting as they demanded the immediate resignation of the Agriculture CS, with the lawmakers adamantly shouting 'Linturi must go' to vent the approval of the motion.

Speaker Moses Wetangula was forced to momentarily suspend the proceedings as he called the MPs to order.

Rarieda MP Atiende Omollo, a vocal proponent of the motion, affirmed his stance during the heated debate, citing "Should the CS take responsibility for the motion and the issue at hand? The answer is YES."

However, Linturi found support from members of the Kenya Kwanza coalition, including Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who cautioned against hastily resorting to impeachment based on unsubstantiated claims.

He urged the Assembly to allow the Committee on Agriculture to conduct a thorough inquiry before making any definitive decisions.

He stated, “We cannot use the basis of newspaper reports to impeach anybody. Allow me to plead with this house to defeat this motion because it will derail the fight against corruption. If we derail the fight against corruption, by using such motions to speak to the gallery, to speak to our voters, to speak about corruption but never acting over corruption.”

Similarly, nominated MP Sabina Chege called for a measured approach, advocating for the naming and shaming of individuals responsible for exploiting innocent farmers, asserting "These people should be jailed for taking advantage of innocent farmers," highlighting the need for decisive action against wrongdoers.

Linturi, in the motion filed by Bumula Member of Parliament Jack Wamboka, was supported by 110 signatures from legislators, and alleges serious wrongdoing by Linturi, accusing him of gross misconduct, gross violation of the Constitution and committing a crime under national law.

Bumula MP Jack Wamboka who chairs the Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education. /JACK WAMBOKA

Ruto Appoints General Charles Muriu Kahariri As New Chief Of Defence Forces

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Thu, 02 May 2024 12:16:08 +0300

President William Ruto has appointed General Charles Muriu Kahariri as the new Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).

Kahariri was serving as the Vice CDF, second to the late General Francis Ogolla who died in a helicopter crash. However, he was serving as CDF in acting capacity following Ogolla's death.

He was also serving in the rank of Lieutenant General before his promotion to the rank of General.

General Charles Muriu Kahariri taking oath of office as the Vice CDF on March 9, 2024. /PCS

"Today, His Excellency Hon Dr William Samoei Ruto, C.G.H, President of the Republic of Kenya, and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, pursuant to section 9 (2) (a) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act, has promoted Lieutenant General Charles Muriu Kahariri to the rank of General and appointed him The Chief of the Defence Forces," the statement by the Ministry of Defence dated Thursday, May 2 announced.

Other Appointments

The President has also promoted Major General John Mugaravai Omenda to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed him Vice Chief of the Defence Forces. Until his appointment, Lieutenant General John Mugaravai Omenda was the Kenya Air Force Commander.

President Ruto has also posted Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed to Kenya Air Force and appointed her Commander.

Similarly, Major General Paul Owuor Otieno has been posted to the Kenya Navy and appointed Commander.

"Subsequently, on the advice of the Defence Council Chaired by Hon. Aden Bare Duale, Cabinet Secretary for Defence, the President has upheld the Council's recommendations and made various promotions, postings and appointments of Kenya Defence Forces Officers as follows," added the statement.

Major General Thomas Njoroge Ng'ang'a was posted to the National Defence University and appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Administration and Finance.

Brigadier Peter Nyamu Githinji was promoted to Major General and appointed Senior Directing Staff, Air at National Defence College.

Also promoted to the position of Major General was Brigadier Jattani Kampare Gula. He was also named as the new Managing Director of the Kenya Meat Commission.

Brigadier George Okumu was also promoted to Major General and appointed Managing Director of Kenya Ordnance Factories Corporation and Food Processing Factory.

Meanwhile, Brigadier Samuel Kosgei Kipkorir was appointed as Deputy Commander of Kenya Air Force.

Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale alongside newly appointed KDF officers at the MOD on May 2, 2024. /KDF

Top NCPB Officials Arrested Over Fake Fertiliser Saga

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 21:52:56 +0300

Three senior officials, including the Managing Director of the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), have been arrested in connection with ongoing investigations into fake fertiliser distribution.

According to reports reaching Viral Tea's newsdesk, the officials include the NCPB MD Joseph Muna Kimote, John Kiplangat Ngetich (Corporate Secretary), and John Mbaya Matiri (General Marketing Manager).

The three officials are expected to spend the whole of Labour Day, a holiday, in custody as well as on Tuesday night, and are set to be arraigned in court on Thursday, May 2.

Photo of NCPB Managing Director, Joseph Kimote. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

Their arrest followed the Director of Public Prosecution’s approval to charge the individuals and a businessman over the scandal.

Kimote, Kiplangat and Mbaya were all charged with conspiracy to defraud and abuse of office.

The DPP also approved charges for SBL Innovate Manufacturer and Fifty One Capital Limited. The firms were charged with conspiracy to commit an offence of economic crime, applying a standardization mark to a commodity that does not comply with the relevant Kenya Standard, manufacturing for Sale Substandard Goods and knowingly using labels on bags in connection with the manufacture and sale of organic fertilizer.

The director of the two companies was charged with forgery, making a document without authority, uttering false documents and conspiracy to defraud.

Earlier, DCI director Mohamed Amin ordered detectives to crack down on criminal cartels suspected of smuggling NCPB fertiliser to neighbouring countries and interfering with operations of the produce board.

"Criminal cartels lodged in this county have infiltrated the NCPB and are shamelessly smuggling government's subsidized fertilizer to neighbouring countries," Mohamed Amin noted.

"This is denying our farmers the opportunity to increase production, which is a sabotage to the government's efforts of reviving the economy."

Following the information, the DCI boss directed all security operators and customs officers from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to intensify the crackdown on the Kenya- Uganda border.

According to Mohamed Amin, the cartel was using the Suam border which links Kenya to Uganda to perpetrate the illegalities.

DCI director Mohamed Amin speaking as DCI's Anti-Narcotics Unit received state-of-the-art equipment from the United States through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) on February 8, 2023. /DCI

Govt Postpones Reopening Of All Schools

Marvin Chege — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 01:19:37 +0300

The Ministry of Education has announced that the reopening of all primary and secondary schools has been postponed by a week to Monday, May 6, 2024.

In a statement to newsrooms, Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Machogu revealed that reports received at the Ministry corroborated with data from other relevant Government agencies, show that several schools in various regions of the country have been adversely affected by the rains.

The devastating effects of the rains in some of the schools were revealed to be so severe that it would be imprudent to risk the lives of learners and staff before water-tight measures are put in place to ensure adequate safety of all affected school communities.

Residents sift through the rubble as they recover their belongings after the Nairobi river burst its banks and destroyed their homes within the Mathare Valley settlement in Nairobi, Kenya on April 25, 2024. /REUTERS

"Based on this assessment, the Ministry of Education has resolved to postpone the reopening of all primary and secondary schools by one week, to Monday, May 6, 2024.

"In the meantime, the Ministry will work with relevant agencies and stakeholders to put in place measures to mitigate the adverse effects of the rains and provide regular updates on all developments as pertains to the education sector," the CS stated.

The Ministry's statement comes in response to appeals to the government from multiple corners to suspend the reopening of schools that was set for Monday, April 29 due to the ongoing floods in the country.

So far, 150 schools across the country have been affected by floods, with some remaining submerged and with no rooftops hours before the opening date.

Collapsed classrooms, submerged schools and destroyed rooftops have been scenes ahead of planned school reopening following heavy downpours across the country.

Concerns persisted about the impact of the heavy rains and flooding on transport infrastructure and road networks, raising questions regarding the feasibility of the resumption of school activities.

Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang revealed on Friday, April 26 that the Ministry had begun to analyse the situation in Nairobi County, in particular, hinting that 64 schools in the capital could have their opening dates rescheduled owing to the destruction of classrooms and washrooms.

"In Nairobi County, we have 64 schools which are substantially affected in class and washrooms. In Nairobi, we decided to deal with them as local issues so that we don't need to ask all schools not to open but we can deal with them on isolated cases.

"This is because in Nairobi we have 210 public schools and 800 private schools. For the 64 we might delay their opening," he stated.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced on Friday that some schools could have their reopening dates extended in a process set to be done on a case-by-case basis.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua chairing a Joint Cabinet Committee at the official residence in Karen on April 26, 2024. /DPPS

Several Feared Dead As Boat Carrying Large Number Of People Capsizes In Tana River

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sun, 28 Apr 2024 20:47:34 +0300

UPDATE: 14 people are feared dead after a boat that was reportedly ferrying 41 passengers capsized at the Kona Punda area in Garissa.

Several people are feared dead after a boat that was carrying a large number of people capsized at Kona Punda area in Garissa.

Videos seen by Viral Tea that surfaced on social media platforms showed panicked locals watching in horror as the boat was seen upside down on the flooded water.

Some individuals could be seen standing atop the boat perhaps to mobilize rescue efforts. Reports indicate that the boat is said to have been ferrying 41 passengers on Sunday evening, April 28 when the accident occurred.

A screengrab of rescue efforts for a boat that capsized in Tana River County on April 28, 2024. /SETH OLALE

The boat was ferrying people at a fee and headed to Mororo, a border town between the Garissa and Tana River counties.

Police are stated to have arrived at the scene and rescue efforts were ongoing by the time of publishing this article. However, the number of individuals who may have lost their lives was yet to be confirmed.

"A boat carrying a large number of people has capsized at Kona Punda while heading to Mororo. Our teams from Garissa and Tana River County are currently responding to the situation," stated the Kenya Red Cross.

22 people have so far been rescued while 23 people are currently missing.

The tragedy comes as boat owners took advantage of the flood situation to hike transport fees for stranded passengers travelling to and from Garissa.

On Friday last week, KeNHA closed the Mororo-Kona Punda section declaring the road potentially unsafe. The situation has since inconvenienced many passengers, motorists and commuters who can no longer use the busy road.

Hundreds of lorries transporting goods and other commodities as well as fuel tankers remained packed at the Madogo trading centre.

The boats, which are normally used for rescue missions in River Tana had been charging at least Ksh1,500 for the four-kilometre stretch between Madogo and Garissa which has been destroyed by floods.

Before the floods, matatus used to charge Ksh30 for the same distance while boats used to charge Ksh500 for the 4-kilometre stretch in December.

Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) from Nairobi to Garissa and Wajir had been dropping their passengers at Madogoand and then forced to board boats to Garissa to connect with other buses to Wajir.

Last Sunday, a boat with an unknown number of occupants capsized in Lake Baringo, with witnesses reporting that the boat experienced challenges that led to it capsizing.

A past photo of a boat that capsized at Lake Victoria. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

Gachagua Gives Direction On Extension Of School Reopening Dates Amid Floods

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 17:30:09 +0300

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced that some schools could have their reopening dates extended in a process set to be done on a case-by-case basis.

Speaking during a press briefing on the ongoing floods in Karen on Friday, April 26, the DP revealed that the Ministry of Education would work with various county governments to analyse the situation on the ground before communicating to parents and students regarding the changes.

He however maintained that those schools which have not been affected by the ongoing flooding as a result of the heavy rains will report back as scheduled by the government.

"What will happen is that make recommendations to the PS of Basic Education, on a case-by-case basis it will be analyzed on his own merit. Where there is a need to extend the opening day, we can extend it.

President William Ruto rings a school bell at Kikuyu Township Primary School in Kiambu County on October 30, 2023. /PCS

"Otherwise for the purposes of the country, the schools will reopen as planned but where there are cases whereby the people on the ground, the county governments plus the national government administration and the directors of education in those respective counties, make a recommendation to the PS Basic Education. We can always extend as things settle down," he stated.

Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang in the meantime revealed that the Ministry of Education had begun to analyse the situation in Nairobi County, in particular, hinting that 64 schools in the capital could have their opening dates rescheduled owing to the destruction of classrooms and washrooms.

"This is because in Nairobi we have 210 public schools and 800 private schools. For the 64 we might delay their opening," he stated.

Schools are set to reopen on Monday, April 29 for the second term.

As part of the preparations, the Director General of the Ministry of Education, Elyas Abdi, issued a circular to regional directors of education instructing them to collect data on the impact of the rain and floods and submit it by today (Friday, April 26).

Concerns meanwhile persist about the impact of the heavy rains and flooding on transport infrastructure and road networks, raising questions regarding the feasibility of the resumption of school activities.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has since warned of continued heavy rains in various parts of the country leading into this weekend.

Counties such as Nairobi, Kisumu, and Narok are among those expected to bear the brunt of the downpour, raising fears of further flooding and disruption to daily life.

Floods affecting Mathare slums on April 24, 2024. /RACHAEL MWIKALI

CDF Francis Ogolla Killed In KDF Chopper Crash- Ruto Confirms

Marvin Chege — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 19:09:17 +0300

Francis Omondi Ogolla, who is Kenya's Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), is dead.

President William Ruto, who was speaking at State House Nairobi on Thursday, April 18, confirmed the demise of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) boss, mourning him as a dedicated individual.

"This is a moment of great sadness for me as the Commander In Chief of the KDF. It is a tragic moment for the KDF fraternity and it is an unfortunate day for the nation at large.

"Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals, we have also lost gallant officers, service men and women. The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me and certainly, the sorrow we all feel about this passing on is shared by all Kenyans and most especially the KDF fraternity," he addressed.

Photo of President William Ruto and Chief of Defence Forces, Francis Ogolla. /PCS

Earlier reports indicated that he was among those who were on board a chopper which went down at the Kaben-Cheptulel border between Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties.

President Ruto as a result summoned the National Security Council (NSC) for an urgent meeting at State House in Nairobi.

It is worth noting that General Ogolla is also a member of the NSC, which is further composed of President Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale as well as his Interior counterpart Kithure Kindiki.

Others are Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, Attorney General Justin Muturi, National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome, and National Security Advisor Monica Juma.

A post on LinkedIn and Facebook believed to be from her daughter, Lorna Omondi, all but confirmed Ogolla's demise as reports spread like wildfire on social media before his death was announced by the President.

"Empathetic and effective leader and statesman just went down in chopper crash in West Pokot. Doing what he did best for the better part of the last 40 years - trying to keep Kenya Safe.

"One day I shall tell beautiful stories of how he taught with his actions and not with his words. But today - I rush home to send him off to the great beyond," wrote Lorna.

The helicopter was earlier reported to have carried top Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) commanders before it went up in flames after it crashed in the area. It was taking off from Cheptulel Boys Secondary School.

The team had left a meeting that had been convened to discuss the security situation in the West Pokot region where several top leaders were present.

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura cautioned Kenyans against speculating on the chopper crash.

"Dear fellow Kenyans. An official communication concerning the Military Aircraft crash shall be issued soon. Let’s stay calm and avoid any speculation whatsoever at this critical juncture," he wrote.

Ogolla Appointment

On April 28, 2023, President William Ruto promoted Francis Ogolla to KDF Chief of the Defence Forces from a Lieutenant position.

Ogolla took over the new position from Robert Kibochi who retired after service at the capacity for 44 years.

The then Vice Chief of the Defence forces, Lt Francis Omondi Ogolla, before the Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee at Continental House in Nairobi on November 7, 2022, regarding the deployment of the KDF to the DRC. /DAILY NATION

5 Dead After KDF Chopper With Top Military Officers Crashes, Catches Fire

Marvin Chege — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 16:37:56 +0300

At least five top military officials have died while three others were injured after their helicopter crashed and caught fire in the Cheptulel area in West Pokot.

The helicopter is reported to have carried top Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) commanders before it went up in flames after it crashed in the area.

Speculations are rife on the identities of those on board but the Military Headquarters and the Ministry of Defence are yet to comment on the deadly accident.

A KDF Chopper before crashing in West Pokot on Thursday, April 18, 2024. /HANDOUT

Police sources say the military officials were in the area to assess security following increased attacks by bandits in the region in recent weeks.

Unconfirmed reports indicate that the Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla was onboard the aircraft when it crashed.

Residents have since been barred from accessing the crash site, as KDF and other relevant officials continue to investigate the scene.

Witnesses on the ground claim that survivors of the horrific accident are currently being airlifted to Nairobi for treatment.

The helicopter was reportedly taking off from Cheptulel Boys Secondary School and onboard were several Kenya Defence Forces officials.

The team had left a meeting that had been convened to discuss the security situation in the West Pokot region where several top leaders were present.

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura cautioned Kenyans against speculating on the chopper crash.

"Dear fellow Kenyans. An official communication concerning the Military Aircraft crash shall be issued soon.

"Let’s stay calm and avoid any speculation whatsoever at this critical juncture," he wrote.

Meanwhile, it is alleged that Senior military officials are currently at State House, Nairobi to officially deliver a statement on the news that is still developing.

Kenyans have therefore been warned against spreading fake news surrounding the incident, in consideration of the magnitude of the officials presumed to be of high ranking within the KDF.

Kenya Defence Forces soldiers disembark from a truck. /NAIROBI NEWS

Fuel Prices: EPRA Reduces Price Of Diesel By Ksh10 After Ruto Promise

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 15:30:21 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has released the fuel prices for the period between Monday, April 15 and Tuesday, May 14.

In a statement, EPRA announced that the price of Diesel was reduced by Ksh10 per litre, an announcement that corroborates President William Ruto's promise of a Ksh10 reduction in fuel prices.

However, Kerosene recorded the biggest drop at Ksh18.68 per litre as Super Petrol decreased by Ksh5.31 per litre.

"In accordance with Section 101(y) of the Petroleum Act 2019 and Legal Notice No.192 of 2022, we have calculated the maximum retail prices of petroleum products which will be in force from 15th April 2024 to 14th May 2024.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on April 14, 2024. /VIRALTEAKE

"In the period under review, the maximum allowed petroleum pump price for Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene decrease by KShs.5.31 per litre, KShs.10.00 per litre and KShs.18.68 per litre respectively," read the statement in part.

With the new prices, Nairobi motorists will pay Ksh193.84 for Super Petrol, Ksh180.38 for Diesel and Ksh170.06 for Kerosene.

Before today, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene had retailed at Ksh199.15, Ksh190.38 and Ksh188.74 during the period between March 15 and April 14, 2024.

The prices are inclusive of the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020.

Across the country, motorists in Mombasa will pay Ksh190.66, Ksh177.21 and Ksh166.99 for a litre of Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene respectively.

In Nakuru, motorists will pay Ksh192.90 for petrol, Ksh179.82 for diesel and Ksh169.56 for Kerosene. Those in Eldoret will pay Ksh193.67, Ksh180.59 and Ksh170.32 for petrol, diesel and kerosene respectively.

Motorists in other cities such as Kisumu will now be charged Ksh193.66 for petrol, Ksh180.59 for diesel and Ksh170.31 for Kerosene.

After this review, a few areas will be charged over Ksh200 for a litre of petrol. These are Nakalale (Ksh201.06), Lokichogio (Ksh201.14), Lokitaung (Ksh202.07), Korr (Ksh200.27), Turbi (Ksh202.26), Loyangalani (Ksh202.46), Kalacha (Ksh202.40), Maikona (Ksh201.81) and North Horr (Ksh203.30).

Others are Hadado (Ksh201), Bute (Ksh202.51), Eldas (Ksh205,69), Mandera (Ksh207.84), Modogashe (Ksh201.84), Wajir (Ksh203.78), Elwak (Ksh205.34), Tarbaj (Ksh203.62), Habaswein (Ksh201.21), Sololo (Ksh202.95), Moyale (Ksh203.97), Liboi (Ksh201.29) and Marsabit (Ksh202.27).

EPRA's announcement came a couple of hours after President Ruto, while speaking during a church service in Nyeri County, indicated that the eventual reduction in fuel prices is part of the government's plan to lower the cost of living.

"Unga was Ksh200, now it has gone down to almost Ksh100. The dollar was at 160, now it is around 120, and not yet. Even today, the price of fuel will go down by Ksh10.

"It is because we are making the right decisions, not popular decisions," he announced.

CS Kindiki Declares Tomorrow A Public Holiday

Viral Tea Ke Writer — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 11:28:24 +0300

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared Wednesday, April 10 a public holiday.

In a Gazette notice dated Tuesday, April 9, Kindiki revealed that the declaration was so that the Muslim faithful can celebrate Idd-ul-Fitr.

"It is notified for the general information of the public that, in the exercise of the powers conferred by section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Wednesday, the 10th April 2024 shall be a Public Holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr," read the notice in part.

Idd-ul-Fitr is a festival of breaking the fast and marks the end of the 29-30-day-long fasting by Muslims during Ramadan.

President William Ruto hosting Iftar Dinner at State House, Nairobi on April 8, 2024. /PCS

The holiday is known under various other names in different languages and countries around the world. The day is also called Lesser Eid, or simply Eid.

The announcement of the holiday follows Muslim beliefs, which depend on the sighting of the moon. The exact date of Eid varies globally depending on the moon sighting.

It's globally recognised as a festival for breaking the fast. The Muslims believe that during the month of Ramadhan, the Qur'an text was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

During this special occasion, believers share food and other resources with the less fortunate in their various communities as well as convene in various places of worship to break the fast.

Following the gazettement, all govt offices, schools and other institutions such as banks are expected to be closed to mark the religious festivities.

Muslims have been observing the holy month of Ramadhan since March 11, 2024.

Govt To Strip Licences Of Senator Tabitha Karanja's Company & 23 Others [LIST]

admin — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 16:57:32 +0300

Keroche Breweries associated with Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja is among 24 alcohol manufacturers which run the risk of losing their licenses in 21 days.

This is after the government gave the firms the timeline to adhere to its listed guidelines to continue operating.

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki in a statement to newsrooms on Friday, April 5 revealed that only three out of 29 firms have been allowed to resume production subject to meeting specific requirements for each of them.

The three include Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL), Savanna Brands Company Limited, and Patiala Distillers Kenya Limited.

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki addressing the media on February 16, 2024. /KITHURE KINDIKI

For KWAL, the CS indicated that verification and approval of the model of the transmitter for offloading and dispatch flowmeters was approved, and for Savanna Brands Company Limited, the vetting agencies were certified with their production of valid calibration certificates of GC machine and services done on them; and payment of the standards levy.

Patiala was revealed to have resolved a legal dispute between it and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS); and a positive Noise Level Measurement Report from the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS).

Companies At Risk

"Licences, permits and authorizations for the following twenty-four (24) entities remain suspended up to and until all the compliance issues are satisfactorily addressed within twenty-one (21) days effective Monday, April 8, 2024 failure to which the licences, permits and authorizations shall stand revoked," the statement read in part.

The 24 entities which are at risk of losing their licenses include Two Cousins Distillers Limited, Corobus Africa Products Limited, Lyniber Supplies Limited, Elle Kenya Limited, Zheng Hong (K) Limited, Rift Valley Brewing Company – Thika, FRM EA Packers Limited, Manchester Distillers Limited, Kedsta Investment Limited, Julijo Investment Limited, Platinum Distillers Limited, London Distillers Kenya Limited, Agro Chemicals and Food Processing Company.

Others are Crywan Enterprises, Lumat Company Limited, Fastlane Wines and Spirits, Algarve Distillers Limited, Viva Bedida, Metro Breweries, Sabibu Beverages Africa Limited, Lodiani Water Spring, Africa Spirit Limited, and Mamboleo Distillers.

"The specific areas of non-compliance and the twenty-one (21) day notice to comply will be relayed to each of the affected entities appearing in paragraph 5 herein, on Monday, April 8, 2024, through the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration with copies to all relevant Government Agencies for supervision of this directive," added the statement.

Second-Generation Alcohol

Two entities that include Kenya Nut Company Limited, and UDV were out of 29 distillers and manufacturers of second-generation alcohol deemed to have passed the vetting by the multi-agency team and allowed to continue with production.

Kindiki's directives made earlier in March were endorsed by the Cabinet in the fight against illicit brews and narcotic drugs in the country.

These measures, announced by the Interior Ministry, included a 21-day suspension of all 52 licences and permits issued to manufacturers and distillers of second-generation alcohol, revocation of all bar licences issued by counties against the law and an audit of conflict of interest within the ranks of enforcement agencies.

Other measures announced by Kindiki on Wednesday, March 6 include nationwide crackdowns on the sale, transportation, distribution and consumption of illicit brews and narcotic drugs.

Photo of the illicit brew being destroyed in Narok South Sub County. /KENYA NEWS AGENCY

Govt Fires Comedian Nyambane

admin — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 20:51:26 +0300

Comedian Walter Onchonga Mong'are a.k.a 'Nyambane' has been dismissed from his role as Director of Programmes (Advocacy & Outreach) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This was announced on Wednesday, April 3 by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary, Korir Sing'oei in an official memo.

"This is to inform you that Mr. Walter Onchonga Mongáre, Director of Programmes (Advocacy & Outreach) is no longer authorized to act in any capacity on behalf of the State Department or myself," Sing'oei announced in part.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei at a past event. /KORIR SING'OEI

The PS also instructed all director generals and heads of Departments, Divisions and Units to refrain from interacting with Nyambane in an official capacity.

"This is, therefore, to instruct you to refrain, with immediate effect, from any official interactions and/or engagement with Mr Mongáre," he added in the memo copied to Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi.

However, the reason for Nyambane's dismissal was not immediately disclosed.

Prior to his now-former role, Nyambane served as the Director and Youth Advisor to former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

He previously served as a Director of Communications, Nairobi City County, Communications and Diaspora Affairs Advisor to the First Governor of Kisii County, Group Head of Radio Services at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation among other senior management positions in the corporate space.

The Communications and Advocacy Expert is a former Comedian, Music Lover and an accomplished Performing Artist with a few hits to his name under the Nyambane's Sweet Banana album released in the early 2000s.

He is also famously known for his comedic acts, primarily mimicking former President Daniel Moi in the hit show Redykyulass.

He also ventured into politics when he announced his presidential bid in the August 2022 General Election under the Umoja Summit Party.

He was the first candidate to be cleared by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) on May 30, 2022.

His candidature was initially approved by the IEBC but revoked days later because of the lack of a physical Degree Certificate in his submission.

Former Director of Programmes (Advocacy and outreach) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Walter Mong'are. /PHOTO

Babu Owino Moves To Have CS Susan Nakhumicha Impeached

Marvin Chege — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 16:09:07 +0300

Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP) Babu Owino is set to file a notice of motion seeking to have Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Susan Nakhumicha impeached from office.

In the notice seen by Viral Tea dated April 4, which we understand will be taken to the floor of the National Assembly on Thursday, the lawmaker revealed that he intends to move a Special Motion for the removal of the Cabinet Secretary for Health from office on two grounds,

Owino is accusing Nakhumicha of Gross violation of Articles 26(1) and 43(1)(a) of the Constitution; and incompetence in the motion he claimed has already received the support of 111 MPs.

Babu Owino addressing the media on April 3, 2024. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

"The above grounds are based on the following particulars: As a result of the doctors' strike, a majority of Kenyans' right to life as well as the right to the highest attainable standard of health has been grossly violated. Since the strike began on 15th March 2024, scores of Kenyans have been unable to access medical care, and in some dire cases, some have even lost their lives," the notice reads in part.

"The CS has exhibited incompetence in that she failed to avert the doctors' strike which has now entered its third week. The CS has failed to honour the doctors' Collective Bargaining Agreement and has instead taken a hard line and is instead threatening the striking doctors with immediate sacking and replacement."

Owino further accused CS Nakhumicha of failing to appreciate the seriousness of the strike and failing to provide a lasting solution to settle the demands of the medics including hiring of interns/ trainee doctors and payment of salary arrears.

He declared that he would be moving the motion and sought the resolution of the House to require President William Ruto to dismiss Nakhumicha from office at the helm of the Ministry of Health.

By the time of publishing this article, CS Nakhumicha has yet to respond to Babu Owino's allegations.

The Embakasi East Legislator, speaking at a joint press conference with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU), stated that if the government does not listen to the striking doctors, MPs will join the industrial action.

"We don't want government to demand, invite don't demand. When you push, we, KMPDU and MPs will push, when you pull, we'll resist....when you demand we will refuse," the MP said.

KMPDU, which has over 7,000 members, went on strike on March 15, 2024, to demand salary arrears and the immediate hiring of trainee doctors.

In efforts to quell the damaging effects of the strike entering its third week on Wednesday, the government released Ksh2.4 billion last night to facilitate the immediate deployment and posting of the 2023/24 cohort of medical student interns, something the KMPDU dismissed.

In an interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday evening, KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah rebuffed the government's efforts, stating, "The strike is on. I think it is on more than before," noting the union's determination to press on with their demands.

Doctors during a past strike in Kenya. /QUARTZ

Easy Coach Bus Full Of High School Students Involved In Accident While Heading To Nairobi

Marvin Chege — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 23:14:37 +0300

An Easy Coach bus ferrying high school students to Nairobi from Chavakali Boys High School has been involved in an accident.

Preliminary reports reaching Viral Tea's newsdesk reveal that the bus was involved in the Monday, April 1 accident along the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway.

In particular, the crash took place next to the Coptic Church roundabout near Mamboleo in Kisumu.

One student has so far been confirmed dead and several injured while others are trapped. St John Ambulance paramedics so far managed to rescue 10 who were seriously injured.

An Easy Coach bus transporting students from Chavakali Boys High School involved in an accident on April 1, 2024. /CYPRIAN NYAKUNDI

Photos seen by Viral Tea showed the bus lying on its left-hand side with a crowd milling around the scene.

The injured students from the accident have since been rushed to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisumu.

A student at the scene revealed that they had closed school and had boarded the bus from the school for Nairobi.

The accident occurred at the same time a grisly one took place involving five vehicles between the Salama area and Sultan Hamud along Mombasa Road.

The collision involved an 18-seater matatu, a trailer, a lorry, a saloon car and another Public Service Vehicle (PSV).

According to a police report seen by Viral Tea, the crash occurred when the lorry was being driven from Nairobi to Mombasa and on reaching the scene, the driver had failed to keep to its proper traffic lane.

The lorry also turned right abruptly and without due care and attention, an action that led to it colliding head-on with the matatu.

Due to the impact, the second matatu was brushed and thrown towards the trailer while the saloon car was brushed by the tail of the lorry.

"Due to the impact of the accident, four passengers in different motor vehicles are feared dead while others are seriously injured and have been rushed to Sultan Hamud Hospital.

"All the other vehicles except the offending lorry were heading towards the Nairobi general direction," the report read in part.

The identities of the victims by the time of going to press were yet to be identified. Witnesses at the scene rushed to assist in rescuing survivors.

Makueni County Ambulance arrived at the scene to aid in rescuing those trapped in the melee.

Additionally, the accident caused a traffic snarl-up with motorists approaching the scene being ordered to seek another alternative route.

The wreckage of an accident involving four vehicles along Mombasa Road on April 1, 2024. /SIKIKA ROAD SAFETY

11 Kenyatta University Students Killed After Bus Collides With Trailer

admin — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 19:48:12 +0300

UPDATE: Eleven students from Kenyatta University have been killed while 21 others were seriously injured following an accident in which a bus they were travelling in collided with a truck in the Maungu area near Voi on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway.

This was confirmed by Voi sub-county police commandant Dasala Ibrahim who said that those injured were rushed to hospitals around the area. 42 students were in various hospitals while four others were not immediately accounted for.

The bus was ferrying students heading to Mombasa for an academic trip.

Several students from Kenyatta University are feared dead after a bus they were travelling in was involved in an accident with a trailer on Monday, March 18.

The accident involving the two vehicles was reported in Maungu, Voi, Taita Taveta County resulting in the death and injuries of several students.

Photos seen by Viral Tea showed the bus heavily damaged from the back left-hand side by the loaded trailer, a matter which could have affected the students seated at the back.

Some of the students were seen motionless on the ground as eyewitnesses attempted to rescue the injured before police arrived.

Police at an accident scene involving a Kenyatta University bus on Monday, March 18, 2024. /PHOTO

Additionally, seats from the bus and other materials belonging to the students were scattered on the ground as it continued raining.

Police and a county emergency response team nonetheless arrived at the scene to assess the situation, offer emergency care to the injured and ferry the bodies to the local mortuaries.

The scene led to a massive traffic build-up as motorists stopped to watch in shock at the horrific accident scene. Police however guided the motorists to clear traffic along the road.

The university, while reacting to news of the accident, wrote: "Deeply saddened by the tragic news this evening."

"Sending our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the students of Kenyatta University who lost their lives in the accident at Maungu. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."

In other road accident news, five people have died in a grisly road accident involving a 14-seater Matatu and a tractor along Silibwet-Olenguruone Road in Bomet County.

Authorities stated that 23 other passengers were rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries. Among those who died in the accident was the Matatu driver, who wa said to have been speeding when the accident happened.

The matatu, which was travelling from Olenguruone in Nakuru toward Bomet, was said to have lost control and rammed into a tractor that was travelling in the opposite direction.

Eyewitnesses at the scene said the driver lost control as he was spotted more than two kilometres away, moving from one lane to another before ramming into the tractor.

Mugango Locatin acting chief Richard Cheruiyot said five people died on the spot with 23 people being rushed to hospital.

“We took a total of 23 people to Tenwek Hospital and all of them were inside the matatu except two who were traveling in the tractor,” the chief told the media.

He decried how the matatu had been overloaded saying a total of 27 people were traveling on the matatu.

Scene of an accident that occurred in Bomet on March 18, 2024. /THE STAR

Kisii Deputy Governor Robert Monda Impeached As Senate Makes History

Marvin Chege — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 00:18:52 +0300

Kisii Deputy Governor, Robert Monda has been impeached, becoming the first Deputy Governor under the 2010 constitution to be removed from office via an impeachment.

The Senators voted to uphold the DG's removal from office by way of impeachment, and thus, Monda ceases to hold office forthwith.

A vote taken by Senators on midnight, Friday, March 15 upheld the decision by the Kisii County Members of the County Assembly to have him removed from office.

The Senate found him guilty of and voted on the following four charges:

Gross Violation of the Constitution or any other law

Ayes (39), Nays (3), Abstentions (1)

Senate speaker Amason Kingi during his maiden speech on September 8, 2022. /STANDARD DIGITAL

Abuse of Office

Ayes (39), Nays (3), Abstentions (1)

Gross misconduct

Ayes (35), Nays (7), Abstentions (1)

Crimes under national law

Ayes (32), Nays (10), Abstentions (1)

It was believed that his decision to call Joseph Misati, the father of the main witness, Dennis Misati, to testify against him worked against him successfully, with many senators enraged by the public display of family feuds.

Dr Bonny Khalwale, the majority whip, moved the motion to impeach the Deputy Governor, arguing that, while the crimes had not been proven beyond reasonable doubt, the deputy governor was likely to have received the bribes.

“We will be lying to ourselves that the young man has not proved that he sent money to the Deputy Governor, we will be lying to ourselves if we discount the evidence of the two ladies, and we will be lying to ourselves, if we told the country that the DG did not receive the money,” Khalwale said.

Khalwale expresses his feelings about how broken the family is, with the main antagonists Misati and his father Joseph going head to head with each other at the plenary.

“God made man, man made money, and money made mad, to see a brother giving evidence against DG, to see a father giving evidence against assertions of his son, it can only be described as madness,” Khalwale said.

While seconding the motion, Migori Senator Eddy Oketch lamented how millions of young people are capable of working but are frustrated when they are asked for bribes.

“I might not know if the Deputy Governor is guilty or not, but I know that today’s vote will be for the millions of youths who are hustling out here, who are qualified, who are able and willing to work, but they are to give a bribe.” He said.

However, many senators who commented on the motion expressed sadness over the family breakdown, with some even asking Kenyans to pray for the family unit. Among them was Minority Whip Ledama Ole Kina who wondered why and how the family unit had collapsed with family members not seeing each other eye to eye.

“The two days have been the saddest day in the institution of the family, a family is supposed to be united and to protect each other, but we have been invited to come in between the family, what example are we showing to the younger generation.’’ the vocal senator posed.

"It’s a shame for a father to put his son in trouble and choose to stand against him, I want to assure you, my son, that if I ever put you in trouble, I will always stand with you," Kitui Senator Enock Wambua weighed in.

Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba however rallied her colleagues to vote to throw out the Deputy Governor rather than remain undecided.

“When I looked at the evidence of Ksh100,000 sent to the manager who was supposed to give a job, I knew that was the sword that would sink the deputy governor,” she said.

Murang'a Senator Joe Nyotu wondered how one could receive Ksh800,000 only to send Ksh100,000 to a person supposed to be giving the job, much to the amusement of the other Senators.

With Monda's ouster now confirmed, the impeachment also marks the first time under President William Ruto's regime that a deputy governor or governor's impeachment has been confirmed by the Senate.

Previous attempts by the Senate to ratify impeachment motions fronted by MCAs have failed, including that of Meru Governor, Kawira Mwangaza, whose impeachment by MCAs failed to go through at the Senate...twice!

What Happens Now?

Following the impeachment of Monda, Kisii Governor Simba Arati will be required to nominate a new deputy within the next 14 days.

The nominee will then be considered by the County Assembly within 60 days.

Inside the Kenyan Senate Chambers. /SENATE KENYA

EPRA Reduces Fuel Prices Hours After Ruto's Promise

admin — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 14:48:36 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced another reduction of fuel prices for the next month, hours after President William Ruto promised the same.

The latest monthly review announced on Thursday, March 14 reads as follows; Super Petrol prices reduced by Ksh7.21. Diesel was reduced by Ksh5.09 and Kerosene by Ksh4.49.

"In Nairobi, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene will now retail at Kshs.199.15, Kshs.190.38 and Kshs.188.74 effective midnight for the next 30 days," EPRA announced.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on March 14, 2024. /VIRALTEAKE

During the previous month, fuel prices were as follows: In Nairobi, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene retailed at Ksh206.36, Ksh195.47 and Ksh193.23.

The latest prices are inclusive of the 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020.

EPRA took into consideration the drop in the value of the dollar among other factors in calculating the latest fuel prices.

In particular, the applied exchange rate used in the latest review was Ksh148, in comparison with Ksh164.42 used last month to get the fuel prices.

"The trade of petroleum products in the international markets is denominated in United States Dollars (USD), and an exchange rate is applied to convert the USD to Ksh during the computation of local pump prices," EPRA noted.

In Mombasa, a litre of Petrol will retail at Ksh195.97 while Diesel will retail at Ksh187.21 whereas residents will purchase a litre of Kerosene for the next one month at Ksh185.58.

Motorists in Kisumu will buy a litre of Super Petrol at Ksh198.97 and Diesel at Ksh190.59 while EPRA set the price of Kerosene at Ksh188.96 per litre.

In Nakuru and Eldoret, motorists will purchase a litre of Super Petrol at Ksh198.21 and Ksh198.98 respectively.

The decrease came merely hours after President Ruto told Kenyans to expect lower fuel prices this month.

"I want to tell you that even the price of fuel is going down, you guys relax. What date is it today? The new fuel prices will be announced today, so relax," Ruto assured gathered residents in Kericho County after promising them better job opportunities.

"I told you I have everything under control, so just relax and know that everything is fine."

Jowie Irungu Sentenced To Death Over Monica Kimani Murder

admin — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 13:27:44 +0300

Joseph Irungu, alias Jowie, who was found guilty of the murder of businesswoman Monica Kimani, has been sentenced to death.

During the proceedings along Milimani Law Courts on Wednesday, March 13, Justice Grace Nzioka indicated that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.

In making her determination, she considered three factors; how the offence was committed, the consequence of the offence and the personality of Jowie.

"It was a gruesome murder, horrific and threatening," she described the nature of the murder, adding that Kimani's killer did not intend to even give her one minute to live.

Jowie Irungu in court on March 13, 2024. /X.NATION AFRICA

Probation Officer's Report

A pre-sentencing report indicated that Jowie maintained his innocence and he was shocked by how the crime was committed.

The probation officer noted in his report that Jowie had lacked stable partner relationships, exhibited an antisocial personality, was impartial and a thrill seeker and used his anger to control others.

"The probation officer reports that the accused person lacks stable partner relationships. He has anti-social personality patterns manifested by living on the edge. He is impulsive and a thrill seeker. He used anger or aggression to control others," the judge read the report by the probation officer.

It was reported by the court that Kimani's mother had cried several times during the writing of the report, forcing the probation officer to halt the interview on several occasions.

Kimani's brother was also reported to have stopped watching news as well as limited movements as well as trust in people.

Jowie's Plea To Family

Earlier, Jowie filed an application addressing the family of Kimani, who was murdered in September 2018, to which Justice Nzioka read during the proceedings, indicating that the convict appealed to Kimani to find peace amidst the current circumstances.

The statement is as follows:

"He said that nothing he says at this stage will relieve the pain of the family and he says the less he says the better. He expresses his sadness and such a tragic loss of life on extreme circumstances bordering (this caught my attention) on an act of absolute madness that is beyond understanding even to him (as he stands there convicted).

He says that it is his prayer that the deceased's family will find peace and that her soul will rest in eternal peace. He understands the terrible fear and pain that the deceased must have undergone in the hands of the perpetrator and he cannot perceive the same. He does appreciate that monetary compensation cannot relieve the pain of the loss of a loved one.

It is his prayer that the court can meet a custodial sentence. Although the victim's family is calling for a death sentence, the father of the victim was publicly heard saying he will not take vengeance and so the court should consider his views. He invited the court to consider that he is a first offender and was convicted purely on circumstantial evidence and the period he has spent in custody."

On their part, Kimani's family invited the court to consider that the accused was the main offender acting alone.

They defined the crime as cold murder and submitted that the family had been affected economically and her business was affected.

"No amount of compensation can bring the deceased back," the judge stated.

Jowie Irungu and Jacque Maribe in court. /FILE

Kenya Puts Police Deployment To Haiti On Hold

admin — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 19:35:05 +0300

Kenya has put its deployment of 1,000 police officers for a Peace Keeping Mission to Haiti on hold.

The move came following an announcement by Prime Minister Ariel Henry that he would resign from his position.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei told the BBC that without a political administration in Haiti, there was no anchor on which the police deployment could rest.

The Kenyan government will now have to wait for a new constitutional authority to be installed before making further decisions on the deployment of officers.

President William Ruto and Prime Minister of Haiti Ariel Henry, at State House, Nairobi on February 29, 2024. /PCS

“There has been a fundamental change in circumstances as a result of the resignation of the PM,” Dr Sing’oei was further quoted by the Nation.

“Without a political administration in Haiti, there is no anchor on which a police deployment can rest, hence the Government (of Kenya) will await the installation of a new constitutional authority in Haiti, before taking further decisions on the matter. Kenya reiterates commitment to providing leadership to the MSS.”

The move means the actual dates for the deployment of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti, endorsed by the UN Security Council in October last year will have to be dragged further.

The PM handed over his resignation on Monday, according to a statement from Mohammed Irfaan Ali, the president of Guyana and chairman of CARICOM.

"We acknowledge his resignation upon the establishment of a transitional presidential council and naming of an interim prime minister," Irfaan stated.

Following Henry's resignation, there has been significant pressure towards the Kenyan government to reconsider its decision to deploy police officers to Haiti.

Former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa called for the country to consider aborting its mission unless there are other interests Kenya seeks to achieve in the same.

“If Haitians rejected Ariel Henry with his so-called reciprocal agreement signed with Kenya and he obliged and resigned, they have rejected the deployment of Kenyan police to their Country, why is the KK regime insisting on the deployment of our officers on the basis of a dubious agreement signed by the deposed Prime Minister whose legitimacy and capacity to contract was questionable?” Wamalwa posed on X.

“The reasonable thing to do in the circumstances is to abort Mission unless there are other interests at play other than National Security interests."

The move by Henry to assume power after President Jovenelle Moise's assassination in 2021 was received bitterly by Haitians, more so, gangs that reigned terror in the Caribbean nation thereafter.

The now-former PM had taken the reins unelected which seemed to have accelerated the perpetual unrest with gangs mushrooming across the nation, all seeking dominance and more influence.

Since then, gangs have been causing havoc in the nation with kidnapping cases rising and endless murders being reported. Rights groups indicate that about 10 people are kidnapped every day in the capital as gangs depend on ransom money to sustain themselves.

As the gangs gained more dominance, a gang under the name G9 led by former police officer Jimmy Chérizier, nicknamed Barbeque, took more prominence in protesting the illegality of the government in place.

All the while, Henry's position as Prime Minister was still intact until a visit to Kenya on February 29, 2024, to seal a deal to launch a United Nations-backed multinational security force to fight gangs in Haiti, with Kenya agreeing to deploy 1,000 of its police officers.

The move sparked more violence, with Barbeque calling for Henry's resignation, and that he stay away from the country, warning of more dire consequences should the PM fail to step down.

"If Ariel Henry does not step down the country will suffer a genocide. If the international community continues to support Henry, they will lead us directly into a civil war," he told media outlets.

Immediate former Haiti Prime Minister, Ariel Henry. /PHOTO

High Court Gives Green Light For Affordable Housing Bill

Marvin Chege — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:23:58 +0300

The High Court sitting in Kisumu on Monday, March 4 allowed Parliament consisting of the National Assembly and the Senate to continue debating the Affordable Housing Bill after it threw out a petition challenging its procession.

This means that Parliament is allowed to continue debates on the Bill before it is assented to law by President William Ruto.

Lawrence Omule Apiyo acting as the petitioner had opposed the Bill arguing that it had not been subjected to satisfactory public participation before it was tabled to Parliament for debate.

"The third respondent (National Assembly) cannot be faulted for the manner in which it has conducted public participation in respect of the Affordable Housing Bill No 75 of 2023," the judgement read in part.

The National Assembly in session on June 14, 2023. /PARLIAMENT OF KENYA

"This court finds that public participation conducted by the third respondent was effective and constitutionally compliant."

The petitioner had listed the Attorney General, the Cabinet Secretary for Lands and the National Assembly as respondents in the case.

Justice Mwanaisha Sharif noted that public hearings and consultations with stakeholders and experts were concluded on January 30, 2024, and the Affordable Housing Bill had already undergone a second reading before Parliament and it was endorsed by Members of Parliament (MP).

The judge added that public participation conducted by Parliament was effective and constitutionally compliant, further stating that the Bill will provide a legal framework upon which the government will implement the Affordable Housing Levy and that the clerk of the National Assembly invited stakeholders and technical experts on January 12, 2024, and there were public hearings in 20 counties.

The Bill was brought before the House by the Majority Leader in the National Assembly Kimani Ichungwah on December 4, 2023.

However, Apiyo argued that the period for public participation was shrunk from 14 to three days before it was sent to the departmental committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works and that of Finance and National Planning.

The Clerk of the National Assembly had submitted that the public was invited to present their memoranda on December 9, 2023, and gave a deadline of December 28, 2023, though Apiyo believed that the public participation was not adequate and effective.

He attributed this to the marginalised not being considered as they were not allowed to submit their views.

Furthermore, according to the petitioner, there was no awareness, involvement and feedback mechanism but what happened was cosmetic public participation, claiming in addition that the government had no intention of facilitating adequate and effective public participation.

Housing Principal Secretary (PS) Charles Hinga however noted that the government sought to provide a legal framework for the Housing Levy after the High Court declared section 84 of the Finance Act unconstitutional.

Hinga added that the petition wanted to interfere with a constitutional process, yet the government was planning to construct four million houses at the end of the current term, According to him, the submission of memoranda was just one of the ways used for public participation.

The Bill is set to be considered by the Senate for concurrence given that certain components of the proposed amendments pertain to the jurisdiction of county governments.

President William Ruto overseeing the laying of the foundation of an affordable house in Murang'a on February 14, 2024. /PCS

Anti-Riot Police Shoot KMPDU Boss Davji Atellah During Nairobi Protests

admin — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 12:34:46 +0300

Anti-riot police are reported to have shot Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Dr Davji Bhimji Atellah as he was leading medical interns in protests within Nairobi.

KMPDU confirmed in a statement on Thursday, February 29 though did not divulge further details including what provoked the police to use excessive force against him.

The union further vowed to press on with protests by its members against the government's indifference to the plight of doctors in the country.

"We condemn in the strongest terms the shooting of our SG Davji Attelah by the police this afternoon when he was leading the Medical interns in a peaceful march.

KMPDU SG Davji Atellah during protests in Nairobi on Thursday, February 29, 2024. /KMPDU

"The doctors of Kenya have endured enough! This is the straw that breaks the camel's back," read the statement.

Images that Viral Tea has seen but cannot share due to their graphical nature showed Atellah drenched in blood while undergoing treatment at a Nairobi hospital after he incurred injuries from the shooting.

By the time of publishing this article, it was still unclear where the Secretary-General had been shot and the severity of the injury. However, reports indicated that he was allegedly shot by a tear gas canister.

Meanwhile, the protest ended as police abruptly dispersed the interns. The KMPDU Western Kenya branch has since called for a crisis meeting to deliberate on the same.

The KMPDU boss had, in a letter to the Nairobi Regional Police Commander, announced a peaceful protest in Nairobi on Thursday over the delayed posting of medical interns and the payment of fees for postgraduate students.

The medics marched from the Kenya Medical Association Centre in the Upper Hill area to the Ministry of Health offices and were thereafter to proceed to the Treasury headquarters in the city centre.

Dr. Atellah had last week threatened a nationwide strike if over 1,000 medical interns were not hired, further criticising the Ministry of Health for refusing to absorb the medics thereby denying Kenyans medical services.

“We write to inform you of our intention to conduct a peaceful procession concerning the delayed posting of medical interns and the payment of fees for postgraduate students.

"The procession is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 29th February 2024, commencing at 9:30 am,” Atellah commented.

He also vowed to collect the interns' placement letters on the stated date, if the Ministry failed to send them out.

The interns on their part staged protests themselves outside the Ministry of Health offices as their pleas continued to be ignored.

Medical interns protest outside Afya House over failure by the Ministry of Health to pay them their dues dating back to January. /THE STAR

Kenya Officially Placed On Grey List By Global Anti-Money Laundering Agency

Marvin Chege — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 16:49:24 +0300

Kenya has officially been placed on the 'grey list' of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for international Anti-Money Laundering, Countering the Financing of Terrorism, and Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction.

This was confirmed on Friday, February 23 by National Treasury Cabinet Secretary (CS) Njuguna Ndung'u.

"We wish to address the recent development concerning Kenya's status with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Kenya has officially been placed on its 'grey list,' indicating enhanced monitoring to ensure compliance with international Anti-Money Laundering, Countering the Financing of Terrorism, and Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (AML/CFT/CPF) obligations," he announced.

What Is A Grey List?

A grey list comprises countries at risk of failing to combat money laundering and terrorism but has made efforts to address the challenges.

The CS noted that this underscores the imperative for swift and comprehensive action to bolster the country's compliance efforts.

An image of a bundle of notes. /FILE

What Kenya Has Done To Curb Money Laundering

It is important to note that Kenya underwent an assessment conducted by the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG) in 2022, an evaluation, according to CS Ndung'u, that revealed a mixed picture.

The CS added that Kenya has demonstrated compliance in certain areas while facing challenges in others. One significant achievement worth noting is the enactment of the AML/CFT (Amendment) Act, 2023, which involved a comprehensive overhaul of existing legislation.

This legislative reform comprised 17 amendments to address various legal and technical compliance deficiencies identified in the Mutual Evaluation Report (MER).

"These amendments represent a crucial step towards aligning Kenya's legal framework with international standards. With the enactment of the AML/CFT (Amendment) Act, 2023, the Government subsequently amended the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Regulations, 2013 to align it with the AML/CFT Amendment Act," continued the CS.

"The new Regulations were gazetted on 6th October, 2023. Similarly, the Government reviewed the Prevention of Terrorism (Implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on the Suppression of Terrorism) Regulations, 2022 to align these Regulations with the amended Act and published the Prevention of Terrorism (Implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on the suppression of Terrorism) Regulations, 2023 which were also gazetted on 6th October 2023".

He further noted that the regulatory agencies, including the Central Bank of Kenya, Capital Markets Authority, and Insurance Regulatory Authority, among others, enhanced their AML/CFT risk-based supervision following the new powers provided by the AML/CFT Amendment Act by developing new AML/CFT supervision manuals and carried out numerous risk-based AML/CFT inspections to enforce compliance with the Act and their own regulations by reporting entities.

Notable, is the issuance for the first time of the AML/CFT Guidelines as well as on-site inspections of the Real Estate Agencies and Casino sectors by the Financing Reporting Centre, sectors which had been identified in the evaluation as high risk.

Similarly, FRC issued Guidance Circulars on Beneficial Ownerships, Terrorist Financing Prevention Measures, Cash Transaction Reporting and Risk-Based Approach to understanding ML/TF risks.

CS Ndung'u added that the other strategic intervention was the designation of lawyers as reporting entities under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, an issue which has been outstanding as a result of litigation.

"Successful negotiations with LSK led to an out-of-court consent whose terms included designating the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) as a Self-Regulatory Body, ring-fencing advocate client privilege and mechanisms for sharing of information between LSK and FRC.

"Pursuant to the consent, the relevant provisions for amendment were included in the Amendment Act. This paved way for lawyers to report money laundering suspicion through LSK which takes effect from 15th March 2023," he went on.

Moreover, other implementing agencies were revealed to have undertaken significant efforts to bolster Kenya's AML/CFT/CPF regime, with CS Ndung'u citing coordination frameworks, risk assessments, and capacity-building initiatives have been instrumental in improving domestic cooperation and coordination among law enforcement agencies.

"Kenya acknowledges the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing AML/CFT/CPF challenges. We seek the support of our international partners, including the European Union (EU), United Kingdom (UK), and United States (US) for whom we have been discussing Technical Assistance Support, to facilitate support to develop capabilities for capacity diverse actions and instruments in this dynamic environment. Collaboration and technical assistance from these partners will be crucial in our efforts to enhance our AML/CFT/CPF framework strengthens our regulatory institutions and expedite our exit from the grey list.

"While there are still strategic deficiencies that require urgent attention, Kenya remains fully committed to implementing the FATF Action Plan comprehensively and expeditiously. We will review the progress made to date and develop a comprehensive strategy to address remaining deficiencies. Adequate resources will be allocated to ensure timely compliance and exit from the grey list," CS Ndung'u expressed confidence.

Ksh13 Million stuffed in sacks recovered by police in Parklands on Tuesday, August 15. /DCI

What is FATF & Functions

The Financial Action Task Force (on Money Laundering) (FATF), also known by its French name, Groupe d'action financière (GAFI), is an intergovernmental organisation founded in 1989 on the initiative of the G7 to develop policies to combat money laundering and to maintain certain interest. In 2001, its mandate was expanded to include terrorism financing.

The objectives of FATF are to set standards and promote effective implementation of legal, regulatory and operational measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system.

When Ruto, Rachel Ruto Will Meet Biden, Jill Biden In US- White House

admin — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:58:51 +0300

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto will fly to the United States (US) on May 23, 2024, to be hosted by US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden.

This was announced by the White House through Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

"President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will host President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto of the Republic of Kenya for a State Visit to the United States on May 23, 2024.

"The upcoming visit will mark the 60th anniversary of U.S.-Kenya diplomatic relations and will celebrate a partnership that is delivering for the people of the United States and Kenya," the statement from the White House read in part.

President William Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto, US President Joe Biden and First Lady, Jill Biden at the White House. /FILE

The visit will strengthen Kenya and the US's shared commitment to advance peace and security, expand their economic ties, and stand together in defence of democratic values.

Jean Pierre added that the leaders will discuss ways to bolster the cooperation between the two countries in areas including people-to-people ties, trade and investment, technological innovation, climate and clean energy, health, and security.

"The visit will affirm our strategic partnership with Kenya and further the vision set forth at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit: African leadership is essential to addressing global priorities," added the statement.

Ruto minutes after the White House announcement expressed his appreciation to the Biden administration for the invite to the US, a visit he said would provide an opportunity for both US and Kenyan governments and nations to celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations, which began at the dawn of Kenya's independence from colonial rule, and the birth of a free, open, democratic sovereign nation.

"I look forward to engaging with President Biden on a broad range of matters of mutual interest to our nations, not just in terms of sectors of economic, political and diplomatic spheres of endeavour, but also with respect to our shared commitment to the fundamental values which define the strong policy convergence and robust strategic alignment of our enterprises, peoples and governments.

"Kenya views the state visit as a high profile opportunity to articulate a new era of dynamic partnership aimed at transforming trade and investment, green energy and climate action, digital technology and innovation, health and human development, peace and security as well as multilateralism and collective action to deliver shared prosperity for Kenya, Africa, the Global South and the entire world," he wrote on his social media pages.

Jill Biden was notably in Kenya in February 2023 where she visited drought-affected communities in Kenya and appealed for wealthy nations to give more as the Horn of Africa suffered its driest conditions in decades.

The 72-year-old community college professor had also met with women and youth leaders toured an informal settlement and laid a wreath for those killed in the 1998 US embassy bombing in Nairobi.

As part of her itinerary, Dr Biden made a personal visit to the Women for Peace Group in Kibera to experience the table banking model, championed by Mama Rachel Ruto through the Mama Doing Good Organization.

She marked her last visit to Kenya through a meeting with President Ruto and his Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi on February 26, 2023.

Currently, Ruto flew out of the country for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia where he is expected to attend the 37th African Union Summit of Heads of State and Government.

President William Ruto (right) and US First Lady Jill Biden in the company of DP Rigathi Gachagua and Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi shortly before her departure at JKIA on February 26, 2023. /WILLIAM RUTO

Raila Declares Interest In African Union Chairperson Position

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 11:20:36 +0300

Azmio la Umoja leader and former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, has publicly announced his interest in succeeding Moussa Faki as the African Union Chairperson.

Speaking in a press conference, Raila revealed that he was ready to serve the African continent following consultations.

“I have been consulting widely. I think I am ready to serve the continent of Africa.

"Africa deserves better. I am ready for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission," he declared.

African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Moussa Faki. /THE GUARDIAN NIGERIA

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader indicated that he was ready to raise Africa's status to its premier and rightful position which will help in addressing some of the thorny issues in the continent.

"I am ready to serve Africa mainly because as a Pan-Africanist I believe strongly that Africa is playing in a league that it should not be playing. Africa deserves better.

“If we marshal our resources as a continent, pull in one direction, then we can be able to make Africa greater,” Raila added.

Supporting him was former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo who remarked that Raila was the right man to succeed Faki.

"I have no doubt that my friend who is standing next to me is the right person to take over the mantle. If the EAC region backs him, I believe the rest of the continent will support him,” Obasanjo stated while flanked by Raila.

"People who have held the position of head of government either as President or PM are most suitable for this job. Looking at it critically, it is the turn of East Africa."

While defending his stance, Obasanjo affirmed that the African Union needs a person who understands the continent and can address various problems bedevilling it.

With Raila having experience while wielding the position of Prime Minister, Obasanjo made it clear that he would properly execute the mandate given the opportunity.

"We need a person with experience and who understands the situation Africa is in, and who comes from a background that can make a difference to take charge of AU," Obasanjo added.

Raila served as Kenya's second prime minister between 2007 and 2013. He does have previous experience in the African Union as he served as its High Representative for Infrastructure from October 2018 to February 2023.

As African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development, Raila had an office in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, which facilitated his travel to different countries, as well as access to a special visa and preferred treatment at various airports during his official travels.

During his tenure, he advocated for trans-African highways, high-speed rail networks, open skies, energy creation, fibre optic cable connections, and water transport. To fund the projects, the former Prime Minister explained the importance of setting up African infrastructure funds using sovereign, insurance, and pension funds.

The AU Chair is elected on a four-year term with the option to be reelected once. Moussa Faki is in his final second term having assumed the position in 2015.

Prof Makau Mutua, Azimio Chief Raila Odinga and Leadership Group Director Abraham Nda-Ishaiah in Abuja, Nigeria on January 30, 2023. /RAILA ODINGA

Ruto Defies Court, Orders All Schools, Universities To Pay Fees Via eCitizen

admin — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 14:33:33 +0300

The Cabinet has approved the digitization of Kenya's entire education system, despite the High Court issuing and extending conservatory orders suspending the government directive that all parents and guardians whose learners are in national schools make payments through the eCitizen platform

In a despatch sent to Viral Tea depicting the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, February 14, the Cabinet explained that the intervention was necessary to eliminate issues haunting the education sector including the overcharging of school fees.

It was also revealed that the digitisation plan would cut down on the high number of ghost students.

"In keeping with the Administration’s digital transformation agenda, Cabinet sanctioned the digitization of the entire education system, spanning from basic education to tertiary and university levels.

President William Ruto leading Cabinet Secretaries during a Cabinet meeting on February 14, 2024. /FLORENCE BORE

"This intervention aims to address the governance challenges within our education system that has led to parallel accounts, charging of unauthorised school fees, diversion of the exchequer releases on capitation and other fraudulent activities that undermine the integrity of the education system, leading to the enrollment of ghost students," read the dispatch in part.

The approval is a shift from the government targeting national schools in the initial eCitizen plan.

A letter addressed to all principals dated January 31, 2024, by Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang, revealed that the new form of payment, which is in line with the government's directive to consolidate all platforms through pay bill number 222222, was to begin to take effect on Tuesday, February 6.

"The directorate of e-Citizen in partnership with the Information Communication Technology Authority (ICTA), Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy and the National Treasury have been coordinating the onboarding of all government services onto the E-citizen platform to enhance service delivery.

"As part of compliance with the requirements, it is directed that parents/guardians make fee payments for their learners in your institutions through this platform," the letter read in part.

The school heads were therefore asked to provide the respective particulars of their schools to be aligned with the government system. Expected from the principals included the institutions' bank details such as account name, bank, account number, bank code, and branch code.

However, the directive was suspended by the High Court on Wednesday, February 7 after a doctor from Nakuru County, Magare Gikenyi on Tuesday, February 6 moved to court seeking orders to have the directive quashed.

Justice Chacha Mwita of the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi extended the conservatory orders and directed the case to proceed for mentioning on April 17, 2024, offering relief to parents ahead of half-term breaks and the commencement of the second term.

Gikenyi, a consultant trauma and general surgeon working for the county government of Nakuru, had moved to court to challenge the initiative which he termed illegal, arguing that it violated the principles of good governance.

According to him, parents in rural areas who had been accustomed to paying school fees via non-monetary means (trading maize and beans to the school) will be “locked out through this unfair administrative action.”

Recently, President William Ruto while addressing a delegation in Tokyo, Japan stood by the decision to compel parents to pay school fees through the unified government platform, arguing that it was geared at ensuring transparency and well-judged use of funds for the benefit of learners.

A screenshot of the eCitizen platform. /FILE

Escaped Murder Suspect Kelvin Kang'ethe Arrested

admin — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:34:47 +0300

Murder suspect Kelvin Kang'ethe, who was accused of killing Kenyan nurse Margaret Mbitu at a US-based airport in 2023 and who escaped from custody at the Muthaiga Police Station has been arrested.

Viral Tea understands that Kang'ethe was arrested in Ngong Town, Kajiado County, almost a week after his daring escape from Muthaiga Police Station.

"He (Kevin Kang'ethe) was arrested in Ngong where he had gone to visit his cousin," an officer attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) told the Nation.

His family members confirmed the arrest, stating that he was taken into custody at the Ngong police station just after 11 p.m. on Tuesday under tight security.

A signpost at Muthaiga Police Station. /PHOTO

A manhunt was launched for him moments after he was reported to have gone missing from the police station where he had been detained after being presented in court on January 31, 2024, following his initial arrest in Westlands.

Preliminary reports had indicated that a man who claimed to be Kang’ethe’s lawyer went to see him at the station and police allowed him to leave the cell and go outside to meet his alleged advocate.

A police report which narrated details of the incident that left the country's security apparatus on the spot indicated that the daring escape happened at around 5.30 pm on Wednesday, in the presence of the station commander who only heard a commotion as her officers attempted to chase after the fleeing Kang'ethe.

Moments later, however, the suspect was said to have fled the office by running away, leaving the lawyer behind, who was later arrested and will be expected to help police with information on what transpired during the visit.

“At the time of the escape the station commander was chairing a meeting/lecture with all the Anti-crime personnel and members of the inspectorate while at her office, she was alerted by a loud noise of officers who were chasing the prisoner along Thika Super Highway but they did not manage to re-arrest him,” the report read in part.

The officers were, however, unable to catch up with him as he managed to outmanoeuvre them in meticulous circumstances, and in broad daylight.

Staff Officer Operations (SOOPs) attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Regional Criminal Investigations Officers (RCIOs) in Nairobi and other senior officers visited the scene to establish how the events unfolded.

The four officers were arrested alongside the alleged advocate and also recorded statements which will help determine if they helped Kang'ethe to escape. They were later interdicted based on being on duty when the incident occurred.

Police thereafter pinpointed the location of the mobile phone believed to have been used by Kang'ethe to Machakos County after it was handed over to him by the advocate, who was believed to have arrived at the police station on Wednesday afternoon, February 7 wishing to talk to his client.

The two had engaged in a brief session, and the lawyer was allowed to approach the suspect under the guise that this was a regular visit by an attorney. As is the norm, the officers escorted the suspect from his cell and took him to the anti-crime office, leaving the two men alone.

The advocate, identified as John Ndegwa Maina, was placed in police custody. Family members such as Kang'ethe's brother, the brother's girlfriend and his cousin, Beatrice Ng'ethe, were arrested in connection with the escape.

Preliminary investigations had revealed that the suspect relied on mobile phone numbers registered by relatives to evade police as his phone signals were switched off.

Kang'ethe, at the time of his escape, was awaiting to be extradited to the United States (US) to face a first-degree murder charge in connection with Mbitu's death at Logan International Airport in Boston in November 2023.

Collage of Kelvin Kang'ethe, arrested over the murder of Magaret Mbitu. /MWAKILISHI.COM.CNN

Jowie Irungu Guilty Of Monica Kimani Murder, Jacque Maribe Freed

admin — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 11:39:05 +0300

Joseph Irungu, alias Jowie, has been found guilty of the murder of Nairobi businesswoman Monica Kimani in 2018.

Subsequently, former Citizen TV anchor Jacque Maribe has been acquitted of the murder of Kimani.

For Jowie, Lady Justice Grace Nzioka indicated that the prosecution had proved to the court that the security personnel committed the offence.

For Maribe however, the judge noted that there was no concrete evidence to prove that the former news anchor was involved in the murder which occurred on September 19, 2018.

Joseph Irungu alias Jowie defends himself in court on May 11, 2023. /DAILY NATION

Jowie Irungu Judgment

Before the judgement, Justice Nzioka raised the following questions:

Whether Jowie Irungu knew Monica before her death
Whether he stole and used the stolen I.D to access where the deceased was staying
Whether the clothes he was wearing implicate him in the commission of the offence
Whether he was in the deceased house
Whether he was the last person to be seen with the deceased
Whether he had a gun and whether he was positively identified on the identification parade.

Justice Nzioka found that Jowie deliberately misled the court by denying any prior acquaintance with the late Monica Kimani, as she found conclusive evidence contradicting his assertions, establishing his prior knowledge of Monica Kimani before her tragic demise.

In 2023 during the trial, Jowie told the court that he never knew Kimani and never visited her city residence in Kilimani the night she was killed.

While defending himself against allegations of murdering Monica, Jowie told Justice Nzioka that he was not at her house in Lamuria Gardens when she was killed in September 2018.

“I never visited Monica at her residence and l never talked to her since l did not know her. I knew her brother George Kimani,” Jowie told the court.

"The 1st accused (Jowie Irungu) claimed he did not know the deceased at all. George Kimani, the deceased’s brother submitted that Jowie and Monica Kimani were in the same class in 2002 taking the same course in hotel and beverage management," the judge countered.

The court further agreed with the prosecution's evidence that the security personnel was the last person to be with the businesswoman before her death.

"When the Doctrine of Last Seen is applied, the law presumes that the person last seen with the deceased was responsible for their death, and the accused is supposed to present an explanation of what happened," she stated.

Furthermore, the court found that Jowie stole the identification card of Dominic Bisera Haron, a resident of the same Langata Road estate where Jowie and Jackie Maribe resided.

The ID presented to the guard by a person entering Monica's apartment complex on the fateful day had gone missing at the Royal Apartments, where Jowie and Jacque were residents, just two days before the tragic murder.

Jacque Maribe Judgment

For Maribe, the prosecution filed the following accusations against the former journalist:

She was in the vicinity of the commission of the murder.
The vehicle used in the commission of the offence was hers.
She aided and abetted the first accused person (Jowie) by providing the car.
She switched off her phone at the time of the murder.
She gave police false information regarding a shootout involving Jowie to mislead police investigations.
She was aware of the destruction of evidence which would have been used in the murder case.

"It is the finding of the court that the second accused person's statement made on the gun shooting was false," the judge ruled.

How Jowie and Jacque Maribe Got Involved

Monica Kimani was found murdered at her apartment in Nairobi in September 2018. The businesswoman had just arrived in the country from South Sudan before she was found murdered in her bathtub.

After investigations were launched into the matter, police arrested Jowie upon accusations of murdering the businesswoman. Police accused Jowie of being among the last people to be with the businesswoman in her apartment.

10 days after the murder incident, Maribe was arrested by police, with the former journalist accused of taking part in the murder. The case that dragged on for more than five years saw 35 witnesses testify.

Former Citizen TV Anchor Jacque Maribe and Jowie Irungu in court on Friday, February 9, 2024. /ALINUR MOHAMED

Cause of Monica Kimani's Death

There was an irregular inversive wound on the neck caused by a sharp object as well as bruises on the wrists of both legs.

According to the Court, the person who murdered the businesswoman possessed military-like training and intended to kill her instantly.

Court Suspends Ruto Directive To Parents To Pay School Fees Via eCitizen

admin — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 16:11:33 +0300

The High Court has issued conservatory orders suspending the government directive that all parents and guardians whose learners are in national schools make payments through the eCitizen platform as directed by the Ministry of Education.

This is after a doctor from Nakuru County moved to court seeking orders to have the directive quashed.

Milimani Law Courts Judge Chacha Mwita issued the order on Wednesday, February 7 following a petition filed by the doctor, Magare Gikenyi on Tuesday, February 6.

Justice Mwita hence suspended the circular by Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang pending further directions to be issued in the case on February 13, 2024.

Outside the Milimani Law Courts. /FILE

"That an interim conservatory order is herby issued suspending the Circular or letter by the Principal Secretary (Belio R Kipsang), Ministry of Education dated 31st January 2024, requiring parents/Guardians and or students to pay fees and or any other levies for all government learning institutions through e-citizen platform or any other Digital platform(s) until 13th February 2024, when the court will issue further directions in this petition," read part of the court order.

On Wednesday, President William Ruto while addressing a delegation in Tokyo, Japan stood by the decision to compel parents to pay school fees through the unified government platform, arguing that it was geared at ensuring transparency and well-judged use of funds for the benefit of learners.

“You may have heard the latest about school fees in Kenya, or money paid by parents for example in boarding schools. We provide resources for learning in all our primary and secondary schools through what parents pay," Ruto stated.

“We are insisting because we realised there are illegal levies charged by the board of management of schools that go into accounts that nobody knows, we have insisted that all monies charged to Kenyans must be transparent.”

A letter addressed to all principals dated January 31, 2024, by Basic Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang revealed that the new form of payment, which is in line with the government's directive to consolidate all platforms through pay bill number 222222, was to begin to take effect on Tuesday, February 6.

"As part of compliance with the requirements, it is directed that parents/guardians make fee payments for their learners in your institutions through this platform," the letter read in part.

On Monday, the government through Kipsang's Immigration counterpart Julius Bitok on Monday, February 5 revealed that more schools would be included in the plan.

"To ensure a smooth rollout, the new payment system will be implemented in phases beginning with National schools and subsequently extending to Extra County and County schools," PS Bitok stated.

A screenshot of the eCitizen platform. /FILE

Owner Of Gas Plant In Embakasi Explosion Surrenders To Police

admin — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 16:37:28 +0300

Derrick Kimathi, the owner of the property at Mradi village in Embakasi where a huge explosion occurred on Thursday night, February 1, has surrendered to police.

Reports that have reached Viral Tea's newsdesk indicate that Kimathi surrendered himself to Embakasi police station where he is currently being grilled. He was accompanied by his lawyer, Wandugi Kirathe.

The gas plant proprietor is being grilled by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over the Thursday night tragedy that has since killed six people and injured over 300 others.

The aftermath of the Embakasi explosion that occurred on February 2, 2024. /PHOTO

“He is still talking to the team handling the matter. We will know more,” Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei told the media.

Police have been pursuing seven suspects in connection with the explosion, including Kimathi, the proprietor of the illegal gas filling plant and Steve Kioko, Kimathi’s partner.

Kimathi's lawyer had previously dismissed reports that his client was running the premises against the law, indicating that it was operating as a garage and not a gas-filling station.

“Our client had not been operating a gas filling operation on that premises. The premises, for the last few years, has been operating as a garage and until Thursday, it was still operating as a garage. The motor vehicle that caused this incident was trespassing into this property without his knowledge and consent,” Karathe claimed to the media.

Also being sought after was the driver of the truck that is suspected to have caused the explosion whom they are yet to confirm whether he escaped or was among the casualties; and four officials from the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) who were suspended for allegedly issuing a license illegally to Kimathi’s company.

The four include; the Director of Environmental Compliance, Acting Deputy Director Compliance, Head of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) section, and Senior Environmental Officer in the EIA section.

A NEMA official was earlier arrested following a directive by President William Ruto for the arrest and prosecution of officials who issued licences to the gas plant linked to the Embakasi explosion on Thursday.

The official, a director at NEMA, was arrested, with Bungei confirming the same. The official is assisting police with investigations as the police boss reiterated the commitment to apprehending all individuals involved.

As part of the ongoing investigation into the explosion and the resulting fatalities, authorities plan to conduct autopsies on the victims, and those found culpable may face charges related to murder.

Bungei earlier on Monday dismissed fears of another gas leak reported in the area which caused panic among Embakasi residents to the point of taking precautionary measures, including evacuating from the area where the explosion occurred three days ago.

“I want to assure other members of the public that their safety is assured and have ransacked this area and there is no container that still has gas in it. All of them are empty,” said Bungei.

Nairobi County secretary Patrick Analo in a press address assured that they took all precautionary measures in a bid to avert a similar experience as the one witnessed a few days ago, announcing that the county had already started evacuating people from that site over fears of a fresh explosion.

Meanwhile, the victims and their families are hoping for compensation from both the owners of the yard where the explosion occurred and the government.

School children in panic as they are directed to head home promptly after a second leak reported in Embakasi following the gas explosion on Thursday#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/cvSmOAofs0
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) February 5, 2024

Embakasi Explosion: 4 Govt Officials Suspended Moments After Ruto Order

admin — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 11:50:02 +0300

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has announced the suspension of four of its officials in connection with the Embakasi gas explosion that claimed the lives of three people.

The four include the Director of Environmental Compliance, the Acting Deputy Director of Compliance, the Senior Environmental Officer of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) section and the Head of Environmental Impact Assessment.

"Preliminary investigation has revealed that four NEMA officers unprocedurally processed the license and are therefore culpable. The Board therefore directs that the implicated officers step aside immediately pending further investigation by the relevant government agencies," a statement by Emilio Mugo, the Chairman of NEMA Board of Management, read in part.

Firefighters at the Embakasi explosion on February 2, 2024. /MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

NEMA revealed in its preliminary investigations that the gas plant owners forwarded an Environment Impact Assessment project report to NEMA while seeking permission to install and operate the Embakasi facility. The report was submitted to NEMA on July 29, 2020.

The EIA Project report was then dispatched on April 25, 2022, to the following lead agencies for sectorial review and comments to guide NEMA on the licensing process:

Energy & Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA)
Director of Physical Planning - Nairobi City
Water Resources Authority
Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health
Nairobi City Water & Sewerage Company
Director of Urban Planning and Development

On July 28 of the same year, a review of the project was done and several issues were raised with NEMA advising the gas owners to address them before another scheduled review.

NEMA sought clarity on the land ownership and asked the owners to provide evidence of undertaking consultation with immediate neighbours of the Nyayo Estate Residents Association. The proponents of the project respond vide documents dated August 22, 2022 and February 1, 2023.

"The Project Proponent submitted a comprehensive EIA report with potential impacts identified and mitigation measures proposed in the Environmental Management Plan. A record of the decision was made to issue the proposed project with an ElA licence," NEMA stated.

NEMA then issued the licence with conditions that the owners ought to have met, including compliance with various laws in the construction of the LPG plant.

However, the board found gaps in the issuance of the license to the LPG plant in question and discovered that the four officials issued the licence unprocedurally, leading to their suspension.

"The Board further requests the relevant government agencies to commence immediate investigation. The National Environment Management Authority's Management is also hereby directed to cooperate with the already established multi-agency teams handling the incident," added NEMA.

The directive came moments after President William Ruto ordered the dismissal, arrest and detainment of government officials responsible for allowing the operation of the gas plant that exploded in Embakasi on Thursday night.

President Ruto orders government officials arrested in 24 hours over Embakasi gas explosion#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/HfRaB22tKj
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) February 3, 2024

Embakasi Gas Explosion: Ruto Orders Govt Officials Arrested In 24 Hours

Marvin Chege — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 10:57:31 +0300

President William Ruto has ordered the dismissal, arrest and detainment of government officials responsible for allowing the operation of the gas plant that exploded in Embakasi on Thursday night.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony for Chekalini Market in Lugari, Kakamega County, Ruto accused the officials of issuing licences to the gas filling plant which was found to be operating against the law.

According to him, unscrupulous government officials issued business permits to the facility to conduct gas businesses within the residential area, thus endangering Kenyan lives.

The President thus called for the officials to be dismissed, arrested and arraigned to face charges against them in 24 hours.

Aftermath of a huge explosion reported at Embakasi, Nairobi (left) on February 2, 2023. /VIRAL TEA KE

"In Nairobi, there was an explosion causing grave injuries to many people because of laziness, deceit and corruption in government offices. Some granted a licence for the plant to be established at a residential area endangering the lives of Kenyans," Ruto stated.

"I have instructed the Ministry that those responsible for granting the licence where it shouldn't should be fired, arrested and detained today."

Ruto also claimed that the government officials were bribed to flout regulations, which culminated in the incident that claimed the lives of three Kenyans and led to the injuries of 280 others.

"They (gas filling plant owners) were instructed not to establish the facility but due to bribery and lack of discipline, the licence was issued and now we have a problem in our hands," the head of state revealed.

Meanwhile, Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) boss Daniel Kiptoo disclosed that the gas plant had managed other facilities in Embakasi and Nanyuki, with EPRA officials raiding the latter.

According to Kiptoo, during the raid on the Nanyuki facility, the EPRA officials arrested its staff as it turned out that the facility was only licensed to operate as an LPG gas transporter.

The staff were also found to be illegally refilling gas on various brands of gas cylinders without authorisation.

"The facility is owned by a company that is licenced by us as a transporter of LPG. The company is also licenced to operate a facility in Nanyuki.

"We did raid the facility the week before last. We found them conducting illegal activities of filling other brand owners' cylinders. We did arrest those who were present on site and prosecuted them in court. The matter is ongoing," the DG told NTV.

Furthermore, he attributed the Embakasi explosion to gas leaks caused by the filling of cylinders unprocedurally, in a way that was likely to put the lives of Kenyans at risk.

"Our preliminary investigations show that they were filling LPG cylinders directly out of a truck and that is an offence under legal notice 100.

"We are following up in a multi-agency manner to ensure that those responsible are brought to book," he added.

A watchman at the facility was arrested, with the identities of the owners yet to be disclosed.

Aftermath of a huge explosion reported at Embakasi, Nairobi on February 2, 2023. /VIRAL TEA KE

Kindiki To Prioritize Demolition Of All Illegal LPG Gas Dealers

admin — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 18:49:06 +0300

The Ministry of Interior and Coordination jointly with the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum on Friday, February 2 announced that it will demolish all Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) plants in the country found to be operating against the law.

CSs Kithure Kindiki and his colleague Davis Chirchir announced this in a joint statement as part of plans to undertake a fresh risk assessment for all LPG plants in the country.

"In order to sustain these compliance efforts, both the Ministries of Energy and Petroleum and, Interior and Administration of National Government are collaborating with EPRA to prioritize the demolition of all illegal sites through the Multi-Agency Rapid Results Initiative;

"Ensure that fresh risk assessment is undertaken for all LPG plants in the country with the view of closing all non-compliant sites," announced the two CSs.

Cooking gas cylinders on display. /STANDARD DIGITAL

Other measures undertaken include the immediate rollout of the Government LPG growth strategy which includes the development and implementation of a track and trace framework for LPG cylinders to improve traceability and accountability.

Further, punitive administrative measures to all LPG operators found filling cylinders without the written authority of the brand owners will be applied.

"Strengthen the LPG data verification framework so as to improve accountability by players in the sector;

"Enhance public awareness and sensitization programs to promote LPG safety. The Government shall hold Nationwide LPG Stakeholder workshops with a view to strengthening the policy and regulatory framework in the LPG sector," the statement added.

The two CSs added that their teams will fully collaborate with other Government agencies to investigate this incident and prosecute any persons found in breach of the law.

Kindiki X Chirchir Investigations: What They Found

Kindiki and Chirchir revealed in their investigations that there were three applications made to EPRA for a permit to construct an LPG storage and filling plant on separate dates; March 19, 2023, June 20, 2023, and July 31, 2023. All of them were rejected for not meeting the set criteria.

It was further revealed that on two occasions; in March 2020 and January 2021, the plant that was illegally constructed at the said location was demolished by EPRA and the operators charged in Court.

"Preliminary findings indicate that on the fateful night, the refilling of LPG cylinders was done using direct manifold connections to the LPG tanker increasing the risk of leakage and explosion," the CSs explained the cause of the blast.

"EPRA works with different enforcement agencies to undertake surveillance and enforcement, especially in the petroleum and LPG sectors. More than 10 illegal sites have been demolished in the recent past."

The unfortunate incident resulted in the loss of three lives and over 200 injuries, a matter Kindiki and Chirchir termed highly regrettable.

"We wish quick recovery to the injured and send sincere condolences to those who have lost their loved ones.

"We commend the search and rescue efforts that have been put in place by various Government agencies, development partners and private citizens. The Government shall work to ensure the over 400 families affected have their immediate needs addressed." concluded the statement.

The site has since been designated as a crime scene and is currently under surveillance to facilitate both recovery and investigative operations.

Aftermath of the Embakasi explosion incident which occurred on January 2, 2024. /JAVAS BIGAMBO

2 Killed, 222 Injured After Huge Explosion Reported In Embakasi [VIDEO]

admin — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:02:47 +0300

UPDATE: The government has announced that two people have been killed and 222 others have been injured following a huge explosion that occurred at Mradi area, Embakasi, Nairobi on late Thursday night.

In a statement on Friday, February 2, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura revealed that a lorry of an unknown registration number that was loaded with gas exploded, igniting a huge ball of fire that spread widely.

A flying gas cylinder hit Oriental Godown, burning down the said godown which deals with garments & textiles.

"Consequently, the inferno further damaged several vehicles and commercial properties, including many small and medium sized businesses. Sadly, residential houses in the neighborhood also caught fire, with a good number of residents still inside as it was late at night.

"As a result, two fellow kenyans have regrettably lost their lives while being attended to at the Nairobi West Hospital. The government sends its most sincere to the families of the departed souls," stated Mwaura in part.

In addition, 222 other Kenyans were injured by the fire, and have been rushed to various hospitable as follows: 21 at the Kenyatta National Hospitall, 160 at Mama Lucy General Hospital, 19 at Mbagathi Hospital, 14 at Modern Komarock Hospital, and 8 at Nairobi West Hospital.

The scene has now been secured and a command center is now in place to help coordinate rescue operations and other intervention efforts.

The government has confirmed a fire outbreak at midnight on Friday, February 2 at a tank company in Embakasi, Nairobi.

A statement shared on X by Government Spokesperson, Isaac Mwaura revealed that the outbreak occurred at Kentainers Company Limited near Kabansora in Embakasi, Nairobi.

"The company was refilling gas cylinders when the fire broke out and several people were injured and rushed to hospital.

"The building hosting the company is badly damaged. The cause of the fire remains unknown," stated Mwaura in part.

Here is the video:

NEWS JUST IN: Fire following a huge explosion heard at a gas plant near skyline estate in Embakasi#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/eoH3MiLH8Q
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) February 1, 2024

Members of the public have been advised to avoid the area as rescue operations are underway including fire engines being deployed to the area.

Videos seen by Viral Tea showed huge flames raging through the company followed by a loud explosion, which could also be seen from the Nairobi skyline.

Residents of an apartment near the affected area were frightened by the incident after hearing a loud bang and made to watch a huge fireball shoot up into the air, turning the night sky orange, moments before the huge smoke was seen.

Panicked residents scampered for safety in a script that felt more like an apocalypse.

The number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, though panic gripped the area and many people are feared to be injured.

This is the third fire incident reported in the country this week and the second in Nairobi. On Tuesday, January 30, several buildings were set ablaze after a fire broke out in Kitengela Town, Kajiado County.

The fire notably engulfed the building which sat near a local bank. The cause of the fire was yet to be established, coming moments after another fire swept through businesses at City Stadium in Nairobi.

“A fire incident has been reported near City Stadium, Nairobi County, impacting local businesses, response teams have been activated,” noted the Red Cross earlier.

Videos shared by eyewitnesses showed onlookers standing at a distance as the fire wreaked havoc, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

A fire brigade believed to belong to the Nairobi County government could be seen in the vicinity.

Earlier a section of Kenyan had shared photos of the billowing smoke online, with the majority trying to pinpoint the location of the fire.

The amount of loss incurred by the businesses, the majority of which are small-scale traders and second-hand cloth sellers was reported to run into millions of shillings.

Fire engulfing markets near City Stadium in Nairobi on January 30, 2024. /X

CS Kindiki Declares Pastor Mackenzie's Church Organized Criminal Group

admin — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:44:30 +0300

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared the Good News International Ministries under controversial Pastor Paul Mackenzie an organized criminal group.

The CS referred to the Prevention of Organised Crimes Act of 2010 in slapping the new label on the church vide a Gazette Notice issued on Wednesday, January 31, 2024.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by section 22 (1) of the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares Good News International Ministries to be an organized criminal group for the purposes of the Act," the Gazette stated.

Pastor Paul Mackenzie Nthenge accompanied by some of his followers during a court appearance in Malindi on April 17, 2023. /AP

The declaration, according to Kindiki, takes effect from the date of order, which is on January 31.

The laws of the Act could see Pastor Mackenzie among other suspects risk a fine not exceeding Ksh5 million or a jail term of up to 15 years should they be convicted.

“If as a result of the act referred to in the section person dies, the member of the organized criminal group shall on conviction be liable to imprisonment for life," the Act indicates.

The Act also notes that a group termed as organized is allowed to appeal to the High Court for an amendment of the decision within 21 days after the declaration is made.

"A person who attempts, aids, abets, counsels, procures, or conspires with another to commit an offence under this Act commits an offence and shall, upon conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding fourteen years, or both," the Act adds.

This notably comes after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) on January 16, 202 approved 10 charges against 95 suspects linked to the death of 429 people in the Shakahola Massacre, including Mackenzie.

This follows an injunction issued by the courts to press charges against them or release them following the massacre.

DPP Renson Mulele Ingonga revealed that he was satisfied that there is sufficient evidence to prosecute the 95 suspects linked to the heinous crime that targeted people believed to be members of the Good News International Church.

The charges include murder, radicalization, child torture, manslaughter and cruelty.

The DPP classified the charges under the following; Offences under the Penal Code Cap 63, Offences under the Children Act, of 2001; the Prevention of Torture Act, of 2017 and the Basic Education Act, of 2013 and Offences under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012 and the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act, 2010.

Renson Mulele Ingonga takes his oath of office as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) at State House, Nairobi on September 25, 2023. /PCS

High Court Terms Deployment Of Kenya Police To Haiti Illegal, Govt Responds

Marvin Chege — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 11:40:30 +0300

UPDATE: Government Spokesperson Issac Mwaura has announced that the government will appeal the High Court’s decision to declare the deployment of police officers to Haiti illegal.

"The Government of Kenya takes note of the High Court's ruling regarding the deployment of the Kenya police to help in the Multi-national Security Support (MSS) mission for the restoration of law and order in Haiti. While the government respects the rule of law, we have however made the decision to challenge the high court's verdict forthwith," Mwaura said in part in a statement.

He remarked that Kenya has an outstanding track record of contributing to peacekeeping missions internationally in countries such as; South Sudan, Namibia, Croatia, Liberia and Sierra Leone among others, adding that "The government reiterates its commitment in honoring its international obligations as a member of the community and comity of nations."

The High Court of Kenya has termed the deployment of 1,000 Kenyan Police officers to Haiti illegal.

In a ruling issued on Friday, January 26, High Court Judge Chacha Mwita ruled that the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Security Council, which includes the President, do not have the power to deploy regular police outside of the country.

"To be clear, Article 240 does not mandate the Council to deploy police officers outside Kenya. Deployment should be as provided for in part 14 of the Act and only to a reciprocating country," he ruled.

"It is not contested that there is no reciprocal arrangement between Kenya and Haiti and for that reason, there can be no deployment of police to that country."

Outside the Milimani Law Courts. /FILE

The judge underlined that Kenya's offer to help mitigate a humanitarian crisis in Haiti was noble, but he maintained that such deployment needed to be undertaken per the Constitution of Kenya.

"An order is hereby issued prohibiting the deployment of police officers to Haiti or any other country otherwise than any compliance with part 14 of NPS Act," he stated.

Mwita made the ruling after Thirdway Alliance Party leader Ekuru Aukot made an application that wanted the court to block the deployment stating that it was unconstitutional.

Parliament had approved the deployment of 1,000 Kenyan Police officers to Haiti, despite the High Court blocking the Interior Ministry from approving a proposal for the operation.

Kenya was approved by the United Nations (UN) to spearhead the international mission that would be funded by the US government, which is keen to end the Haiti hard drugs trade.

Many of the drugs end up in the US but its past attempts to eliminate the trafficking led to accusations that America was seeking to occupy the small island nation.

This necessitated an international intervention involving police from various countries, led by Kenya, which started recruiting officers for the mission.

Kenya pledged to be sending at least 1,000 police officers, mostly from the dreaded GSU, for the mission that many described as dangerous given that gangs control over 80 per cent of Haiti’s capital, Port au Prince.

The officers were to be assisted by other contingents from partner countries including Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Antigua and Barbuda.

The Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kithure Kindiki had revealed that the proposed deployment of officers from the NPS to Haiti was not just a fulfilment of her global obligations; it also sought to enhance her reputation as a reliable nation.

Kindiki put a strong case for the Mission which is part of United Nations Multinational Security Support in Haiti. Kenyan troops have been to Namibia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Somalia and Congo for peacekeeping missions.

The Interior CS projected a budget of Ksh36.5 billion out of Ksh91 billion earmarked for the 11-nation Mission.

Following the ruling, it is yet to be established whether the government would contest it at the Court of Appeal. President William Ruto by the time of publication was yet to respond to the ruling.

An image of Kenyan Police officers. /FILE

Blow For Ruto As Court Of Appeal Stops Housing Levy Deductions

Marvin Chege — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 10:05:01 +0300

The Court of Appeal has handed a huge blow to President William Ruto by refusing to suspend orders barring the state from deducting housing levy from Kenyans.

The Housing Levy therefore remains suspended as declared by the High Court, whose ruling was upheld by the three-judge bench of Justices Lydia Achode, John Mativo and Mwaniki Gachoka on Friday, January 26.

The appellate Judges stated that if they affirm the constitutional invalidity of the challenged laws, then some far-reaching decisions that will have been undertaken may not be reversed.

They said it is in the public interest that the appeals first be heard.

An illustration of the Affordable Housing Programme by Boma Yangu Initiative under the National Housing Corporation. /BOMA YANGU KENYA

"The trial Court held that the Housing Levy was introduced without a legal framework. It also held that the levy was targeting a section of Kenyans. In our view, public interest lies in awaiting the determination of the appeal.

"This is because if the stay sought is granted at this stage, should the appellate Court affirm the impugned decision, then some far-reaching decisions that will have been undertaken pursuant to the impugned laws may not be reversible. Public interest in our view tilts favour of in not granting the stay or the suspension sought. Public interest tilts in favour awaiting the determination of the issues raised in the intended appeals," the ruling sent to newsrooms read in part.

The judges thus ordered four consolidated appeals to be heard as soon as possible to allow issues raised in the appeals to be resolved.

What Next?

The ruling upholds one from the High Court which declared the Housing Levy unconstitutional. It also brings to an end the deduction of the charges after the window granted to the government to collect the money expired on Friday.

The judges had also argued that it would be unfair to deduct the money as it could not predict how its final verdict. If found unconstitutional, the process of refunding the amount of money would complicate the case.

This ruling represents a major victory for Kenyan workers and a setback for the government's plans to fund affordable housing initiatives. While this ruling represents a pivotal point with the current decision, the outcome of the Housing Levy saga is yet to be determined.

Earlier in January, the Appellate Court allowed the government to continue deducting 1.5 per cent from Kenyans' salaries in the form of the Housing Levy until its verdict on January 26.

The ruling was made after it heard an appeal by the National Assembly and the Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula on the matter which was challenged by up to 56 parties, including Busia Senator, Okiya Omtatah.

Before it was declared unconstitutional by the High Court, the controversial housing development levy contained in the Finance Act, 2023 was fiercely opposed to the point that the government struggled severally to explain why it was deducting 1.5 per cent from all salaried Kenyans in support of President Ruto's Affordable Housing Programme.

Employees began being charged a 1.5 per cent tax on their gross salary starting July 2023, with employers expected to match the 1.5 per cent housing deduction with proceeds going towards the National Housing Development Fund (NHDF).

The government expressed commitment to turn the housing challenge into an economic opportunity to create quality jobs.

This will be achieved through facilitating the delivery of 250,000 houses per annum and enabling affordable housing mortgages for low-income Kenyans living in urban areas who dreamed of owning a home.

Despite Ruto's complaints, the Housing Levy was nullified by the High Court following a ruling in response to a suit filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah.

The court however granted the government's plea for a 45-day conservatory order regarding the Housing Levy until January 10, 2024, while it rushed to the Court of Appeal to contest the ruling.

Outside the Milimani Law Courts. /FILE

Ruto, CJ Martha Koome Reach 6 Agreements After Executive-Judiciary Row

Marvin Chege — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 15:16:26 +0300

President William Ruto and Chief Justice Martha Koome on Monday, January 22 reached an agreement that would consolidate the three arms of government in terms of working to end corruption in the Judiciary, ending weeks of political tussles between the Judiciary and the Executive.

This was captured in a statement released by State House spokesperson, Hussein Mohamed.

"Today, at the request of the Judiciary, the President convened the leadership of the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary in consultations to deliberate on building approaches to fight corruption, enhance accountability and to facilitate the efficient and seamless delivery of services to the people of Kenya," read the statement in part.

President Ruto hosts CJ Martha Koome and the leadership of the Legislature led by National Assembly speaker Moses Wetangula at State House, Nairobi on January 22, 2024. /PCS

During the closed-door meeting, it was agreed that corruption remains an existential threat to the nation which has permeated the three arms of Government, undermining the country's tremendous development potential and sabotaging the much-needed transformation of Kenya.

Each of the three arms of Government was committed to enhancing service delivery, fighting corruption and promoting the overall administration of justice to enhance accountability to the people of Kenya.

Furthermore, the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary agreed to individually develop policies, guidelines, regulations and legislative proposals to achieve the objectives of fighting corruption, improving service delivery and enhancing institutional accountability of all arms of Government to the people of Kenya.

"Within 30 days, each arm of Government will submit the proposals made to a forum of the National Council of the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) convened by Her Ladyship the Chief Justice.

"This forum will provide a roadmap for the immediate, medium-term and long-term measures to be undertaken," the statement added.

To optimize the efficient delivery of service and the fight against corruption, the Executive, and the Legislature, will support the Judiciary's request for additional budgetary support to achieve among others the following:

To facilitate the recruitment of an additional 25 Judges of the High Court.
To facilitate the recruitment of 11 new Judges of the Court of Appeal.
Resources will also be provided to conclude the vehicle leasing program to facilitate the judiciary's transport needs.

Finally, the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary expressed commitment to performing their functions in a manner that respects, promotes and enhances the rule of law, institutional independence, and respect for court decisions.

The agreements were reached hours after opposition leader, Raila Odinga expressed his reservations over the meeting which took place at State House, Nairobi.

“Chief Justice, the head of Judiciary has gone for a meeting with the President in State House this is in our view an irresponsible move, if there is supposed to be a dialogue, the dialogue should be held in a neutral place, State House is the seat of the Executive that is where the President resides,” said Raila while addressing an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) event in Lamu County.

“This means the Judiciary is being compromised by the Executive, the Judiciary is being held hostage and we have seen this before. We saw it happen under the rule of Moi and we have tried to caution the Chief Justice not to go bed with the Executive it is an unfortunate development.”

The opposition chief called on other members of the Judiciary not to be compromised and to exercise their work per the Constitution.

The Chief Justice had written to President Ruto seeking to hold talks after he raised concerns about the conduct of some judges and judicial officers, to which he accepted.

The president had previously expressed his intention to bypass court orders to push the government's agenda, while the Deputy President, Gachagua had committed to present a petition against Justice Esther Maina.

President William Ruto and Chief Justice Martha Koome on Friday, November 4, 2022. /FILE

Court Lifts Suspension Of Ruto's Social Health Insurance Act Deductions

Marvin Chege — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 12:11:38 +0300

The Court of Appeal has lifted orders issued by the High Court which suspended the planned implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act 2023 and other related Acts by the Ministry of Health after three bills on the same were signed by President William Ruto.

In their verdict delivered on Friday, January 19, Justices Patrick Kiage, Pauline Nyamweya and Grace Ngenye ruled that owing to the suspension of the roll-out of the new health fund, there is "a real and present danger to the health rights of countless citizens who are not parties to the litigation pending before our courts."

"We hereby suspend the orders of the High Court restraining the implementation and or enforcement of The Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, The Primary Health Care Act, 2023 Page 2033 and The Digital Health Act, 2023, save for the following provisions of the Social Health Insurance Act that shall remain suspended pending the hearing and determination of the applicant's appeal," the ruling seen by Viral Tea read in part.

President William Ruto (right) holds the umbrella for Health CS Susan Nakhumicha while making their way to Syokimau, Machakos County on November 22, 2023. /PCS

However, the following provisions of SHIF remain suspended pending the hearing and determination of the applicant’s appeal in Civil Appeal No. E984 of 2023:

Section 26(5) which makes registration and contribution a precondition for dealing with or accessing public services from the national and county governments or their entities
Section 27(4) which provides that a person shall only access healthcare services where their contributions to the Social Health Insurance Fund are up-to-date and active
Section 47(3) which obligates every Kenyan to be uniquely identified for purposes of the provision of health services.

The court was further persuaded that the confusion, the lacuna and the risk and harm to citizens pending the hearing and determination of the appeal is a price too dear to pay, and it would have the effect of rendering the appeal nugatory.

The parties in the case have been granted seven days to file written submissions on the three Sections of the Social Health Insurance Act that remain suspended.

The Registrar of the Appellate Court shall thereafter allocate a hearing date before March 31, 2024.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha moved to the Court of Appeal arguing that the High Court order had resulted in many Kenyans being denied medical care against the provisions of the Constitution.

Through Senior Counsel Fred Ngatia, the Health Cabinet Secretary said the court orders had disenfranchised many Kenyans who were now unable to access medical care since the enactment of the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023 repealed the NHIF Act, imploring the court not to allow legal wars to deny Kenyans a Constitutional right.

The Attorney General, through his lawyer, also pleaded with the court saying many patients were hurting and that while the court’s decision was being waited upon, the existing orders be lifted.

The Act which includes the following bills: The Social Health Insurance, Primary Health Care Act, and the Digital and Digital Health Act, was suspended by the High Court until February 7, 2024.

Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists & Dentists Union (KMPDU) had moved to court to have the Act suspended as it poses a threat to the larger health industry.

The signing of the bills took place at State House during a publicised event held at its courtyard, a notable shift from the bill signing events which take place indoors in closed-door events. The publicising of the signing of the bills, which was also televised, carried a major significance given that it came a day before Mashujaa Day on Friday, October 20 in Kericho County.

President Ruto who spoke after the signing of the bills, remarked that the country has made a huge step towards transforming its healthcare system.

“Today we have made a significant step towards making healthcare universal for all Kenyans. I thank and commend the people of Kenya for actively shaping these laws through various public engagement platforms," stated Ruto.

It is perhaps the Social Health Insurance Bill that carried the most significance since this is the one that abolished the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) officially for the first time since 1966.

In place of NHIF, Ruto created three funds namely Primary Health Care Fund, Social Health Insurance Fund, and Chronic Illness and Emergency Fund.

The Social Health Bill was to enable all Kenyans to access quality care, regardless of their financial status. Kenyans employed in the formal sector were to make a monthly contribution of 2.75 per cent of their salary capped at a minimum of Ksh300 and a maximum of Ksh5,000.

The SHI Act also stipulates that all non-Kenyans who reside in the country will be eligible for registration as members of the Fund. This applies to a non-Kenyan resident ordinarily residing in Kenya for a period exceeding 12 months.

President William Ruto signs four Universal Health Coverage Bills into law on October 19, 2023. /PCS

Supreme Court Bans Lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi

admin — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:57:41 +0300

The Supreme Court of Kenya has issued a permanent ban on Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi and his law firm associates.

In a statement to newsrooms on Thursday, January 18, the apex court barred the two entities from making submissions before it.

The ban was signed by Letizia Muthoni Wachira, the Registrar of the Supreme Court and issued by the full bench of the apex court.

"It is the decision of this Court, that henceforth and from the date of this Communication, you shall have no audience before the Court, either by yourself, through an employee of your law firm, or any other person holding brief for you, or acting pursuant to your instructions.

Lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi alias "Grand Mullah" during a past interview with Citizen TV. /FILE

"Much as this decision is bound to affect those who may have instructed you to represent them before the Court, it is untenable that you would seek justice in the very institution and before the very Judges, whose reputation and integrity you never tire in assaulting," read the statement in part.

The apex court strongly accused the prominent lawyer of relentlessly and unabashedly conducting a campaign in broadcast, print and social media aimed at scandalizing, ridiculing and outright denigrating the highest court in the country.

"Through social media posts, media interviews and write-ups, you have accused the Court either in its constitutive persona, or individual membership, of acts of corruption, incompetence and outright bribery. This, you have done with reckless abandon, paying scant regard to the reputations of those who tirelessly serve on the Court in accordance with their Oath of Office," added the statement.

The court further disclosed that notwithstanding the damage to the reputation of the Court, and the Judges who have served thereon over the years, both in its corporate and individual posture, and to render justice to those Ahmednasir represents, the Court has exercised restraint by not deploying the punitive tools available to it against him.

"You have persisted in your unsubstantiated and virulent attacks against the leadership and membership of the Court. The insensitivity and abusive arrogance you continue to display against the Court in your frequent media postings, cannot be said to be animated by your quest for Justice," added the statement.

"Ironically, even as you persist in your attacks against the Court, you do not see any contradiction in filing cases in the very institution and appearing before the very Judges you daily accuse of corruption and incompetence."

Chief Justice Martha Koome, her deputy Philomena Mwilu and Justices Mohamed Khadhar Ibrahim, Dr. Smokin Wanjala, Justice Njoki Susanna Ndung'u, Isaac Lenaola and William Ouko argued that they warned the SC that such conduct would in the future, not go unpunished.

The court further attached a compilation of some of the statements made by Ahmednasir against the court, its leadership and its membership over the years while warning that the punishment meted out to the prominent lawyer would serve as an example to other lawyers and judicial officials.

In response, Ahmednasir wrote on his social media pages "Isn’t it a badge of honour for the most corrupt court in Kenya to refuse me and my law firm an audience?"

Also popularly known as the 'Grand Mullah', he was yet to issue any other response which may be argued as 'given through other channels of communication'.

A collage of the Supreme Court judges. /VIRALTEAKE

Roysambu Airbnb Murder: Nigerian National Arrested At JKIA Trying To Flee Kenya

Marvin Chege — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 17:58:47 +0300

A Nigerian national has been placed in custody over the brutal murder of a 20-year-old woman at an Airbnb residence along TRM Drive in Roysambu along Thika Road in Nairobi.

Speaking to Viral Tea, sources privy to the matter revealed that the Nigerian was arrested on Monday night, January 15 while attempting to leave Kenya through the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.

The suspect was arrested as he attempted to leave the country for Abuja. Two other suspects were taken into custody at Kasarani Police Headquarters for allegedly aiding the Nigerian national.

The arrest comes after CCTV footage on Monday unmasked the facial identity of the main suspect behind the macabre murder whereby the woman's body was found dismembered.

CCTV footage of the main suspect in the Roysambu Airbnb murder. /CITIZEN TV

Detectives reportedly used the footage to trace the Nigerian, who was captured donning a black cardigan, grey skinny jeans and wearing a white cap walking into a shop within the residence behind a woman who was dressed in a pink hoodie.

In the clip captured on Saturday, January 13 at around 4.20 pm, the suspect was seen talking on his phone before entering the shop which was adjacent to the building where the dismembered body parts of the woman were discovered the following day.

The suspect, who is still yet to be named, walked directly to the cashier, handing him his phone as the cashier handed it back to him, alongside a key.

During the entire short visit to the shop, he was tightly clutching a black bag and wearing spectacles presumably to make it harder for the footage to ascertain his identity.

He was also seen to be in a hurry as he exited the shop in a huff only to return five minutes later to hand the payment to the cashier before leaving, the last time the suspect was captured on camera before the brutal murder.

The suspect was anticipated to return the key on Sunday morning but failed to do so.

The manager of the Airbnb where he booked the premises on Saturday at 3 pm disclosed that she received a call from the caretaker after discovering suspicious polythene trash bags which contained the body parts.

With the arrest, police will seek to interrogate the three suspects as well as piece together evidence collected to establish the motive of the murder of the 20-year-old.

Meanwhile, reports emerged that the suspect used a hacksaw in his mission to dismember the body of the woman whose head is still missing.

Police believed that the suspect was on hire and he may have carried the body to show his masters he had accomplished the mission.

Using CCTV footage, and phone triangulation, the police placed the suspect in the Ruaka area, Kiambu County where he seemed to have been staying for days.

The team visited the area on Monday and asked for footage of surveillance cameras on several buildings as part of the probe, which would have enabled them to identify the suspect.

Entrance to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. /MARVIN CHEGE.VIRALTEAKE

Ruto To Split Kenya Railways Into Three

admin — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:27:59 +0300

President William Ruto has given the green light for the Railway Amendment Bill 2024 which aims to divide the Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) into three sections.

The resolution was reached by the Cabinet following its meeting chaired by President Ruto at Nakuru State Lodge on Monday, January 15.

In the despatch to newsrooms, Cabinet explained that this would help give Kenya a competitive edge in the East African region and enhance efficiency.

Kenya Railways station at Dandora, Nairobi. /FILE

"To fortify Kenya as a regional logistics hub, the Cabinet approved the Railway Amendment Bill 2024 that aims at initiating new ways of running railways and separating the business of freight, commuter and land development," the despatch read in part.

The Cabinet further argued that Kenya Railways owns large tracts of land in the country, most of which has been unutilised, thus the move aims to clear the way for the development of railway cities as is the case currently in Nairobi.

"Kenya Railways is a big landowner in Kenya and most of the land is lying idle. This will be used to develop railway cities as is happening in Nairobi and will be extended to other major towns.

"The Bill proposes that the private sector, investors and even county governments run the railway cities. In such cases, Kenya Railways will become a regulator," added the despatch.

The Nairobi Railway City Project, a visionary initiative, seeks to create a world-class, integrated railway network in the heart of Nairobi.

It aims to enhance connectivity, ease traffic congestion, and provide a more convenient and sustainable transportation system for the city's residents.

Additionally, the Railway City project will expand the CBD to the South by setting up key services and facilities to attract entrepreneurs.

It will also transform the area around Nairobi Central Railway Station into a modern Railway City, provide a sustainable urban space and create a Transport Hub with Multi-modal Transport Facilities.

Through a Public Private Partnership (PPP), the United Kingdom (UK) government will fund the project at an estimated cost of Ksh30 billion.

Other major cities and towns which could see the development of their own railway cities include Mombasa, Athi River, Naivasha and Kisumu, however handing over thousands of acres of prime land to the private sector for the development of the cities could raise fears of land grabbing.

Notably, prior to the green-lighted proposal, President Ruto on Monday, January 8 revoked the appointment of four members of the Kenya Railways Corporation Board of Directors who served under the administration of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 7 (3) of the State Corporations Act, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, revokes the appointment of— Mohammed Alawi Hussun, Dennis Aroka, Catherine Musakali, Sumaiya Salim Mohamed, as members of the Board of Directors of the Kenya Railways Corporation,” the Gazette notice read in part.

The Head of State did not however announce the replacements of the four sacked board members.

Proposed new Nairobi Railway City. /FILE

What Top Candidates In 2023 KCSE Got- CS Machogu

admin — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 10:08:09 +0300

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has released the 2023 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results, indicating that over 1,000 students scored straight As.

Announcing the results on Monday, January 8, Machogu revealed that 1,216 candidates, representing 0.14 per cent, got straight As in 2023. This is a drop from 1,146 in 2022.

As broken down, a total of 7,254 got A- (minus), 18,078 attained B+ (plus), 36,728 got B (plain) and 78,343 got C+ (plus).

This means that 201,133 candidates, representing 22.27 per cent, scored C+ and above, will be eligible to join the university, with the performance improvement attributed to the new grading system.

A photo of students undertaking KCSE exams. /KENYA NEWS AGENCY

"The number of candidates who attained the minimum university entry qualification (Grade C+ and above) was 201,133 (22.27%) in the year 2023 KCSE Examination compared to 173,345 (19.62%) in the year 2022. This is as a result of the application of a new grading system," Machogu explained.

Furthermore, 825 male students scored As compared to 391 female students while 4,472 male students got A- (minus) compared to 2,782 female students.

However, candidates who scored D+ and above were 526,222 compared to 522,588 in 2022.

An astonishingly-high number of candidates who scored an E were recorded at 48,174 to which Machogu called for an immediate probe to ascertain the unsettling numbers.

"I order the directorate of quality assurance to work with field officers and teachers to investigate these E Grade cases in each county of the country and submit a report to me within one month for further action," he said.

Further, a total of 4,113 candidates were reported to have been involved in exam irregularities. Of these four candidates have had their results cancelled following impersonation reports.

For the remaining 4,109 candidates, their results will remain withheld pending the completion of investigations and will know their fate in 20 days.

Furthermore, President William Ruto directed the Ministry of Education to launch an investigation into the absence of approximately 3,000 students who did not appear for the KCSE exams despite registering for them, with a view to establishing their whereabouts.

The CS also revealed that Mathematics, Kiswahili and Biology were among the 12 subjects that recorded significant improvement compared to last year. In total, 30 subjects were administered in 2023.

Other subjects that recorded an improvement include Biology for the Blind, CRE, Business Studies, German, Music, Chemistry, Building Construction, French and Electricity.

Out of the 899,453 candidates who sat the 2023 KCSE Examination, 450,554 were male, while 448,899 were female, representing 50.09% and 49.91% of the total candidature respectively.

The CS released the results at Moi Girls High School, Eldoret after briefing President William Ruto.

Read also: How To Check 2023 KCSE Results Online

CS Machogu briefing President William Ruto on the 2023 KCSE results ahead of the release on January 8, 2024. /X

Blogger Sniper Murder: DCI Arrests Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza's Son, Brother

admin — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 13:05:22 +0300

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s son and brother are among five suspects arrested for the murder of Meru-based blogger Daniel Muthiani commonly known as Sniper.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has filed an application seeking to detain the five suspects who include Kenneth Mutua, Fredrick Muriuki, Frankline Kimathi, Timothy Kinoti (son) and Murangiri Kenneth (brother).

In an application filed at the Kiambu Magistrate Court, the DCI wants the five suspects detained for 21 days at Muthaiga Police Station to enable the DCI sleuths to conclude investigations.

Deceased Meru-based blogger Daniel Muthiani commonly known as Sniper. /FILE

The five suspects were arrested on Thursday, January 4 in Meru County with the investigation officials booking them in various police stations in Kiambu and Nairobi County.

“That from the time the respondents were arrested and the time to conclude the investigations have not been adequate and the applicant requires 21 days to enable the conclusion of the investigations while the respondent is in police custody,” the application read.

The application indicated that the five suspects had lured Sniper via a phone call that Governor Mwangaza wanted to meet him to strike a truce, having been the subject of the blogger's criticism.

The deceased then travelled from his home in Igembe South to meet the five suspects in Meru town before he went missing, a matter which prompted the family to raise an alarm.

Sniper disappeared on December 2, 2023, and his body was found dumped in Mutonga River in Tharaka Nithi County on December 16, 2023.

A post-mortem done by government pathologist Johansen Oduor on the deceased revealed that he died of strangulation, with Sniper’s kin urging the relevant authorities to do further investigations.

According to the pathologist, Sniper had marks on his neck and he exhibited signs of a person who had lacked oxygen as well as fractured ribs and injuries on his head which suggested that he was strangled before being thrown into a river.

"There were no signs of struggle and he seemed to have been completely subdued to a level that he could not fight back. We have taken some samples of organs that will be subjected to toxicology tests to establish whether there were substances used to achieve this," Oduor said.

His disappearance and murder gained nationwide attention with various politicians calling for swift action to be taken against the perpetrators.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria promised action taken against what he claimed were powerful forces linked to the murder.

His Interior counterpart, Kithure Kindiki, vowed stern action against those who were deemed responsible for Sniper's death.

"Those responsible for organising, financing and executing the cruel murder of Daniel Muthiani, alias Sniper, have a date with justice.

"Detectives are concluding the process of identifying the evil perpetrators, including those who lured the young man to his death and those who tortured, murdered and dumped his body in an attempt to conceal the terrible crime," he stated.

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki and slain Meru blogger Sniper (inset). /KITHURE KINDIKI.FILE

Kenyans To Continue Paying Housing Levy- Court Rules

Marvin Chege — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 16:55:49 +0300

The Court of Appeal has ruled that Kenyans will continue paying the 1.5 per cent Housing Levy until it issues its verdict on the matter on January 26, 2024.

"Upon hearing the parties, all the applications are consolidated as they arise from the same judgment of the High Court dated November 28, 2023. Civil Application No. E577/2023 is designated as the lead file. The ruling on these consolidated applications will be delivered on January 26, 2024," read the ruling in part by the Appellate court's three-judge bench.

An illustration of the Affordable Housing Programme by Boma Yangu Initiative under the National Housing Corporation. /BOMA YANGU KENYA

"In the meantime, the status quo obtained as of today shall be maintained until the delivery of the ruling. Made at Nairobi January 3, 2024."

The bench consisted of Justice Lydia Achode, John Mativo and Paul Gachoka.

The ruling added that the status quo prevails regarding the Housing Levy, meaning Kenyans will continue paying 1.5% of their gross monthly salary matched by 1.5% by the employer.

The government expressed commitment to turn the housing challenge into an economic opportunity to create quality jobs.

Despite Ruto's complaints, the Housing Levy was nullified by the High Court following a ruling in response to a suit filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah.

The court however granted the government's plea for a 45-day conservatory order regarding the Housing Levy until January 10, 2024, while it rushed to the Court of Appeal to contest the ruling.

Notably, the government through the leader of the Majority Kimani Ichung'wah tabled the Affordable Housing Bill which also proposes deductions of 1.5 per cent for Kenyans without formal employment.

However, the progress of the bill is likely to be affected by messy court battles after the Vihiga High Court in December 2023 halted the public participation process until the matter is heard and determined. Kenyans were expected to give their views on the Bill by December 28, 2023.

President Ruto nonetheless declared his commitment to implementing the Housing Levy by any means necessary, stating “I am telling you this time round, I am implementing it, and I am so determined because we must do it. Korea did it, Singapore did it, Malaysia did it, and that is why they are ahead of us."

"We know what we must do but we cannot gather the courage to do it, but this time round, whatever it takes we are going to implement it."

I'm telling you, this time round, I'm implementing the Housing Levy- President Ruto#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/NcdDCn6cTL
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) December 13, 2023

CJ Martha Koome Takes On Ruto Head-On Over Attacks On Judiciary

admin — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 17:12:15 +0300

Chief Justice Martha Koome has countered claims by President William Ruto and his allies that a section of judicial officers have been colluding with cartels to operate in contravention of their mandate.

In a stinging statement on Wednesday, January 3, CJ Koome, who is the Supreme Court President and chairs the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), urged all judicial officers to continue performing their duties without favouritism.

"The JSC has noted with concern that honourable Judges and Judicial Officers have been subjected to public criticism and vilification for issuing court orders that are perceived to be against State programmes and policies.

President William Ruto during the two-day National Executive Retreat at the Edge Convention Centre, South C, Nairobi on November 16, 2023 /PCS

"The JSC wishes to reaffirm the independence and integrity of the Judiciary as a co-equal arm of government, as enshrined in the Constitution and urges all Judges and Judicial Officers to continue performing their judicial duties without fear or favour. The Judiciary should live up to the constitutional edict, in Article 160(1), that safeguards the exercise of judicial authority," the statement read in part.

Koome noted to State and Public Officers that the Constitution places positive duties on the State to ensure respect for the law and adherence to the law by providing citizens with effective mechanisms for resolving disputes between themselves and between them and the State.

"Where a citizen obtains a court order against the State and that court order is deliberately ignored or disobeyed by State officials, the right of access to justice is undermined because it fatally attacks the effectiveness of the legal system on which ordinary citizens rely to have their rights and legal duties enforced," she added.

Drawing on the country's history, CJ Koome highlighted the Judiciary's careful and consistent reforms, aiming to rebuild trust with the people of Kenya while standing guard in defence of the Constitution.

She emphasized the role of the JSC in promoting and facilitating the independence and accountability of the Judiciary, as mandated by Article 172(1) of the Constitution.

The JSC plays a critical role in upholding judicial transparency, crucial for maintaining stability and the democratic character of Kenya.

CJ Koome further emphasized that ignoring or disobeying court orders undermines the right of access to justice, eroding the effectiveness of the legal system relied upon by ordinary citizens to enforce their rights and legal duties.

"The JSC has a proven record of taking action against any judicial officer who is found to have breached the Judicial Code of Conduct and Ethics or engaged in corrupt practices," the chief justice assured.

"The JSC therefore encourages anyone with information on any act that threatens the integrity of judicial processes and outcomes to report any such cases to the JSC for determinate action."

On Tuesday, January 2, while speaking during the burial of Michael Waweru, father of Nyandarua Senator John Methu in Nyandarua, the President spent close to 12 minutes accusing unnamed judicial officers of blocking his transformative agenda for Kenya.

He claimed that a select few were misusing the powers of the courts to preserve the status quo and impede inclusive growth, condemning what he termed was "judicial impunity by corrupt judicial officers."

"Our Judiciary, we respect you but judicial impunity by corrupt judicial officers must stop in Kenya. We will stop it, whatever it takes. The Judiciary must submit itself to the constitution and to the people of Kenya," the President committed.

Since then, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has announced protests against President Ruto's remarks slated for next week.

Demonstrators carry placards during a peaceful demo held by lawyers, Muslim religious leaders and human rights activists over the abduction of lawyers and terror suspects outside the Supreme Court building, Nairobi on November 10, 2021. /THE STAR

EPRA Reduces Fuel Prices Ahead of Christmas

admin — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 16:28:30 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced the fuel prices for the period between Friday, December 15 and Sunday, January 14, 2024.

In the latest monthly review, the price of Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene decreased by Ksh5, Ksh2 and Ksh4.01 per litre respectively, the biggest decrease margin in more than two years.

"In Nairobi, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene will now retail at Ksh212.36, Ksh201.47 & Ksh199.05 effective midnight for the next 30 days.

"The prices are inclusive of the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act. 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020, and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020," EPRA announced.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on November 14, 2023. /VIRALTEAKE

Other than Nairobi, motorists across the country will also get the opportunity to enjoy lowered fuel prices, with those in Kisumu paying Ksh212.12 for a litre of Super Petrol, Ksh201.64 for Diesel, and Ksh199.23 for kerosene.

Those in Mombasa will be charged Ksh209.3 for Super Petrol, Ksh198.41 for Diesel, and Ksh195.92 for Kerosene whereas Nakuru motorists will pay Ksh211.35, Ksh200.88, and Ksh198.46 for Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene respectively.

In Eldoret, Kenyans will part with Ksh212.12 (Super Petrol), Ksh201.65 (Diesel), and Ksh199.23 (Kerosene).

"The price of diesel has been cross-subsidized with that of super petrol to further cushion the economy, the government has opted to stabilise the resultant diesel price. Government through the National Treasury has identified resources within the current resource envelope to compensate Oil Marketing Companies," EPRA explained.

The fuel regulator further noted that the landing cost of imported Super Petrol decreased by 16.11 per cent in November, Diesel by 5.43 per cent, and Kerosene by 6.63 per cent leading to a decrease in fuel prices.

The latest review comes amidst huge pressure by Kenyans on President William Ruto's administration to lower the cost of fuel which would in turn lower the cost of living amidst job cuts and freezes pushing scores of Kenyans into an economic black hole.

Critics have cornered the government for hiking the cost of fuel in the country as other countries such as Tanzania continue to register a drop in their fuel prices in response to declining global oil prices.

In particular, Kenyans were grappling with record-high prices as follows: Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene retail at Ksh217.36, Ksh205.47 and Ksh205.06 respectively in October.

Energy Cabinet Secretary (CS) Davis Chirchir on Monday, November 6 told the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) that the Israel-Hamas war could risk pushing up fuel prices in the country to Ksh300 per litre.

However, President William Ruto announced on Saturday, November 18 that Kenyans would enjoy decreased fuel prices in December, days after EPRA began reducing the price of Diesel and Kerosene.

"We have started dealing with the cost of fuel which has gone up everywhere but as Kenya, we made plans. We have looked for ways of ensuring that the price does not get to levels where many Kenyans will be negatively affected.

"You have seen that we have started to reduce the price of fuel. Next month the price will be reduced much more. That will also be the case in January until we get to a sustainable price," he stated.

You have seen that we have started to reduce the price of fuel. Next month the price will be reduced much more- President Ruto#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/prtT56gWg0
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) November 18, 2023

Usually, the change in fuel prices is a ripple effect, with any increase in fuel prices triggering possible increases in the cost of matatu fares, food, transportation and power generation operational costs, which include the transportation and logistics sectors, which are vital for the distribution of goods across the country.

Naftali Kinuthia Jailed For 40 Years For Ivy Wangechi Murder

admin — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:09:21 +0300

Naftali Kinuthia, the main suspect in the killing of Moi University medical student, Ivy Wangechi in April 2019, has been sentenced to 40 years in prison.

The High Court in Eldoret on Thursday, December 14 sentenced Kinuthia to serve four decades behind bars, more than a month after it found him guilty of the heinous murder.

Justice Stephen Githinji who has been presiding over the trial of the case since 2019, ruled that the offence committed was brutal and called for a harsh sentence against the accused.

The judge remarked that an innocent soul was lost but had also considered pleadings by lawyer Mathenge Wokabi for the accused and lawyers for the victim.

Naftali Kinuthia talks to his lawyer at the High Court in Eldoret on April 15, 2019. /FILE

The lawyers for the victim and the state had called for the death penalty to be imposed on Kinuthia but Githinji struck out the plea, stating that the court could not buy the idea of a tooth for a tooth in delivering the judgement.

Earlier, Kinuthia had pleaded for a non-custodial sentence saying it would give him a second chance in life. Lawyer Wokabi made a passionate plea in mitigation before Justice Githinji issued the verdict.

"Your honour we plead for a non-custodial sentence to give the accused a second chance in life so that he can re-integrate with his family and society and make out of his educational skills," Wokabi said.

"Although Kinuthia may not have expressed remorse early, he did so during his defence."

Wokabi also argued that the accused had not interfered with witnesses or made any contact with the family of the deceased.

He added that the two families of the accused and deceased had known each other for long and the court should consider the relationship between the two during their good days.

Justice Githinji who is currently based at the Malindi High Court, had indicated that Kinuthia's actions were premeditated, as he used an axe which he had bought to kill Wangechi.

“If he had no intention to kill, he had the opportunity to attack the victim using his bare fist. But he had an axe and a knife and used an axe, a lethal and dangerous weapon, to strike the medical student,” the judge stated.

He added: “The accused had a metal axe with a metal handle and claimed that he had it in the car for security reasons. I do not agree with him. I saw the axe in court, it is the one used in villages to chop firewood and cut trees.

Githinji however tore into the accused for denying that he had a knife, terming it laughable when he claimed in his defense that he was given the knife by a member of the public.

The Judge stated that Kinuthia did not even use the knife he had to attack Wangeci, noting that a knife would have probably given the deceased a second chance to live.

He also dismissed allegations by Kinuthia in his defence hearing that he was intimately involved with Wangechi. Kinuthia gave his final defence evidence in the murder case at the Eldoret-based High Court on Friday, March 3, almost four years after the murder took place.

He traced his relationship with the late Wangechi to their childhood days in primary school, adding that before her demise, she borrowed him Ksh28,000 to fund her birthday party which he agreed to.

"She said she planned to have a big party because it was supposed to be the last one with her friends, so she told me she was planning to spend Ksh28,000, that was her budget. She asked me if I could support her with the funds and I accepted," he recalled in part.

He further recalled how he had travelled from Nairobi to Eldoret to wish her happy birthday, after funding the party and seeing his intimate lover and long-time friend hugging another man.

This was despite their relationship being estranged to the point that she had blocked his number for some time making it impossible for him to reach her.

Side-by-side image of the late Ivy Wangechi. /TV47 DIGITAL

Kenya Power Issues Update On Yet Another Nationwide Blackout

admin — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 20:45:55 +0300

UPDATE: Kenya Power has announced that the restoration of power supply across the country is ongoing following a widespread blackout that occurred on Sunday evening.

"Several areas in Nairobi City and its environs are already back on electricity supply. These include parts of Ruaraka, Embakasi, JKIA, Parklands, Donholm, Umoja, Huruma, Westlands, Syokimau and Dandora. Sections of Kisumu, Busia and Siaya are also back on supply.

"We are working to restore normal supply to all areas as soon as possible. We apologise to all our customers for the inconvenience caused by the outage," stated Kenya Power.

Kenya Power has confirmed that the latest power blackout plunging millions of homes across the country into darkness on Sunday was caused by a faulty system.

The notice was sent roughly 30 minutes after a widespread blackout was reported countrywide.

"We have lost electricity supply to various parts of the country due to a suspected fault affecting the power system.

"We are working to restore normalcy within the shortest time possible. An update on the restoration progress will be issued in due course. We apologise to our customers for the inconvenience caused," the statement read in part.

Blackout at JKIA on December 10, 2023. /X

Yet again, the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi was affected by the blackout where the power generators failed to pick up.

Sunday’s outage began around 8 PM and was the third national power supply failure within the last three months.

During a similar outage on November 11, it took over 12 hours to restore power in most parts of the country.

On August 25, Kenya Power confirmed the blackout, stating that the outage was caused by a general system disturbance.

"We have experienced a general system disturbance thereby causing a major outage. Our technical teams are troubleshooting with the aim of restoring supply at the earliest," read the report from Kenya Power seen by Viral Tea.

"Sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused. Thank you for the continued partnership."

Following the August blackout, a Cabinet meeting saw President William Ruto direct the review of the power distribution system in Kenya.

"Cabinet regretted the total electrical grid outage that led to a nationwide blackout on Saturday last week. Cabinet consequently directed the review of the power distribution system in the country, to ensure that the unfortunate occurrence shall not recur," read the dispatch in part.

Following the blackout, a blame game ensued between Kenya Power and Lake Turkana Wind Power, with the latter denying the former's claims that they caused the power outage.

LTWP had stated that they were forced to go offline and stop generation following an overvoltage in the national grid which caused the power plant to go off automatically to avoid extreme damage.

On Monday, August 28, Energy Cabinet Secretary (CS) Davis Chirchir stated that the Ministry was yet to restore LTWP to the national grid, adding that they were trying to find the cause of the problem.

A wind farm at the Lake Turkana Wind Power Station. /RENEWABLES NOW

DPP Allows EACC To Charge Senator Jackson Mandago

admin — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 17:03:24 +0300

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has announced that it has received the green light from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) to charge Uasin Gishu senator Jackson Mandago over the Finland scholarship saga.

This was confirmed on Friday, December 8 by EACC CEO, Twalib Mbarak who was speaking in Murang'a County during a public engagement forum preceding the International Day celebrated on December 9.

Mbarak further revealed that the commission has acquired evidence it will use against the former governor.

“We have recommended him to be charged and have received the go-ahead from DPP because we found something about him,” he said.

EACC CEO Twalib Mbarak during a press briefing in Murang'a County on December 8, 2023. /ALICE WAITHERA

Mandago was arrested in August 2023 in Eldoret over the controversial Finland and Canada Education programme.

The arrest came moments after President William Ruto warned those who stole millions of shillings meant for providing scholarships to students from Uasin Gishu County that no gaps would be left in the quest to secure justice for those affected.

Ruto spoke on Wednesday, August 16 in Eldoret ahead of the official opening of the 10th Devolution Conference where he assured residents and parents in particular that the monies they paid to the county will be recovered by anti-corruption agencies.

"There are parents who gave monies which no one knows where they went. If there is anyone who misused that money, that person should arrange to repay in advance or he will be in trouble.

"There is no room for tolerance in terms of the money from someone who sold his livestock or farmlands. He or she must be refunded," Ruto ordered.

The parents had earlier appealed to the Senate and President Ruto for help to be refunded the money they had paid to the county government.

Mandago was accused of conspiring to steal Ksh1 billion from an account domiciled at a local bank in Eldoret registered under the Uasin Gishu Education Trust Fund meant for overseas university fees for students under the Uasin Gishu County Overseas Education Programme.

A warrant of arrest was previously issued against him with the National Police Service (NPS) revealing that he went into hiding since Tuesday, August 15 while revealing that it was in the process of executing a warrant of arrest issued against him.

On Thursday, August 17, the Senator was however set free alongside two other accused persons in the Finland and Canada Scholarship scandals by a Nakuru Law Court.

The trio were released on a bond of Ksh2 million with a surety of the same amount or a cash bail of Ksh500,000.

Senator Mandago in court alongside his co-accused Meshack Rono and Joshua Lelei while appearing in court on August 17, 2023. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

KEBS Refutes Media Reports, Explains Why Ksh17B Edible Oil Is Fit For Human Consumption

Marvin Chege — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:25:18 +0300

The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has denied media reports claiming that the Ksh17 billion consignment of edible oil imported by the Kenya Kwanza government through Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC) was deemed unfit for human consumption.

In a statement, KEBS assured the public of its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of ALL locally manufactured and imported products into the country, revealing the methods it undertook to assess the quality of products imported into the country, including the edible oil.

"The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) utilizes Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVOC) to assess the quality of products imported into Kenya. PVOC is a conformity assessment program implemented at the exporting country to guarantee that imported products adhere to the applicable Kenyan Technical Regulations, Mandatory Standards, or approved specifications.

An image of KEBS offices. /CAPITAL GROUP

"PVOC ensures that imported products meet the required standards before entering the Kenyan market, safeguarding consumer safety and promoting fair trade practices. KEBS samples and re-inspects products accompanied by Certificates of Conformity (CoCs) at the Port of Entry as a routine," stated KEBS in part.

Regarding the edible oil, KEBS sampled, re-inspected and tested the edible oils imported by KNTC. From the tests done, the edible oil complied with all the health and safety parameters of the applicable Kenya Standard (KS EAS 769: 2019).

"However, the sampled edible oils did not meet the Vitamin A levels specified in the Kenyan Standard. This is not a health and safety parameter; KEBS communicated the results to KNTC," added the statement.

Kenyans were nonetheless encouraged to be vigilant and inform KEBS upon encountering any products suspected to be substandard.

Earlier media reports had claimed that the consignments were rejected and the importer was advised to reship them back to the country of origin within 30 days from September 5, failure to which they would be destroyed at the importer’s cost.

In the now-refuted claims, KEBS established that for fat content the Edible Oils exceeded the required amount by 0.47% by mass containing 99.97 instead of the required 99.5. For moisture and matter volatile at 105°C, while the required standard is 0.2, the oils subjected to the test contained 0.03.

The acid value of the edible oils measured, potassium hydroxide in milligrams was 0.12 whilst the required standard is 0.6. For the amount of peroxide oxygen per kilogram of oil, while the requirement is 10, the Edible Oils contained 5.42.

The KEBS examination also found that the imported oil contained 0.04 of insoluble impurities while the required standard was 0.05, making it unsafe for human consumption.

The importation of 125,000 MT of Edible Oil, was meant to bring down the cost of living, but it turned out the price of the consignment was inflated making it uncompetitive.

Inside a supermarket along Thika Road. /MARVIN CHEGE.VIRALTEAKE

Court Jails Controversial Pastor Paul Mackenzie

Marvin Chege — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:49:38 +0300

Controversial pastor Paul Mackenzie has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for the offence of operating a filming studio and producing films without a valid license.

The ruling was made on Friday, December 1 by Malindi Senior Resident Magistrate Olga Onalo.

Mackenzie was also jailed for six months for being in possession and exhibition of films to the public through Times TV without an operating license and the sentences will run concurrently.

Pastor Paul Mackenzie Nthenge accompanied by some of his followers during a court appearance in Malindi on April 17, 2023. /AP

“In respect to count two, I hereby sentence the accused person to twelve months imprisonment while in respect to count three, the accused person’s explanation of not knowing the need for a license from the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) having obtained a broadcasting one is a reasonable though not entirely acceptable as ignorance of the law is no defence hence the resulting conviction and in light of the same, I sentence the accused to six months imprisonment,” Onalo ruled.

She added that the sentences shall run concurrently with the accused person having a right of appeal in 14 days.

The offences faced by the controversial pastor attract a jail term not exceeding one year and an alternative fine not exceeding Ksh100,000.

The report tabled in court emerged from a court order that directed the probation office to compile a report to guide the sentencing of Mackenzie in a 2019 court case involving running a recording and TV studio without a valid license from KFCB.

The probation report by the Assistant Director of Probation in Mombasa Nick Makuu stated that in previous criminal records, Mackenzie was convicted and fined for a similar offence in criminal case no. 182 of 2017 and he was recently acquitted in CR 790/17 for charges related to activities in his church such as radicalization and operating an unregistered education institution for which the ODPP has applied to appeal out of time.

The ruling comes as Mackenzie was found guilty of operating a filming studio and producing films without a valid filming license from KFCB and also with the offence of being in possession and exhibiting films to the public through Times TV which had not been examined and classified by KFCB.

In a statement released by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) on Friday, November 10, the High Court ruled that there was sufficient evidence presented by the prosecution to convict the Shakahola cult leader. As a result, the court ordered a pre-sentence report to be filed in court which set the stage for his sentencing.

Mackenzie on Friday, June 30 appeared in a Malindi court for the mention of a case in which he is accused of violating laws relating to film classification. He was accused of possession and distribution of films to the public without a valid license from the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) in 2019.

The prosecution told the Malindi Law Courts, which was presided over by Magistrate Irene Tamara, that the films intended to incite children from attending school.

Mackenzie was charged in April 2019 but denied the charges and was released on a cash bail of Ksh500,000 before another arrest in connection to the Shakahola massacre.

The prosecution in October had applied to have the main suspect Mackenzie and his co-accused detained for 180 days to complete the analysis of the DNA tests.

The Senate committee on the proliferation of religious organizations thereafter recommended disciplinary action against 11 security officers on allegations of involvement in the Shakahola cult tragedy whose current death toll stands at 429.

Side-by-side image of Pastor Paul Mackenzie and bodies retrieved from Shakahola forest in Kilifi County. /VIRALTEAKE

Court Declares Ruto's Housing Levy Unconstitutional

Marvin Chege — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 11:13:56 +0300

A three-judge bench has declared that the Housing Levy introduced in the Finance Act is unconstitutional.

The 3-judge bench that consists of Justices David Majanja, Christine Meoli and Lawrence Mugambi delivered the ruling on Tuesday, November 28.

It ruled that the Finance Act 2023 amendment to Section 84 of the Finance Act amending the Employment Act introducing the Housing Levy is unconstitutional, adding that the levy had lacked a comprehensive legal framework and is irrational.

"The levy against persons in formal employment to the exclusion of other non-formal income earners without justification is discriminatory, irrational, arbitrary and against the constitution," Justice David Majanja ruled.

An illustration of the Affordable Housing Programme by Boma Yangu Initiative under the National Housing Corporation. /BOMA YANGU KENYA

The levy was accused of violating the principles of taxation and as contained in the Finance Act 2023 is discriminatory and unfair for making a distinction between the formal and informal sectors thus creating unequal and inequitable principles.

"We find hold that the enactment of housing levy must be supported with a rational explanation. We also find that the government failed to provide an explanation for the imposition of the levy. Further, the imposition of the levy on salaried employees and not those in informal employment is discriminatory and therefore, unconstitutional," the judges ruled.

Among the issues for determination was the constitutionality of the Housing Levy which was set at 1.5% of the gross monthly salary matched by 1.5% by the employer.

The judges ruled that there was no legal mechanism anchoring the housing levy. For instance, how will members know who the beneficiaries are? It does not meet the good governance test.

The court also found that the housing levy was opaque in the absence of a legal framework to support the levy.

“That an order is granted prohibiting the respondents from collecting, charging and otherwise the charge known as the Affordable Housing Levy on the basis of Section 84,” the judge ruled.

In their 167-page judgement, the judges found that Finance Act, 2023 is a Money Bill and the concurrence of both Speakers of the National Assembly and Senate was not required.

The petitioners among them Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, Azimio la Umoja and LSK had argued that both Speakers should have considered whether the Bill concerned counties and if so, whether it was a special or ordinary Bill and resolved the questions before passage.

Justice Meoli however ruled that the public participation conducted by the National Assembly was sufficient.

"Having considered the relevant facts and records and bearing in mind that the Finance Bill is time-bound legislation, we are satisfied that the public participation process conducted by the National Assembly was sufficient," Meoli ruled.

The ruling effectively bars President William Ruto's government from deducting funds from salaries towards the Housing Levy.

Activist Okiya Omtatah presenting his petition at the Supreme Court on Friday, September 2, 2022. /ZAKHEEM RAJAN.FILE

ICC Closes Case Against President William Ruto

admin — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 16:38:50 +0300

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has announced that it has decided to conclude the investigation phase into cases where six suspects were accused of crimes against humanity in the 2007 post-general election violence, one of them being President William Ruto.

In a statement on Monday, November 27, ICC Deputy Prosecutor, Nazhat Shameem Khan stated that she had reached the decision to terminate the case after assessing the information availed to her.

"After assessing all the information available to me at this time, I have decided to conclude the investigation phase in the Situation in Kenya. I have reached this decision after considering the specific facts and circumstances of this situation," she stated.

International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan. /REUTERS

On March 31, 2010, ICC's Pre-Trial Chamber II granted the request of the Office of the Prosecutor to open an investigation proprio motu in the Situation in the Republic of Kenya (“Situation in Kenya”), in relation to alleged crimes against humanity committed in the context of post-election violence in Kenya in 2007 and 2008.

The Office’s investigation led to charges against six suspects in two separate cases, and the suspects included Ruto alongside Uhuru Kenyatta, Joshua Arap Sang, Henry Kosgey, Mohammed Hussein Ali, and Francis Muthaura.

However, all charges against these six suspects were either not confirmed or withdrawn or terminated without prejudice.

Following the termination of the cases, the Office initiated an investigation into offences under Article 70 of the Rome Statute, which led to arrest warrants against three suspects accused of witness-tampering.

They included Walter Barasa, Paul Gicheru and Philip Kipkoech Bett. However, Gicheru's death had complicated the new investigations but insisted that the two remaining suspects had a case to answer.

"After receiving official confirmation of the death of Mr Gicheru, the Trial Chamber terminated the proceedings. Mr Barasa and Mr Bett remain at large," added the statement.

"Accordingly, the Office will not pursue additional cases into the alleged criminal responsibility of other persons. The Office maintains its capacity to act on information relating to retaliation against witnesses. In this regard, the cases against Mr Barasa and Mr Bett for offences against the administration of justice remain before the Court."

Shameem Khan revealed that she has since informed the relevant authorities of the Republic of Kenya of her decision, adding that ICC would continue working with Kenya in relation to the two pending cases.

In parallel, the Office will continue to engage with Kenyan authorities, civil society organisations and relevant domestic actors to enhance cooperation and to identify common synergies between the Office and domestic actors.

On Monday, August 7, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan on Monday, August 7 recused himself from all Kenyan cases at The Hague-based court.

His office communicated his decision a day after his visit to Kenya elicited mixed reactions with Azimio la Umoja - One Kenya coalition co-principal Martha Karua questioning the timing of the visit.

ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan at Mt Kenya University where he received an honorary degree on August 4, 2023. /TWITTER

Govt Explains Why Ruto Earlier Said There Is No El Nino In Kenya

admin — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 15:20:26 +0300

The government has defended President William Ruto's bold declaration on Sunday, October 22 that Kenya would not experience El Nino rains as previously predicted by the Kenya Meteorological Department.

Speaking on Monday, November 27 during a media briefing, State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed revealed that initially, President Ruto took the warning by the weatherman seriously, hence being the first to announce to the country regarding the El Nino phenomenon.

However, the Met Department had downgraded the weather phenomenon, hence the President announcing that meteorologists had reversed their previous projections of El Nino rains expected to hit the country.

"The warning from the Met Department was taken seriously and that is why he (The President) was the first person to pronounce himself on the matter," Mohamed explained.

"They classified this as an El Nino phenomenon and there was a warning. The same Met downgraded, so the President was speaking from information from Met which downgraded and then the President communicated."

However, Mohamed acknowledged that the Met department got their predictions on weather patterns wrong as it was not a precise science, something he stated had also occurred in several places worldwide.

"Now it has happened and of course, prediction of weather patterns is not a precise science, we all know that and several places in the world have got it wrong. The most important thing is to deal with the situation at hand," he added.

Addressing a congregation during a church service in Riruta, Nairobi, the Head of State revealed "We heard reports that the country will experience El Nino rains, which have the potential to destroy property. But God has been faithful."

"We have now heard the meteorologists saying that will no longer be the case. We will just have heavy rains. We thank God," he stated.

However, his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua and Kenya Meteorological Department Director David Gikungu corrected him by announcing that the country was experiencing the El Nino rains, before he himself staged an impromptu Disaster Response press briefing at State House on Saturday, November 25 in response to the weather extremities.

Regarding declaring the El Nino phenomenon a national disaster, Mohamed explained that the decision was based on data on the ground, adding that the assessment has only put it so far at an alarming stage.

He added that the National Disaster Operation Centre that will be based at Nyayo House at the Ministry of Interior is assessing by-the-minute data on the ground and whether there is a need to escalate the matter beyond the alarming stage.

Mohamed was making his address as the Cabinet revealed that 38 counties are in the alarm stage in El Nino, with the death toll standing at 76 and 35,000 displaced following the floods that have affected the country.

During the meeting, the Cabinet resolved to mobilize a Ksh7 billion contingency fund to curb the effects of El Nino, with resources to be sent to counties for humanitarian response.

President William Ruto chairing a cabinet meeting at State House on Monday, November 27, 2023. /PCS

Rachel Ruto Confirms 8 Of Her Guests Drowned In Flooded Makueni River

Marvin Chege — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 15:41:41 +0300

First Lady Rachel Ruto has reacted to a tragedy where eight people reported to have attended her 14th Anniversary of the Joyful Women Organization (JOYWO) at the Kasarani Stadium on Thursday in Nairobi drowned in a flooded river while on their way home.

In a statement on her social media platforms on Friday, November 24, she recounted receiving information regarding the unfortunate incident, confirmed by Red Cross officials in Makueni County after the eight were swept away while attempting to cross a swollen River Muooni on their way from Kavuthu to Mutyambua.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the unfortunate incident that has happened to some of our Joyful Women members from Makueni County," she stated in part.

An image of flooded waters at River Muooni along Kavuthu-Mutyambua Road. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

"I have been informed that the members travelling back from the Joyful Women 14th Anniversary celebrations held at Kasarani Stadium on 23rd November 2023, were swept away while trying to cross River Muooni on foot.

The First Lady went on to add "On my behalf and that of Joyful Women Organization, I sincerely express my utmost sympathies to the affected families. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends at this difficult time."

Viral Tea learnt that the incident occurred at around 10 pm as the eight attempted to cross the river which was already overrun by the floods.

We earlier attempted to reach the Office Of The First Lady to confirm the reports and were informed that officials were at the time verifying if they were true.

Meanwhile, at least three bodies out of the eight missing persons were recovered in a search and rescue mission launched after the tragedy occurred.

Officials said the search for more bodies was ongoing at the time of updating this story.

Many other people were unable to cross and reach their homes as the river was overwhelmed by the floodwaters, according to police and locals.

Kenya Red Cross Makueni County officials said they had deployed a rescue and search team to the area.

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr was among the first to eulogize the victims, adding that the tragedy followed a similar one where three people drowned in the river a fortnight ago.

"Yesterday in the evening, we received reports that eight people tried crossing the Muooni River. At midriver, water swelled, and currents swept them. From the reports I have received this morning, five people have already been identified. My condolences to the families who have lost the 8," Mutula mourned.

Floods have killed more than 70 people and displaced many in the past weeks, with the Kenya Meteorological Department warning of more rains in the coming days.

Some 33 out of 47 counties have been affected, but Makueni is one of the most affected counties.

So far, at least 16 people in Makueni have died as a result of the ongoing El Nino rains, according to a report from the Red Cross and the County Strategic Unit.

Michael Warutere Is Top KCPE 2023 Candidate With 428 Marks

admin — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 11:51:39 +0300

Michael Muturi Warutere of Riara Springs Academy in Nairobi is the top student in the just-announced 2023 Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination results.

Warutere scored 428 marks out of a possible 500, moments after Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Machogu announced the top student in the national exams on Thursday, November 23.

“I was woken up and found out that I was the highest with 428 and at first I did not believe it until I saw the results for myself. I feel ecstatic because I did not expect this to happen. Those exams were kind of tricky but in the end, God helped me and I reached the top,” Warutere told the media.

Celebrations after Michael Warutere of Riara Springs Academy, Nairobi emerges top in #KCPE2023 with 428 marks#ViralVideos pic.twitter.com/HNQIB8qvIQ
— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) November 23, 2023

Warutere bagged outstanding marks including 90 per cent in Mathematics, 85 per cent in Kiswahili, 85 per cent in Social Studies and Christian Religious Education (CRE), 84 per cent in English, and 75 per cent in Science.

He expressed gratitude for the guidance received, attributing his success to the support from both his school and parents and even though he found the Science paper a litmus test, he noted that Kiswahili shocked him as he had never scored highly in the subject before.

While acknowledging the challenging nature of the exams, the top candidate in the country encouraged his peers not to lose heart, emphasizing that failure in KCPE does not mark the end of the journey.

“This is not the end of the road for those who failed this KCPE exam. Who knows, they might be the ones who will pass the KCSE exams and if not, they can build themselves by exploring their talents,” he said.

With aspirations of becoming a Software Engineer, Warutere aims to pursue his secondary education at Mang’u High School.

His father, Samuel Muturi, commended Riara Group of Schools as well as its teachers for their role in Warutere's achievements.

“Michael has always been a goal-oriented student ever since he was young and we helped in leading him in the right direction,” Mr Muturi told journalists.

“We are going to continue our job as parents and see him through this next chapter of his education."

Speaking on Thursday, November 23 at Mtihani House, CS Machogu revealed that over 1.4 million pupils sat for the exams.

The last KCSE results were released shortly after being presented to President William Ruto at State House.

Breakdown

The best student with 428 marks joined 8,523 candidates who scored above 400 marks in the 2023 KCPE exams.

352,782 candidates scored between 300 - 399 marks while 658,278 students scored 200 - 299 marks. Those who scored between 100 - 199 marks were 383,025 candidates.

2,060 candidates scored between 001 and 099 marks out of 500.

Education CS, Ezekiel Machogu during a past address. /FILE

Top KCPE Student Scores 428 Marks

admin — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 10:10:34 +0300

The best student in the 2023 Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examinations scored 428 marks out of a possible 500.

The final KCPE class marks the end of the four-decade 8-4-4 syllabus at the primary school level. The education system has since been replaced by the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), and the Competency-Based Assessment (CBA) modules.

Inside the competency-based curriculum, pupils will spend two years in preprimary, six years in primary, and six years in junior and senior high school.

President Ruto at the Joseph Kang’ethe Primary School in Kibra witnessing the administration of KPSEA and KCPE Examination papers to the candidates on November 29, 2022. /PCS

Speaking on Thursday, November 23 at Mtihani House, Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Machogu revealed that over 1.4 million pupils sat for the exams.

The last KCSE results were released shortly after being presented to President William Ruto at State House.

Breakdown

The best student with 428 marks joined 8,523 candidates who scored above 400 marks in the 2023 KCPE exams.

352,782 candidates scored between 300 - 399 marks while 658,278 students scored 200 - 299 marks. Those who scored between 100 - 199 marks were 383,025 candidates.

2,060 candidates scored between 001 and 099 marks out of 500.

The CS however revealed that 9,354 candidates failed to sit for the KCPE 2023 exams but promised that the Ministry would conduct thorough mapping and administer a special examination in January 2024.

“To ensure that no candidate misses out on joining Form One from the final 2023 KCPE examination cohort, the Ministry of Education will conduct thorough mapping of any of those who may have failed to sit their examination this year in order to administer a Special Exam in January 2024,” he announced.

Machogu added that only two candidates were involved in exam malpractices; one had a note while the other had a mobile phone.

In terms of subjects, English and Kenya Sign Language were listed as the subjects where candidates recorded the most improvement, as the CS expressed concern regarding the other subjects which recorded a drop in performance.

Education CS, Ezekiel Machogu during a past address. /FILE

Govt Orders Six CEOs, 67 Police Officers Suspended Over Corruption

admin — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:50:28 +0300

The Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has directed the suspension of six Chief Executive Officers (CEO) for alleged involvement in corruption and procurement irregularities within their respective institutions.

He has additionally directed the suspension of 67 police officers and an accountant at the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA).

According to a statement by State House spokesperson, Hussein Mohamed on Thursday, November 16, the directives follow recommendations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) for the suspension of the officers, who are currently under investigation.

EACC offices at Integrity Centre in Nairobi. /FILE

"The EACC has written to the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Hon. Zachariah Njeru, recommending the suspension of Eng. Fredrick Mwamati, the Chief Executive Officer of the Tanathi Water Works Development Agency.

"Mr Mwamati is under investigation for procurement irregularities in the award of a tender for the construction of a Leather Industrial Park Water Supply Project," read the statement in part

The Anti-Corruption Commission has also written to the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, Florence Bore, to suspend Stephen Ogenga, the Director-General of the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), for alleged procurement irregularities in the award of a tender for supplies at NITA.

Similarly, the commission has written to the Board of the National Museums of Kenya to suspend Stanvas Ong'alo, the Acting Director-General, for alleged embezzlement of Ksh490 million through irregular payments.

In another letter to the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management, Hon. Moses Kuria, the EACC has recommended the suspension of Benjamin Kai Chilumo, the CEO of Huduma Centre Secretariat.

"Mr. Chilumo is under investigation for corruption allegations when he served in the County Government of Kilifi as the Chief Finance Officer," added the statement.

The Anti-Corruption Commission has also written to the Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage, Aisha Jumwa, recommending the suspension of Peter Gitaa Koria, the CEO/GM of Bomas of Kenya, for allegations of procurement irregularities in supplies for the institution.

Additionally, the EACC has called for the suspension of Eng. Anthony Wamukota, the General Manager of Design & Construction at Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO), for alleged procurement irregularities related to the construction contract of the 400KV Loiyangalani Power Project.

The commission has also written to the Director-General of KeRRA, Engineer Philemon Kandie, to suspend Esther Wanjiru Chege, an accountant at the institution, for alleged conflict of interest and possession of unexplained wealth. In these letters, the EACC states that the continued stay in office of the mentioned officers during the investigation will interfere with and undermine its work.

Furthermore, the EACC has asked the Inspector-General of Police, Japhet Koome, to suspend 67 police officers implicated in corruption-related malpractices.

"In issuing the directives, the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service emphasises that the Government remains firm in its commitment to eradicating corruption which, he maintains, undermines its development agenda," Mohamed concluded.

Police officers conducting a past drill. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE

EPRA Surrenders, Decreases Prices Of Diesel, Kerosene

Marvin Chege — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 17:36:37 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced the fuel prices for the period between Wednesday, November 15 and Thursday, December 14.

In the latest monthly review, the price of Diesel and Kerosene decreased by Ksh2 per litre, but the price of Super Petrol was left unchanged.

"In the period under review, the maximum allowed petroleum pump price for Super Petrol remain unchanged while that of Diesel and Kerosene decrease by Kshs.2.00 per litre," stated EPRA in part.

While the price of Super Petrol remains at Ksh217.36, the price of Diesel and Kerosene decreased to Ksh203.47 and Ksh203.06 respectively from Ksh205.47 and Ksh205.06.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on November 14, 2023. /VIRALTEAKE

Critics have cornered the government for hiking the cost of fuel in the country as global oil prices are projected to drop to the lowest rate in months.

Neighbouring country Tanzania announced a decrease in fuel prices for November as Kenya continued to grapple with record-high fuel costs.

In a statement, Tanzania's Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA), the equivalent of Kenya's Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), revealed that the decrease was informed by trends in the global oil market in November.

"Changes in prices of petroleum products in November 2023 are mainly due to the decrease in the world oil price by an average of 5.68%, and a decrease in premiums for the importation of petroleum products by an average of 13% for PMS and 25% for AGO, reduction of production of petroleum products by OPEC+ and economic sanctions on Russia," stated EWURA in part.

"We can't do much on international pricing of petroleum. I read an article in the Financial Times the other day that because of the Hamas and Israeli War, the international prices could go up to USD150 (Ksh22,717) and that would mean our products going to a high of Ksh300 at the pump," CS Chirchir told NADCO.

A photo showing EPRA's price changes for September-October 2023 reflected at a fuel station. /MARVIN CHEGE.VIRALTEAKE

Controversial Pastor Paul Mackenzie Found Guilty

Marvin Chege — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 12:10:24 +0300

Controversial pastor Paul Mackenzie has been found guilty of being in possession of and distributing films without a licence.

As a result, the court ordered a pre-sentence report to be filed in court which will set the stage for his sentencing.

Pastor Paul Mackenzie Nthenge accompanied by some of his followers during a court appearance in Malindi on April 17, 2023. /AP

"One Paul Mckenzie has today been found guilty of being in possession and distributing films which have not been classified and operating a filming studio without a valid filming licence. Prosecution's Joseph Mwangi proved the case.

"The court also ordered that a pre-sentence report be filed by the Probation and Aftercare Services to capture the sentiments of the complainant, which is the Prosecution," stated the ODPP.

The case will be mentioned on December 1, 2023.

The prosecution told the Malindi Law Courts, which was presided over by Magistrate Irene Tamara, that the films intended to incite children from attending school.

Mackenzie was charged in April 2019 but denied the charges and was released on a cash bail of Ksh500,000 before another arrest in connection to the Shakahola massacre.

Meanwhile, the court on Thursday, November 9 adjourned the hearing of the case against the suspected cult leader after his lawyers sought more time before responding to an earlier application by the prosecution to have Mackenzie detained for 180 more days.

“The hearing in the Shakahola massacre case failed to proceed today after key suspect Paul Mackenzie and his 29 co-suspects applied for an adjournment,” stated DPP Renson Ingonga.

“Mackenzie's lawyer, Wycliffe Makasembo, asked for more time to fine-tune his response to the State's application to have his clients detained for 180 more days pending charges.”

The prosecution in October had applied to have the main suspect Mackenzie and his co-accused detained for 180 days to complete the analysis of the DNA tests.

"The continued detention of the suspects is necessitated by the fact that DNA analysis is incomplete and the process is lengthy considering the fact that the number of bodies to be analyzed against the number of DNA samples from relatives of the deceased," said Ingonga on October 18, 2023.

The committee also recommended the investigations and deportation of two foreigners who reportedly indoctrinated Mackenzie.

The self-styled spiritual leader has been accused of manipulating his followers, leading them to their deaths in pursuit of salvation.

Side-by-side image of Pastor Paul Mackenzie and bodies retrieved from Shakahola forest in Kilifi County. /VIRALTEAKE

Senate Saves Governor Kawira Mwangaza From Impeachment Again

admin — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 23:28:36 +0300

Embattled Meru Governor, Kawira Mwangaza has escaped having her impeachment confirmed by the Senate for the second successive time.

This is after the Senators voted on midnight, Thursday, November 9 to dismiss all seven charges levelled against her that warranted her second impeachment.

"The result of the division indicates that the Senate has not upheld any of the impeachment charges. The Senate has failed to remove from office by impeachment Governor Kawira Mwangaza and the Governor accordingly continues to hold office," Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced after the Senators cast their votes.

The condition was for only one of the charges to be upheld that would guarantee her impeachment, but that was not to be after majority of the legislators voted against the seven allegations levelled against her.

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza weeps during the proceedings of her impeachment case on November 8, 2022. /SENATE KENYA

Meru MCAs previously cited seven violations committed by Mwangaza as grounds for another attempt at impeaching her from the top county seat, including one that addressed her working relationship with Meru Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma.

Four of them were similar to allegations made against Mwangaza last year. They included charges of nepotism, usurpation of roles belonging to the Meru County Public Service Board, contempt of the Assembly, inciting residents against other leaders, and making insulting remarks against them.

The representatives also listed various accusations against the governor, claiming that she had grossly violated the Constitution and County Government Act in relation to the use of public resources and management. One of them included illegally naming a public road after her husband, Murega Baichu.

Mwangaza was also accused of bullying, vilifying, and demeaning other leaders, including her deputy.

Earlier, Mwangaza was haunted during her physical appearance before the Senate on Wednesday, November 8 by a series of past videos indicating how she was subjected to threats of molestation.

As she was giving her submissions during the ongoing impeachment trial, her defence team played videos in front of Senators indicating explicit remarks by several politicians in Meru County in a relentless push to have her impeached.

One such video, labelled 3A by the defence team, captured the words of Tigania East Member of Parliament (MP) Mpuru Aburi, which the defence team believed was the genesis of the Keberi movement that it claims is aimed at kicking her out of office.

"Kawira Mwangaza should be told to respect men. 'Bring that stick, where is it?'. I have come with this stick replicating the male organ. The stick is for Kawira Mwangaza. This stick is for penetrating Kawira Mwangaza. She was sluted by men and became wide.

"She is only left with this stick as all men have left her. And she will know I usually say it and it happens. Do you want us to insert it inside her?" Aburi said in the video that was played before the Senators.

"Are you able to explain what he is saying?" Mwangaza was asked.

The county boss however struggled to make clear the context of Aburi's sentiments, saying "He is talking about... that they will use that thing to… " before she broke down in tears.

"Because it has been done by so many men and now they are ready. As Members of Parliament, him being the leader to do that to me. And he has recruited so many young men for the purpose of that Kiberi movement together with the deputy speaker of this House," Kawira recollected herself and submitted before the Senators.

The governor also broke down to tears as the Senate replayed a clip of a group of angry youth slaughtering a cow believed to be six months pregnant, which she was donating to a vulnerable family.

Her lawyers nonetheless put up a spirited fight for two days by tabling their evidence and lined up various witnesses to defend her.

During the proceedings, Mwangaza also claimed that her deputy Isaac Mutuma is a beneficiary of an Okolea Program that forms part of the issues surrounding her impeachment hearing, adding that it was the programme that shot him into the spotlight.

"My deputy governor was a 'prison askari', and this program was the one that elevated us to lead the county government, and, unfortunately, he is dismissing a program that elevated him," she said.

"In this video, my deputy is telling residents of where he comes from to reject the Okolea program as it's for the poor."

She continued to explain that the deputy governor mobilised youth who were chanting songs, against her saying they would support her deputy for the gubernatorial position.

"That is my deputy governor with some youth from his area saying the governor does not have a home, and only does prostitution in the country. They are praising him to take over the position of the governor of Meru, because, I am just a woman before them," she explained.

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza in a police car in Imenti on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. /KAWIRA MWANGAZA

"The MP is saying the father of Kawira is a Kikuyu and the mother is also from Kikuyu and they don't want to be ruled by a Kikuyu in Meru and they want to be ruled by a Meru."

Mwangaza's appearance at the Senate was her second of the sort since she was spared from being the first governor in President William Ruto's first term to be kicked out of a county office in Kenya, after the Senate dismissed a decision by Meru MCAs to kick her out of office on December 30, 2022.

Senator Boni Khalwale's led committee tabled a report on the floor of the house. The Senate resolved to form an 11-member committee to investigate Governor Mwangaza following her impeachment by the Meru County Assembly on December 14, 2022.

Govt Increases ID Fees To Ksh2,000, Passport Fees To Ksh7,500

admin — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 18:21:00 +0300

The government has announced an increase in fees for replacing identity cards from Ksh100 to Ksh2,000.

In a Gazette notice issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, the government also proposed increasing the fee for first-time ID applicants to Ksh1,000.

Kenyans seeking to change their particulars in their ID card will be forced to part ways with Ksh1,000 while those seeking identification reports will have to pay Ksh1,000 up from Ksh300.

A person holding a national ID card. /FILE

Getting a civil servants' card will now cost one Ksh1,000 from Ksh100. A staff badge will cost one Ksh1,000 from Ksh300.

Passports

The government also raised the fees for ordinary passports from Ksh4,500 to Ksh7,500, for an ordinary 34-page passport.

For a 50-page passport, the price has been reviewed upward from Ksh6,000 to Ksh9,500. For a 66-page passport, the price increased from Ksh7,500 to Ksh12,000.

Replacing a lost passport will now cost Ksh20,000 from the previous Ksh12,000 while replacing a valid mutilated passport will cost Ksh20,000 from Ksh10,000.

Visas

The fees for single journey visas have been raised from Ksh7,572 to Ksh15,145 while the fee for a multiple journey visa goes up from Ksh15,145 to Ksh75,725.

Extending a visa, which was initially free will now set one back Ksh30,290 while the application for visas for Kenyan children which was also free will now cost the same price.

Birth & Death Certificates

Furthermore, the charges for acquiring a birth certificate were raised from Ksh50 to Ksh200, the same as acquiring a death certificate.

Late registration of a birth certificate will now cost you Ksh500 from Ksh150 which also applies to the late registration of a death certificate.

Among the other revised charges include re-registration of birth certificate which will cost Ksh1,000 up from Ksh90, while amendments of both birth and death certificates will cost Ksh1,000 from Ksh30.

Other Charges

Declaring dual citizenship was initially free which allowed Kenyans to hold citizenship in another country. However, those intending to do so for the first time will now have to pay Ksh10,000.

Regaining citizenship under Section 10 was priced at Ksh5,000, which has now been increased to Ksh50,000.

Passport endorsements went up from Ksh500 to Ksh10,000 while renunciation increased from Ksh20,000 to Ksh50,000.

Gaining citizenship by means of marriage will now cost one Ksh100,000 from Ksh30,000 while citizenship by registration for lawful residence will cost one Ksh1 million from Ksh200,000.

For permanent residence, one processing to be a former citizen of Kenya will pay Ksh50,000 from Ksh10,000 while lawful residence will be charged at the same price.

A man and woman holding hands during a wedding. /THE NEW TIMES

For issuance, a former citizen of Kenya will pay Ksh100,000 from Ksh50,000 while for lawful residence, one pays Ksh200,000, which is an increase from Ksh50,000.

Processing for children of Kenyan citizens born outside the country will cost Ksh200,000 from Ksh100,000 while issuance for the same will cost Ksh1 million from Ksh500,000.

Processing spouses of Kenyan citizens will be charged Ksh50,000 from Ksh5,000.

TSC Suspends Principal Of Nyambaria High School Which Topped KCSE 2022

Marvin Chege — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 12:30:18 +0300

The principal of Nyambaria High School in Nyamira County, Charles Onyari, has been suspended by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).

Reports reaching Viral Tea's newsdesk reveal that Onyari was suspended as the centre manager for Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).

This follows allegations of KCSE examination malpractice at the school.

A senior official who sought anonymity revealed to Nation.Africa that the suspension was made by TSC on the recommendation of the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC).

Inside Nyambaria High School's compound. /FILE

Viral Tea further understands that Onyari is said to have been involved in "facilitating examination irregularities" at the school, with the official telling the publication "We want to end this impunity as soon as possible."

The sub-county director of education in Manga, Nyamira County has also been suspended over the same allegations.

Nyambaria School stunned Kenyans on Friday, January 20 when it registered outstanding results in the 2022 KCSE, more than the famous academic giants.

The boys' high school recorded a mean score of 10.8975 out of 12, which was the most out of any school in the country and which was better than last year's performance of 9.3086.

It also hit the headlines after a breakdown of the grades scored by its 488 candidates were enough to send all of them to university. 28 students scored a grade A (plain), and 383 students got a grade A (minus), bringing the total to 411, which represents 84.22 per cent of the candidates.

76 students got a grade of B (plus), and only 1 student scored a grade of B (plain). No student got below B (plain).

CS Kithure Kindiki Declares Monday A Special Public Holiday

admin — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 19:46:39 +0300

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared Monday, November 13 a public holiday.

In a Gazette notice dated Monday, November 6, the CS revealed that the holiday will be to allow Kenyans to engage in tree-growing exercises across the country.

"IN EXERCISE of the powers conferred by section 3 of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares Monday, 13th November 2023, a public holiday in which the public shall be engaged in tree growing countrywide," stated the notice in part.

The CS further stated that the exercise is part of Kenya's Landscape and Ecosystem Restoration Programme-Towards the Growing of Fifteen (15) billion trees.

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto planting a tree at the Groove of Nations at Jerusalem Forest on May 9, 2023. /PCS

"There will be a designated National venue for the tree planting presided over by His Excellency (Dr.) William Samoei Ruto, PhD., C.G.H., the President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, and forty-seven (47) County venues, presided over by Cabinet Secretaries and Governors, where all Kenyan citizens and the general public shall be expected to participate," added the notice.

The decision to declare the national holiday was arrived at following the decision of the Cabinet sitting in Mombasa on Friday, November 3, 2023.

National Examinations scheduled for that day shall however proceed normally.

President Ruto has been at the forefront of increasing forest cover in the country by encouraging Kenyans to plant more trees. During his tenure, he plans to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.

The Head of State, during a dinner hosted by Israel's President Isaac Herzog on Tuesday, May 9, revealed that there would be a praying session before planting the trees.

“Mr President, I understand here because, for the first time, I found that we have to pray before we plant trees.

“We’ve always tried to plant trees in Kenya and our success has been mixed; I think because we didn’t have the element of prayer. Now that we do, I am very confident that we will succeed in our plan to plant 15 billion trees in the next 10 years," he told attendees who were left in stitches.

President Ruto marked his 56th birthday on December 21, 2022, by planting 56 trees in line with his age, while officially launching the national tree-planting initiative which aims to mobilize the nation in achieving the target of 15 billion trees.

President William Ruto with First Lady Rachel Ruto and Environment CS Soipan Tuya during the launch of the Jaza Miti campaign in Kajiado County on December 21, 2022. /STATE HOUSE KENYA

Driver Of Security Firm Vanishes With Ksh95 Million Bound For Nairobi Bank

Marvin Chege — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 13:24:58 +0300

A driver and a commander from a security firm has disappeared with Ksh95 million in cash that was headed for a local bank in Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD).

The money was headed for the bank and purposed to be distributed to a local supermarket outlet.

According to Citizen TV's Seth Olale, the millions stolen by the employees from the security firm's offices were weekend sales derived from the local supermarket chain.

"Police launch manhunt for two employees who stole Ksh94.9m of supermarket weekend sales from the firm's offices in South C, Nairobi," he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

An image of a bundle of notes. /FILE

A police report on Monday, November 6 indicated that the company’s driver left the offices at around 8.30 a.m. onboard the security firm's vehicle and left without a police escort, as is the norm.

The money from the weekend sales of the supermarket was meant to be taken to the bank's branch at Kenyatta Avenue.

"The said motor vehicle was found dumped at Dafam area South C, next to the southern bypass, without the suspects and the money missing,” reads a police statement.

Police further noted that the heist was premeditated owing to the suspects leaving the offices without the escort.

The Administration Police (AP) officers who were meant to escort them were the first to raise the alarm.

Afterwards, the investigation manager for the firm reported the matter to Akila Police Station in Lang'ata.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations Officer (DCIO) from Lang'ata is investigating the issue, and the scene was visited by the Officer Commanding Station (OCS).

The security firm was yet to issue a statement by the time of publishing this article. It is one of the leading security companies in the region.

Security firms offer cash-in-transit services to banks and businesses that handle outsized transactions, which are secured by AP police through escorts.

DCI detectives on bikes during a training session on Friday, April 21, 2023. /DCI

Ruto Promotes Isaac Mwaura's Govt Spokesperson Office in New Changes

admin — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:12:54 +0300

President William Ruto on Thursday, November 2 moved the Office of the Government Spokesperson held by Isaac Mwaura to the Executive Office of the President, slightly close to a month after Mwaura was appointed to the role.

In Executive Order No. 1 of 2023, President Ruto allocated Mwaura's office among the key offices which include the Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, Deputy Chief of Staff, President’s Council of Economic Advisors, Secretary to the Cabinet, State House Comptroller and President’s Strategy and Execution Office.

Others include the Secretary to the National Security Council and the National Security Advisor, Office of the Women's Rights Advisor, Office of the Council of Climate Change Advisor, The Private Secretary to the President, Office of Fiscal Affairs and Budget Policy, Office of the Economic Transformation, Minorities and Marginalized Affairs Unit, Head of the Presidential Communication Service and the Statehouse Spokesperson.

President William Ruto speaking at the swearing-in of DPP Renson Ingonga at State House on September 25, 2023. /PCS

Previously, the Spokesperson's office was under the Ministry of ICT. Mwaura was appointed to the role by the Head of State on Wednesday, October 4.

He is deputized by former K24 and KTN News anchor, Mwanaisha Chidzuga and Gabriel Muthuma, who all work together to help the President communicate his policies to Kenyans.

"The issue of dissemination of information regarding government policy and development project; Bwana CS there has been a gap in communicating what the government is doing. We have a lot of projects that the government is doing that have impacted positively society but communication has been missing.

"I think it is a result of you not taking that role of disseminating information not only in your ministry but also in other ministries. Bwana CS, I would like to urge you to expedite the recruitment of a government spokesperson because we don't have one who will be disseminating that information to the masses," United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala stated on Monday, July 31 when he called for the expedition of the appointment of a government spokesperson to effectively communicate the projects being implemented by President William Ruto's government.

On the changes, President Ruto appointed former Industrialisation Cabinet Secretary Adan Mohamed as the Chief of Strategy Execution in his government, a role that sees him chart a development plan in preparation for Ruto's defence of his current seat in the 2027 general elections.

This will see him stationed at the Executive Office of the President, a promotion from where he was previously serving on the Council of Economic Advisors under David Ndii.

Adan contested in the Mandera governor race in 2022 on the Jubilee ticket but lost. Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei announced on November 2, 2022, that Adan was appointed to the President's Council of Economic Advisors.

Adan also previously served as the Cabinet Secretary for Industry, Trade & Cooperatives from 2013 to 2018, as well as the Acting Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries for a year in 2015.

Prior to his appointment to serve in the Public Service, he was the Chief Administrative Officer for Barclays Africa (now called Absa Bank in Africa), with responsibility for ten (10) Barclays Bank subsidiaries in Africa.

Adan also performed various senior roles in Barclays including CEO of Barclays Kenya for over 10 years and Managing Director of Barclays East and West Africa. He also worked in senior Finance roles at Barclays Bank Group.

The changes were revealed to be aimed at enhancing service delivery.

"Committed to enhancing efficiency, transparency and accountability at all levels of Government through a governance structure and leadership that ensures rapid delivery of public services to Kenyans in every part of the Republic, I hereby order and direct that the Government of Kenya shall be organized as set out in this Executive Order," read the Executive order in part.

"This Order supersedes Executive Order No. 1 of 2023 issued on January 6, 2023."

Former East African Community and Regional Development Cabinet Secretary (CS) Adan Mohamed. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza Impeached Again

admin — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 18:10:51 +0300

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has been impeached for the second consecutive time by members of the Meru County Assembly.

59 MCAs voted overwhelmingly in support of the motion while none voted against the motion and none abstained from the vote.

A motion of impeachment was tabled by the Majority leader Evans Mawira of Mitunguu ward which was supported by 57 MCAs who appended their signatures prior to the vote.

The MCAs backing the motion had retreated on Monday, October 23 to write a report after conducting a public participation exercise as required by the law.

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza weeps during the proceedings of her impeachment case in December 2022. /X

Meru MCAs previously cited seven violations committed by Mwangaza as grounds for another attempt at impeaching her from the top county seat, including one that addresses her working relationship with Meru Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma.

Four of them are similar to allegations made against Mwangaza last year. They include charges of nepotism, usurpation of roles belonging to the Meru County Public Service Board, contempt of the Assembly, inciting residents against other leaders, and making insulting remarks against them.

The representatives listed various accusations against the governor, claiming that she had grossly violated the Constitution and County Government Act in relation to the use of public resources and management.

Mwangaza is also accused of bullying, vilifying, and demeaning other leaders, including her deputy.

Prior to her impeachment motion on Wednesday, Mwangaza asked Kenyans to pray for her.

"Please pray for our County of Meru. Please Pray For Me. Pray for justice," she stated on her Facebook page.

Earlier, the Nyeri Court of Appeal declined to stop the Meru County Assembly from debating on Governor Mwangaza's ouster motion. She had moved to the Court of Appeal to challenge the ruling of the Meru High Court against her to stop the assembly from debating on her removal from office, saying the matter was not urgent.

Justice Aggrey Muchelule and two other judges on Wednesday moved the ruling of the matter to October 27. Marius Maranya, one of the lawyers representing the county assembly argued that the court being a constitutional organ did not have the mandate to stop another constitutional arm – the assembly – from carrying out its mandate.

He submitted that the assembly impeachment process could not be carried out any other day if postponed.

Mwangaza who was not present in the house was Represented by a battalion of seven lawyers led by lawyer Danstan Omari.

She will now have to rely on the Senate again to save her from being the first governor in President William Ruto's first term to be kicked out of a county office in Kenya, after the Senate dismissed a decision by Meru MCAs to kick her out of office on December 30, 2022.

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza speaking on November 29, 2022. /FACEBOOK.KAWIRA MWANGAZA

Sabina Chege Removed From Parliament Position- Wetangula Rules

admin — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:08:24 +0300

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula, has ruled in favour of Azimio Members of Parliament to remove Nominated Member of Parliament Sabina Chege as the National Assembly Deputy Minority Whip.

Speaker Wetangula confirmed her dismissal from the role on Wednesday, October 25.

Replacing her now is Embakasi West Member of Parliament Mark Mwenje.

"Mark Mwenje is the Deputy Whip of the Azimio coalition with effect from today. Not any other time.

Photo of Embakasi West MP, Mark Mwenje. /JUBILEE PARTY

"If there are any privileges and trappings of that office, they will land on him from today," Wetangula ruled.

Earlier, Jubilee Parliamentary Group urged Chege to remain in her position in the National Assembly, terming the appointment of Mwenje to the position as invalid.

“The Azimio Coalition has not followed any procedural process to make such changes,” the group, who were joined by party National Executive Council members, said in a statement read by Nakuru Town West MP Samuel Arama.

He added that the meeting held at Ngong Racecourse on May 22, 2023, at which Mwenje was endorsed, was declared null and void by the Internal Dispute Resolution Committee of the party and the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal.

Arama further claimed that former Ndaragwa MP Jeremiah Kioni has no legal, political or moral authority to represent Jubilee, affirming that he stands expelled from the party.

He noted that Kioni is a beneficiary of multiple conservatory orders from the courts, including one Kioni claimed had dismissed a petition by Chege which sought to overturn a decision by Azimio la Umoja to replace her with Mwenje.

"We now demand that Speaker Moses Wetangula ratifies the decision and allow Hon. Mark Mwenje to serve," stated the Kioni-led Jubilee Party.

Azimio on Tuesday, May 30 announced Mwenje as Chege's replacement during the Azimio la Umoja Parliamentary Group meeting.

"We recognize Hon. Mwenje as a committed, consistent, energetic and youthful fighter who has shown the will to stand up for the people and the party. We have no doubt that he will prove equal to the task," National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, stated.

Wandayi on Wednesday wrote to Wetangula communicating Azimio's decision to remove Chege as their Deputy Minority Whip, despite opposition from Jubilee MPs.

Sabina Chege got the backing of Kenya Kwanza and Jubilee MPs while ODM and Wiper lawmakers affiliated with Azimio called on the Speaker to accept her removal following communication from Minority leader Opiyo Wandayi.

Wetangula had clarified that the request seeking the removal of the Nominated MP as the Deputy Minority Whip would be fair and based on the rule of law.

Azimio Coalition accused the Nominated MP of defying the official party position on numerous occasions and associating with Kenya Kwanza.

"The best thing I did was not to run away from them but just think bigger picture about Kenya. As they plan to remove me as Deputy minority whip Mr Speaker, I hope that you look at me with a better eye," she said during the National Prayer Breakfast held at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi on Wednesday, June 7.

"There is nothing wrong I have done. The only thing I have done is to think about Kenya first and not myself. Hopefully, Kenya is going to rise."

EALA MP Kanini Kega (right) and nominated MP Sabina Chege (left) at Jubilee Headquarters on July 10, 2023. /KANINI KEGA

Ezra Chiloba Resigns From CA

Marvin Chege — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 10:05:14 +0300

Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) Director General Ezra Chiloba has resigned.

The authority announced Chiloba's resignation on Thursday, October 19, after he penned a letter to Mary Mungai, the chairperson of the CA board communicating his resignation on Wednesday, October 18.

"The Board of Directors of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has this morning, 19th October 2023, accepted the resignation of Mr. Ezra Chiloba as the Director General," read the notice by the authority in part.

"On behalf of the Authority, I wish the outgoing Director General success in his future endeavours and appreciate his invaluable contribution to the organization and the wider ICT sector," said the CA Board Chairperson.

Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) headquarters in Nairobi. /FILE

Chiloba was on Monday, September 18 suspended from the authority following a board meeting, which saw Christopher Wambua appointed the Director-General in an acting capacity.

"Following a meeting of the Authority’s Board held on 18th September 2023, resulting in the suspension of the Director General, I am pleased to inform all staff of the appointment of Mr Christopher Wambua as a Director General in Acting Capacity effective today until further notice. I trust that you will accord him the necessary support," Mungai stated then.

As Viral Tea exclusively reported, Chiloba was suspended owing to gross misconduct. He had applied for and self-approved a Ksh25 million mortgage loan to facilitate the purchase of a property between himself and Jacob Simiyu Wakhungu without subjecting the transaction details to interrogation and approval by a higher authority.

CA had listed a disbursement of the loan of Ksh25,000,000 to Kitale Hilmost Limited, but a Company Search with the Business Registration Bureau revealed that the seller entity is owned entirely, as the sole shareholder and the sole director, by Chiloba, the Director General who is also the buyer in this case.

"This is reasonably construed to be demonstrative of an intent to defraud the Authority," the statement of the meeting accused the former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

The board in the meeting cited a letter dated December 3, 2022, with instructions to pay the Ksh25 million to Chiloba's entity, directions which were adhered to on August 11, 2023.

Chiloba was also said to have purchased a house and seven acres of land which is beyond the required one-acre limit provided by the Civil Servants Housing scheme requirement.

The committee noted that Chiloba’s loan application was approved by a junior staff member and there is no evidence to support the fact that the junior staff member carried out requisite due diligence and advice management including but not limited to the relationship between the seller and the buyer and the size of the property.

CA found that there was an overvaluation of the property by 64.47% which is contrary to the entitlement of 1 acre resulting in a mortgage of Ksh25 million instead of Ksh16,720,000

"Clearance of exiting staff without review of mortgages being held causing financial exposure to CA of Ksh28,874,815.62.

"Understating loan balances for former employees without factoring the interest component thereby causing a risk of loss of funds totalling Ksh1,060,520.66," added the CA board.

Consequently, the committee recommended that explicit disciplinary actions be undertaken against Chiloba for fundamentally breaching his obligations arising under the contract of service, leading to his suspension.

During the meeting, the committee further recommended the suspension of; Human Resources, Legal Services, and Finance directors as well as the Internal Auditor.

Chiloba joined CA in September 2021 after a competitive recruitment process that saw him beat over 100 applicants for the top job. He replaced Francis Wangusi, whose second and final term ended in 2019.

Before his appointment, Chiloba was a board member of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF), a state agency that provides loans and grants to young entrepreneurs.

He was also the former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), where he oversaw the controversial 2017 general elections and the repeat presidential election.

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza Arrested

admin — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 12:55:59 +0300

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has been arrested.

The governor was arrested by police on Wednesday, October 18 in Meru while distributing cows in Central Imenti under her Okolea programme which she has fronted to uplift poor families.

Mwangaza was picked up by a contingent of armed police officers with the incident live-streamed on her social media pages.

During her arrest, the embattled county boss complained that the police were being used in her political woes.

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza arrested in Imenti on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. /KAWIRA MWANGAZA

On Tuesday, October 17, Meru Members of the County Assembly (MCA) initiated another impeachment motion against her.

She has also been engaged in fights with local leaders such as Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi, accusing them of meddling in the affairs of the county.

"This initiative, funded by the County Government of Meru and approved by the County Assembly of Meru, aims to uplift the lives of the less fortunate. Unfortunately, law enforcement personnel were dispatched to interfere with the implementation of this program.

"It is disheartening to witness needless curtailment of development efforts meant to benefit the vulnerable in our community," she stated.

"I was informed by police officers to accompany them and I obliged. I am praying that those who have sent the officers to release me," she added, further demanding to know who instructed the police to arrest her.

On her part, the governor's office through the Chief of Staff refuted reports that the Wednesday tour in Imenti was part of the Okelea meetings that were banned by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.

Kinidki had banned the Okelea meetings on September 22, citing clashes that had been witnessed in the meetings.

“Reports that have reached me is that the governor’s (Mwangaza) allies were inciteful, disrupted peace and assaulted journalists thinking they were defending Meru governor. The targeted people also broke the law,” Kindiki directed then.

The Chief of Staff however clarified that the visit to donate to the cows was part of the county's development programme. Nonetheless, the governor maintained that she would continue with the program given its benefits to the residents.

On Tuesday, Meru MCAs cited seven violations committed by Mwangaza as grounds for another attempt at impeaching her from the top county seat, including one that addresses her working relationship with Meru Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma.

Mwangaza is also accused of bullying, vilifying, and demeaning other leaders, including her deputy.

Read Also: Kawira Mwangaza Accused Of 7 Violations In New Impeachment Motion

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza left alone after MCAs walked out on her on October 19, 2022. /TWITTER

EPRA Increases Fuel Prices Again To Record High

admin — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 13:26:09 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced the fuel prices for the period between Sunday, October 15 and Tuesday, November 14.

In the latest monthly review, the price of Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene increased by Ksh5.72 per litre, Ksh4.48 per litre and Ksh2.45 per litre respectively.

Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene will retail at Ksh217.36, Ksh205.47 and Ksh205.06 respectively up from Ksh211.64, Ksh200.99 and Ksh202.61.

"Taking into account the weighted average cost of imported refined petroleum products, the changes in the maximum allowed petroleum pump prices in Nairobi are as follows: Super Petrol, Diesel & Kerosene increases by Ksh5.72, Ksh4.48 & Ksh2.45 per litre respectively," stated EPRA in part.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on October 14, 2023. /VIRALTEAKE

EPRA stated that the latest fuel prices are inclusive of the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020.

In Mombasa, a litre of Super Petrol will retail at Ksh214.3, Diesel will go for Ksh202.41 while Kerosene will be sold at Ksh201.99.

Super Petrol prices in Kisumu were announced at Ksh217.12, Diesel at Ksh205.64 and Kerosene at Ksh205.22.

Nakuru residents will part with Ksh216.35 for a litre of Super Petrol while Diesel and Kerosene prices were set at Ksh204.88 and Ksh204.56.

Mandera motorists were the most affected in the latest review with a litre of Super Petrol shooting up to Ksh231.36. A litre of Diesel in Mandera will likewise be sold at Ksh219.47 while the price of Kerosene was put at Ksh219.06.

The new prices take effect at midnight. The authority explained that the second consecutive increase in monthly fuel prices was a result of an increase in landing costs.

EPRA also considered the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) in the October price calculations, adding that Super Petrol was to increase by Ksh8 if the prices were not subsidised.

"From the calculations, Super Petrol had been projected to increase by Ksh8.79/litre, Diesel by Ksh16.12/litre and Kerosene by Ksh12.05/litre," EPRA added.

It is important to note that Kenya imports all its petroleum product requirements in refined form, which makes the country susceptible to fluctuations in global oil prices and international market dynamics. These price increases come at a time when Kenyans are already grappling with the rising cost of living, including soaring food prices and increased electricity tariffs.

Fears of fuel prices crossing the Ksh200 mark began after Members of Parliament (MP) on Wednesday, June 21 approved the increase of fuel's Value Added Tax (VAT) from 8 per cent to 16 per cent.

On Friday, June 30 however, Kenyans' fears were spared temporarily when Super Petrol increased to Ksh195.53 per litre, Diesel Ksh179.67 and Kerosene Ksh173.44 per litre in Nairobi, hovering just below the dreaded Ksh200 mark.

A photo showing EPRA's price changes for September reflected at a fuel station. /MARVIN CHEGE.VIRALTEAKE

Mother Of Slain IEBC Boss Chris Msando Dies

admin — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 14:39:41 +0300

The mother of slain Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) ICT manager Chris Msando is dead.

Her demise was announced on Friday, October 13 by Siaya Governor James Orengo in his condolence message to the family.

"My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and relatives of the late IEBC ICT Manager Chris Msando for the passing on of their family matriarch Mama Maria Msando.

"Mama had a magnetic personality and ability to care deeply for others that allowed her to cultivate many lasting relationships. May her soul Rest in Eternal Peace," he stated on X (formerly Twitter).

A black and white photo of Mama Maria Msando (now deceased). /JAMES ORENGO

The Nation reported that Mama Maria's eldest son, Peter Msando, attributed her death at the age of 85 at Avenue Hospital in Kisumu to "multiple organ failure"

"She had been hospitalised in Busia with high blood pressure and a sugar problem. She was given some medicine to stabilise the pressure but it went so low and she became hypotensive," said Peter.

"She went into a coma on Thursday and we rushed her to Avenue Hospital in Kisumu where she was admitted to ICU around 1 p.m. on Thursday but unfortunately she passed away at 1 am today (Friday). So it was due to multiple organ failure."

Mama Maria had been ill since the death of her son. Speaking to the Nation newspaper at her Lifunga home in Ugenya, Siaya County, on the second anniversary of her son's death, she revealed that the long search for justice for her son had caused her health to deteriorate, with Chris, who used to take care of her medication, gone forever.

"I can hardly get out of this bed. My life has changed a lot - for the worse. For two years now, some questions still linger in my mind - who could have killed my beloved last-born son and why?" she stated in 2019.

Msando's body was found in a thicket in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, along with that of a woman, 21-year-old Carol Ngumbu.

"I have been waiting for the time when I will be called to court to hear the case of my son's murder. I just want to look the killers in the eye and hear the reasons why they killed him. If he stole something, let them say so. If they win the case against my son, let them. I won't mind as long as the legal process is exhausted," Mama Maria complained.

She continued, "I have heard on the radio that suspects in other murder cases have been arrested and charged. But why have those who killed my son not been arrested? What does the government know that we don't?"

Her demise is now considered a big blow to the family in their quest to seek justice for Msando. The man who had been tasked with being in charge of the Kenya Integrated Electoral Management System (KIEMS) ahead of the 2017 polls was found dead on July 31, just days before the August 8 polls.

"There was no doubt he was tortured and murdered," former immediate IEBC chairperson, Wafula Chebukati, said.

Msando was only two months into his job at IEBC's ICT division before his death. The murder remains one of Kenya's most high-profile unsolved cases.

IEBC officials guiding voters at a polling station. /FILE

Ruto Revokes Titles Of Those Who Have Not Developed Athi River Land [VIDEO]

Marvin Chege — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 12:37:56 +0300

President William Ruto has ordered the Ministry of Lands to revoke the title deeds of those who have not developed land in the Athi River for more than 10 years.

Speaking while launching Square Pharmaceuticals Kenya at the Export Processing Zones (EPZ) in Athi River, President Ruto chased away speculators who have been holding land without developing and moved the ownership of the parcels to EPZ.

"We want to chase away those fraudsters who have grabbed land and don't want to do anything with it, they are waiting to sell to others and to do speculation, now we have told them to close shop and go away," Ruto ordered.

He also directed that part of the land that was grabbed from the East Africa Portland Cement Company (EAPCC) and which the court directed be returned to the company should also have its ownership shifted to EPZ.

Furthermore, Ruto directed that about 1,000 acres should be transferred from EAPCC to EPZ to enable the government's efforts to expand the facility.

"I have given clear instructions to the management here that all speculators, people who have held titles to pieces of land for 10, 15, 20, 30 years without developing them should be revoked so that we can give it to people who want to use this facility," he said.

Ruto further praised efforts to reclaim an additional 250 acres of land from speculators with the goal of bringing additional pieces of land and additional space into the manufacturing space in EPZ, Athi River.

"We have now been cleared by the courts on the land that is adjacent to EPZ that belongs to Portland Cement. My instructions are we will take either 1,000 or 1,500 of that land and make it part of EPZ so that we can create more space for more companies to set camp in Kenya," he went on.

The directive is likely to spark fresh battles between the government and squatters who themselves have frustrated the cement factory for years in messy legal battles.

Ruto also noted that the government was working hard to establish five more Special Economic Zones in Sagana, Thika, Nakuru, Eldoret and Busia in the first phase, which would make it easier for investors to set up companies in the country through the areas to grow their exploits.

"I implore companies setting up camp in Kenya to look at the opportunities that exist in the East African community where we have close to 400 million people and to look at the opportunities in COMESA and look at combined opportunities in the Continent," he appealed.

President Ruto also addressed the issue of water shortage that has been hitting hard Athi River residents and directed the matter to be addressed conclusively.

"It was brought to my attention that the residents are facing challenges in accessing water so I have given orders to the Ministry of Water to ensure the Northern Collector Tunnel engaged in its construction is completed.

"We are at the tail end and working on a dedicated pipeline to Athi River so that residents and companies have access to support manufacturing in this space," he noted.

Aerial view of homes in Athi River. /BUSINESS DAILY

High Court Blocks Deployment Of Kenya Police To Haiti

admin — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 15:03:48 +0300

The High Court has blocked the Interior Ministry from approving a proposal to deploy Kenya police to Haiti or any other country.

This is pending the hearing of a petition filed by the Thirdway Alliance Kenya through Ekuru Aukot and two others.

Justice Chacha Mwita issued a conservatory order preventing the Kenyan government from deploying its 1,000 police officers following approval by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on October 2.

"That a conservatory order is hereby issued restraining the respondents from deploying police officers to Haiti or any other country until 24th October 2023," directed the judge.

Outside the Milimani Law Courts. /FILE

Once served, the respondents will have three days to file and serve written submissions to the petition, also not exceeding 10 pages.

''That the petitioners will then have three days after service to file and serve a supplementary affidavit, if any, together with the written submissions to the petition, not exceeding 10 pages.''

''That once served, the respondents will have 3 days to file and serve written submissions to the petition also not exceeding 10 pages,'' read the order in part.

Kenya was approved by the United Nations (UN) to spearhead the international mission that will be funded by the US government, which is keen to end the Haiti hard drugs trade. Many of the drugs end up in the US but its past attempts to eliminate the trafficking led to accusations that America was seeking to occupy the small island nation.

This necessitated an international intervention involving police from various countries, led by Kenya, which started recruiting officers for the mission.

Kenya pledged to be sending at least 1,000 police officers, mostly from the dreaded GSU, for the mission that many have described as dangerous given that gangs control over 80 per cent of Haiti’s capital, Port au Prince. The officers will be assisted by other contingents from partner countries including Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Antigua and Barbuda.

It is however awaiting Parliamentary approval, with Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki making it clear that the law enforcement officers will only start working after approval from the National Assembly and the Senate as required by law.

Article 240 of the Constitution requires Parliament to approve the deployment of security forces to any peacekeeping mission in foreign nations.

"There will be no shortcuts or violation of the Constitution in the deployment of our police officers to Haiti. Kenya has previously contributed troops to peacekeeping missions in Namibia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Somalia and Congo.

"Deployment of our security officers to Haiti will not in any compromise or undermine our commitment and responsibility to the safety and security of our citizens," he stated on Sunday, October 8 during a church service at St. Andrews ACK Ndenderu, Kiambaa Constituency, Kiambu County.

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki during a Cabinet Committee meeting chaired by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at his official residence in Karen, Nairobi County on September 26, 2023. /KITHURE KINDIKI

Ruto Appoints Isaac Mwaura As Govt Spokesperson

Marvin Chege — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 20:07:16 +0300

President William Ruto has appointed former Senator Isaac Mwaura as government spokesperson.

Mwaura was appointed by the Head of State on Wednesday, October 4.

The appointment was announced by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei and takes effect immediately.

He will be deputized by former K24 and KTN News anchor, Mwanaisha Chidzuga and Gabriel Muthuma.

The appointments end a long wait for a government spokesperson who is charged with helping the President communicate his policies to Kenyans following periods of confusion in terms of disseminating information.

President William Ruto speaking at the swearing-in of DPP Renson Ingonga at State House on September 25, 2023. /PCS

United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala had on Monday, July 31 called for the expedition of the appointment of a government spokesperson to effectively communicate the projects being implemented by President William Ruto's government.

Addressing stakeholders during the ICT Ministry's launch of One Year Status Report at Serena Hotel, the former Kakamega Senator argued that there is a gap in terms of effective communication on government developments, arguing that the Kenya Kwanza regime has accomplished plenty in terms of projects.

He termed the lack of a government spokesperson as the biggest blow to President Ruto's government and called for recruitment for the highly-coveted position to be finalised.

Speaking at the same event, ICT Cabinet Secretary (CS) Eliud Owalo noted that the recruitment process of the next government spokesperson was at its conclusion, having been handled by the Public Service Commission (PSC).

He explained that the recruitment was delayed due to a technical hitch which has since been addressed and that in an earlier exercise, PSC failed to get a suitable person.

Isaac Mwaura was among those who missed out on appointments to Principal Secretary (PS) positions after he lost the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party nominations for the Ruiru parliamentary seat ahead of the August 2022 General Election.

He had been President Ruto's ally for quite a while and inched very very close to serving in his government when he was appointed as Chief Administrative Secretary at the office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary.

However, his appointment was quashed alongside 49 others following a court ruling that declared the positions unconstitutional, having been barred from discharging his duties despite being sworn in.

Chidzuga, a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) politician, on the other end, is the wife of Tana River senator, Danson Mungatana. She recently joined Radio 47 under Cape Media, a newcomer radio station which went on a raiding spree of star journalists.

She lost the Matuga Constituency parliamentary race to Tandaza Kassim Sawa of the Amani National Congress in the 2022 General Election.

Mwaura now fills the shoes of Rtd Col. Cyrus Oguna who left the position after serving for two years to join Siaya County Government as Chief of Staff.

Former Government Spokesperson, Cyrus Oguna. /FILE

How Much Does A Government Spokesperson Earn?

Successful candidates will earn a monthly salary of Ksh970,000 including a basic salary ranging between Ksh292,000 and Ksh576,000.

They are also entitled to a house allowance of Ksh100,000 a month, entertainment allowance of Ksh100,000 a month, extraneous allowance of Ksh100,000, and domestic servants allowance of Ksh100,000, all coming to a total of Ksh400,000.

Also, the officeholder receives a leave allowance according to the existing rates in the Civil service. Other benefits include medical cover and 30 working days of leave per financial year.

In total, a government Spokesperson can earn a monthly salary of at least Ksh692,765 and at most Ksh976,120 per month.

Moses Kuria Moved In Ruto Cabinet Reshuffle

admin — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 19:33:10 +0300

President William Ruto has announced his first Cabinet reshuffle since assuming office on September 13, 2022.

The headline of the changes sees Cabinet Secretaries Moses Kuria, Alfred Mutua and Alice Wahome moved from the Trade, Foreign Affairs and Water ministries.

The changes are as follows:

Kuria was transferred to the Ministry of Public Service previously held by Aisha Jumwa.

President William Ruto chairing a Cabinet meeting at Kakamega State Lodge on August 29, 2023. /PCS

Alfred Mutua was moved to the Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife previously held by Peninah Malonza who was posted to the Ministry of East African Community (EAC).

Alice Wahome was moved to the Ministry of Lands Public Works & Urban Housing from the Water docket. Zachariah Njeru, the former Lands CS was transferred to the Ministry of Water & Sanitation previously held by Wahome.

"HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT has, in the exercise of the presidential prerogative vested in the Head of State and Government pursuant to Article 132 of the Constitution, reorganized the Executive.

"By dint of the Presidential action, changes have been effected to portfolio mandates of Ministries and State Departments. THE HEAD OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT'S Executive Action re- aligns Ministries, State Departments, and Kenya's Foreign Service to optimize performance and enhance service delivery as set out in the Administration's Manifesto under the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda," the circular signed by Felix Koskei, the Chief of Staff and seen by Viral Tea read.

In other changes, Musalia Mudavadi retained his role as the Prime Cabinet Secretary but was handed the extra responsibility of the CS for the Ministry of Foreign & Diaspora Affairs previously held by Alfred Mutua.

Replacing Moses Kuria in Trade is Rebecca Miano who was moved from the East African Community (EAC).

The Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage was created and will be spearheaded by Aisha Jumwa.

The Ministry of Public Service, Gender and Affirmative Action has been reconstituted and renamed the Ministry of Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management.

Ruto also reconstituted the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage and renamed it the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Arts and Sports was renamed the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

The State Department for Performance and Delivery Management was transferred to the Ministry of Public Service, Performance Management. and Delivery and the State Department for Culture and Heritage was renamed as the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage and vested in the Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage.

The State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action was transferred to the Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage.

President William Ruto speaking at the swearing-in of DPP Renson Ingonga at State House on September 25, 2023. /PCS

Ruto Orders Budget Cuts Across All Ministries

Marvin Chege — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 15:50:58 +0300

President William Ruto has ordered all Ministries to reduce their 2023/24 budgets by 10 per cent.

This follows a cabinet meeting that was held at State House Nairobi on Tuesday, October 3.

"President William Ruto has directed ministries to cut their 2023/2024 budgets by 10 per cent to align expenditures with available resources amidst the global economic stress.

"While chairing a cabinet meeting at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto emphasized the need for the Government to exercise prudence in resource utilization, firmly stating that wastage and corruption would not be tolerated," read an excerpt of a despatch seen by Viral Tea.

President William Ruto chairing a Cabinet meeting at Kakamega State Lodge on August 29, 2023. /PCS

The Head of State also issued a warning to government officials seeking to bypass the use of a unified payment system, underscoring the necessity for better oversight.

The budget cuts come almost a day after new guidelines were issued which cut down on unnecessary expenditures, including that of non-essential travel affecting 13 State Officers.

In a notice signed by Chief of Staff, Felix Koskei, the directives suspending foreign travel affected members of the National and County Governments. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi will however not be affected by the new suspension.

Other affected officials include the Attorney General, Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and County Officers as well as the Controller of the Budget.

Others include; the Auditor General, Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Director of Public Prosecutions, Clerk of the Senate and his counterpart in the National Assembly.

All County Governors, County Secretaries and County Assembly Clerks will also be affected by the new directive. Also included are Chairpersons and CEOs of State Corporations, Statutory Offices and Commissions as well as Independent Offices.

"This has been necessitated by the need to scale down and prioritise spending, focusing on critical operations and activities that are essential to service delivery to the citizen," the notice read in part.

The government announced that foreign travel would henceforth be limited to engagements where Kenya's participation is part of the fulfilment of state obligations or for the purpose of fulfilling statutory leadership.

The government also suspended benchmarking and study visits as well as training and related capacity-building initiatives, with effect Monday, October 2.

The aforementioned state officers will also not be able to travel outside the country for research, academic meetings, conferences and meetings of general participation. Koskei also banned side events and caucus and association meetings and events.

"Sponsored events which often attract the need for supplementation in terms of a quarter per diem and ticket upgrade are similarly suspended, except where the invitees expressly waive the anticipated top-up amount," State Officers were told.

If necessary to travel, a cabinet secretary will be accompanied by a maximum of two people while Principal Secretary can only travel with one member of his staff.

"Delegations accompanying the President, the First Lady, the Deputy President and the Prime Cabinet Secretary shall strictly be approved for officials playing a direct role in the scheduled role," Koskei outlined.

Pressure has been mounting on the Kenyan government to reduce the high cost of living triggered by rising food and fuel prices because the increasing taxes would frustrate taxpayers whose disposable incomes have been hit by the high cost of living while on the other hand expenditure cuts could choke further growth in output.

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei addressing a past event at State House. /PCS

Former Attorney-General Githu Muigai Quits As Council Of Legal Education Chairperson

Marvin Chege — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 12:45:37 +0300

Former Attorney-General (AG) Prof. Githu Muigai has resigned as the chairperson of the Council of Legal Education (CLE) Board.

In an internal memo to his colleagues on Monday, October 2 and seen by Viral Tea, Prof Muigai revealed that he resigned from the post owing to some of the submissions he made last week while appearing before the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) at Bomas of Kenya that have made his position untenable.

"I write to inform you of my decision to resign from the Council of Legal Education, effective immediately. The events of the last week have made my continued leadership of the institution untenable.

"As most of you know I have dedicated a very large part of my career to legal education and training and it is with a very heavy heart that I have arrived at this decision," he wrote in part.

Former Attorney-General, Prof. Githu Muigai. /THE LAWYER AFRICA

The ex-AG has since requested the State Law Office to fill the vacancy as soon as possible to enable the institution to run seamlessly.

"I want to thank you all for the unconditional support you accorded me in my position as Chairman. I wish you all the best in your future endeavours," he concluded.

Prof. Muigai told the NADCO committee on Thursday, September 28 that Parliament has too many leaders, and that there should be a plan to reduce the number of constituencies as well as scrap a few political positions.

"We have too many people in Parliament, we have too many constituencies and counties. They are costing us a lot of money. Reduce the constituencies to about 100 and have one man and one woman in each," he claimed.

Muigai explained that when he participated in the drafting of the Constitution in 2004 at the Bomas of Kenya, in what became famously known as the Bomas draft, the suggestion was to have only 14 counties.

However, the former AG noted that politicians changed their tune later on and increased the number, stating that "They came up with a compromise of let's go to 41 counties."

Muigai said that in the event that the Constitution draft is reopened, one issue that could be useful would be the reduction of counties.

"Bring more counties together and let them work together and mobilize resources together and share together," he continued.

The prominent lawyer further called for the two-thirds gender rule to be scrapped and, instead, a 50/50 representation to be introduced in government.

Terming it as just a “women empowerment rule," the prominent lawyer said there should be robust sensitization around the matter and even scrap off a few political positions preserved for women.

"We need to abolish the Woman Rep seat, we create two positions in the constituency. We will achieve 50 per cent, and it will be cheaper," he said.

Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka (Left) and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah (Right) conversing on August 30, 2023. /KALONZO MUSYOKA

Prof. Muigai’s resignation now comes days after CLE acting CEO Mary Mugure stepped down after staff went on strike over alleged mismanagement and high-handedness by the top leadership.

The staff are demanding the dissolution of the entire CLE Board as well as the sacking of senior officials over alleged misappropriation of funds.

The Council of Legal Education (CLE) was established as an independent statutory body in 1995 with the specific mandate to organize and conduct courses for the development of legal professionals; conduct courses for Government personnel on the general understanding of the law and organise Para-legal courses and programmes.

Muigai was appointed to the council in 2021 as a nonexecutive chairperson by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta for a period of three years.

Main Suspect In Eric Maigo Murder Arrested

admin — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 19:58:59 +0300

Ann Adhiambo, alias Nut, the main suspect in the murder of Nairobi Hospital Acting Finance Director Eric Maigo has been arrested.

According to media reports, Adhiambo who has been on the run since Thursday last week, was arrested in Kibra slums in an intelligence-led operation by Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives.

She is currently being held at the Muthaiga Police Station awaiting transfer to Kilimani Police Station which is handling the matter. She will be arraigned on Wednesday, September 27.

Police revealed that she was hiding at a friend’s house in the Bombolulu area when detectives who had been tipped off arrived at about 8 p.m.

Images of the suspect of the murder of Eric Maigo shared by DCI on September 21, 2023. /DCI

However, police noted that Adhiambo, a minor believed to be between 15 to 17 years old, escaped arrest by a whisker after she left a house she had spent overnight in the Olympic area.

Witnesses who called the police disclosed that they later spotted her near the Cemetery area and Jamhuri while using a hood to hide her identity.

She was later traced to Riruta Satelite where she visited her aunt before leaving.

The detectives combed parts of Kibera slums and traced friends and relatives of the 17-year-old suspect as they tried to understand her background.

They also went to various health facilities in an effort to find out if she sought any medical help after she was captured on camera falling on sharp razors forming part of a war around where Maigo lived as she escaped the scene.

The team further stated that they are also conducting an analysis of Maigo’s lifestyle as part of their probe.

The arrest comes after DCI released photos of her while she was captured on CCTV escaping Maigo's residence in Woodley, Nairobi County, which led to detectives recovering her clothes.

"Detectives have recovered clothes believed to have been worn by the main suspect during the cold-blooded murder of Nairobi Hospital’s Acting Finance Director Eric Maigo, last Friday, September 15, 2023.

"The clothes a red checkered shirt and a grey pair of animal-print pants were found in a semi-permanent wooden shack in Bombolulu village, deep inside the sprawling Kibira settlement," stated DCI in part.

The probe would further reveal that Adhiambo is said to have sat her KCPE examination at the Dagoretti-approved school between 2021 and 2022.

Another suspect, Cynthia Lusega Andalo, was previously arrested and arraigned in connection with the gruesome murder but was set free by the court after the prosecution said they had no evidence to charge or even continue detaining the alleged suspect.

Maigo was on Friday, September 15 found dead in his home in Woodley Estate, Nairobi County, lying in a pool of blood with multiple stab wounds. The motive behind the murder is yet to be established.

Entrance to Nairobi Hospital. /FACEBOOK.NAIROBI HOSPITAL

Bandits To Get One-Way Ticket- Kindiki Issues Shoot-To-Kill Order

Marvin Chege — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 12:00:05 +0300

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has issued a shoot-to-kill order to all security officers tackling armed bandits in the troubled Baringo County.

He was speaking on Friday, September 22 when he inaugurated the Akwichatis General Service Unit (GSU) Camp in Silale Ward, Tiaty Constituency.

Kindiki directed the security officers to use lethal force on any criminal who tries to use a weapon to harm or shoot at them.

"Any criminal that will try to use a weapon to shoot or try to harm a security officer, will go on a one-way trip. We will take him on a journey where he won't come back and we will buy him a one-way ticket," he announced.

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki interacts with security officers at Tiaty Constituency, Baringo County on September 22, 2023. /KITHURE KINDIKI

The CS went on to state that the security agencies manning the North Rift regions would deal squarely with individual criminals causing unrest in the regions.

"The Government will not profile or criminalise any community. Security officers must work with law-abiding citizens to identify the few criminal elements who terrorise innocent residents, impoverish them economically, and taint the image of an entire community," he added.

Kindiki went on to state that areas in North Rift Valley Counties that were gazetted as disturbed and dangerous remain so as Operation Maliza Uhalifu currently underway continues.

He also cautioned financiers responsible for funding the operations of criminal gangs in the regions, instructing security officers to apprehend them alongside the masterminds.

"Other than the recovery of stolen livestock, security officers must also apprehend and prosecute masterminds, financiers, and handlers of stolen livestock," he went on.

Kindiki noted that the existence of criminal gangs would not be used as a means of profiling communities living in the bandit-prone areas which is now an operation zone.

The order comes a day after the CS deployed special forces and elite units in Northern Kenya and Upper Coastal regions to ruthlessly pursue and neutralize armed criminals who are terrorising innocent citizens.

DCI Releases Photos Of Woman Wanted In Murder Of Nairobi Hospital Boss

admin — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:42:40 +0300

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is appealing to members of the public to provide information leading to the arrest of a woman suspected to have killed Nairobi Hospital Acting Finance Director Eric Maigo in Woodley Estate, Nairobi County.

The DCI shared screengrabs of CCTV footage capturing the woman leaving Maigo's residence by vaulting over the perimeter wall, not minding the barbed wires put in place for extra security.

"Following the gruesome murder of Dr Erick Maigo, in the wee hours of Friday, September 15, 2023, detectives are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of the woman whose images appear below.

Image of the suspect of the murder of Eric Maigo shared by DCI on September 21, 2023. /DCI

"The suspect who was captured leaving the victim's residence at Woodley Annex -Upper is believed to have been involved in the murder most foul before escaping through the back door," stated the DCI in part on Thursday, September 21.

Two blood-stained knives believed to have been the murder weapons were recovered from the scene of the crime.

"As detectives burn the midnight oil to arrest the female suspect, members of the public are requested to volunteer any information that may lead to her immediate arrest," appealed the DCI.

Maigo was on Friday, September 15 found dead in his home in Woodley Estate, Nairobi County, lying in a pool of blood with multiple stab wounds.

Kilimani Police Station boss Moss Ndiwa initially revealed that Maigo's body had 10 stab wounds to the chest and the others to his sides. However, an autopsy conducted at the Lee Funeral Home on Saturday, September 16 revealed that Maigo had 25 stab wounds that caused his death.

“We calculated and found he had 25 stab wounds. This caused both external and internal bleeding,” said chief government pathologist Dr Johansen Oduor who noted that some vital organs were ruptured by the stabs in the attack.

So far only one suspect has been arrested in connection with the gruesome murder. The suspect identified as Cynthia Lusega Andalo was arrested and arraigned under miscellaneous application on Monday afternoon where police were allowed to hold her for five days as investigations continue.

Detectives believe she might have knowledge or worked with the main suspect as they were together earlier on the night of Maigo’s murder in his Woodley house. It was also established that Maigo’s killer used two kitchen knives in the bedroom attack.

According to phone records and CCTV footage analysis, Maigo was last Thursday evening seen at a popular entertainment club just recently opened along Ngong Road. It is here that he met three women including Andalo.

Police visited the club as part of the efforts to identify all those who met him at the joint. It was then they identified Andalo. The officers are yet to know and get two others, who detectives believe include the main suspect.

An analysis of Maigo’s mobile phone showed he sent money to a number of people prior to his death. Among the transactions, Andalo was in receipt of Ksh650 from Maigo.

According to the police, Maigo is then seen walking out in the company of a woman who is believed to be the main suspect. Phone records show they further went to another entertainment joint along Kilimani Road before going home around quarter past 10 pm.

Image of the suspect of the murder of Eric Maigo shared by DCI on September 21, 2023. /DCI

Two kitchen knives recovered next to Maigo’s body bore similar sets of fingerprints, proving that Maigo’s killer used two knives. Detectives are however yet to establish whether she stabbed him with both knives simultaneously or one after another.

With nothing stolen from Maigo’s house and 25 stab wounds on his chest, neck and face, detectives are inclined towards a crime of passion, or a killer with so much rage.

Samples were collected from the body for further analysis and toxicology tests to establish if he was poisoned before the murder as he bore no defence injuries.

Ezra Chiloba Suspended From CA

admin — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 19:10:55 +0300

Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) Director General Ezra Chiloba has been suspended.

An internal memo by board chair Mary Mungai seen by Viral Tea communicated the suspension on Monday, September 18 following a board meeting.

Christopher Wambua was as a result appointed the Director-General in an acting capacity.

Christopher Wambua appointed as Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya in Acting Capacity on September 18, 2023. /KFCB

Viral Tea could not immediately and independently establish why Chiloba was suspended.

Wambua has been serving as the Director of Consumer and Public Affairs at CA since 2016.

Chiloba's last reported activity was when he raised five concerns regarding the operations of Worldcoin in Kenya, especially its data collection exercise in exchange for giving Kenyans Ksh7,786.

In an investigation handled alongside the Data Protection Commissioner, the CA DG warned Kenyans against providing their personal data at will, especially in circumstances where a financial token is provided in exchange for doing so.

"Since the launch of WorldCoin operations in Kenya, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) and the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) have undertaken a preliminary review and noted a number of legitimate regulatory concerns that require urgent attention," stated Chiloba in part.

Among the issues the CA and OPDC raised included the lack of clarity on the security and storage of the collected sensitive data (facial recognition and iris scans). The authority further argued that obtaining consumer (data subject) consent in exchange for monetary reward borders on inducement.

Before his appointment, Chiloba was a board member of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF), a state agency that provides loans and grants to young entrepreneurs.

He was sacked by IEBC in 2018 after an internal audit revealed irregularities in procurement during the polls.

Ezra Chiloba during a past session in Parliament. /NAIROBI NEWS

EPRA Increases Fuel Prices To Ksh200

admin — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 20:36:58 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced the fuel prices for the period between Friday, September 15 and Saturday, October 14.

In the latest monthly review, the price of Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene increased by Ksh16.96 per litre, Ksh21.32 per litre and Ksh33.13 per litre respectively.

"EPRA has calculated the maximum retail prices of petroleum products, which will be in force from September 15, 2023, to October 14, 2023

"The maximum allowed petroleum pump prices in Nairobi are as follows: Super Petrol increases by KShs.16.96, Diesel increases by KShs.21.32 per litre and kerosene increases by KShs.33.13 per litre," the statement read in part.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on September 14, 2023. /VIRALTEAKE

Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene thus retail at Ksh211.64, Ksh200.99 and Ksh202.61 respectively up from Ksh194.68, Ksh179.67, and Ksh169.48. The new prices take effect at midnight, Friday, September 15.

According to EPRA, the prices are inclusive of the 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020.

"The average landed cost of imported Super Petrol increased by 4.80% from US$739.21 per cubic metre in July 2023 to US$774.67 per cubic metre in August 2023; Diesel increased by 12.52% from US$701.99 per cubic metre to US$789.89 per cubic metre while Kerosene increased by 19.79% from US$690.58 per cubic metre to US$827.26 per cubic metre," added EPRA.

The regulator explained that the purpose of the Petroleum Pricing Regulations is to cap the retail prices of petroleum products which are already in the country so that importation and other prudently incurred costs are recovered while ensuring reasonable prices to consumers.

Elsewhere in Mombasa, motorists will have to pay Ksh208.58 for Super Petrol, Ksh197.93 for Diesel and Ksh199.54 for Kerosene, all per litre, with Diesel and Kerosene users getting a slight reprieve.

Motorists in Nakuru will pay Ksh210.63 for Super Petrol, Ksh200.40 for Diesel and Ksh202.01 for Kerosene while those in Eldoret will pay Ksh211.40 for Super Petrol, Ksh201.17 for Diesel and Ksh202.77 for Kerosene.

In Kisumu, motorists will pay Ksh211.40 for Super Petrol, Ksh201.16 for Diesel and Ksh202.77 for Kerosene.

The government introduced a subsidy of Ksh7.33, Ksh3.59, and Ksh5.74 per litre of Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene respectively.

Fears of fuel prices crossing the Ksh200 mark began after Members of Parliament (MP) on Wednesday, June 21 approved the increase of fuel's Value Added Tax (VAT) from 8 per cent to 16 per cent.

The latest increase, which is now the highest in Kenya's history, has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with consumers expressing concern about how the new prices could affect their budgets more adversely.

As Kenyans prepare for these new fuel prices to take effect, there is growing anticipation for the government to implement measures to cushion vulnerable segments of the population from the adverse effects of the high cost of living.

Motorists queuing for fuel at a petrol station in Nairobi. /MARVIN CHEGE.VIRALTEAKE

Capital FM Presenter Sean Cardovillis Dies

admin — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 09:59:00 +0300

Renowned sports presenter, Sean Cardovillis is dead.

Viral Tea has established that Cardovillis was found dead outside his house along Rhapta Road, Westlands, Nairobi, where he lived alone.

According to the police and witnesses, the body was found at his staircase by a cleaner who had gone to clean the area leading to his house on the fourth floor of an apartment.

It was unclear if he was leaving for work or had died on Friday night, September 8, with witnesses revealing that the cleaner raised the alarm and an ambulance arrived there. Police too visited the scene.

Sean Cardovillis at Capital FM offices on June 8, 2023. /TWITTER.SEAN CARDOVILLIS

Police visited the scene as well as medics, the latter declaring him dead. They carried away his body to the mortuary.

Police said they are yet to know the cause of his death. An autopsy is planned on the body to establish the cause of the death as part of the probe.

Cardovillis on June 8, 2023, announced a comeback to the popular urban radio station, Capital FM, announcing his return to the station after 18 years and would keep its audience up to date in terms of sports news from Mondays to Fridays.

"I'm back! After 18 years, it's great to return to Capital FM Kenya.

"I'll be presenting the sports updates from Mondays to Fridays, and also presenting Saturday Music & Sports as we rebrand sports at the station. I start on Monday at Kenya's number-one radio station," he wrote.

Cardovillis began his media career at Capital FM in 1997 as a sports presenter and rose in the ranks to sports editor before he left after eight years.

In 2006, he moved to Seychelles, where he presented news at Paradise FM where he became a big name on the island.

He was a sports presenter at NTV, where he had a six-year stint before leaving Nation Media Group in 2020. In 2014, he was appointed the Head of Radio at Nation FM.

Cardovillis ran a sports blog and has been dubbed as the 'Voice of Sport' in the country. A veteran in the industry, he has a soft spot for the World Safari Championships, which he has covered extensively during his career.

On February 17, 2022, Cardovillis appealed to the public for financial help with his medical bill following his admission at a city hospital.

This is after his appeal through a social media poster where he stated that he was hospitalized for a while after experiencing chest pains, which turned out to be pneumonia, went viral.

The social media post had revealed that his lungs collapsed and that he also had an infection around his heart.

This led to many media personalities, including Capital FM Founder Lynda Holt to rally friends and well-wishers to come out and support Sean.

Cardovillis' last major assignment was as the official emcee for the 2023 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally where he hosted shows and events surrounding the toughest rally in the WRC circuit and interviewed personalities, among them President William Ruto.

Sean Cardovillis during a past NTV sports bulletin. /FILE

Supreme Court Dismisses Petition Challenging Finance Act 2023

admin — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 09:29:46 +0300

The Supreme Court of Kenya has dismissed Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah's petition which contested the Court of Appeal's lifting of conservatory orders barring the implementation of the Finance Act 2023.

Omtatah had declared his intention to challenge the Court of Appeal's ruling which lifted conservatory orders barring the implementation of the Finance Act 2023, at the country's highest court.

In a notice of appeal filed by Omtatah and six other petitioners, the activist wanted the highest court in the country to quash a ruling made by Justice Mohammed Warsame on Friday, July 28 that allowed the Finance Act to be implemented, pending the hearing and determination of the appeal.

Omatath and his co-petitioners in their notice added that they intended to appeal the ruling rendered by Court of Appeal Judges Warsame, Kathurima M'Inoti and Hellen Omondi that allowed the National Treasury's plan to raise more taxes to implement the Ksh3.6 trillion budget.

Activist Okiya Omtatah presenting his petition at the Supreme Court on Friday, September 2, 2022. /ZAKHEEM RAJAN.FILE

"The four sets of written submissions filed out of time by the applicants on 15th August 2023 on the Court's online platform be and are hereby struck out," read the judgement by the Supreme Court in part.

"The responses and/or submissions filed out of time by the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 8th and 9th respondents be and are hereby struck out. The applicants’ Notice of Motion dated 5th August, 2023 be and is hereby dismissed. There shall be no orders as to costs."

The Supreme Court had observed that there was no merit regarding the arguments presented by Senator Omtatah, in particular the effects of the Finance Act being suspended.

The Judges sided with the Court of Appeal by stating that suspending the Finance Act would have adverse effects on the economy as well as members of the public.

The top court also observed that Omtatah misapprehended the tenor of this Court’s decision in Bia Tosha 2020, which was widely cited as the basis of the appeal.

"It is important to clarify that this Court in the said decision did not pronounce itself on any exceptional or unique circumstances that would warrant it to entertain an appeal emanating from Rule 5(2)(b) as alluded by the applicants.

"The appeal also did not arise from an order made under Rule 5(2)(b) and we reiterated the settled position that this Court lacks jurisdiction to entertain an appeal arising from the exercise of the Court of Appeal’s discretion under the said Rule," the court ruled.

The Judges also noted that they were guided by the principle of public interest, especially due to the fact that the matter at hand involves many people, most of whom are not parties to the case.

"Before issuing final orders, our attention has been drawn to a video clip circulating in the public domain showing, Okiya Omtatah Okoiti, the 1st applicant in the instant Motion, naming Judges of this Court in a derogatory manner, even as this matter was pending before us. We must remind parties that the dignity and authority of this Court or indeed any court of law should not be taken for granted.

"We would like to state without any equivocation that we shall not hesitate to cite and punish any party or person whose conduct interferes or attempts to interfere with the course of justice in relation to any matter pending determination before the Court or whose conduct deliberately undermines the Court’s authority or dignity. We find the message delivered in that video clip contemptuous and debasing of the dignity of this Court," the Supreme Court hit out at Omtatah.

Justice Warsame of the Appellate Court had ruled that the appeal filed by Treasury Cabinet Secretary (CS) Njuguna Ndung'u had merit.

The respondents in the petition had sought abeyance (temporary suspension) of seven days to move to the Court of Appeal.

The respondents including CS Ndung'u and the Attorney General's office had argued that the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary would face uncertainty during the time the Finance Act 2023 would remain suspended.

It was further argued that the orders which suspended the implementation of the Finance Act 2023 would likely cripple the government in relation to revenue mobilisation and expenditure approval, thus the respondents' prayer to the High Court to exercise its secondary jurisdiction and suspend the conservatory orders.

CJ Martha Koome during Supreme Court proceedings on the 2022 presidential election petition. /ZAKHEEM RAJAN

ODM Kicks Out Jalang'o

Marvin Chege — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 13:02:21 +0300

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has resolved to expel Lang'ata Member of Parliament (MP) Felix Odiwuor alias Jalang'o and four others who have been associating with President William Ruto.

The Raila Odinga-led party's National Executive Committee (NEC) adopted a report on the expulsion of Jalang'o alongside MPs Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo) and Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda.

They are now deemed to have resigned and the party should take the necessary action.

President William Ruto meets Nyanza leaders at State House on February 7, 2023. /PCS

"Members facing allegations of violation of Article 11 (1) (e) of the party constitution and section 14A of the Political Parties Act 2011 by openly associating with and supporting activities of a rival political party and opposed lawful decisions/resolutions made by the party organs, be deemed to have resigned from the party.

"The party is hereby directed to commence the process of removing them from the register of the party," stated ODM Chairman John Mbadi.

The NEC meeting also saw four Members of the County Assembly kicked out over gross misconduct. They included Carolyne Opar, Kennedy Ojwang, Peter Obaso and Regina Kizito.

"That the report of the Disciplinary Committee which has been looking into the conduct of some members of the party, elected and nominated on the party ticket be adopted but with amendments. The NEC recommended the revocation of the nomination of four Members of the County Assembly of Kisumu for gross misconduct," the NEC resolved.

The meeting convened by Raila himself is coming almost a month since the renegade members appeared before the Sihanya-led committee to defend themselves from the accusations of gross misconduct.

According to the ODM constitution, a disciplinary process can lead to either reprimanding the member, censuring or fining the member.

Mbadi also announced that MPs Mark Nyamita (Uriri) and Paul Abuor (Rongo) should write an apology to the party and pay a Ksh1 million fine after the duo appeared before the Disciplinary Committee in person, offering explanations considered by the committee which saved them from expulsion.

Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris was reprimanded for openly defying the party's position on the punitive Finance Act 2023 by voting in its favour.

"That Esther Passaris, the Woman MP for Nairobi County be reprimanded for her outright defiance of the party position on the punitive Finance Bill 2023 and that she should issue a written apology to the party within seven days," the party resolved.

"On top of this, Passaris should be fined Sh250,000 which should be paid within 60 days."

Passaris was among 28 members of the Orange Democratic Movement who defied the party and voted for the Bill on June 14. During the voting, 176 MPs supported the Finance Bill in its Second Reading and only 81 opposed it.

Babu Owino Set Free In DJ Evolve Shooting Case

admin — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:15:46 +0300

Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP) Babu Owino has been acquitted in the case where he was charged in relation to the shooting of Felix Orinda popularly known as DJ Evolve.

Milimani senior principal magistrate Bernard Ochoi ruled on Tuesday, August 29 that the prosecution failed to prove the allegations of misuse of a firearm and behaving disorderly.

The ruling comes a month after DJ Evolve handed Babu Owino a breakthrough in absolving himself from the case by testifying under oath that he did not see the parliamentarian with a firearm when the incident occurred at B Club in Kilimani in 2020.

While admitting to the court that he was shot at the time, Evolve confessed that he did not see who shot him nor the firearm that was used at the time.

“I was injured by a bullet but I don't know from which gun. I just found myself in a vehicle to hospital," he told the court.

Side-by-side image of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and DJ Evolve. /FILE

"I came to find out that Babu Owino was supporting me and as a friend I expected my friends to look after me. I received medical care my utilities and general well-being were taken care of...I'm giving out this testimony voluntarily."

Even so, Babu on Thursday, June 16 claimed to have spent Ksh58.6 million in medical expenses on Evolve after the incident occurred, telling Ochoi that he was committed to supporting the injured DJ on the basis of a long-term friendship that began all the way in 2015.

"While in Nyalenda slums in Kisumu, I vowed that I will always give back to those who need help if I ever made it out of poverty," said Babu.

While defending himself in a matter where he was found to have a case to answer over misuse of a firearm, Babu added that he also spent Ksh17 million on an apartment in the affluent residential area for the disc jockey, where he currently resides.

"The family was not able to take care of him and as a leader, I continued paying the medical bills. Total bills accumulated to Ksh23 million.

"He was immobile and could not move. I bought an apartment at Kilimani at around Ksh17 million and hired two nurses, 2 physiotherapists and 1 occupational therapist which up to date I'm paying Ksh300,000 per month,” the Embakasi legislator argued.

Babu also argued that “I have paid Ksh11.1 million and it's still going on for 37 months. I take care of his upkeep of Ksh70,000 per month to pay bills and food. Medicine is Ksh80,000 per month. I have paid Ksh5.5 million for 37 months.”

The MP told the court that on the day he was said to have committed the offence, January 16, 2020, his gun had jammed and therefore there was no possibility that it was the one that fired.

He said that from the ballistic report presented to the court, no evidence was adduced by the Prosecution to show that the bullet shown at the court had matched that of his firearm.

He further told the court that from 10 prosecution witnesses who testified none of them pointed a finger that he was involved in the shooting.

Babu also noted that the charges brought against him touching on being disorderly and holding a gun in the club were not justified, further pointing out that the CCTV footage produced in court on the matter did not capture him behaving disorderly or holding a gun as claimed.

He is led in his defence by his Lawyers Duncan Okatch and Elisha Ogoya who argued that at some time the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had recommended to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to withdraw the criminal case against him.

DJ Evolve on Thursday, April 20 celebrated regaining his voice after three years of being unable to speak normally. His father, John Orinda, had previously noted that he needed at least three surgeries to regain his voice, adding that the tracheostomy he relied on had a blockage.

Felix Orinda alias DJ Evolve during his first TV interview since the shooting incident involving Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. /NTV

A Nairobi court had in 2021 approved a deal between Babu Owino and DJ Evolve to have an attempted murder case against the Legislator withdrawn. The Director of Public Prosecution had charged Owino with the attempted murder of DJ Evolve after the incident which sparked a nationwide uproar.

On Tuesday, April 18, Senior Principal Magistrate Bernard Ochoi turned the tables against Owino by ruling that the lawmaker had a case to answer over the misuse of a firearm, putting him to his defence over the matter while being accused of firing one bullet with the intent to shoot DJ Evolve.

Kenya Power Issues Update On Major Countrywide Blackout

admin — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 20:34:52 +0300

UPDATE 26/08/2023: Kenya Power has revealed that it has restored power supply to most parts of the country including Kiambu, Nyeri, Meru, Murang'a, Embu, Isiolo, Nanyuki, Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet, Nyandarua, Samburu, Kisumu, Vihiga, Kakamega, Siaya, Busia, Kisii, Migori, Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Kitale, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Machakos, Makueni and parts of Nairobi.

"We are working to restore the remaining areas and we shall update once the remaining generating plants are back. We apologise to our customers for the inconvenience caused and we thank them for their patience," stated the monopoly firm.

Kenyans have reported widespread power blackouts across the country, including in Nairobi, Central, Mombasa and Western regions.

This writer was also affected by the blackouts which reportedly began some minutes before 10 p.m. on Friday, August 25.

The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was not spared either as reports indicate that the blackout led to the failure of generators, leaving travellers stranded.

Screengrab of a power blackout that affected Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on August 25, 2023. /TWITTER

"JKIA, Kenya’s international airport, is in darkness. The backup generators also failed. How embarrassing is this? This shouldn’t happen. Nani amekula pesa ya mafuta (Who has misused the funds for fuel) for those generators.

"President William Ruto must crack the whip. This incompetence can’t be ignored!" Ahmed Mohamed, alias Asmali, tweeted.

Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed the blackout at JKIA, announcing that he would make a decision on Saturday, August 26 after meeting the leadership of the airport.

"I am really sorry for what has happened at JKIA with the blackout. There is no excuse worth reporting and there is no reason why our airport is in darkness.

"I will be announcing the decision we will make tomorrow at 9 a.m. at JKIA after a meeting with the leadership of the airport. Once again I am sorry," he wrote.

Kenya Power on its part confirmed the blackout, stating that the outage was caused by a general system disturbance.

"Sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused. Thank you for the continued partnership."

Wycliffe Oparanya Arrested- ODM

admin — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:26:39 +0300

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has claimed that former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has been arrested.

The party in a statement on Wednesday, August 23 claimed that Oparanya was arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) alongside his wife.

The former governor was grilled by officers from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) at the Integrity Centre.

"Our DPL (Deputy Party Leader) Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has been arrested by officers from the DCI. Oparanya together with his wife Madam Priscillah are currently at the EACC offices at Integrity Centre.

Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya analysing damage to his vehicle during the Wednesday, July 13, 2023 demonstrations. /NTV

"No information has been given as to why they have been arrested & why they are being questioned," stated the party.

Viral Tea was yet to independently establish why the former county boss and his wife were arrested and grilled. The ODM party did not divulge further details about the arrest, coming ahead of President William Ruto's Western Kenya tour from August 27-30.

Further reports indicated that EACC officers conducted a search at one of his homes in Nairobi amidst reports claiming corruption and economic crimes committed during his tenure as governor.

"Why are suspicious-looking men in Subaru vehicles camping outside Wycliffe Oparanya's residence in Karen?" ODM Director of Communications, Philip Etale, posed.

Oparanya has been a consistent supporter of opposition chief Raila Odinga, supporting him even after the August 2022 election loss which saw some leaders jump ship to the opposition.

The former governor who served between 2013 and 2022 for two terms, is facing his second arrest this year.

In a press briefing at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, former Defense CS Eugene Wamalwa condemned the previous arrest on Oparanya in connection to the anti-government protests that disrupted the country on Wednesday, July 12.

"Among those in police custody is Mavoko MP Patrick Makau and as we speak we have just learnt of the arrest of Oparanya. We demand the immediate and unconditional dropping of all charges against these two for participating in a constitutionally protected action," Wamalwa stated.

A recent report released by the EACC indicated that there was a planned prosecution of high-profile people including a sitting Governor, two former Governors, and a former Principal Secretary (PS) in former president Uhuru Kenyatta's regime.

The report which also captured the state of corruption in the counties since its inception highlighted the most prevalent malpractices in the counties including embezzlement of public funds, conflict of interest, procurement fraud, payroll fraud mainly through ghost workers, fraudulent pending bills and blatant disregard of laws relating to prudent management of public affairs.

EACC offices at Integrity Centre in Nairobi. /FILE

Mathe Wa Ngara Arrested

admin — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 18:03:36 +0300

Businesslady Nancy Indoveria Kigunzu, alias 'Mathe wa Ngara', has been arrested.

She was arrested on Monday, August 21 in connection to drug trafficking and possession during a police operation in Nairobi.

Viral Tea has learnt that Kigunzu was arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) who were trailing her for hours and driven to the DCI headquarters for grilling ahead of her planned arraignment on Tuesday, August 22.

Detectives said she had been hiding since last Tuesday when police raided her den in Ngara.

Mathe wa Ngara sobbing uncontrollably following her arrest in Nairobi CBD on August 21, 2023. /TWITTER

When police raided a known drug den in the Kariowa slums Ngara area, Nairobi barely a week ago, they hoped to get her but ended up arresting a woman, Teresia Wanjiru, who has been described as a wrong suspect.

The place is popularly known as 'Kwa Mathe' (mum’s place) because of its popularity in terms of the supply of various narcotics and psychotropic substances. Others call it 'Kwa Mathe wa Ngara'.

'Kwa Mathe wa Ngara' is a known place, and is searchable online, and unlike other spots called 'Kwa Mathe', especially in informal settlements, the Ngara 'Mathe' appears to have more power, controls a larger swathe of the population, have more widespread influence.

Five years ago, at the 'Kwa Mathe' slums, men were filmed busy rolling marijuana blunts and revealing that, even little school-going boys were her clients. To the consumers and mules of the narcotics, the owner is a humble and caring woman who always understands their challenges.

A team of detectives from the Transitional Organised Crimes Unit backed by those from the Anti-Narcotics Unit and local ones had raided the den owned and run by 'Mathe wa Ngara' but they did not find her.

After police went public about the arrests and recoveries, those who know the woman swamped social media saying the real “Mathe” had not been arrested, with police later revealing that they were still looking for the 46-year-old woman.

The arrest came hours after Kigunzu moved to court to block her arrest, claiming she is a law-abiding Kenyan with a legitimate source of income.

"The applicant is of the firm belief that the timing of the arrest is designed to intimidate and ensure that she does not continue running her business here in Kenya," Kigunzu stated in her application.

"The powers of arrest by the 1st (DCI) and 2nd (IG Koome) respondents are being abused and misused to harass, intimidate and oppress the applicant."

She asked the court to issue an injunction pending a request for anticipatory bail. Anticipatory bail is issued to block the possible arrest of a suspect.

She has been in the news over the past week after detectives busted drugs and about Ksh13.4 million in cash believed to be proceeds from drug trafficking.

Ksh13 Million stuffed in sacks recovered by police in Parklands on Tuesday, August 15. /DCI

DCI Arrest Armed Al-Shabaab Terrorist Near Nairobi Supermarket

admin — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 18:15:29 +0300

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested a 41-year-old man suspected to be a terror suspect and recovered a firearm loaded with 6 rounds of ammunition.

In an intelligence-led operation conducted in the Riruta area of Dagoreti, Nairobi, the sleuths pounced on Ferdinand Indangasi near a supermarket on Friday, August 18 and recovered five sachets of a white narcotic substance believed to be cocaine from his pockets.

Upon further scrutiny of the suspect’s mobile phone, the officers discovered radicalization literature with extremist teachings, linked to the Al-Shabaab terror network.

A photo collage of DCI detectives on bikes (Left) and the suspected Al-Shabaab militant (Right) arrested in Dagoretti on Friday, August 18, 2023. /DCI

"The suspect led detectives to his house located behind the supermarket where upon gaining forceful entry, the detectives recovered a Glock pistol loaded with six rounds of 9mm calibre, Ksh31,000 in cash and 25Kgs of 4-inch nails suspected to be used in the assembly of improvised explosive devices," stated the DCI in part.

After conducting a background check of the suspect at the DCI-Anti Terror Police Unit headquarters, it was discovered that the suspect was a hardcore jailbird who had served 15 years behind bars at the Shimo La Tewa prison.

The terror suspect is currently being grilled by anti-terror detectives before being arraigned in court on Monday, August 21.

There has been a resurgence of Al Shabaab attacks in the country, prompting security agencies to heighten surveillance.

However, this is the first time since the resurgence that suspected militia members have gone the closest to the capital city amidst major attacks occurring close to the Kenya-Somalia border.

In July 2023, the group claimed responsibility for a series of attacks in the northeastern counties of Garissa and Lamu, which killed over 10 security officers.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki expressed concern over the latest operations of Al-Shabaab in the country and promised to deal firmly with the insurgents, further appealing to Kenyans who mean well for the country's security to assist security agencies in availing crucial information that will lead to the arrest and prosecution of the suspects.

Kindiki had previously revealed that 60 suspected Al Shabaab militants were killed in an operation on Tuesday, August 1 in Lamu County, the terrorists being part of a group that was seeking to attack four different passenger buses, putting the lives of 200 people at risk.

KDF officers ride on a vehicle during a past operation. /FILE

Ruto Nominates New DPP To Succeed Noordin Haji

Marvin Chege — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 13:26:56 +0300

President William Ruto has nominated Renson Mulele Ingonga as the new Director of Public Prosecutions; (DPP).

In a communication read out by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula to Parliament, the Head of State recognised Ingonga as a qualified legal practitioner who will serve with honour.

Ruto asked the Members of Parliament (MP) in the August House to vet the nominee as per the provisions of the Law.

An image of Renson Mulele Ingonga. /FILE

Ingonga is poised to succeed Noordin Haji, who was appointed the National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General.

The Public Service Commission (PSC) on Thursday, June 29 opened applications for Kenyans intending to succeed Haji as the next DPP.

PSC released a notice by Shadrack Mose, the Chairperson of the seven-member DPP selection panel formed to nominate qualified persons for an appointment for the position.

"Pursuant to provisions of Article 157 of the Constitution and section 8(1) -(4) of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Act, 2013, the Selection Panel invites applications from suitably qualified persons to be considered for nomination for appointment to the position of the Director of Public Prosecutions," the notice read in part.

Requirements

For appointment to this position, a candidate must hold a law degree from a recognized university, be an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, or possess an equivalent qualification from a common-law jurisdiction.

He or she must have at least ten (10) years of experience as a Superior Court Judge or professionally qualified Magistrate; or have at least ten (10) years of experience as a distinguished academic or a legal practitioner or such experience in other relevant legal fields.

Furthermore, the candidate must have held the qualifications aforementioned for a period amounting, in the aggregate, to ten (10) years.

He or she must also be of high moral character, integrity and impartiality, meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution and demonstrate a high degree of professional competence, communication skills, fairness, good temperament, and good judgment in both legal and life experiences and commitment to public and community service.

Terms Of Service

Regarding the terms of service, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) shall hold office for a term of eight (8) years and shall not be eligible for re-appointment.

The salary and benefits entitled to the position of DPP shall be as determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). According to SRC, a DPP is entitled to a monthly salary of Ksh765,188 which is computed as;

Basic salary - Ksh459,113
House Allowance - Ksh150,000
Market Adjustment - Ksh156,075

Who Is Ingonga?

Ingonga was among 30 candidates who were shortlisted for interviews which took place in Nairobi for more than one week. The selection panel eventually submitted to President Ruto a list of three qualified candidates, out of which he settled on Ingonga.

He is an Assistant Director at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). He is currently the Head of the North Eastern Area and the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Unit at the ODPP.

He is a career prosecutor who has been serving at the prosecutions office for nearly 10 years and holds a Bachelor of Laws Degree from the University of Nairobi and a Master of Laws degree in International Criminal Law from the University of Cape Town. He is also a certified mediator and arbitrator.

Ingonga has extensive experience in criminal law, with a particular focus on corruption and economic crimes and is known as a passionate advocate for justice and human rights, committed to ensuring that the law is applied fairly and impartially, regardless of the circumstances.

Ingonga floored other shortlisted candidates who included former IEBC commissioner Thomas Letangule, Francis Andayi, lawyer Danstan Omari, Taib Ali, Jacinta Nyamosi, Victor Mule and Tabitha Ouya to the nomination spot.

Others included David Ruto, Winston Ngaira, Peter Mailanyi, Lilian Okumu, Jacob Ondari, James Ndegwa, and David Okachi.

Core functions of the DPP:

The DPP makes the decision to charge and determines what charges should be preferred in a criminal case. The DPP performs the following functions;

To institute and undertake criminal proceedings against any person before any court of law other than a court martial in respect of any offences alleged to have been committed by that person;
To take over and continue any criminal proceedings instituted or undertaken by another person or authority;
To discontinue at any stage before judgment is delivered on any criminal proceedings;
To direct investigation and guide the conduct of criminal investigations;
To handle matters relating to international relations including extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance(MLA);
To advise government Ministries, Departments, Agencies and County Governments on matters pertaining to the development and application of criminal law;
To monitor, train, appoint and gazette public prosecutors;
To facilitate victims of crime and witnesses during prosecution;
To contribute and influence policy, procedure and law reform; and to address complaints raised by ODPP clients that is within the office's mandate.

National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji taking an oath of office on June 14, 2023. /PCS

Mandago Arrested Moments After Ruto Response To Scholarship Saga

admin — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 11:14:28 +0300

Uasin Gishu senator Jackson Mandago has been arrested.

A report by Citizen TV indicated that the senator was arrested in Eldoret over the controversial Finland and Canada Education programme.

The arrest comes moments after President William Ruto warned those who stole millions of shillings meant for providing scholarships to students from Uasin Gishu County that no gaps will be left in the quest to secure justice for those affected.

President William Ruto with Governor Mandago during the service on February 19, 2018. /FILE

"There are parents who gave monies which no one knows where they went. If there is anyone who misused that money, that person should arrange to repay in advance or he will be in trouble.

"There is no room for tolerance in terms of the money from someone who sold his livestock or farmlands. He or she must be refunded," Ruto ordered.

The parents had earlier appealed to the Senate and President Ruto for help to be refunded the money they had paid to the county government.

"I will not allow anyone to steal from our children. The money will be returned to the parents," Ruto assured the parents who were cheering him up.

He further acknowledged the outrage the scandal caused in Uasin Gishu County where many parents are struggling to make ends meet.

Former governor and now Senator Mandago has been accused of conspiring to steal Ksh1 billion from an account domiciled at a local bank in Eldoret registered under the Uasin Gishu Education Trust Fund meant for overseas university fees for students under Uasin Gishu County Overseas Education Programme.

Earlier, a warrant of arrest was issued against him with the National Police Service (NPS) revealing that he went into hiding since Tuesday, August 15 while revealing that it was in the process of executing a warrant of arrest issued against him.

NPS also appealed to Kenyans to provide information regarding his whereabouts through the communication channels it provided.

Hours before the warrant of arrest was issued, Mandago revealed that he was ready to surrender to the police if circumstances require him to do so and that he met with the leadership of the parents who are demanding refunds from the controversial programme.

"There are rumours all over Eldoret Town that DCI Officers have been looking for me the whole night. As a law-abiding citizen, I am available once summoned.

"I have met with the leadership of parents and agreed on the way forward as per their press statement issued last evening," he tweeted.

However, Mercy Tarus, one of the students who lost millions in the scholarship saga on Wednesday, August 16, announced that no one had been compensated yet despite Mandago's declaration.

Senator Mandago Has Gone Into Hiding- Police Launch Manhunt

admin — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:07:39 +0300

UPDATE: The National Police Service (NPS) revealed that Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago went into hiding since Tuesday, August 15 while revealing that it was in the process of executing a warrant of arrest issued against him.

NPS also appealed to Kenyans to provide information regarding his whereabouts through the communication channels it provided.

"The National Police Service is in the process of executing a Warrant of Arrest against Uasin Gishu Senator Hon. Jackson Mandago, who has gone underground since yesterday and calls upon the Senator to present himself at the nearest police station.

"NPS further appeals to any member of the public with information about Senator Mandago's whereabouts to report to the nearest police station or report via our toll-free numbers 999, 112, 911 and the fichua Kwa DCI 0800722203," stated NPS.

Uasin Gishu Senator, Jackson Mandago, revealed on Wednesday, August 16 that he was available to be summoned, amidst the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) ordering his arrest.

According to reports, the DPP ordered the arrest of Mandago alongside three others over Finland and Canada Overseas Education Programme where millions were allegedly misused.

A Nakuru Court had issued a warrant of arrest for Mandago together with three other top county officials, who are wanted by police for prosecution over the county’s scholarship saga.

The other officials are Joseph Kipkemoi Maritim, Meshak Rono and Joshua Kipkemoi Lelei.

Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago makes opening remarks at the start of a meeting on Monday, August 7, 2023. /THE STAR

However, in a statement, Mandago revealed that he was ready to surrender to the police if circumstances require him to do so.

He also noted that he met with the leadership of the parents who are demanding refunds from the controversial programme.

"There are rumours all over Eldoret Town that DCI Officers have been looking for me the whole night. As a law-abiding citizen, I am available once summoned.

"I have met with the leadership of parents and agreed on the way forward as per their press statement issued last evening," he tweeted.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) gave consent for the prosecution of the officials in the fiasco.

The quartet are supposed to face charges of conspiracy to commit a felony, stealing and abuse of office as well as accusations of forgery.

According to a charge sheet seen by Viral Tea, they are accused of conspiring to steal Ksh1 billion from an account domiciled at a local bank in Eldoret registered under the Uasin Gishu Education Trust Fund meant for overseas university fees for students under Uasin Gishu County Overseas Education Programme.

The detectives handling the matter said they had tried to reach the wanted officials in vain, who claimed on their part that they were attending the Devolution Conference in Eldoret town. This prompted police to move to Nakuru law courts to seek warrants to arrest the suspects.

On Thursday, August 10, Mandago revealed that he recorded a statement with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

"I have today recorded my statement at the DCI headquarters (Kiambu Road) on the Finland and Canada overseas education program," he tweeted.

He however did not reveal the details of the statement he recorded at the investigative agency in relation to the county's controversial scholarship programmes for Australia, Finland and Canada.

The DCI had officially commenced investigations into the saga which cost parents and students millions of shillings in the controversial programme.

"All aggrieved victims are requested to present themselves at the DCI County Headquarters in Eldoret, on July 18 for statement recording and other investigative procedures to bring the suspects to book," DCI directed then.

Over 50 parents recorded their statements with the detectives in the exercise that was carried out last month.

DCI officers stand guard at the investigative agency's headquarters along Kiambu Road. /DCI

USIU Vice Chancellor Exits After One Year

admin — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 12:33:15 +0300

The United States International University-Africa (USIU) has announced the departure of Professor Margee Ensign as its Vice-Chancellor.

In a statement on Monday, August 7, the university's council chair Kris Senanu revealed that Prof Ensign encountered personal medical challenges attributed to the altitude in Nairobi, Kenya.

The chair added that doctors advised her against living and working in Nairobi, leading to the announcement of her departure after one year.

"It is with a mix of sadness and gratitude that I, on behalf of the United States International University - Africa (USIU-Africa) University Council and Board, announce the departure of Vice Chancellor Prof. Margee Ensign after her one-year tenure.

"Prof. Ensign has been faced with personal medical challenges related to the altitude in Nairobi, and her doctors have advised her that she cannot live and work here," read the statement in part.

Immediate former USIU Vice Chancellor, Professor Margee Ensign. /PHOTO

USIU added that during her tenure, Prof Ensign demonstrated unwavering commitment, passion, and vision, leaving a lasting impression on the institution. Among the remarkable achievements yielded during her dedication and hard work included:

An increase in enrollment of 562 new students compared to the same period last year, thanks to her leadership in coordinating Open Day initiatives, school visits, international recruitment activities, and additional investments in marketing.
A reinvigorated 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, tailored to address the most pressing global and national challenges, as well as disruptions in higher education.
The implementation of a new organizational structure aligned with the Strategic Plan's key performance indicators, with the recruitment process for senior leadership positions nearing completion.
A strong advocate for additional scholarships under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, as well as for students with disabilities and the e-learning initiative.
The successful launch of the USIU Brand Store.
The establishment of the Center for Executive Education, with new programs scheduled to commence in September 2023.
Meaningful engagement with USIU Alumni, domestically and internationally, fostering stronger connections and long-term networks.
Community outreach initiatives, particularly focusing on vulnerable populations within the university vicinity and demonstrating her commitment to supporting those in need.

Prof Ensign was lauded for her outstanding leadership, effective teamwork, and ability to collaborate with various stakeholders both internally and externally, qualities which nurtured a positive and productive work environment, promoting a sense of unity ('We are One') among all.

"Her innovative ideas and unique perspectives consistently brought fresh insights to the university, and her commitment to excellence set a high standard for all who interacted with her.

"We are deeply grateful and honoured to have had Prof. Ensign as a part of our community. She demonstrated that nothing is impossible, consistently handling challenges with efficiency and effectiveness," added the university, which went on to express its heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for her future endeavours.

To ensure continuity and effective leadership, Dr Lola Odubekun will serve as the interim Vice Chancellor effective September 1, 2023.

Dr Odubekun is a member of the USIU-Africa University Council and has also served as Chair in the past. She is a social scientist with a professional background in law and over 25 years of high-level experience in criminal justice research, advocacy, and grants management.

"We anticipate the process of searching for a substantive replacement to begin in the coming months. Thank you all for your understanding and support during this transitional period," USIU concluded.

On July 18, 2022, Prof Ensign was announced as USIU's new vice-chancellor to replace Freida Brown who acted on an interim basis.

The university’s council in August 2021 recalled Prof Brown from retirement to serve on a nine-month contract following the exit of Paul Tiyambe Zeleza after a five-year stint. Her contract was extended to September 2022.

Prior to the appointment, Prof. Ensign served as the President of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, where she had been President from 2010 to 2017.

She was requested to return to AUN in 2021, having assumed the position of Vice-Chancellor (or President) of Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania from 2017 to 2021.

USIU Vice Chancellor, Professor Margee Ensign and Interim Vice Chancellor Prof. Freida Brown jointly presided over the USIU-Africa 44th Commencement (Graduation) ceremony on September 24, 2022. /TWITTER.EXPERIENCE USIU

Court Lifts Suspension Of Finance Act 2023

admin — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 12:12:51 +0300

The Court of Appeal has lifted conservatory orders barring the implementation of the Finance Act 2023.

The ruling was delivered by Justice Mohammed Warsame on Friday, July 28, pending the hearing and determination of the appeal.

"The upshot of our decision is that the application has merit and the same is allowed as prayed with the effect that the order made on July 10, 2023, suspending the Finance Act 2023, and the order prohibiting the implementation of the Finance Act 2023, be and is hereby lifted pending the hearing and determination of the appeal. Costs shall abide the outcome of the appeal," read part of the ruling.

Justice Warsame ruled that the appeal filed by Treasury Cabinet Secretary (CS) Njuguna Ndung'u has merit.

The Judiciary building in Nairobi. /FILE

The respondents in the petition had sought abeyance (temporary suspension) of seven days to move to the Court of Appeal.

The petitioners led by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah however argued that the reimbursement of taxes which the respondents had given an example of that can be implemented for employees at the payroll is impossible, citing instances of the 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel.

The judge thus indicated in discretion that certain provisions whose implementation has an irreversible effect and cannot be refunded can be considered for suspension by the court, but not the whole act.

"The Appropriation Act which was enacted on the backdrop of the Finance Act is in place and is not under constitutional challenge. Lastly, had the trial Judge considered the substantial and irreversible public interest in this matter, the court would have been hesitant to suspend the whole Act.

"In conclusion, we are persuaded that the applicants have satisfied the twin principles for the grant of the orders sought, and that, public interest tilts in favour of setting aside the conservatory orders by the trial Judge," added the ruling.

Justice Mugure Thande of the High Court extended the conservatory orders suspending the Finance Act 2023 on July 10, 2023, in response to Omtatah's petition.

Omtatah had moved to the High Court to challenge the contentious Act before it was assented into Law by President William Ruto, arguing that the bill which generated uproar across the country is unconstitutional and thus sought the help of the court.

Following the latest ruling, the fate of the Finance Act lies on the highest court in the country, the Supreme Court of Kenya, which will determine the case through a three-judge bench constituted by Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Koome.

Justice David Majanja will be the judge to preside over this case, thus taking the lead in terms of overseeing the proceedings and will be supported by Justice Lawrence Mogambi and Justice Christine Meori.

Chief Justice Martha Koome looking at her laptop during a past court session. /FILE

He Is Playing Games- Raila On Ruto Invite To Talks

admin — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 14:58:10 +0300

Azimio Leader Raila Odinga on Wednesday, July 26 raised an issue with President William Ruto's call for truce talks, saying that the Head of State is not being honest.

Speaking during an interview with Al Jazeera, Raila wondered why President Ruto was using social media channels to extend his invitation to him other than using formal channels.

"I think the President is not being serious. If he wanted to meet with me he would not invite me through social media. He knows my address, he knows my telephone number and everything.

"He is basically just playing games, that is like a Public Relations (PR) exercise," he stated.

Side by side image of President William Ruto and Raila Odinga. /FILE

The ODM party leader reiterated that Ruto had blocked efforts by Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan to bring the two leaders for mediatory talks, even though it was Ruto's government who had invited her to Kenya.

"I mentioned yesterday that two weeks ago, the President of Tanzania Suluhu Hassan, came here to Kenya at his invitation and she spent two days here wishing to bring us together," he stated noting that Suluhu was intending to mediate between the two leaders.

"He rejected and refused to meet her...that was a big humiliation."

Raila further asserted that he was willing to engage in dialogue and had made this possible through his appointing of members to take part in the parliamentary bipartisan talks.

He claimed that the Head of State had backed away from the talks as soon as he noticed that the country was returning to peaceful affairs after the opposition called off the nationwide protests.

"I don't believe Mr Ruto is serious at all, he's a doublespeak...on one side when it suits him, he talks very nicely and says that I'm ready to talk at any time and the other time he and his people are saying that Mr Odinga and his group just want to have a handshake so that they can be able to share the cake," he went on.

"We have said that we don't want any kind of cake. He is trying to live in denial that we have a crisis in this country that requires serious approach and address."

President Ruto issued a public statement on Twitter to Raila, saying that he was ready to meet him one on one and hold talks at the latter's convenience. However, in the interview, Raila did not respond to a question on whether or not he would honour the meeting.

The government, through State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, dismissed Raila's claims of the nature of Suluhu's visit to Kenya, clarifying that Suluhu's visit to the country was not a State visit as the protocol was not observed regarding official visits by other world leaders to the country.

He explained that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would have issued an official communication regarding Suluhu's official visit, which was not the case here, and that the Tanzanian Head of State may have been in Kenya just to enjoy a holiday.

Collage image of President William Ruto, Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Raila Odinga. /VIRALTEAKE

Azimio Calls Off Wednesday Protests

Marvin Chege — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 17:26:58 +0300

Azimio la Umoja coalition has postponed the anti-government protests that were scheduled for Wednesday, July 26.

In a statement issued on Monday, July 24, the Raila Odinga-led coalition announced that instead of taking to the streets for the protests, they will be holding a vigil by lighting candles and laying flowers for the victims of police brutality during previous demos.

"Azimio has made the decision that on Wednesday, rather than go to the streets for a peaceful demonstration as earlier announced, we will hold solidarity parades and vigil for victims of police brutality in various locations in all parts of the country," reads the statement.

A police officer running away from protesters who throwing stones on Wednesday, July 12, 2023. /MA3ROUTE

"We are calling Kenyans to come out and light candles and lay flowers in remembrance of and respect for the victims. During the vigils, candle lighting and laying of flowers, we encourage Kenyans to say prayers and read out the names of the victims of police brutality. We shall provide the list of the victims in time for the exercise."

Azimio added that so far, 50 deaths have been reported with hundreds of others being injured and admitted to hospitals with grave injuries.

"Many hospitals have been instructed not to disclose the number of casualties or deaths or even admit victims of police brutality. Many are therefore nursing their injuries at home while others have had their death go unrecorded.

"Many families are struggling with bills as a result of the brutal police assault on members. It is clear we are dealing with an unprecedented phenomenon of police brutality and the State resorting to armed militia to quell protests," added the statement.

The coalition added that it visited hospitals and morgues and established that police and hired gangs shot and killed or wounded scores of people at close range, adding that some were shot in the back as they were fleeing or in a position of surrender.

"The shots have been aimed at the vital organs and delicate parts of the victims like the abdomen, the spine, the chest and the head. All the victims have been unarmed," the coalition continued.

The coalition further estimated that the number of those who died during the protests would number up to the hundreds and injuries to the thousands, thus prompting the decision to suspend the protests.

However, it did not issue a new date for when the protests would resume.

Azimio also asked the religious leaders and the people of Kenya to extend the exercise by dedicating Friday, Saturday and Sunday to prayers in remembrance of the victims of police brutality during the past demonstrations.

"We ask Kenyans to pray also that the International Criminal Court (ICC) takes up the matter based on an expanded list of perpetrators that we intend to furnish with the court with in due course," Azimio appealed.

The postponement came a few hours after Interior CS Kithure Kindiki promised to deploy police officers as early as 1:00 am to arrest protesters caught stealing or destroying infrastructure.

"Two Wednesdays ago, we wanted to see if Kenyans can conduct peaceful protests. But three hours later, a lot of damage was done in various parts of the country and by the time we deployed police, it was too late.

"That is last week. We decided we are not going to the same criminals to do the same. We will remain firm," he told the press on Monday.

Raila Odinga addressing supporters at Kenyatta Market on July 11, 2023. /RAILA ODINGA

Uhuru Claims Plot To Plant Guns, Drugs In Eldest Son's Compound

Marvin Chege — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 13:45:09 +0300

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has claimed that there was a plot to plant guns and drugs at the home of his eldest son, Jomo, through the police raid that occurred on Friday, July 21.

During a meeting with news editors on Monday, July 24 as reported by Citizen Digital, the former Head of State claimed that the alleged cache of guns allegedly held by his two sons, Jomo and Muhoho was an attempt by propagandists to divert the public attention from more important issues.

"This gun issue is surrounded by lots of propaganda to divert attention from what has been happening," he told the senior journalists.

"I believe they wanted to plant drugs and guns in my son's compound."

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta attends Jubilee Party NDC at Ngong Race Course on Monday, May 22, 2023. /JUBILEE PARTY

An angry Kenyatta further stated that the incident had hurt him and that his motive to rush to Jomo's Karen home on Friday night was a parental instinct in response to Jomo's distress call.

"I went because of a distress call from my son; I was not drunk, I was extremely hurt," he said.

He further claimed that his sons own six guns in total, three each, and that all of the firearms are legally registered, with his only daughter, Ngina Kenyatta, being the only one without a weapon.

Uhuru added that his two sons were forced to apply to receive the weapons after their security was withdrawn immediately after President William Ruto’s government took office in 2022.

“My son Jomo has never been interested in weapons. He was forced to apply for a gun after his security was withdrawn,” he told the Nation.

Muhoho on his part was revealed to have had an interest in guns due to his hobby of shooting birds in the Mwea Irrigation Scheme.

According to the former President, none of the boys received orders to surrender their firearms as was claimed in the media and by top government officials.

The former head of state's brother, son and their four other close associates were ordered to surrender 28 weapons registered in their names to the Firearm Licensing Board in Nairobi by Monday, according to reports that surfaced on Sunday, July 24.

The state reportedly indicated that it wanted the family's 28 firearms for ballistic examinations to determine whether the firearms were used during the three-day Azimio la Umoja mass protests.

Kenyatta also indicated that he was forced to share his security with his mother, Mama Ngina Kenyatta after her security was withdrawn last week.

The directive came two days after the police raided the home of Jomo claiming that they were looking for guns alleged to have been illegally registered and used in the recent wave of protests.

On Friday, July 21, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki confirmed that police officers raided Jomo's home amongst three homesteads within the Karen area where a total of 23 firearms, some of which are suspected to have been used in illegal activities were kept.

Interior CS, Kithure Kindiki appears before the Senate Ad Hoc Committee to investigate the proliferation of religious organisations and the circumstances leading to the deaths in Shakahola, Kilifi County on July 11, 2023. /KITHURE KINDIKI

Uhuru Kenyatta's Eldest Son's Home Raided By Police [VIDEO]

Marvin Chege — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 17:33:02 +0300

Police officers have reportedly raided the home of former President Uhuru Kenyatta's eldest son in Karen.

Uhuru was at the home on Friday, July 21 and expressed dissatisfaction in which the government was targeting his family.

The former Head of State, who spoke to the media, emphasized that he would protect his family even if the current government withdraws his security.

Former president Uhuru Kenyatta: I have a situation where my son's home is being raided. If it's me you want, come for me.

Why intimidate a 90-year-old woman or children? On my association with Raila, am I not supposed to talk to my friends? pic.twitter.com/BwM8nGfVNF
— NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) July 21, 2023

"Is it a crime to associate with Raila, I handed over in peace, as I was supposed to do. I leave this incident to the laws, what do you want with my children, they removed their security now they want to reduce their personal weapons,

"Do whatever you want to do but do not harm my mother. If these are illegal weapons then tell the world but they are licensed so what is the issue? Uhuru questioned.

The former Head of State went on to dare the current regime to withdraw all of their security and to arrest him, but to spare his children and grandchildren.

"I am not demanding any security from them, if they want they want to recall all of them, let them do so," he added.

"Do not think you can intimidate an old woman, children, and grandchildren to intimidate me, if you want me, come I have not run away. Your people know where I am all the time but leave the children alone," Uhuru dared.

He further distanced himself from allegations that he has been funding Azimio la Umoja protests reiterating that he handed over power peacefully and with regard to the law despite being out of favour with President William Ruto's government.

"Is it a crime to associate with Raila? It is my democratic right to support whoever I want. Why intimidate a 90-year-old woman or children? On my association with Raila, am I not supposed to talk to my friends," he posed.

Uhuru also assured that he was not privy to the events going on in the country despite the current regime dragging his name through the mud.

He also questioned Kenya Kwanza's tendency to continuously bring him up in its woes despite his pin-drop silence since handing over power last year, urging the government to focus on addressing Kenyans' issues like he did when he was in power.

Mama Ngina Security Saga

Coincidentally, the surprise raid on one of Uhuru's children by the government came just days after the security team attached to Uhuru's mother, Mama Ngina Kenyatta, was withdrawn without a prior word.

Despite the withdrawal being reversed 24 hours later, many had argued that the move was seen as a direct attempt in Kenya Kwanza to pressure the Kenyattas to convince Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, to call off the protests.

Photo of Mama Ngina Kenyatta. /FILE

Mama Ngina, a former first lady, is widely considered to be deeply influential in the Kenyan political landscape owing to her deep pockets and vast political network.

She, who last made her public appearance on April 20, 2023, has not been vocal regarding the current state of the nation, urging Kenyans to maintain peace and the youth to exercise resilience demonstrated by veteran leaders to achieve political and economic prosperity.

Ruto Accusing Uhuru Of Funding Raila Protests

President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and Kenya Kwanza politicians have for several days and several times accused Uhuru of funding the anti-government demonstrations, claims Uhuru has denied.

"Naambia hawa handshake brothers, nyinyi mnapanga, mnatumia pesa mulizoiba kupiganisha Kenya mkinunua vijana walete fujo na maafa kwa sababu hamtaki tuendelee kama wakenya (The handshake brothers are using the money they stole to buy youths to cause chaos and deaths because they don't want Kenya to progress)," he claimed during a roadside rally in Tharaka Nithi.

Govt Directs Schools To Reopen Tomorrow

Marvin Chege — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 17:43:02 +0300

The government has announced that all day primary and secondary schools within Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu Counties have been allowed to reopen on Thursday, July 20.

In a statement, the Ministry of Interior led by Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki revealed that the decision to have learning resumed in the counties followed a review of the security situation during the ongoing Azimio la Umoja anti-government protests.

"Upon review of the security situation, the Ministry of Education has been advised that learning may resume in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu Counties as security agencies continue to protect the lives and properties of all Kenyans across the Country," the statement read in part.

Kindiki's statement was corroborated by that of the Ministry of Education under Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Machogu.

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki during a past address at Harambee House. /MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

The decision to re-open schools was based on an accurate assessment of the situation and the ability of the police to guard students and the general public against possible threats as a result of the ongoing protests.

"As indicated, the measure was meant to ensure the safety of school children, based on the credible intelligence that criminal elements were intent on engaging with security agencies around certain schools. The relevant security agencies have established that the security situation in the three Counties, and in other parts of the country, has been restored to normal.

"On the basis of the evaluation, it is hereby directed that all day primary and secondary schools in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu Counties re-open for normal school activities on 20th July 2023. The government has taken adequate measures to guarantee the safety and security of learners and their schools across the country," read the joint statement.

The two Cabinet Secretaries further assured children that no one would be allowed to interfere with the studies, warning Azimio la Umoja protesters not to try approaching close to the schools otherwise they would face the full force of the Law.

Arrests During Anti-Govt Protests

Kindiki further noted that except for isolated cases of hooliganism and breach of peace in a few spots in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Migori, Homabay, Siaya and Nakuru Counties, and Wote and Emali Towns, the rest of the country remained calm and members of the public conducted their activities in the usual manner.

"More than 300 people have been arrested across the Country and will be charged with various crimes, including looting, malicious damage of property, arson, robbery with violence, and assaulting law enforcement officers among other crimes," added the CS.

Azimio leader, Raila Odinga, earlier urged protesters to cease demonstrations for the day at 5 pm to rest and recuperate for the second day, despite he himself not showing up for the first day.

He also confirmed the release of his bodyguard Maurice Ogeta after his arrest and urged that all leaders be set free unconditionally.

This was after Azimio's principal, Martha Karua, condemned the arrest of 10 leaders during the mass protests. They include Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Kilifi South MP Ken Chonga and Kilifi County speaker Teddy Mwambire, MCA Mabatini Wilfred Odallo, Ngei Ward MCA Redson Onyango.

Others included Erick Otieno and Anthony Otsula (budget officers at Nairobi County Assembly), Maurice Ogeta (Raila's bodyguard) and Dennis Onyango (Raila Odinga secretariat spokesperson).

Raila Odinga addressing supporters at Kenyatta Market on July 11, 2023. /RAILA ODINGA

Mama Ngina's Security Reinstated Hours After Withdrawal

admin — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 19:13:12 +0300

UPDATE Wednesday, July 19: The security of former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta was reinstated hours after it was withdrawn from her Gatundu and Muthaiga homes by the government.

The officers were deployed at the home a few minutes after 7:30 am. Before then, security guards from a private company were manning the premises.

At the Mutomo trading centre, more officers have been deployed to guard other premises owned by the Kenyatta Family. The homes of the first President in Ichaweri and Muthaiga are always guarded by officers from elite GSU.

The government has withdrawn the security of former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta.

Reports have indicated that officials of the former First Family, Mama Ngina, who is also former President Uhuru Kenyatta's mother, had her security withdrawn this evening at about 5 pm.

Officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) and Administration Police (AP) have been instructed to leave her Gatundu and Muthaiga homes and report to the nearest police station.

Photo of Mama Ngina Kenyatta. /FILE

According to officials, the former First Lady was not notified of the actions by the government, before implementation.

Before the first recall in 2022, she had a total of 30 officers guarding all her premises combined with the senior most back then being a chief inspector

The former first lady was left with eight officers in total and the senior most being a senior sergeant, who have now all been recalled.

On February 3, 2023, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome dismissed concerns regarding the withdrawal of Mama Ngina's security while quelling concerns that the security detail of former President Uhuru Kenyatta was scaled down for the purposes of deployment.

"Those other units protecting the DP and retired presidents must be of lower rank for command and control purposes. That's what we've done. It's true. Whatever has been done is in good faith," Koome stated then.

Earlier, over 10,000 traders in Nairobi had threatened to march towards Mama Ngina's home to file a list of grievances over Azimio la Umoja's planned three-day protests.

The traders said they would appeal to Mama Ngina to speak to Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga with the aim of calling off the demonstrations.

"She once served as First Lady and hence understands that such protests affect traders negatively and subsequently hurts the economy. To Uhuru, you're retired. The world does not revolve around you so our lives should not be put in danger," one of the traders stated.

"Some of our traders will not work for three days straight so how will we earn a living? That is why we will march to her home and we appeal to the police for protection."

The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) on Wednesday, July 12 estimated that the ongoing anti-government protests were costing Kenya an average of Ksh3 billion per day, losses which were attributed to destruction, looting and damage of properties during the protests

Due to the ongoing protests, several business owners have opted to close their establishments fearing theft and chaos, with experts warning that another protest in the midst of a harsh economic climate could have devastating consequences.

Mama Ngina, who last made her public appearance on April 20, 2023, has not been vocal regarding the current state of the nation, urging Kenyans to maintain peace and the youth to exercise resilience demonstrated by veteran leaders to achieve political and economic prosperity.

Field Marshall Muthomi Karimi (seated, left) and Mama Ngina Kenyatta (seated, right) addressing the media at the Kenyatta residence in Muthaiga on April 20, 2023. /FACEBOOK

All Schools Closed Tomorrow- Govt Orders Ahead Of Azimio Protests

Marvin Chege — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 18:47:13 +0300

UPDATE: The government has extended the order on closure of all day primary and secondary schools to Kisumu County.

The government has ordered the closure of all day primary and secondary schools within Nairobi and Mombasa cities on Wednesday, July 19.

In a joint statement, the Ministry of Interior led by Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki and Education under CS Ezekiel Machogu explained that the move to have all schools shut was a result of receiving security intelligence of criminal elements intending to clash with security agencies around certain schools.

"The Government has received credible security intelligence that criminal elements planning to unleash terror and violence on the public tomorrow intend to engage in armed skirmishes with security agencies around certain schools within Nairobi and Mombasa Cities.

Education CS, Ezekiel Machogu during a past address. /FILE

"As a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of school children, it has been decided that ALL day Primary and Secondary schools within Nairobi and Mombasa cities SHALL remain closed tomorrow," the statement read in part.

The Ministry of Education shall announce the resumption of learning in the aforesaid schools upon assessment of the security situation in the course of July 19.

The directive notably did not affect schools in other regions, including some that have witnessed violent protests like Kisii.

The Wednesday, July 12 protests saw learners stranded as police clashed with demonstrators in teargas and running battles.

In Kangemi and Nakuru, security forces lobbed teargas in schools, affecting learners who were in classes. The Kangemi incident saw some students hospitalised following the incident whereby teargas from anti-riot police officers landed at the school, leading to several students fainting.

Machogu on January 14 called for more security personnel to be deployed in the learning institutions to avert cases of students being caught up in the ensuing battles.

Meanwhile, it remains unclear if the opposition will be on the streets for all three days (Wednesday, July 19 to Friday, July 21) and the action that the State plans to address the disruption that has the potential of crippling the country's operations to beyond salvation.

The National Police Service (NPS) claimed that the organizers of the purported demonstrations did not seek permits to picket contrary to legal requirements.

"While Article 37 of the Constitution gives the right to assemble, demonstrate, and picket, lessons from recent similar demonstrations clearly indicate that such demonstrations are nothing but a threat to national security.

"In line with NPS mandate to maintain law and order, protect life and property, and preserve peace, we wish to inform the public that any demonstrations that will be held in any part of Kenya on Wednesday, July 19, will be dealt with promptly in accordance with the law," NPS announced in a statement.

A police officer firing teargas to disperse protestors on July 12, 2023. /FACEBOOK

Raila Increases Frequency Of Nationwide Protests To 3 Days A Week

admin — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 10:28:05 +0300

The Azimio la Umoja coalition announced on Friday, July 14 that the new wave of nationwide protests will take place for three days next week.

The coalition led by Raila Odinga in a statement revealed that the protests will be held on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Explaining their move, Azimio noted that public demand from various sectors of members of the public prompted the party to increase the frequency of protests to heighten the pressure against President William Ruto's government.

A police officer firing teargas to disperse protestors on July 12, 2023. /FACEBOOK

"Further to the communication issued yesterday on the Third Wave of peaceful protests scheduled to start on Wednesday next week, and following overwhelming requests from all sectors of the Kenyan Public for the need to intensify these demonstrations, the Coalition hereby wishes to announce a revision of the calendar.

"Going forward, the peaceful protests will now be held on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday next week, in line with requests from the public to include three days of activity. Let's meet on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday," stated the coalition.

Raila on Thursday, July 13 emphasized that the protests would continue until President Ruto lowers the cost of living. He asserted that the protests would go on with or without the police's approval.

Azimio and its supporters are currently observing five days of mourning in honour of Kenyans who lost their lives during the mass protests.

Furthermore, the coalition revealed that it would take legal action regarding police brutality witnessed during the protests, adding that it was collecting evidence for the purpose of filing a suit.

Azimio added that they would target police officers individually in a move aimed at enhancing accountability in the police force.

"We have instructed our legal team to institute proceedings against officers who went against their mandate of protecting Kenyans. We are asking Kenyans to share photographs of police who brutalised Kenyans.

"We are going for individual responsibility. We are also going against police commanders who know the actions of the Kenyans. We will have 5 days of mourning to help the families," Azimio stated on Thursday, July 13.

Kenyans who were affected during the demos were further urged to submit videos and photographs to Raila's office at Capital Hill.

Anti-government protests erupted over the past week, with demonstrators taking to the streets to protest against rising taxes and the high cost of living

The protests were met with a heavy police presence, and clashes between protesters and police turning violent, resulting in the deaths of at least six people and injuries to many others.

Despite a ban on demonstrations by Police IG Japhet Koome, protesters have continued to gather in certain towns across the country

The protests highlight growing frustration among Kenyans over the high cost of living and the government's handling of the economy.

Raila Odinga speaking to the press flanked by top Azimio leaders at SKM Centre on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. /RAILA ODINGA

Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya Arrested- Azimio

Marvin Chege — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 15:26:50 +0300

UPDATE: Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna claimed that the arrest of former Kakamega Governor, Wycliffe Oparanya, was linked to a vehicle he was spotted using during the Azimio anti-government protests on Wednesday, July 12.

“They have nothing on Oparanya. They are claiming that the car he used during maandamano is property of the County of Kakamega,” said Sifuna.

While responding to a Twitter user, Sifuna wrote "He is out" to indicate that Oparanya has since been released.

Azimio La Umoja on Thursday, July 13 claimed that former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has been arrested.

In a press briefing at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, former Defense CS Eugene Wamalwa condemned the arrest in connection to the anti-government protests that disrupted the country on Wednesday, July 12.

Raila Odinga speaking to the press flanked by top Azimio leaders at SKM Centre on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. /RAILA ODINGA

The former CS further expressed remorse for the families who lost their loved ones during the July 12 protests.

"Across the country, families are mourning their loved ones who are victims of the police force. Tens of people have been hospitalised with gunshot wounds and arrows and pangas," he stated.

"Some of the victims are young school children who were not in the demonstrations. Hundreds have been detained in police cells or have been arraigned in court for participating in protests that are protected by our Constitution."

As a result, Azimio and its supporters would observe five days of mourning in honour of Kenyans who lost their lives during the mass protests.

Furthermore, the coalition revealed that it would take legal action regarding police brutality witnessed during the protests, adding that it was collecting evidence for the purpose of filing a suit.

Azimio added that they would target police officers individually in a move aimed at enhancing accountability in the police force.

Kenyans who were affected during the demos were further urged to submit videos and photographs to Raila's office at Capital Hill.

While condemning the police for the arbitrary arrest, Wamalwa further announced another round of protests on Wednesday, July 19.

Azimio leader, Raila Odinga, backed up Wamalwa by asserting that they would convene meetings on Wednesday with or without the police approval.

Meanwhile, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki announced that he would take action against those who were affected by the protests, with over 312 people arrested after the protests.

Interior CS, Kithure Kindiki appears before the Senate Ad Hoc Committee to investigate the proliferation of religious organisations and the circumstances leading to the deaths in Shakahola, Kilifi County on July 11, 2023. /KITHURE KINDIKI

Raila Odinga Cancels Planned Kamukunji Rally

admin — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 12:49:40 +0300

Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga has cancelled his highly-anticipated Kamukunji rally set for Wednesday, July 12.

Addressing the media at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation in Nairobi, Raila revealed that he had received reports of a planned attack by goons during the event.

"Late last night, we received intelligence of a plan by Kenya Kwanza to ferry armed goons who would attack our rally in Kamukunji.

"These goons had express orders to shoot directly at the crowd while enjoying police protection," Raila stated.

Raila further claimed that goons were sponsored to vandalise property to pin blame squarely on the opposition, even though the nationwide protests would continue until President William Ruto repeals sections of the Finance Act 2023.

The former Prime Minister nonetheless praised his supporters for taking a stand against the government and showing up en masse countrywide.

"Kenyans understand that suffering will be the new normal if Ruto gets away with the Finance Act 2023 and other decisions he is currently pursuing. We won't move on until Ruto comes out and repeals the Finance Act 2023, commits to respect and stops interfering with other parties and adopts measures that would lower the cost of living," he added.

He also blamed police officers for the violence inflicted on his supporters which led to injuries and deaths during the protests.

"We have witnessed savage attacks on our supporters by police officers who discriminately shot, injured and killed a number of people across the country, including here in Nairobi," Raila stated.

He also claimed that scores of protesters were arrested for exercising their right to protest as enshrined by the Constitution.

"We must not allow it to happen to our country again. We have always said that these meetings remain peaceful until the police decide to break them up with bullets and teargas," Raila claimed, further alleging that Kenya was manifesting into a police state whereby police main as well as kill people at will.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader shouldered the burden on ordinary citizens in terms of deciding how their country would look like as he accused Kenya Kwanza of abandoning them when he needed them the most.

"The message is out loudly and clearly that Kenyans are tired. Kenyans are tired. People are tired of new promises on top of old promises. People are tired of being ignored.

"People are tired of being told what to do and when to do it. People are tired of going to bed hungry, facing the new day hungry and returning to bed hungry. People are tired of walking from one corner of this city to another, one town to another, one office to another, trying to find, a job and finding no job," Raila stated.

Raila concluded by urging his supporters to continue with the fight and exercise civil disobedience in protest against the current regime, adding that Azimio would announce their next step.

"As Kenyans, we have a duty to liberate ourselves as we have always done. It will not be easy but it has to be done. With unity and commitment, we will force Ruto to give a good deal. We will shortly communicate the next course of action. With unity, we shall overcome," Raila noted.

Protestors vandalise Nairobi Expressway toll stations and light up tyres near Mlolongo, Machakos County on July 12, 2023. /KIMANI ICHUNG'WAH

Murathe, Kioni Officially Thrown Out Of Jubilee Party

admin — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:57:23 +0300

The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) has confirmed the expulsion of Jeremiah Kioni and David Murathe from the Jubilee Party as its Secretary-General and Vice Chairman respectively.

The ruling made on Monday, July 10 saw the appointment of East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Kanini Kega as Jubilee SG upheld.

"The suit against the 2nd Respondent is hereby struck out. The Appeal is dismissed in its entirety.

"The Appellants shall bear the Respondents and Interested Parties' costs," read the ruling seen by Viral Tea.

The PPDT had found that the resolutions of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and the impugned decision of the Registrar of Political Parties were a product of processes, judicial and Administrative, in which the Appellants participated or were offered the opportunity to participate in.

Kanini Kega during a past press conference. /PEOPLE DAILY

The appellants were revealed to have filed affidavits, called witnesses (through affidavit evidence), produced further documentary evidence in terms of exhibits, were represented by eminent counsel, cross-examined the adverse party’s witnesses, and made submissions on the law and facts.

"Hearings, trials, opportunities and facilities were all along availed to the Appellants to fairly prosecute their cases. One cannot isolate the end product, the Registrar's letter of 19.5.2023, and fault it without a cursory or in-depth analysis of the processes preceding or informing that decision.

"If one views the entirety of the processes that were undertaken before the Registrar’s decision of 19.5.2023, then one would, without a doubt, reach the inescapable conclusion that the process was fair and above board," added PPDT.

PPDT also found that while the Registrar is not a conveyor belt of resolutions of Political Party organs, she is also not meant to supplant herself on decisions emanating from party organs, particularly those exercising judicial or quasi-judicial authority.

"In this case, in any event, the Registrar was judicious in her conduct, interrogated the facts and documents, and directed herself properly, both in law and fact.

"As a Registrar, and keeper of records, her fidelity is to the law and the decisions of party organs properly constituted, and their valid resolutions, notwithstanding that some members may be disgruntled," the ruling went on.

The ruling thus hopes to put to bed leadership wrangles that have been affecting the affairs of the former ruling party, which have seen the PPDT rule in favour of Kioni and Murathe on two occasions, saving their positions in the Jubilee Party.

In the last act of salvation, PPDT Chairperson Desma Nungo in a statement on Tuesday, May 23 handed former president Uhuru Kenyatta's party a temporary lifeline regarding the vicious scramble for its leadership.

However, ORPP had on Friday, June 2, dismissed the resolutions made during the Jubilee Party's National Delegates Conference (NDC) which saw the Uhuru faction expel Kega, Nominated MP Sabina Chege, Nelson Dzuya, Jimi Angwenyi, Naomi Shaban, Joshua Kutuny, Mutava Musyimi, and Rachel Nyamai.

The faction had proposed new members to the NEC and they included Beatrice Gambo (deputy Party leader strategy), Maoka Maore (deputy party leader operations), Joseph Manje (deputy party leader programs) Kados Muiruri (deputy party leader outreach), and Jamleck Kamau (national director of elections).

Others included; Saitoti Torome (party chairman), Yasir Noor (deputy secretary general), Pauline Njoroge (deputy organizing secretary, Maison Leshoomo (national women’s league chairperson), Agnes Thumbi (national youth league leader) and Nderitu Mureithi (business council leader).

Antony Manyara was picked as the youth secretariat coordinator while Amina Siyad was chosen to be the parliamentary secretary.

However, the Jubilee Party wing controlled by Chege on Thursday, June 1 held a disciplinary hearing and termed the Uhuru NDC resolutions null and void.

Kanini Kega with Sabina Chege addressing the media during a past conference. /FILE

High Court Extends Suspension Of Finance Act, Orders Full Trial

admin — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 12:57:07 +0300

The High Court on Monday, July 10 refused to lift conservatory orders suspending the implementation of the Finance Act 2023.

Justice Mugure Thande ruled that the controversial act will proceed to a full trial.

The High Court further certified the matter as urgent and transmitted the petition to Chief Justice Martha Koome to constitute a three-judge bench for hearing and determination of the case.

CJ Martha Koome during Supreme Court proceedings on the 2022 presidential election petition. /ZAKHEEM RAJAN

"High Court confirms suspension of the Finance Act, 2023. Holds that Kenyans would be unfairly subjected to taxes that could be found unlawful.

"The public interest lies in suspending the Act for now. The state will not be prejudiced. The court certifies the matter for an expanded bench," stated Katiba Institute.

The respondents in the petition had sought abeyance (temporary suspension) of seven days to move to the Court of Appeal.

“I am inclined to exercise my jurisdiction and allow the prayer for certification under article 165- 4 of the constitution. In view of the foregoing I find that it has not been demonstrated to my satisfaction grounds warranting the setting aside of the orders of 30th of June 2023,” Justice Thande stated.

“Pursuant to article 165(4) this matter is certified as raising a substantial question of law and the file is hereby transmitted to the Chief Justice for assignment of a bench of not less than three judges to hear and determine the petition."

The respondents who included Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndugu and the Attorney General's office had argued that the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary would face uncertainty during the time the Finance Act 2023 would remain suspended.

The judge had on Wednesday, July 5 extended the orders which stop the National Treasury from implementing the controversial Act until Monday, July 10.

She heard submissions from Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, Solicitor General Shadrack Mose, and Lawyer Githu Muigai who was representing CS Ndung'u.

Muigai had argued that the government will soon be unable to pay international commitments as well as pay salaries of government employees, accusing Omtatah of misleading the court into believing there was no consequence in extending the suspension until the petition is determined.

However, Amollo rebutted by stating that the government can still collect taxes through the use of the Finance Act 2022 which does not include contentious provisions such as the 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on Fuel and Housing Levy.

Justice Thande on Friday, June 30 issued conservatory orders suspending the Finance Act in response to a petition filed by Omtatah.

Activist Okiya Omtatah presenting his petition at the Supreme Court on Friday, September 2, 2022. /ZAKHEEM RAJAN.FILE

Raila Threatens To Form His Own IEBC

admin — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 14:57:11 +0300

Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga on Friday, July 7 threatened to form his own electoral commission should the Select Committee go ahead with selecting new commissioners at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Raila was speaking to the media at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, following a two-hour-long procession from Kamukunji Grounds to the Nairobi CBD during the Saba Saba protests.

Other Azimio principals led protests on their own turf at the same time. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka led protests in Kathiani Market, Machakos County while Martha Karua, the leader of the Narc Kenya party, led a Saba Saba meeting at Difathas in Kirinyaga, a meeting which was attended by a relatively large group of people, including supporters and other opposition leaders.

Raila Odinga speaking at Kamukunji Grounds on July 7, 2023. /THE STAR BREAKING

"We have understood from Kenya Kwanza brigade that they want to go ahead and form the commission on their own.

"I want to make it very clear that if they ignore us and do so, then that will be a Kenya Kwanza Commission which we will not agree to. We as Azimio la Umoja will also go ahead and form our own electoral commission," Raila threatened.

The former Prime Minister at the same time thanked Kenyans throughout the country who heeded Azimio's call and turned up in large numbers during the protests.

"We want them to say tuned because this is just part of the beginning," he went on.

National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi during the presser further announced another round of nationwide protests which will take place on Wednesday, July 12.

"We have also said that the people of Kenya have a right to demonstrate and picket because these are rights enshrined in our constitution," Raila affirmed.

"We are, therefore, collecting 10 million signatures in order to delegitimise this regime. In response, we will carry out our own referendum in order to delegitimise this regime."

The protests came after months of failed bipartisan talks between a bipartisan committee which was formed by Azimio and the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.

The opposition is demanding that President William Ruto's administration tackles the rising cost of living, open election servers, and stop the ongoing recruitment of electoral body commissioners.

Former Murang'a Governor Mwangi wa Iria added that Azimio la Umoja will soon lead a massive protest in the Central region to reject Ruto's regime.

"People from Central Kenya have been asking us when we will go to the Mountain Region and organise a big protest against this regime. They should not worry because we are going there," Wa Iria assured.

Raila had earlier expressed happiness at reaching the Nairobi CBD for the first time after almost four successive protests which he failed to do so.

"It is a huge achievement, for the first time we got to town, we reached KICC where they didn't want us to enter and we passed and got to Central Park," Raila narrated.

He thereafter claimed that Ruto's administration had personally targeted him during the protest that began from Kamukunji Grounds to Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) and was photographed next to one of his vehicles which was impacted by bullets during the procession.

Raila Odinga inspecting damage sustained on his car during his march to Nairobi CBD on July 7, 2023. /TELEGRAM

Court Declares Ruto's 50 CAS Positions Unconstitutional

Marvin Chege — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 13:44:33 +0300

The High Court has declared President William Ruto’s appointment of 50 Chief Administrative Secretaries (CASs) unconstitutional.

The ruling was made on Monday, July 3 by a three-judge bench consisting of Justices Kanyi Kimondo, Hedwing Ong’udi and Visram Alnashir.

Justice Ong'udi ruled that there was no public participation regarding the appointment of the additional 27 CASs, though there was public participation before the appointment of CASs but only limited to 23 CASs and not 50 as appointed by Ruto.

From left: High Court Justices Kanyi Kimondo, Hedwing Ong’udi and Visram Alnashir. /ZAKHEEM RAJAN

"There was no public participation in the appointment of the extra 27 CASs. The establishment of the extra 27 CAS positions is unconstitutional.

"For the avoidance of doubt, the entire complement of 50 CASs is therefore unconstitutional," Justice Ong'udi ruled.

The High Court also accused President Ruto of not subjecting the CASs who were selected by the Public Service Commission (PSC) for vetting by the National Assembly.

The court ruled that the CAS was a position between a constitutional and State Office, thus appointees need to be subjected to Parliamentary vetting.

"CASs are for all purposes assistant Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries are relegated to reporting to CASs and CSs," the court ruled.

The High Court also questioned the government's move to appoint 50 assistants to Cabinet Secretaries (CS) when the Constitution of Kenya capped the maximum number of CSs to 22.

"We do not think it was the intention of framers of our Constitution to have 50 CASs deputising 22 CSs," added the court.

How The Case Challenging Ruto's Appointment of 50 CASs Unfolded

On Friday, March 24, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Katiba Institute, Activist Eliud Matindi and Multi-Touch International challenged the appointments and asked the court to quash the same.

Pending determination of the case, the interim order also saw the CASs barred from earning any salary, remuneration or any benefit.

The CASs were appointed following communication from the Speaker that the National Assembly cannot vet them since there is no legal provision requiring the vetting.

The Employment and Labour Relations Court on Thursday, February 16 dismissed a case filed by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) challenging the creation of the CAS post.

Justice Monica Mbaru ruled that the Public Service Commission (PSC) followed the due process of the law in creating and recruiting the intended officeholders, a ruling that gave the green light for the nomination and subsequent appointment of the CASs.

The CAS appointments however triggered a debate across various quarters, with the main focus being the constitutionality of the appointments such as the decision by President Ruto to increase the number of CASs to 50 as opposed to the 23 that the Public Service Commission (PSC).

President William Ruto poses for a photo with 50 newly appointed CASs at State House on March 23, 2023. /WILLIAM RUTO

President Ruto however defended the appointment of the CASs, referring to a huge workload to fulfil the promises he made during his campaigns.

“On appointing CAS that’s the plan of my government. It’s my decision and I see the need for CAS to be there in my government."

“Today my deputy is almost sleeping in the office. Even Musalia is losing weight nowadays because of work. I need more workers because the agenda of changing Kenya requires more hands and minds,” Ruto stated during a joint media interview on May 14, 2023.

Over 55 Dead After Trailer Rams Into Matatu, Boda Boda Riders & Pedestrians [PHOTOS]

admin — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 18:15:21 +0300

UPDATE 11.07 pm: President William Ruto joined the country in mourning with the families who have lost loved ones in the horrific road accident in Londiani, Kericho County.

"It is distressing that some of the fatalities are young people with a promising future and business people who were on their daily chores. We pray for the speedy recovery of all survivors; you are in our thoughts. We urge motorists to be extra cautious on roads, especially now when we are experiencing heavy rainfall," stated Ruto on social media.

UPDATE 10.25 pm: Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen revealed that rescue efforts are underway involving officers from various agencies of national and county governments, elected leaders, the Redcross and other well-wishers.

"More information will be shared with the public. The rescue efforts will be followed by investigations to determine the cause of the crash.

"I take this opportunity to condole with the families, and friends of the bereaved, and wish a quick recovery to those injured following this tragic incident," he stated.

UPDATE 9.49 pm: Reports indicate that over 55 people are feared dead and several others hospitalised in Kericho County, numbers which are projected to rise.

Several people were feared dead following a multiple-car crash that occurred at the Londiani Junction along the Kericho-Nakuru highway.

Preliminary reports on Friday, June 30 indicated that the accident involved a trailer which rammed into a matatu, boda boda riders and pedestrians at the junction.

"My heart is crushed. It is a dark moment for the people of Kericho. My heart goes out to the families who have just lost their loved ones in the worst road carnage at Londiani Junction.

An accident in Kericho on Friday, June 30, 2023. /TWITTER

"We have mobilised our Ambulances and get all our health facilities on standby. May God give us grace and strength on this difficult time," Kericho governor Eric Mutai, who confirmed the incident, wrote.

Mutai's sentiments were backed by Kericho Women Representative Beatrice Kemei, who indicated that emergency response teams in the country were alerted to aid in rescue operations.

Eyewitnesses indicated that a trailer rammed into Public Service Vehicles (PSV) after it lost control and ploughed into a nearby market, therefore claiming more lives.

The PSV at the time of the crash was parked by the roadside at a pickup stage playing host to the bodaboda operators.

Photos seen by Viral Tea depicted the severity of the crash with some of the victims thrown into a nearby ditch and others piled onto each other.

Reports stated that police were deployed to cordon the area and man traffic on the busy highway.

The accident led to an outpouring of condolences from Kenyans on social media for those families who may have lost their loved ones in the crash.

It bore almost exact memories of one that occurred on Wednesday, May 10 when a lorry rammed into a bodaboda shade and adjacent parked cars at a stage in Migori Town.

Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen had initially stated that there was an urgent need to address the rampant cases of road accidents that led to the loss of 1,072 lives between January and March 2023.

“According to the latest report, of the 1,072 people killed on our roads, 362 are pedestrians, 302 are motorcyclists, 184 are passengers, 101 are pillion passengers, 104 are drivers while 19 are pedal cyclists. The number of passenger deaths is attributed to speeding vehicles, crossing at undesignated places, distracted driving or walking and drunk driving,” he stated.

Scenes at an accident in Migori after a lorry rammed into vehicles on Wednesday, May 10, 2023. /MA3ROUTE

Court Blocks Ruto's First Finance Act

admin — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 15:38:31 +0300

The High Court has temporarily suspended the implementation of the Finance Act 2023.

High Court Judge Mugure Thande, on Friday, June 30 issued conservatory orders suspending the Finance Act in response to a petition filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah.

The court also granted Omtatah's request to bar Ruto from enacting the Finance Act 2023 from Saturday, July 1.

Busia Senator, Okiya Omtatah. /FILE

“This matter coming up on June 30, 2023, for directions on the notice of motion dated June 29, 2023, before Honourable Justice M. Thande upon considering the same, it is hereby ordered that the application be served today (June 30, 2023) upon all parties.

“That I am satisfied that the Application meets the test for conservatory orders and I do grant prayers 2 and 3 of the Application until July 5, 2023, when the matter is scheduled for mention for directions,” read the ruling in part.

Justice Thande ordered the petitioner to serve all parties including Treasury Cabinet Secretary (CS) Njuguna Ndung'u before the end of the day, Friday, June 30, 2023.

Furthermore, she also ordered the respondents to file their responses by Tuesday, July 4, after which the High Court will enlist a hearing date.

Omtatah was joined by activists Eliud Matindi, Michael Otieno, Benson Otieno and Blair Oigoro in suing CS Ndung'u and Attorney General Justin Muturi.

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) acting commissioner-general Rispah Simiyu was named as an interested party in the case.

Among the issues Omtatah highlighted in his petition were the mandatory salary deductions to support President William Ruto's Affordable Housing agenda, which he argued that it was not a must for Kenyans.

The senator argued that the Senate and the National Assembly should have debated the Bill first before tabling it.

"Section 76 of the Bill threatens socio-economic rights (Article 43) to the extent that, if made law, the fund will require a 3 per cent reduction in basic salary for employees and a 3% contribution from employers, thereby reducing worker’s purchasing power as it increases business operating costs.

"Section 76 of the Bill threatens the freedom to own property (Article 40(1)) by proposing to compel civil servants to participate in a mandatory tax scheme disguised as a means to facilitate property acquisition," the Busia Senator added.

Omtatah went ahead to sue CS Ndung'u and AG Muturi arguing that they served as advisors to the current government.

"The Treasury has been sued herein for having violated Articles 3(1) and 153(2)(a) of the Constitution by presenting to the National Assembly the Finance Bill 2023 parts of which threaten to violate express provisions of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and the principles of natural justice, and to undermine Kenya’s economic organisation," the petition read in part.

The submission came hours after President Ruto expressed admiration at Kenyans' spirited commitment to opposing the controversial Finance Bill 2023, even though he risks being inflicted a major blow in his agenda for the country.

In his Madaraka Day speech at Moi Stadium, Embu, the Head of State remarked that the Finance Bill had generated a positive and intense discourse across the country in a manner rarely seen in the tenets of Kenya's democracy in the modern generation.

"Our public discourse and political discussion and the agenda of social debate has changed for good. Substantive policy issues continue to define the national conversation well beyond the election.

"At the moment, there is a robust debate on the Finance Bill taking place everywhere in this country: Church, social places, formal and informal workplaces, all media platforms and busy markets, as well as in urban and rural gatherings," he stated.

Coincidentally, Omtatah on Sunday, May 28 threatened to move to court over the proposed mandatory contribution to the Housing Fund in the Finance Bill, in front of Ruto during an interreligious prayer gathering at Busia Stadium.

“The issue of housing, the former president had tried imposing the housing tax and I was among the people who went to court to fight it. The Finance Bill has so far violated the constitution in six ways if not corrected you will leave me no choice but to move to court,” he told the President.

The Housing Fund stirred debate with Azimio la Umoja leaders stating the Finance Bill unfairly targets a middle class that is already enduring great hardships and has the least amount of money available to pay additional taxes.

President William Ruto (Left) shaking hands with Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah (Right) during a thanksgiving service in Busia on May 25, 2023. /PCS

Ruto Hikes Civil Servants' Salaries, Rejects His Proposed 14% Pay Rise

Marvin Chege — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 13:04:54 +0300

President William Ruto on Friday, June 30 announced that the salaries of civil servants will be revised upwards, but rejected plans by the Salaries and Remunerations Commission (SRC) to increase his salary and that of his Deputy Rigathi Gachagua by 14 per cent.

Speaking during the Gava Mkononi App launch at the Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC), the Head of State honoured SRC's proposal to increase civil servants' salaries owing to the difficult economic times.

"I know there is a proposal by SRC for the increase of salaries of different cadres of both civil servants and other public servants. They have made a recommendation to us that they want to increase the salaries of civil servants by an average of between seven and 10 per cent and that from office assistants all the way to people who serve the PSs (Principal Secretaries).

President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Interior CS, Kithure Kindiki during the launch of Gava Mkononi App on June 30, 2023. /PCS

"Because of the economic times we live in, we have approved that the salaries of other civil servants can be adjusted beginning tomorrow (July 1)," he announced much to the applause of the audience.

However, he turned down SRC's proposal to hike his own salary, alluding to an internationally recognised system Ruto instructed SRC to develop to cut down the gap between civil servants' salaries before his own pay wage is increased.

"I have told SRC that there is an internationally accepted formula called compression formula. Until they come back to me and say they have met that formula, our salary increment will wait.

"But for the other people, the state officers, myself, my deputy, ministers, PSs, MPs and others. That salary would remain the way it is. Let it remain the way it is until SRC gives us international best practices because we need to reduce the gap," Ruto ordered.

Explaining his move, Ruto noted that this would bring about a uniform salary system in the public service and address cases whereby some civil servants earned ten times more than others.

The President further expressed concern regarding the salary system, citing instances whereby some university vice-chancellors and parastatal managing directors were earning more than himself, before ordering SRC to explain the criteria in a detailed report that qualifies them for that huge pay.

Proposed Salary Increase

SRC had proposed to increase the salaries of state officers including the President, the Deputy President, Cabinet Secretaries and MPs by 14 per cent on average over the next two years starting next month to protect them from the high cost of living.

Ruto's monthly gross remuneration package was to rise by 7.1 per cent from July 2023 to Ksh1,546,875 from Ksh1,443,750 currently before a further 6.7 per cent jump to Ksh1,650,000 from July 2024.

On his part, DP Gachagua’s monthly compensation was to rise to Ksh1,367,438 from Ksh1,227,188 at present from July 1 before hitting Ksh1,402,500, representing a cumulative 14.3 per cent jump in his remuneration package over the two years.

The remuneration of Cabinet Secretaries was to also go up to Ksh1,056,000 per month from Ksh924,000 at present. Members of Parliament were to earn Ksh741,003 and Ksh769,201 in July 2023 and July 2024 from Ksh710,000.

“The monthly gross remuneration package proposed herein will be implemented in two phases and is fixed for the term of office of the State officer unless reviewed and set by SRC,” SRC's circular stated.

“For purposes of gratuity and pension, the pensionable emolument shall be based on the monthly basic salary set herein in compliance with the Judgment of the Court in Nairobi ELRC Petition 29 of 2019, the monthly gross remuneration is itemised into basic salary, house allowance, commuter allowance and salary market adjustment. In addition, risk/security allowance for Magistrates and Kadhis.”

The Chief Justice, the Deputy Chief Justice, the Auditor-General, the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Inspector-General of Police, and the chairpersons of key commissions were also poised to receive a salary raise according to the circular.

Chief Justice Martha Koome was expected to benefit with her salary hitting Ksh1,403,942 starting in 2024 while her Deputy, Philomena Mwilu's salary from 2024 was capped at Ksh1,304,185 per month minus allowances.

President William Ruto speaking during an interdenominational service at Ildamat Stadium in Kajiado County on June 25, 2023. /PCS

Senate Saves William Oduol From Impeachment As Siaya Deputy Governor

Marvin Chege — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 16:56:20 +0300

The Senate on Monday, June 26 failed to uphold the impeachment of Siaya Deputy Governor, William Oduol, after a motion against him as well as a committee report that recommended his removal from office was rejected by Senators.

In a voting exercise carried out during a special sitting to consider a report of the special Ad Hoc Committee, most of the Senators observed that the alleged offences did not warrant the impeachment of the deputy governor.

On the proposed removal from office by impeachment, the committee arrived at two charges of gross violation of the Constitution and misleading the public.

Embattled Siaya Deputy Governor, William Oduol. /STANDARD DIGITAL

It dismissed two counts of misappropriation of funds and abuse of his office as Deputy Governor of Siaya County.

"The net effect of this vote is done pursuant to Article 181 of the Constitution. It is important to state that the Senate has failed to remove from office by impeachment William Oduol, the Deputy Governor of Siaya County and that the Deputy Governor accordingly continues to hold office," Speaker Amason Kingi announced.

How Senators Voted on William Oduol's Charges

a) Gross Violation of the Constitution and other Laws in respect of interference with the procurement process through acts of bid-rigging (Yes-16; No-27; Abstain-0)

b) Abuse of Office and Gross Misconduct in respect of misleading the public (Yes-16; No-27; Abstain-0)

36 lawmakers were present in the chambers while 3 voted virtually. The 16 Senators, majorly from the Azimio side, voted to remove Oduol from office.

The 11-member Senate Special Committee that was probing the impeachment of Oduol recommended his removal from office on allegations of gross violation of the Constitution and abuse of office.

The members included Senators William Kisang of Elgeyo Marakwet County (Chairperson), Betty Batuli Montet (Vice Chairperson), Abass Mohamed of Wajir County, Mwenda Gataya Mo Fire of Tharaka Nithi County.

Other members of the special committee included Tabitha Mutinda, Raphael Chimera Mwinzagu, Miraj Abdullahi Abdulrahman, Nyamira County Senator Erick Okong’o Omogeni, Catherine Mumma, Daniel Maanzo of Makueni County and Kisii County Senator Richard Onyonka.

"The committee notes that the Deputy Governor admitted to have interfered with the procurement process in Siaya County," committee chairman Senators William Kisang of Elgeyo Marakwet County stated.

The special committee found that the charge against the Deputy Governor on Gross Violation of the Constitution and other Laws, on the allegation of Interference with the Procurement Process through Acts of Bid- Rigging was substantiated.

The deputy governor was also found culpable on the charge of Abuse of Office and Gross Misconduct on the allegation of Misleading the Public by Giving False Information.

In the Senate plenary, Azimio la Umoja Coalition MPs had seemingly sided with the Siaya County Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) while those of Kenya Kwanza dismissed the allegations.

The County Assembly and the Deputy Governor of Siaya County submitted their evidence on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 respectively.

All 42 MCAs voted to remove the deputy county boss from office by way of impeachment after they unanimously adopted the report of the special committee that was established to investigate the grounds for which a motion of impeachment was tabled against him on June 29, 2023.

The impeachment motion was moved by East Asembo Ward MCA Gordon Onguru who accused the Deputy Governor of gross violation of the Constitution, abuse of office and misuse of public resources among other claims.

The special committee, in a report tabled on the floor of the House by its Chairman and Yimbo East Ward MCA Francis Otiato, revealed that the claims were found to be substantiated, thus warranting his impeachment.

While deliberating the report, the Siaya MCAs supported Oduol’s removal accusing him of being a dishonest leader who was only out to advance his selfish gains.

They also cited irreparable differences between Oduol and his boss, Governor James Orengo to the point that they cannot continue working together, hence the need for him to be ousted to give the county chief breathing space to embark on effective service delivery.

Some of them also accused the Deputy Governor of character assassination, adding that he had not only tainted the image of Governor Orengo but also those of the MCAs that he accused of having been compromised.

Siaya governor James Orengo and his deputy William Oduol embrace each other moments after they were sworn in after the August polls in 2022. /THE STAR

CS Kindiki Declares Wednesday A Public Holiday

Marvin Chege — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 15:04:09 +0300

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared Wednesday, June 28 a public holiday.

In a Gazette notice dated Monday, June 26, Kindiki revealed that the declaration was so that the Muslim faithful can celebrate Eid-Ul-Adha. The declaration is in line with the Public Holidays Act.

"It is notified for the general information of the public that in exercise of the powers conferred by section 2 (2) and part II of the schedule, as read with section 3 of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Wednesday, June 28, 2023, shall be a public holiday to mark Eid-Ul-Adha (Idd-Ul-Azha)," the statement read in part.

President William Ruto addressing the Muslim faithful during Iftar at State House, Nairobi, on Monday, April 17, 2023. /STATE HOUSE KENYA

Defence CS Aden Duale appreciated CS Kindiki for recognising and declaring the public holiday, sharing the Gazette notice on his social media pages and its legitimacy was confirmed by a source at the Ministry who spoke to Viral Tea.

"On behalf of the Muslim community in Kenya, I extend our sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Government, through my colleague CS - Interior, Prof. Kithure Kindiki for the recognition and proclamation of 28th June 2023, as a public holiday to mark Eid-Ul-Adha," he stated.

Section 3 of the Public Holidays Act explains that dates determined in accordance with the Islamic faith, are to be declared public holidays.

According to Islamic teaching, Idd-ul-Adha (the feast of slaughtering) takes place on the 10th day of the third month after Ramadhan.

Idd-ul-Adha is an Islamic festival to commemorate the willingness of Abraham to follow Allah's command to sacrifice his son. It also marks the end of Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.

It is one of the two Idd celebrations, Idd-ul-Adha and Idd-ul-Fitr, and is often considered the holier of the two.

During the festival, Muslims around the world gather to mark one of the holiest days in the religious calendar.

After confirming the sighting of the crescent Dhul Hijjah moon on June 30, 2022, Saudi Arabia announced the celebration of Eid al Adha in the Kingdom on Saturday, July 9, 2022, which is also when UAE, Qatar, Jordan, Kuwait and other Arab states marked it.

Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) and the Muslim Association of Canada (MAC) announced that Eid al Adha there would be celebrated on Saturday, July 9, 2022.

Wifaqul Ulama of the United Kingdom and Majlis Ugama Islam Singapore too issued separate statements to announce that Eid al Adha would be celebrated in the countries on Sunday, July 10, 2022.

India usually celebrates both the festivals of Eid-ul-Fitra and Eid-ul-Adha a day after Saudi Arabia.

Muslims in Kenya during a prayer session. /KNA

President Ruto Signs Finance Bill Into Law

Marvin Chege — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 10:45:09 +0300

President William Ruto on Monday, June 26 assented to the Finance Bill, 2023 and the Appropriations Bill, 2023 at State House, Nairobi.

He also approved the Supplementary Appropriations (No. 2) Bill, 2023 warranting the additional spending by the National Government of Ksh22.9 Billion from the Consolidated Fund.

This reduces overall expenditure by Ksh25.5 Billion compared to the revised total National Government expenditure approved in the Supplementary Appropriations (No. 1), Act 2023.

President William Ruto signs Finance Bill 2023 into Law at State House, Nairobi on Monday, June 26, 2023. /PCS

The reduction comprises an increase in recurrent amounting to Ksh9.5 Billion and rationalisation of development spending by Ksh35 Billion.

The scaling down in spending aligns with the Government’s fiscal consolidation efforts in the light of debt servicing payments.

The Appropriations Bill, 2023 authorises the withdrawal of money from the Consolidated Fund for the expenditure of the National Government.

It is the first Appropriations Bill under the Kenya Kwanza Government and, therefore, seeks to align its Manifesto and promises thorough assignment of actual resources to meet various services and projects.

Present were Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula, Speaker of the Senate Amason Kingi, Attorney General Justin Muturi and a host of MPs led by Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah.

The Finance Bill was heavily discussed across the country with both the government and the opposition expressing their strong views about it.

Azimio's Next Step After Finance Bill Is Passed

The bill was passed despite Azimio la Umoja's opposition to the bill and threats to return to the streets.

The opposition coalition announced at the presser that it will hold a public engagement forum on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at Kamkunji Grounds in Nairobi to discuss the Finance Bill 2023 and the national budget, hours after the Finance Bill was passed in the National Assembly.

"We saw what happens when a rogue and uncaring Head of the Executive decides that the only thing that matters is his ego, fantasies, corruption, and cronies' agenda.

"We also learnt the hard way that this illegitimate regime can ignore the people, their feelings, fears, circumstances, hopes and aspirations and force its agenda on them. That is what Ruto and his Kenya Kwanza followers did with the passage of the Finance Bill, 2023. Ignoring the wishes of a majority of Kenyans signals the era of dictatorship. Kenyans beware," NARC Kenya party leader, Martha Karua, stated.

Azimio la Umoja leadership alongside Martha Karua during a presser on June 22, 2023. /FILE

MPs Vote To Pass 1.5% Housing Levy

Marvin Chege — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 20:29:23 +0300

Kenyan employees will now face more deductions on their salaries after Members of Parliament (MP) voted to pass the controversial housing development levy contained in the Finance Bill, 2023.

184 MPs voted in support of the housing tax while 72 opposed it out of a total of 256 MPs who took part in the voting on Wednesday night, June 21, following a heated debate between Azimio la Umoja and Kenya Kwanza MPs in the House.

If the Finance Bill 2023 is assented to by President William Ruto into law, employees will be charged a 1.5 per cent tax on their gross salary starting July 2023.

Employers will also be required to match the 1.5 per cent housing deduction which is expected to fund the government's Affordable Housing Programme.

An illustration of the Affordable Housing Programme by Boma Yangu Initiative under the National Housing Corporation. /BOMA YANGU KENYA

Voting was preceded by the heated debate on the proposed levy with National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi saying people have other big problems they are dealing with and housing wasn't one of them.

"Housing Levy will be a scandal in waiting. Without the framework, infrastructure and mechanism to administer it, we are basically throwing good money after bad money," he said.

"We need to deal with the scandalous adventures of millions of Kenyans who are living in slums and deal with Kenyans going about without food. We are worrying about shelter and food at the same time," Majority leader Kimani Ichung'wah countered.

The Housing Levy was the second major clause to sail through after the clause on the increase of fuel's Value Added Tax (VAT) from 8 per cent to 16 per cent.

The Housing Levy on Thursday, June 15 had its contribution by employers and employees reduced from 3 to 1.5 per cent during the reading of the 2023/24 budget, with President William Ruto to supplement the Ksh32.5 billion allocated to affordable housing with the deductions estimated to be Ksh83 billion per year.

The government expressed commitment to turn the housing challenge into an economic opportunity to create quality jobs. This will be achieved through facilitating the delivery of 250,000 houses per annum and enabling affordable housing mortgages.

Of all the clauses in the Finance Bill, it was the Housing Levy that drew arguably the greatest degree of uproar across the country, and the most amount of questions.

On Sunday, June 18, President Ruto defended the contributions to the proposed housing levy under the Affordable Housing Programme, arguing that Kenyans' salaries would not be as adversely affected as they feared.

"I shall lead by example in contributing that 3 per cent so that we create employment opportunities for the youth in Kenya. When we ask that we contribute 3 per cent of the salaries we are paid for the purposes of housing so that 1 million young Kenyans get jobs, someone is refusing to let go of 3 per cent, don't you have humanity?

"All we are asking for is 3 per cent and you will remain with 97 per cent as we create jobs for our youth," he assured.

Supreme Court Saves Uhuru, Ruto In Ksh500 Billion SGR Deal

Marvin Chege — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 11:55:05 +0300

The Supreme Court ruled on Friday, June 16 that the Ksh500 billion contract between Kenya and China for the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) signed in the first term of former President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto was legal.

The 5-judge bench comprising Deputy Chief Justice, Philomena Mwilu and justices, Mohamed Ibrahim, Smokin Wanjala, Njoki Ndung'u and Wiliam Ouko overturned a Court of Appeal's finding dictating that procurement laws were flouted.

"The procurement process for the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project was undertaken in conformity with the provisions of Article 227 of the Constitution. The SGR procurement was undertaken as a government-to-government contract hence exempt from the provisions of the Public Procurement Disposal Act, 2005 by virtue of section 6(1) of the said Act," stated the Apex court bench.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta during the launch of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Nairobi-Suswa trip in October 2019. /BUSINESS TODAY

The Apex court found that the procurement of China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) was not undertaken by Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) but by the government through the Ministry of Transport.

The court observed that KRC did not allocate funds towards the project directly from the consolidated funds as the government itself opted to implement the financing model.

The Supreme Court added that the SGR project was subject to interrogation before Parliament in two committees, and none of the respondents opted to be involved.

"The said parliamentary process, which is open to the public, cleared the projects. Under our constitutional design, the people have the power to exercise their oversight power through elected representatives who are domiciled in Parliament. Whether a citizen agrees with or was satisfied with what was undertaken is a matter of conjecture, provided that the laid-out procedure was followed.

"In the premises, we respectfully disagree with the appellate court and hold that the procurement process for the SGR project met the requirements of Article 227 of the Constitution as read together with the provisions of the PPDA, 2005," the verdict read by DCJ Mwilu added.

Despite the contracts approved by Uhuru's administration, it was the late President Mwai Kibaki who initiated the SGR deal.

The Court of Appeal had in 2020 accused the Kenya Railways Corporation of illegally head-hunting China Railways and Bridges Corporation (CRBC) for the project, holding that KRC as the procuring entity failed to comply with Article 227 of the Constitution in the procurement of the SGR project.

Aggrieved with that finding, KRC challenged it at the Supreme Court, expressing its aggravations towards a declaration that, as the procuring entity, it failed to comply with and violated provisions of Article 227 (1) of the Constitution and Sections 6 (1) and 29, of the Public Procurement and Disposal Act, 2005.

The Apex court has since settled that issue saying KRC did not qualify as a procuring entity.

Busia senator and activist, Okiya Omtatah, filed a petition at the High Court challenging the procurement process for the construction of the SGR and CRBC handed the resultant contracts.

The Law Society of Kenya further sought the High Court's permission to bar CRBC from building the SGR. The petitions filed in February and May 2014 pointed out a lack of due diligence on the government's part.

Omtatah had also argued that Kenyans would not get value for money and that the project's cost was inflated.

According to the activist, the project’s design and supervision of the construction services amounting to $110 million (to Ksh11 billion) was duplicated, hence a loss to the public. This was disputed by the State, which argued that there was no basis to the claim, adding that the project is of benefit to Kenyans.

Omtatah also claimed that the contract given to CRBC was inflated and that the State erred in single sourcing for the project and allowing the use of locomotives which were not manufactured by the firm.

He also argued that Parliament was not involved in the approval of the project and the public was not consulted in the process.

Omtatah wanted the court to demand a refund from the Chinese Company and go after State officials who signed the deal.

The State through the Attorney General, Public Procurement Oversight Authority (PPOA) and KRC had argued that documents filed by Omtatah on the tender, which include the contract between Kenya and China, could not be used as evidence as they were illegally acquired.

Activist Okiya Omtatah presenting his petition at the Supreme Court on Friday, September 2, 2022. /ZAKHEEM RAJAN.FILE

Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol Impeached

Marvin Chege — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 17:24:54 +0300

Embattled Siaya County Deputy Governor William Oduol has been impeached.

All 42 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) voted to remove the deputy county boss from office by way of impeachment after they unanimously adopted the report of the special committee that was established to investigate the grounds for which a motion of impeachment was tabled against him on June 29, 2023.

Siaya governor James Orengo and his deputy William Oduol embrace each other moments after they were sworn in after the August polls in 2022. /THE STAR

It also revealed that the allegations of interference with the procurement processes through acts of bid rigging were also proven.

On allegations of abuse of office and gross misconduct, the committee indicated that it established that claims of bulldozing officers to renovate the office of the Deputy Governor out of approved budgetary provisions were proven and therefore substantiated.

On the misuse of public resources as well as bullying, the committee said it found that the allegations were proven and hence substantiated.

The Otiato-led team further indicated that it found the claims levelled against the embattled DG of misleading the public by giving false information were also true.

While deliberating the report, the Siaya MCAs supported Oduol’s removal accusing him of being a dishonest leader who was only out to advance his selfish gains.

MCAs from Alego/Usonga Constituency stated that Oduol’s wrangles with his boss grew toxic to the point that the squabbles were painting a bad picture of the country boss.

The matter was then put to question by Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode before the members unanimously approved the report by way of roll call, thereby removing the Deputy Governor from office.

After Oduol's impeachment, the Siaya County Assembly will write to the Senate giving information on the reasons that culminated in the move.

Once voted upon by the majority of the Siaya County Assembly, the matter will move to the Senate where Senators will adjudicate and finally pass a vote. However, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei opposed Oduol's impeachment and vowed to dismiss it should the matter reach the Senate.

"The impeachment proceedings and removal from ODM party of Siaya Deputy Governor Oduol by Tinga (Raila) is sickening and nauseating for exposing corruption in Siaya County government.

"As a Senate, we shall NOT impeach DG Oduol nor confirm impeachment proceedings from Siaya county assembly against him. This once again has confirmed Tinga (Raila) as the Lord of corruption, poverty and impunity!" he tweeted.

Siaya Governor James Orengo will in the meantime have to look for a Deputy Governor to succeed Oduol, potentially marking the first time in President William Ruto's government that a DG is impeached.

Siaya County Assembly during a session on May 29, 2023. /TWITTER

Ruto Launches 2nd Hustler-Fund With Up To Ksh1 Million Loans- How To Get Them

admin — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 12:37:45 +0300

President William Ruto, on Thursday, June 1, launched the Second phase of the Hustler Fund which will target Kenyans accessing the funds through groups, inclusive of chamas and Saccos.

The Group Micro Enterprise Loan product will allow Kenyans to apply to take loans of between Ksh20,000 to Ksh1 million.

"I am delighted to announce that during today’s celebrations, I shall be launching the second product of the Financial Inclusion Fund, which is aimed at facilitating people's access to funding through groups. I am sure that this will be very good news to my good friend Shiko from Ruaka who, like many informal business entrepreneurs, was ready for this innovation even before we launched the first Hustler Fund product," he announced during his Madaraka Day speech.

President William Ruto arriving at Moi Stadium, Embu for the Madaraka Day celebrations on June 1, 2023. /TWITTER.NTV

The second product of the Hustler Fund, he revealed, will enable groups to overcome exclusion and barriers to participation in credit, savings, social security, health insurance and other socioeconomic amenities.

"The second product of the Hustler Fund will usher our unique collective-driven competitive market enterprise to the online domain. To promote inclusion, the Hustler Fund is going to deploy groups such as chamas and saccos to overcome exclusion and barriers to participation in credit, savings, social security, health insurance and other socio-economic amenities.

"This is how we will use policy and technological innovation to mainstream our way of life. We are committed to leveraging fintech in ensuring that no one is left behind in the financial and entrepreneurial inclusivity revolution," he added.

Ruto gave statistics revealing that 20.2 million borrowers have accessed Ksh30 billion, and repaid Ksh19.7 billion, with 7 million being loyal or repeat customers. Hustler Fund transactions stood at 42.5 million

"Not a single shilling has been stolen through corruption, and borrowers do not need to know anyone, bribe any official or go through complex bureaucratic procedures to access the Hustler Fund. They only need a device, a little airtime and a few minutes, and they can get money wherever they are.

"On its way to becoming the biggest financial institution by the number of borrowers and active loans effectively, the Hustler Fund also turned around the country’s fintech, transforming it from a predatory ecosystem to a more responsible one," he went on.

He added that through Safaricom, 2 million new subscribers have been enrolled on its financial ecosystem.

"Without a doubt, the Hustler Fund has been more than transformational; it is revolutionary.

"This engagement with the business community inspired the creation of the Financial Inclusion Fund or the Hustler Fund. To eliminate the financial cost, delay, and bureaucracy entailed in complying, the facility employs the latest fintech, powered by Kenyan telecommunications corporations.

"The Hustler Fund also re-engineered the idea of collateral by deploying the borrower’s credit score as effective security," Ruto explained.

Group Micro Enterprise Loan Products (GMELP)- How It Works

Features

Offers amounts between Ksh20,000 to Ksh1,000,000
Interest rate: 7 per cent per annum on reducing balance and 1.5 per cent default rate
Repayment in six (6) months from the disbursement date. Borrowers can opt to repay in instalments or lump sums.
Saving: 5 per cent of the approved amount respectively, channelled towards group members' savings scheme.
The Groups scoring will be appraised through a credit scoring algorithm based on collective individual members' scores, including but not limited to, their savings and repayment history.

Qualifications

All group members should be Kenyan citizens of 18 years and above with a valid National Identification Card (ID).
A group should comprise of at least five members.
Each member should have an active sim card issued by an approved Mobile Network Operator for the last 90 days.
The Chama should be a verified relevant government Institution
All group members should not have defaulted on the Personal Loan product.

How To Apply

Kenyans can access the Hustler Fund through a USSD code (*254#) and mobile app platforms offered by all the country's mobile network providers.

How to Apply for Hustler Fund Loan via USSD

Applicants will be required to dial the USSD code *254#
Select the loan request option to view the limit, interest, and loan tenure.
Enter the loan amount and press OK to continue
Confirm loan details
Enter Mobile Money pin
Receive SMS notifications on Loan allocation

How to Apply for Hustler Fund Loan via Mobile App

Enter mobile app from any mobile network operator
Select the loan request option to view the limit, interest, and loan tenure.
Enter the loan amount and press OK to continue
Confirm loan details
Enter Mobile Money pin
Receive SMS notifications on Loan allocation

A tug of war between Team Mama mboga/ boda-boda and Team Kanjo during the Madaraka Day celebrations in Embu on June 1, 2023. /NTV

Win For Raila As Court Blocks Ruto's Shakahola Commission of Inquiry

Marvin Chege — Mon, 29 May 2023 10:15:31 +0300

The High Court has issued an order suspending President William Ruto's decision to establish the Commission of Inquiry to probe the Shakahola deaths and religious organizations in Kenya.

Judge Lawrence Mugambi on Monday, May 29 set aside the commission pending the determination of a case before it.

He ruled that the Azimio la Umoja coalition had raised serious issues in their petition, thus the court had to intervene.

"It is in the public interest to allow the Commission of Inquiry to start its sitting at the expense of the public before the resolution of the constitutional challenges presented. My answer is that it is not,” the Judge ruled.

Side-by-side image of Pastor Paul Mackenzie and bodies retrieved from Shakahola forest in Kilifi County. /VIRALTEAKE

Justice Mugambi also stated that other bodies including the Police, Senate and the Kenya National Human Rights Commission (KNHCR) were already carrying out investigations into the matter and were using public funds and resources.

He noted that the commission would need to use more public funds in their activities, a matter which was against the interests of Kenyans.

Through his Lawyer Paul Mwangi, Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga moved to court to block the actions of the Shakahola Tragedy Commission of Inquiry team, accusing the President of usurping powers vested in Parliament in naming the members of the commission.

“We reiterate that only the Judicial Service Commission is empowered by the constitution to recruit qualified persons to serve in tribunals. The president has no powers to make any determination of the constitution of a court or an independent tribunal nor who sits in judgment in court or independent tribunal,” read part of the court documents filed by lawyer Paul Mwangi.

The petition also stated that by forming the Commission of Inquiry into the Shakahola tragedy, the Head of State is undermining the authority of the National Intelligence Service under Article 242 of the Constitution of Kenya.

"The formation of the Commission of Inquiry Into the Shakahola Tragedy is a usurpation of the powers and undermining of the authority of the Senate which has already commissioned an ad-hoc Committee to investigate the Shakahola Massacre whose mandates have been duplicated," the petition stated.

Raila also argued that Ruto is interfering with the independence of the Judiciary by appointing the commission and that only Parliament can establish a subordinate court or an independent tribunal through an act of Parliament.

President Ruto however brushed off the petition and appointed two more commissioners to strengthen the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Shakahola massacre. They include Abdullatif Essajee Khaderbhai and Hassan Ahmednur Baricha.

They were picked to assist the 13-member team during the Shakahola probe and would work in tandem with Lady Justice Jessie W. Lesiit, who is chairing the commission.

“It is notified for the general information of the public that His Excellency Hon. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces has appointed— Abdullatif Essajee Khaderbhai, Hassan Ahmednur Baricha, as Commissioners of the Commission of Inquiry into the Shakahola Tragedy established vide Gazette Notice No. 5660 of 2023,” the gazette notice read.

Other roles of the Commission of Inquiry include establishing the circumstances under which these incidents occurred and identifying the persons and organizations who bear the greatest responsibility for the Shakahola tragedy.

The commission will also recommend specific actions that should be taken against them, including admonition, regulatory actions, reparations, or recommendations for criminal investigation.

In addition, the commission will inquire into the legal, institutional, administrative, security, and intelligence lapses that may have contributed to the occurrence of the Shakahola tragedy.

It will recommend legal, administrative, or other forms of accountability action against any public official whose actions or omissions are established to have willfully or negligently contributed to the occurrence of the tragedy.

Lady Justice Jessie Lessit. /FILE

Raila Calls Off Bipartisan Talks Again, Cites 4 Issues

admin — Tue, 23 May 2023 16:42:35 +0300

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna on Tuesday, May 23 revealed that the Azimio la Umoja coalition had once again called off the bipartisan talks.

In a statement, the Senator noted that the talks were suspended after the 14-member committee failed to agree on four fundamental demands.

Sifuna alleged that Azimio had failed to persuade its Kenya Kwanza counterparts to agree on the terms of engagement.

The Kenya Kwanza, Azimio Coalition bipartisan talks team during a press briefing on April 13, 2023. /AZIMIO LA UMOJA

"We have had to suspend the Bipartisan dialogue after we could not persuade our friends from KK to concede to some common sense interim measures namely; Lowering of the cost of Unga, Preservation of the Election Servers, Suspension of IEBC reconstitution and for them to leave Jubilee alone.

"These are necessary in our view in order to safeguard the outcome of the talks. We hope sense shall prevail," stated Sifuna.

The talks were initially suspended on Tuesday, April 25 after Azimio indicated that the two teams failed to reach a consensus regarding the inclusion of MPs Adan Keynan (Eldas) and David Pkosing (Pokot South) in the bipartisan committee.

Kenya Kwanza on Wednesday, May 3 yielded to Azimio's demands and announced that Keynan had recused himself from the committee.

Wiper Party leader, Kalonzo Musyoka on Monday, May 22, threatened to cancel the ongoing bipartisan talks between Azimio and the Kenya Kwanza coalitions over rogue members of the Jubilee Party.

Speaking at Ngong Racecourse during the party's National Delegates Convention (NDC), Kalonzo demanded that the rebels who were kicked out during the NDC should seek re-election from the people under their newfound party outfits.

"If you want bipartisan talks to continue, from today those who have left Jubilee should accept to hold by-elections in their respective areas if they respect multipartyisim," Kalonzo said.

Backing up Kalonzo was Raila, who threatened to resume bi-weekly demonstrations if the talks do not address the high cost of living, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) server issues, and the independence of political parties.

"We said the talks should be one month and we're now left with 14 days. If the bipartisan committee cannot reach a solution on the cost of living, the servers and freedom of political parties, we shall go back to the streets. We will not be intimidated," he said.

The 14-member Bipartisan Committee comprising Azimio la Umoja and Kenya Kwanza Parliamentarians on Wednesday, May 17 tasked six members with discussing the reconstitution of the IEBC.

Kenya Kwanza Alliance was represented by Kakamega Senator Boni Kwalwale, Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei and Kibewzi West MP Mwengi Mutuse.

Azimio was represented by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua and Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo.

Wiper party leader, Kalonzo Musyoka and Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga in conversation on May 2, 2023. /FACEBOOK.KALONZO MUSYOKA

PS Esther Ngero Resigns After Ruto Reshuffle From Mudavadi's Office

Marvin Chege — Tue, 23 May 2023 10:35:06 +0300

President William Ruto on Tuesday, May 23 accepted the resignation of Esther Ngero, Principal Secretary for Correctional Services, who is leaving office for personal reasons.

The PS communicated her decision to resign through a statement signed by the Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff, Felix Koskei.

"His Excellency The President has received and accepted with regret the resignation of Esther Ngero, Principal Secretary for Correctional Services, who is leaving office for personal reasons.

Esther Ngero takes the oath of office as Principal Secretary of the State Department for Performance and Delivery on December 2, 2022. /DAILY NATION

"The outgoing Principal Secretary was recently reassigned from the State Department for Performance Management & Delivery Services in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary to the State Department for Correctional Services within the Ministry of Interior & National Administration," read the statement in part.

Koskei noted that in her time in office, Ngero has been instrumental in establishing the institutional framework to support the implementation of Public Service Performance Management and Monitoring for Ministries, State Departments, and State Agencies (MDAs).

A certified accountant by training, Ngero joined the ranks of Principal Secretaries in December 2022 after an almost two-decades career in the petroleum sector.

"The Head of State and government has conveyed his gratitude to Ngero for her service to the nation and wished her the very best in all her future endeavours," added the statement.

Ngero, in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, worked with Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs Aurelia Rono. She was the Accounting Officer to the Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi.

According to the Constitution, Principal Secretaries are the Accounting Officers of the State Departments to which they are assigned.

They also work with the Cabinet Secretary, who is responsible for implementing government policy.

The news comes after Ruto recently reshuffled seven PSs following the termination of Public Health PS Dr Josephine Mburu and the re-assignment of Peter Kiplagat Tum.

"To facilitate the transition in the vacancy that has arisen within the ranks of principal secretaries, His Excellency the President has on the recommendation of the Public Service Commission nominated Faith Njeri Harrison for appointment as the Principal Secretary, State Department for Performance Management within Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary," Koskei stated in part.

President William Ruto speaking during a Media Engagement, at State House, Nairobi on May 14, 2023. /PCS

Anne Amadi: Court Blocks Bank Accounts of Chief Registrar Of Judiciary Over Ksh89M Gold Scam

Marvin Chege — Thu, 18 May 2023 19:12:37 +0300

The High Court in Nairobi has frozen personal bank accounts registered in the names of the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Anne Atieno Amadi, as well as her son Brian Ochieng Amadi and two others.

The court on Thursday, May 18 ordered that no withdrawals be made without approval, coming after Amadi was sued alongside her son Brian and others by a company in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) that deals with gold, as reported by Citizen Digital.

In the petition, Bruton Gold Trading LLC alleged that the suspects, acting on behalf of the law firm Amadi and Associates Advocates, illegally obtained over Ksh89 million for gold that they never supplied.

The firm further claimed that it was interested in purchasing gold from Kenya and met Daniel Ndegwa Kangara, one of the suspects in the alleged scheme, who was to deliver gold for the purposes of exporting to Dubai for sale following an agreement between the two parties.

A photo of bars of gold. /STANDARD DIGITAL

The firm argued that it sent Ksh71 million to Amadi's law firm, but no gold was exported from Kenya to Dubai.

While suing the Judiciary registrar, the company further claimed that investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had revealed that she was the registered proprietor of Amadi and Associates Advocates.

They further claimed that the probe had uncovered Amadi's hand in opening the account where the money was deposited after she joined the Judiciary.

They furthermore claimed that the funds received by the firm were withdrawn by Amadi’s son and two others without adequate documentation as required by the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act.

The Dubai firm further noted that Amadi later contacted them with the aim of clearing the sum within six months, to which they declined as there was no security performance on the part of the defendants.

The move comes amidst a sporadic rise in scandals touching on the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) and one involving condemned sugar unfit for consumption.

In the KEMSA scandal, the Global Fund was forced to cancel a Ksh3.7 billion mosquito nets tender owing to KEMSA's irregular procurement process. This resulted in President William Ruto disbanding the entire KEMSA board and sacking Josephine Mburu as the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards.

As for the sugar scandal, President Ruto suspended Kenya Bureau of Standards Managing Director, Bernard Njiraini and other government officials within KEBS, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the National Police Service (NPS), among others.

KEBS later appointed Esther Ngari as MD in an acting capacity pending a substantive replacement.

Amadi was last in the public eye during the swearing-in of President Ruto on September 13, 2022, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, a ceremony she presided over.

William Ruto taking his oath of office on September 13, 2022. /WILLIAM RUTO

Sugar Scandal: Ruto Suspends KEBS Boss & 26 Govt Employees [LIST]

Marvin Chege — Wed, 17 May 2023 18:08:17 +0300

President William Ruto on Wednesday, May 17 suspended Kenya Bureau of Standards Managing Director, Bernard Njiraini and other government officials within KEBS, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the National Police Service (NPS), among others.

In a statement signed by Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, the 27 state employees were accused of releasing condemned sugar unfit for consumption.

"In recognition of the unique mandate of the agencies as vanguards of public health and safety, it is manifest that some officers in the relevant agencies abdicated their responsibilities, at the risk of public harm.

"Consequently, it is noted that the Cabinet Secretaries for National Treasury and Economic Planning, and Investments, Trade and Industry, have sanctioned administrative action to suspend the officers pending investigations," Koskei stated.

Sugar being sold in a supermarket. /STANDARD DIGITAL

Koskei further noted that Ruto was briefed on the grievous accusations of the irregular and criminal release of condemned sugar scheduled for conversion into industrial ethanol.

The sugar consignment comprising 20,000 bags (each 50kgs), had been imported into the country in the year 2018 and condemned by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) for want of expiry date specification.

KEBS condemned the consignment as unfit for human consumption and directed that the consignment be reshipped and destroyed at the owner's cost. KEBS National Standards Council approved destruction through conversion of the consignment for industrial ethanol use.

The industrial ethanol conversion was to be implemented under the joint supervision of KEBS and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), within a multi-agency framework.

"The condition precedent to the conversion were; involvement of all the concerned regulatory agencies; sourcing a distiller through an open and competitive tendering process; and securing the payment of applicable taxes and statutory fees.

"It has since been established that the consignment was irregularly diverted and unprocedurally released. Further, the conditions relating to open and competitive enlisting of the distiller were breached and the applicable taxes were not paid," Koskei

The suspended officials included;

Kenya Bureau of Standards

Lt. Col (Rtd) Bernard Njiraini, the Managing Director
Dr Geoffrey Muriira, Director of Quality Assurance and Inspection
Hilda Keror, Manager Inspection, Mombasa Port Office
Liston Lagat, Assistant Manager, ICDN Nairobi
Rono Birgen Chief Manager, ICDN Nairobi
Stephen Owuor, Principal Officer
Peter Olima Joseph - Inspector, Mombasa.

Kenya Revenue Authority
Joseph Kaguru
Stephen Muiruri
Mwanja Masinde
Moses Okoth
Chacha Hondo
Doris Mutembei
Carol Nyagechi Derick Kago

National Police Service
George Mithamo
Joel Kirui

Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)
Bernard Ngumbi
Raphael Mwaka

Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA)
Oscar Kai
Patrick Magut
Joseph Maita Mweni (Port Health),
Isacko Bonai (NEMA)
Stephen Cheruiyot (Anti-Counterfeit Agency)
Daniel Ngugi (KEPHIS)
J. Willy Koskei (EACC)
K. Edwin Ruto (KPA)

The suspension came amidst the shocking rise in sugar prices by 33 per cent in one week, with prices averaging up to Ksh430 from Ksh310, despite the government allowing the duty-free importation of sugar.

President Ruto in just two days has made cold-hard decisions in his government after many poked holes in the timid nature at which he was steering his administration since assuming office on September 15, 2022.

The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) was the first on Ruto's mind as he disbanded the entire board, appointed Irungu Nyakera as the new KEMSA chairperson and fired former Health Principal Secretary (PS), Josephine Mburu, over a Ksh3.7 billion mosquito net scandal, the first accounting officer to be terminated in the Kenya Kwanza government.

"His Excellency The President has been briefed on the complaints of alleged impropriety within the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) in its management and administration of various medical programmes being undertaken by Kenya in conjunction with our development partners.

"The complaints follow the regular verification of expenditure by the Global Fund with regard to the National Malaria Programme that targets millions of low-income Kenyan households within our nation's malaria-endemic regions. The alleged maladministration on the part of KEMSA is with regard to the procurement of treated mosquito nets for those vulnerable households, which could have led to significant exposure to the disease and an increase in its severity in the endemic regions," Koskei's statement read in part.

To further stamp authority nine months into his first term, Ruto reshuffled seven PSs with Peter Kiplagat Tum re-assigned to the Ministry of Sports from the Ministry of Health and Mary Muthoni Muriuki, who served as the Interior PS in charge of the Correctional Services, taking Mburu's place as PS Public Health & Professional Standards at the Ministry of Health.

PS Mary Muthoni Muriuki shaking hands with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi. /FACEBOOK.MARY MUTHONI

Kenya Power Confirms Blackout In These Parts Of The Country

admin — Tue, 16 May 2023 17:06:10 +0300

Kenya Power on Tuesday, May 16 issued a statement regarding the power outage that was reported in parts of the country.

The monopoly firm revealed that the blackout was occasioned by a loss in electricity supply in parts of Nairobi, North Rift and Western.

"We have lost electricity supply affecting parts of North Rift, Western and sections of Nairobi due to a system disturbance affecting one of our major power transmission lines.

A Kenya Power employee carries out repairs on Haile Selassie Road, Mombasa. /DAILY NATION

"Our engineers are working to restore the electricity supply to the affected areas at the earliest opportunity. We apologise to our customers for the inconvenience caused," stated Kenya Power.

The blackout is the second one in 2023 and comes after a similar one occurred on Saturday, March 4.

Kenya Power at the time noted that it managed to restore power supply to parts of Eldoret, Kisumu and Nakuru, with Nairobi residents also benefiting from the restored power supply.

While indicating that it was working on restoring normal power supply in other areas, Kenya Power added that the outage was a result of a fault affecting one of its high-voltage power transmission lines.

"Initial reports indicate that the outage was caused by a fault that occurred on the Suswa-Loyangalani high-voltage power transmission line. We thank our customers for their patience as we continue with the restoration exercise," stated the firm, adding that another update would be issued in due course.

Kenya Power had earlier attributed the nationwide electricity outage to system disturbance in its apology while promising to restore the power supply immediately.

At 6.25 pm, the outage occurred, plunging most parts of the country into darkness.

In November 2022, the country experienced a power blackout affecting areas including Nairobi, Mombasa, Busia, Kakamega, Kiambu, Makueni, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Kilifi, Kajiado, Machakos, Garissa and Eldoret.

"We have restored power supply to customers in parts of Western, South Nyanza, North Rift, Central Rift and Nairobi.

"The cause of the system disturbance has been identified and is being addressed by KETRACO engineers, while our technical teams are working on the restoration of power supply to the rest of the country. We will communicate the progress of the restoration exercise in subsequent updates," stated the utility firm on November 24, 2022.

The utility provider had hours prior noted that the interruption in power supply was caused by mechanical problems on several lines feeding the estates. Among the feeders affected included the Breweries 1 line, which feeds several estates along the Thika Super Highway.

A Kenya Power token meter. /FILE

Noordin Haji Set For Comeback At NIS After Ruto Nomination

admin — Tue, 16 May 2023 15:12:20 +0300

President William Ruto, on Tuesday, May 16, nominated Noordin Haji for the position of the Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS).

In a statement signed by Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff, Felix Koskei, Haji will make his comeback to the NIS after his six-year term as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

"It is notified that His Excellency the President has, in accordance with Section 7 (1) of the National Intelligence Service Act, nominated Mr Noordin Haji, CBS, for appointment as the Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS).

Immediate former Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Noordin Haji. /FILE

"Noordin Haji returns to the National Intelligence Service after a six-year sojourn as the Director of Public Prosecutions. Before becoming the nation's apex public prosecutor, Mr Haji served as the Deputy Director of the Counter Organised Crime Unit within the National Intelligence Service (NIS)," the statement read in part.

Notably, Ruto did not nominate Haji's immediate replacement as DPP. Haji holds Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) and Master of Laws (LL.M) degrees from the University of Wales, Cardiff.

Additionally, he holds a second Masters Degree in National Security Policy with Merit (MNSPO) from the Australian National University.

He was admitted to the Bar in 1999 and thereafter joined the Public Service in January 2000 as a State Counsel at the Attorney General's Office.

On his part, Major-General (Rtd) Philip Wachira Kameru, EGH, the outgoing Director-General, was appointed in September 2014 after an illustrious military career, by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

He has risen through the ranks to the position of Director of Military Intelligence in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). In that position, he provided outstanding leadership that earned him international accolades.

"Under Major-General (Rtd) Kameru's watch, Kenya's premier civilian intelligence agency has made monumental strides in the fight against terrorism, transnational crimes and other major threats to our national and regional security.

"Maj-Gen (Rtd) Kameru has been at the forefront of guiding special security assignments and multi-agency coordination that have made Kenya, and indeed the region, more secure," added the statement.

Ruto's action is to facilitate the transition of the apex leadership of our National Intelligence Service, ahead of Kameru's retirement.

The Head of State transmitted the nomination of Haji to the National Assembly for consideration by Parliament, in fulfilment of the legal requirements set out under the Constitution and the National Intelligence Service Act.

Haji is expected to be vetted by Parliament's Defence and Foreign Relations Committee after which the President will officially appoint him to the position.

What Is NIS?

The National Intelligence Service which was previously known as the National Security Intelligence Service (NSIS) is both the (national) domestic and foreign intelligence agency of Kenya.

It had its origins in the "Special Branch" a department of the national police that was created in 1952 under the British administration. Among other things it provided intelligence for was during the Mau Mau uprising.

From left: President William Ruto, his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta and outgoing NIS boss Philip Kameru at State House, Nairobi, in 2016. /PSCU

Ruto Fires PS, Dissolves Whole KEMSA Board

admin — Mon, 15 May 2023 15:26:48 +0300

President William Ruto has terminated the appointment of Josephine Mburu as the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards and dissolved the entire Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) board.

In a statement signed by Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, the President further revoked the appointment of the chairperson regarding alleged impropriety within KEMSA.

KEMSA premises in Nairobi. /FILE

The President enforced the changes in affirmation of the Kenya Kwanza administration's commitment to entrenching the ethos of good governance within Kenya's national life by promoting accountability and openness in the management of public affairs.

Ruto resultantly appointed Irungu Nyakera as the Chairperson of the Board in accordance with the procedure set out under Section 5(1) (a) of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority Act.

Further, he noted that Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Susan Nakhumicha Wafula undertook the following remedial action:

Reconstituted the Board of KEMSA by appointing the following as members, namely: FCPA Hezbon Oyieko Omollo, Bernard Kipkirui Bett, Dr Jane Masiga and Jane Nyagaturi Mbatia;
Suspended Terry Ramadhani, the Chief Executive Officer of KEMSA alongside the following other concerned staff serving within the Ministry of Health (MOH) National Malaria Programme and KEMSA, namely: Martin Wamwea (MOH), Lenson Kariuki (MOH), Dr Pauline Duya (MOH), Livingstone Njuguna (MOH), Dr Charles Kariuki Chege (MOH), Justus Kinoti (KEMSA), Cosmas Rotich (KEMSA) and Anthony Chege (KEMSA).
Appointed Dr Andrew Mutava Mulwa as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).

President Ruto further directed the new management to assure the propriety of procurement processes within the Authority.

"The Head of State and Government is committed to heralding a new era in the management of our nation's healthcare by ensuring that no Kenyan will be denied the dignity of affordable medical care due to corruption.

"Therefore, in keeping with the Administration's Health policy of "leaving no one behind", the Administration will spare no effort in rebuilding the KEMSA supply chain management system so as to secure efficiency and accountability in the provision of medical supplies to all health facilities across our nation," added the Head of State.

Josephine Mburu was fired just five months after assuming office and becomes the first-ever PS in Ruto's government to be terminated while in office. The action came just 24 hours after he declared that he would do whatever it takes to clean up the agency.

“Watch this space. I am doing something about it. You will see results. I want to give you my commitment I will clean up KEMSA, whatever it takes, whatever it costs, I will clean it up,” Ruto told journalists during a joint media interview at State House on Sunday, May 14.

The Global Fund

The Global Fund was forced to cancel a Ksh3.7 billion mosquito nets tender owing to KEMSA's irregular procurement process.

The foreign agency had discovered irregularities on KEMSA's part during the procurement of the long-lasting insecticide mosquito nets, raising an issue with KEMSA's technical evaluation committee report, citing multiple procurement gaps, including lack of pagination, contention on request for a manufacturing certificate from a manufacturer, and lack of uniformity in identifying the winning and losing bids.

In the report where KEMSA had identified Partecea East Africa as the winning bidder, the Global Fund audit found that none of the bids was responsive.

Ramadhani however defended the alleged bungled procurement tender, as claimed in the Global Fund's audit, and insisted that the authority’s technical evaluation report was factual, during an interview with Citizen TV.

Dr Josephine Mburu was dismissed as Principal Secretary for Public Health on Monday, May 15, 2023. /CAPITAL GROUP

EPRA Increases Fuel Prices For Between May-June

Marvin Chege — Sun, 14 May 2023 20:16:15 +0300

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced the fuel prices for the period between Monday, May 15 and Wednesday, June 14.

In the latest monthly review, the price of Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene increased by Ksh3.40 per litre, Ksh6.40 per litre and Ksh15.19 per litre respectively.

Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene thus retail at Ksh182.70, Ksh168.40 and Ksh161.13 respectively up from Ksh179.3, Ksh162 and Ksh145.94, respectively, in Nairobi.

New fuel prices as announced by EPRA on May 14, 2023. /VIRALTEAKE

"Taking into account the weighted average cost of imported refined petroleum products, the changes in the maximum allowed petroleum pump prices in Nairobi are as follows.

"Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene increase by Kshs.3.40 per litre, Kshs.6.40 per litre and Kshs.15.19 per litre respectively. The subsidy on Diesel and Kerosene has been removed," stated EPRA in part.

EPRA added that the prices are inclusive of the eight per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2018, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020.

"The average landed cost of imported Super Petrol increased by 8.63% from US$666.51 per cubic metre in March 2023 to US$724.01 per cubic metre in April 2023; Diesel decreased by 2.51% from US$705.82 per cubic metre to US$688.07 per cubic metre while Kerosene decreased by 1.13% from US$707.53 per cubic metre to US$699.54 per cubic metre," added the authority.

In Mombasa, Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene rose to Ksh179.86, Ksh165.57 and Ksh158.30 respectively. Motorists in Nakuru will pay Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene at Ksh181.83, Ksh167.91 and Ksh160.65 respectively for the next one month.

In Eldoret, Petrol will sell at Ksh182.54, Diesel Ksh168.61and Kerosene at Ksh161.35.

President William Ruto on Sunday, May 14 argued that the doubling of fuel tax from 8 per cent to 16 per cent would benefit Kenyans in the long run.

"We are going to increase the VAT by 8 per cent for two reasons number one because having differential rates one at 8 per cent, others at 16 per cent poses an integrity problem, people use it as a loophole to manipulate numbers.

"This 8 per cent that we are adding is going to give us about Ksh50 billion it will begin to deal with the problem of roads across the country," he explained.

He also noted that the high levies would remove loopholes in the fuel sector as well as free up money for development.

“When I came to the office I found that we had commitments of Ksh900 billion on the roads, I have worked with various departments and brought the number to Ksh680 billion.

“If I have to complete these roads, I need money. Everywhere I go, Kenyans tell me they need roads,” he explained why his administration needed the extra revenue from the fuel kitty.

Defending his government from allegations that the tax increase would hurt Kenyans, Ruto argued that it was well-balanced, adding that he made checks and balances to ensure that the increased tax is cushioned and does not affect Kenyans.

“I have removed three and a half road development levy on fuel and another 2 per cent on IDF fuel levy,” he explained.

EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo on Friday, April 14 dismissed the possibility of 160,000 metric tonnes of fuel received on Thursday, April 13 under the Government-Government agreement having an effect on the computation of monthly fuel prices.

President William Ruto speaking during a Media Engagement, at State House, Nairobi on May 14, 2023. /PCS

Pastor Ezekiel Released

Marvin Chege — Thu, 04 May 2023 13:46:31 +0300

Pastor Ezekiel Odero of New International Life Church, Kilifi has been released.

The televangelist was set free on a Ksh1.5 million cash bail or a Ksh3 million bond on Thursday, May 4.

Pastor Ezekiel was however barred by a court from making comments in public about the Shakahola Massacre amidst ongoing investigations.

He was also ordered to report to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) once a week.

Pastor Ezekiel Odero (in white robe) in the dock on April 28, 2023. /NATION BREAKING NEWS

Shanzu court Senior Principal Magistrate Joe Omindo had ruled that the state did not provide sufficient reasons for an extension of the custodial days.

"Parties will be at liberty to apply for the closure of this file once the investigations are complete," the judge ruled.

The government failed to press charges against the pastor who was presented before Shanzu Law Courts.

Police had requested the court to detain him for 30 days, but Omindo declined the request.

Detectives investigating the Shakahola massacre, through prosecutors, had established a connection between Pastor Ezekiel's New International Life Church and the 800-acre piece of land in Shakahola belonging to self-proclaimed pastor, Paul Mackenzie.

“He is linked to several occurrence book reports of almost 100 deaths that occurred in the church between 2022 and 2023. These deaths occurred within church precincts,” Senior Prosecution Counsel Jami Yamina told the court.

Detectives also traced Ksh3 million in financial transactions between Pastors Ezekiel and Mackenzie for the purchase of a TV station, with the former confessing to buying the TV station from Mackenzie but said the business transaction should not be linked to the Shakahola deaths.

Pastor Ezekiel had also sought court orders to have the government restrained from freezing 16 bank accounts under his possession and filed an application seeking the State to reopen his church as well as his TV channel that was shut down by the Communications Authority (CA).

“In the interim and pending the hearing and determination of this application, this honourable court be pleased to issue a conservatory order temporarily restraining the respondents from taking adverse action against Odero or New Life Prayer Center and Church including the freezing of the church accounts in two local banks," the court papers read in part.

The Mombasa High Court on Wednesday, May 3 directed the National Police Service (NPS) to open the church immediately without further delay.

Pastor Ezekiel carrying a Bible after being arrested in Mombasa on April 27, 2023. /TWITTER

Azimio Calls Off Thursday Protests After Kenya Kwanza Drops Adan Keynan

admin — Wed, 03 May 2023 14:18:18 +0300

UPDATE: The Azimio la Umoja coalition has suspended its countrywide protests scheduled for Thursday, May 4.

Leader of Minority in the National Assembly, Opiyo Wandayi, revealed in a statement that the decision was arrived at following the decision by Kenya Kwanza to accede to one of its demands that informed the resumption of mass action; that is the recusion of Adan Keynan from its bipartisan line-up.

"Instead of holding the protests, we have summoned our seven-member delegation to the bipartisan committee for fresh instructions to inform further engagement with the Kenya Kwanza side.

"As a party, we express deep gratitude to all Kenyans who have participated in the demonstrations in defence of justice and democracy in our country. We also wish to reiterate that we will not hesitate to resume mass action at the slightest indication of lack of goodwill and honesty on Kenya Kwanza side," Wandayi warned.

Azimio further sent a strong warning to Kenya Kwanza over interference in the internal affairs of Azimio and its affiliate parties, including Jubilee.

"Tomorrow, the 4th of May 2023, we expect nothing but very clear and categorical communication from the Speaker of the National Assembly on the decision by Azimio to remove the former Deputy Minority Whip Sabina Chege. Any departure from our expectation will have serious consequences," added Wandayi

Wiper Party Leader, Kalonzo Musyoka has announced that the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition is prepared to call off its anti-government demonstrations planned for Thursday, May 4 to return to the bipartisan talks with the Kenya Kwanza government.

In a statement he shared on Twitter on Wednesday, May 3, Kalonzo expressed the coalition's readiness to return to the talks and forego the weekly protests.

However, he stated that Kenya Kwanza should drop Eldas Member of Parliament (MP) Adan Keynan from the 14-member bipartisan committee and announces his replacement at the same time.

Eldas MP Adan Keynan during a past Parliament session. /FILE

"We, in Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya, announce, on a without prejudice basis, that we are prepared to go back to the Bipartisan talks with our opposite side in Kenya Kwanza and are prepared to stand down the demonstration scheduled for tomorrow Thursday, 4th May 2023, provided that Kenya Kwanza recuses Hon. Adan Keynan from the bipartisan Committee and immediately announces his replacement on the said Committee.

"This was the offer I made on Sunday at the Cathedral of Praise Ministries International. All our other conditions remain the same," stated Kalonzo.

Kenya Kwanza moments later yielded to Azimio's demands and announced that Keynan had recused himself from the committee.

"We welcome the statement by the Azimio One Kenya alliance on the resumption of the Bipartisan talks. We appreciate the conciliatory route taken by our Azimio counterparts to engage in talks and stand down the planned street demonstrations should Kenya Kwanza recuse Eldas Member of Parliament, Adan Keynan.

"As we have always stated, we are willing to bend backwards for the sake of the progress of the country, national unity, and stability of the nation. We have consulted with Mweshimiwa Keynan and the Coalition's top leadership and the Hon Aden Wehliye Keynan has graciously agreed in the greater interest of the county to recuse himself from the bi-partisan committee," the statement read out by Senate Majority Leader, Aaron Cheruiyot and signed by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah, stated in part.

Kenya Kwanza nominated Saku Member of Parliament (MP) Ali Rasso Dido as Keynan's replacement.

The developments came after the stalemate over the bipartisan talks drew the attention of the Council of Governors (CoG) which formed a 10-member committee to oversee talks between Kenya Kwanza and Azimio.

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka was chosen to lead the committee whose goal will be to initiate talks between President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga.

CoG chairperson Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga County) was selected as a member of the team alongside Ahmed Abdullahi (Wajir County), and Stephen Sang (Nandi County).

Others included Fatuma Achani (Kwale), Mutahi Kahiga (Nyeri), Simba Arati (Kisii), Joseph Ole Lenku (Kajiado), Wavinya Ndeti (Machakos), and Ochillo Ayacko (Migori).

"The purpose of the committee will be to engage the leaders from the two political divides to address the ongoing demonstrations and amicable solutions to ensure stability in the country," read part of the CoG statement.

The intervention by CoG came after the original bipartisan talks collapsed owing to disagreements regarding the inclusion of MPs Adan Keynan (Eldas) and David Pkosing (Pokot South) to the bipartisan committee, and had shown signs of not reviving after Azimio returned to mass action.

The 14-member committee was to hold a meeting on Tuesday, May 2, but it failed to take off after the Azimio team failed to turn up while demanding Keynan's withdrawal.

"We have an issue with Azimio, they want talks and demonstrations, there can't be both, we either talk or they demonstrate, and we call on them to resume the talks,” Tharaka MP George Murugara urged.

Murugara, who is the co-chair of the committee said his counterpart Otiende Amollo refused to honour the invite although he remained hopeful that reason will prevail.

However, in a quick rejoinder, the Azimio team insisted that Keynan must be withdrawn from the committee for talks to resume, with Amollo stating that it was insincere for the Kenya Kwanza coalition to have included Keynan in the team.

Amollo further dismissed the demand for demonstrations to be called off for talks to resume.

Kenya Kwanza and Azimio leaders during bipartisan talks on April 20, 2023. /TWITTER.MDD

Raila, Martha Karua, Kalonzo Lose Bodyguards- ODM

Marvin Chege — Tue, 02 May 2023 13:17:24 +0300

The Orange Democratic Party (ODM) has claimed that the government ordered the withdrawal of personal security attached to its leader Raila Odinga and his former running mate Martha Karua.

The statement on Tuesday, May 2 further noted that the security of Wiper leader, Kalonzo Musyoka and Raila's wife Ida Odinga were also taken away.

ODM added that the move was made by the government as they carried out mass protests across the country.

Raila Odinga's motorcade passing through Kangemi on May 2, 2023. /FILE

"The Ruto government has ordered the immediate withdrawal of security details of Raila Odinga, Martha Karua and Kalonzo Musyoka together with those of other elected leaders in Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition," read the statement in part.

ODM Communications Director Philip Etale countered by revealing that the withdrawal of security would not stop the opposition from putting pressure on the current regime to meet its demands.

"Even with the withdrawal of security detail of Raila Odinga, Martha Karua and Kalonzo Musyoka, Azimio supporters are undeterred. They will provide 24-hour security to their leaders," he stated.

Reports had indicated that the coalition was holed up in a meeting at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation in Upper Hill, Nairobi, discussing, among other issues, the bipartisan talks, as the protests were going on.

They stated that police officers were deployed across different areas in Nairobi which stopped them from presenting their petitions as they had previously planned.

Raila responded to the demonstrations by urging the police to respect the rights of the protesters, adding that some of his staff had suffered while under attack by police officers.

"Our media team's equipment was destroyed by the police as they lobbed teargas at a petrol station," Raila claimed on Twitter.

A contingent of anti-riot police officers blocked access to the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) at Fig Tree Hotel, Ngara and Landhies Road, preventing Raila from gaining entry to the city.

Azimio Members of Parliament (MP) who marched to present a petition to the office of the President at Harambee House were earlier teargassed by police officers.

“My 50 colleagues and I have been teargassed outside the Office of the President as we marched peacefully to deliver the People’s Petition. Gachagua told us we know where to find them. We do. We went there and instead met Police,” Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna tweeted.

At the same time, a lorry and a matatu were destroyed during the protests, with both being set on fire as police engaged protesters in running battles across the country.

Section of Azimio MPs teargassed outside Harambee House Annex while trying to present their petition to the Office of the President. /FACEBOOK

Uhuru Kicked Out Of Jubilee Party

admin — Tue, 02 May 2023 09:47:43 +0300

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has been replaced as the Jubilee Party leader by nominated Member of Parliament Sabina Chege in an acting capacity.

Speaking outside Jubilee party offices on Tuesday, May 2, East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Kanini Kega, allied to President William Ruto, confirmed Chege's appointment in his capacity as Secretary-General.

This is despite his position being contested by Jeremiah Kioni, who is allied to Uhuru, with both Kioni and Kega proclaiming themselves as Jubilee Party Secretary-Generals.

Sabina Chege during a meeting on April 25, 2023. /FACEBOOK.SABINA CHEGE

"We have 28 members and today we held a meeting comprising 22 members with 3 apologies; hence our side is the majority. Hence, we resolved that the upcoming meeting constituted by Uhuru goes against our party's Constitution," he stated.

"According to the Constitution, a retired president should not be involved in any politics, six months after leaving office. From the time he left office, his time lapsed in March 2023."

Kega, while confirming that he was still the Jubilee Secretary-General, according to the resolutions made in a meeting between party officials, noted that Uhuru had ceased from leading the party, and thus cannot run its affairs.

"Uhuru ceased from being the Jubilee party leader hence he cannot run any party affairs. The statement that he delegated concerning the convention of the meeting is null and void based on the Constitution. According to the party constitution, I as the Secretary-General ought to be the one convening such a meeting.

"The NEC Committee resolved that Sabina will serve as the acting party leader until the time we convene a National Delegates Convention (NDC) where we will select the leader who will run the party moving forward," he went on.

The replacement comes after Uhuru had called for a special National Delegates Conference (NDC), which Kega deemed unconstitutional. A notice by the party dated Friday, April 28 revealed that the meeting will take place at Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi on Monday, May 22, 2023.

"Pursuant to Articles 8.1 and 10.1 of the Jubilee Party Constitution, notice is hereby issued for a Special National Delegates Convention to be held on the 22nd of May 2023," Uhuru stated in part.

Among the meeting's agenda is to review party policies, which had led to a row between two factions, one allied to Uhuru and the other, to President William Ruto.

The delegates will also formulate party policies which will be expected to form part of the Jubilee Party constitution in the near future.

The NDC will also receive a status report from the National Executive Committee as well as consider and approve any other matters.

Jubilee Party National Delegates Conference will also approve new party policies in a bid to quell the tension within the top leadership.

The meeting will also see Uhuru expected to make changes to the party's membership after a section of its officials ignored his warning to step down.

Uhuru, during his impromptu visit to Jubilee Party headquarters on Wednesday, April 26, challenged those members unhappy with the party's running of affairs to leave without causing havoc.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta addressing the media at Jubilee Party Headquarters on April 26, 2023. /JUBILEE PARTY

Ruto Takes Action On Rogue Churches After Shakahola Massacre

admin — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 12:41:12 +0300

President William Ruto on Sunday, April 30 announced that he would take stern action against religious leaders misleading Kenyans with false teachings in the wake of the Shakahola massacre which has seen more than 100 bodies exhumed.

Speaking during a church service at Makutano Stadium in Kapenguria, West Pokot County, Ruto revealed that he will work with all of Kenya's religious leaders to form a task force that will crack down on quack preachers taking advantage of their congregants for selfish gain.

"I will consult all religious leaders in the country to have a task force to weed out the characters who want to abuse religion, to run businesses and things that are anti-religion in Kenya.

Pastor Paul Mackenzie Nthenge accompanied by some of his followers during a court appearance in Malindi on April 17, 2023. /AP

"We want to provide a framework agreed upon with our religious leaders. A framework that will provide for self-regulation so that churches and spiritual leaders can have a mechanism where they can point to government those who want to abuse religion for other purposes," he revealed.

He also announced that the government would set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry in the next one week to investigate what really led to the Shakahola massacre.

"We are Christians who believe in God. There are those who use religion to destroy other people and also other destructive means.

"To ensure that what happened in Shakahola will never happen again, we are placing a Judicial Commission of Inquiry so that we can get to the bottom of what really happened in Shakahola with (pastor Paul) Mackenzie and all his collaborators," he stated.

The President added that the move followed the transfer of all commissioners based in Kilifi County who were accused of laziness in their line of work.

"Recently, we transferred all commissioners who slacked on their jobs including the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and Criminal Investigation Department (CID) who were there when the massacre occurred. So this week, I will appoint the commission so that what happened at Shakahola doesn't happen again," he affirmed.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki on Friday, April 28 announced a massive reshuffle of all police bosses in Kilifi County, noting that the changes would enable the government to conduct thorough investigations into the mass graves at Shakahola Forest.

“The government has decided that effective today, we will transfer all station, division, sub-county, county heads and commanders of all agencies within Kilifi County. We will replace them with their colleagues from elsewhere so that we can show the public that what we are doing is for the good of the country and for the good of justice," said Kindiki.

Kindiki further warned that the government would take administrative action against government officials who failed to take action over the matter.

He however assured that the transfers were not meant to implicate anyone with the crimes but to ensure that the operation is carried out successfully.

32 bodies were recovered from the forest, bringing the total death toll to 110.

Interior CS, Kithure Kindiki at the Shakahola mass graves on April 28, 2023. /FACEBOOK.KITHURE KINDIKI

Earth Tremors Reported In Nairobi & Several Parts of Kenya

admin — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 20:31:36 +0300

Reports emerged on Friday night, April 28 of earth tremors in Nairobi and several parts of Kenya.

Kenyans took to social media alleging that they felt light shaking at the capital at around 10.27 pm.

Some who spoke to Viral Tea reported feeling the tremors for three seconds from areas such as Ruaka, Meru, Naivasha and along Ngong Road in Nairobi.

"It shook the bed and. I was sitting on the bed," revealed one resident to Viral Tea.

Some Ruaka residents had reported that even alarms went off while those in Murang'a alleged that they reported a more shaky tremor. Notably, this writer did not feel any shaking while along Thika Road.

Crack along Naivasha-Mai Mahiu road following a light earthquake in 2019. /MWAKILISHI.COM

Volcano Discovery, a travel agency which has extensive information, news and photos about volcanoes and earthquakes, as well as travel proposals, reported receiving unverified early reports of the ground shaking possibly caused by seismic activity in or near Thika, Nairobi Area, with the number of reports depicted at 321 by the time of publication.

"There are no details yet on the magnitude or depth of this possible quake. If confirmed, we can expect more accurate data to emerge in the next few minutes. The location, magnitude and time mentioned are indicative, based on our best-fit seismic model.

"They are temporary until our AllQuakes monitoring service receives more exact scientific data from a national or international seismological agency. Check back here shortly and stay safe," the website reported.

Chile Alerta, an app that gives near real-time updates on recent earthquakes, tsunami bulletins and meteorological bulletins detailing the magnitude, date of occurrence of the event and time in Chile, had issued a seismic warning for Nairobi.

Researcher and software developer Frank Hoogerbeets wrote on Twitter "Be on watch in this region in the next few days. A fluctuation on 21 April marked the same region to the east as on 29 January, before the major earthquakes on 6 February." on the morning of April 28.

Be on watch in this region in the next few days. A fluctuation on 21 April marked the same region to the east as on 29 January, before the major earthquakes on 6 February. pic.twitter.com/BIAtZ620iG
— Frank Hoogerbeets (@hogrbe) April 28, 2023

There was no immediate establishment of the magnitude of the earthquake with some people saying the movements were aftershocks of an earthquake that had happened in Manila, Philippines earlier.

Volcano Discovery Findings

Areas Tremor Felt: Nairobi, Machakos, Athi River, Kiambu, Ngong, Kikuyu, Thika, Limuru, Naivasha & Nakuru.
Date & Time: Friday, Apr 28, 2023, at 10:28 pm (GMT +3)
Shaking intensity: Weak shaking
Magnitude: 3.4 (Considered Minor)

No official communication from Kenyan channels was issued by the time of publication.

Earthquake vs Tremor

However, it is important to distinguish between an earthquake and a tremor, with confusion emerging on social media between the two terms; some Kenyans claiming that one had occurred instead of the other.

Earthquakes and tremors in a nutshell are both signs of seismic movement within the Earth. The difference is the intensity of the movement.

Earthquakes are more intense than earth tremors. When a tremor exceeds five on the moment magnitude scale – a scale between 0 to 10 – then, it is referred to as an earthquake.

Kenya is no stranger to earthquakes and tremors, despite both occurring on rare occasions. On October 12, 2022, residents of sections of Kiambu County expressed following a series of mild earth tremors in the area over a period of two days.

The most affected areas included Limuru town and its environs, Mutarakwa, Ngarariga, Manguo and Ngubi as well as parts of Kikuyu such as Kerwa, Keroe and Nachu.

On March 24, 2019, a 4.8 magnitude earthquake left behind a scary fault line on the usually busy Naivasha-Mai Mahiu Highway, forcing the closure of the road by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).

According to Volcano Discovery, the strongest earthquake to ever happen in Kenya in the 1900s occurred on Friday, January 6, 1928. The quake had a magnitude of 7.0 and occurred 21km South East of Kabarnet in Baringo county at around 7:31 pm.

This year, 59,259 people died from earthquakes that hit southern and central Turkey and northern and western Syria (7.8 magnitude). It is the deadliest earthquake in what is now present-day Turkey since the 526 Antioch earthquake, and the deadliest natural disaster in its modern history

Photo of the aftermath of the earthquake in Turkey on Monday, February 6, 2023. /FACEBOOK.EARTHQUAKE NEWS EVERYDAY

Ruto Promotes Francis Ogolla From Lieutenant General To Chief Of Defence Forces

Marvin Chege — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 11:14:44 +0300

President William Ruto has promoted Lieutenant General Francis Omondi Ogolla to General and appointed him as the Chief of Defence Forces.

Ogolla replaces General Robert Kibochi who is set to retire after 44 years.

"His Excellency Dr William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, pursuant to Section 9 (2). (a) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act, has today promoted Lieutenant General Francis Omondi Ogolla to the rank of General and appointed him Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF).

The then Vice Chief of the Defence forces, Lt Francis Omondi Ogolla, before the Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee at Continental House in Nairobi on November 7, 2022, regarding the deployment of the KDF to the DRC. /DAILY NATION

"General Francis Omondi Ogolla replaces General Robert Kariuki Kibochi whose term of service has honourably come to an end after 44 years of illustrious military career," the statement read in part.

The promotion was among a list of appointments made by the President on the advice of the Defence Council, chaired by Aden Duale, Cabinet Secretary for Defence.

Other Appointments

President Ruto at the same time appointed Lieutenant General Jonah Mwangi as the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF). Mwangi who previously served as the Vice-Chancellor, of the National Defence University-Kenya will be replaced by Major General Said Farah.

The Head of State promoted Brigadier David Kipkemboi Keter to Major General and appointed Assistant Chief of the Defence Forces Personnel and Logistics (ACDF P&L).

Brigadier Stephen Mutuku was promoted to Major General and appointed Senior Directing Staff (Army) National Defence College.

Brigadier John Maison Nkoimo was promoted to the Major General rank and will be the commandant of the Joint Command Staff College (JCSC).

President Ruto also Promoted Brigadier Abdulkadir Mohammed Burje and Brigadier Paul Owuor Otieno to the General rank and appointed them as Director of Military Intelligence (DMI) and Managing Director Kenya Shipyards Limited respectively.

Colonel Anthony Rotich was promoted to Brigadier and appointed Commander of the Military Intelligence Corps.

Colonel Alfred Mwihuri Gitonga was promoted to Brigadier and appointed Director National Military Coordination Center.

President William Ruto inspecting the Guard of Honour at the Kenya Defence Forces' 11th Anniversary function in Laikipia on October 14, 2022. /PCS

Detectives Establish Link Between Pastor Ezekiel Odero's Church & Shakahola

admin — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 08:41:09 +0300

Detectives investigating the Shakahola massacre have revealed that they have credible evidence that some people who died at Pastor Ezekiel Odero's church were buried in the piece of land belonging to Kilifi cult leader Paul Mackenzie.

Pastor Ezekiel was arraigned in court in Shanzu on Friday morning, April 28, with police requesting the court to detain him for 30 days.

The detectives, through prosecutors, had established the connection between Pastor Ezekiel's New International Life Church and the 800-acre piece of land in Shakahola belonging to Pastor Mackenzie.

Side-by-side image of Pastor Ezekiel Odero and Paul Mackenzie. /VIRALTEAKE

"The buying of the tv station cannot be connected to the Shakahola killings. If such an analogue were to be sustained, then all of us who have bought second-hand cars would be held responsible for the crimes committed by previous owners, including the fights with their spouses," his lawyer argued in court.

Pastor Ezekiel, who spent the night at the Shanzu police station, was represented by his lawyer Jared Magolo after he was arrested in Mombasa on suspicion of being pastor Mackenzie's accomplice in the Shakahola massacre.

With regard to the deaths at Odero's church in Mavueni, Magolo noted that "People seek spiritual intervention at the last moment when every medical intervention has failed. Now if such a person dies are we supposed to turn to the pastor and blame him for the death?"

Pastor Ezekiel's arrest resulted in divisions among Kenya Kwanza lawmakers, with some legislators allied to the ruling coalition supporting the arrest and arguing that the state should be taking action on churches. Another faction, however, criticised police actions of going after Pastor Ezekiel.

"I don't think it was warranted for police to arrest Pastor Ezekiel Odero.

"One criminal who was running a cult and another one referring to himself as Yesu wa Tongaren cannot be the cause and or result of a blanket condemnation of the church. God will punish us heavily for this," argued Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa.

"It is refreshing that one of the senior Bishops in one of the churches has called for an audit - financial audit of leaders of churches. You can see they are opening the door for us.

"If you do a financial audit, the one who was arrested today, in the name of Ezekiel Odero, if you go to his compound, it is like you are in Los Angeles. This must stop,” stated Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale on the contrary.

Pastor Dorcas Rigathi had defended the church from clampdown and called for the case involving Pastor Mackenzie to be handled separately, echoing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's declaration, where he opposed the blanket condemnation of religion.

Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, confirmed that Pastor Ezekiel would face criminal charges with regard to the mass killing of his followers.

Pastor Ezekiel carrying a Bible after being arrested in Mombasa on April 27, 2023. /TWITTER

CJ Koome Probing All Judges Who Handled Pastor Mackenzie's Cases

Marvin Chege — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:53:37 +0300

Chief Justice Martha Koome has announced that investigations have been launched against all members of the Judiciary who dealt with Pastor Paul Mackenzie's numerous cases in court.

Koome, who serves as the chairperson of the Judiciary Service Commission (JSC), revealed that the probe will involve checking records to determine whether or not there was misconduct on the part of Judicial officers who handled the matter.

"The Judicial Service Commission which is charged with handling disciplinary issues and the leadership of the Judiciary are examining the records to establish whether there was any misconduct on the part of Judicial Officers and staff who handled the matter.

"The Judiciary reaffirms its commitment to upholding the Constitution and the rule of law in the administration of justice," read part of the statement.

Pastor Paul Mackenzie during a past interview. /FILE

The Judiciary further offered deep sympathy to the families, relatives and friends of victims affected by the unravelling mass deaths, sufferings and injuries at Shakahola Village in Kilifi County.

Pastor Paul Mackenzie Nthenge of Good News International Ministries - Malindi was first arraigned in court on October 17, 2017, where he was charged with radicalisation, for promoting extreme beliefs, offering education in unregistered institutions, failing to take his children to compulsory primary and secondary education and failing to provide the children with education.

In 2019, he faced other charges at the Malindi Magistrate's Court. A few of his followers were also charged on various occasions with child neglect.

"The complaints against Pastor Mackenzie and his co-accused were also discussed by stakeholders in the justice chain led by the then Presiding Judge at the Malindi law Courts under the auspice of the Kilifi County Court Users Committee (CUC) in its Quarterly meeting of 15.11.2019.

"The CUC discussed the issue of radicalization of children by Pastor Mackenzie through his church and TV station. The issue was escalated to the National Government Implementation Committee and the Communications Authority, and the CUC was advised the matter had been forwarded to the Cabinet for discussion in the coming weeks," added the statement.

The TV station's licence was revoked by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), but no feedback was given on the proposal by the CUC to have the church de-registered or the decision by the Cabinet on the issue.

One of the cases saw Pastor Mackenzie and his two co-accused jointly charged with the offence of offering Basic Education in an unregistered institution contrary to Section 76(1) (2) and Section 92(a) of the Basic Education Act. However, he entered into a plea bargain with the Office of the Directorate of Prosecutions (ODPP) and the three were discharged by the trial court.

Another case saw him be charged with four counts of radicalisation (promoting an extremist belief system for the purposes of facilitating ideologically based to advance religious and social change), offering basic education in an unregistered institution contrary to Section 82 of the Basic Education Act, failing to take his/her child to compulsory primary and secondary education and failing to provide right to education of a child contrary to Section 7 of the Children Act.

In another case, Pastor Mackenzie was charged with three counts of incitement to disobedience of the law, being in possession and distributing films to the public which had not been examined and classified by Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) and operating a filming studio and producing films without valid filming licence from KFCB.

Most of the cases saw him released on a cash bail of up to Ksh1 million.

His most recent case saw the exhumation of 103 bodies buried on his vast 800 acres of land in the Shakahola forest.

He is believed to have coerced the deceased members to fast to meet 'Jesus' and allegedly told the believers that their time on earth had ended and they should surrender their possessions to meet the Messiah.

President William Ruto, Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki and DPP Noordin Haji preferred terrorism, radicalisation and aiding individuals to kill themselves on Pastor Mackenzie in the case that has shocked the whole world.

Security officers exhuming bodies at Shakahola graves in Kilifi County on Sunday, April 23, 2023. /FILE

Pastor Ezekiel Odero To Be Charged With Mass Killing Of Followers- Kindiki

admin — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:11:58 +0300

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has announced that Pastor Ezekiel Odero of New International Life Church, Kilifi will face criminal charges with regard to the mass killing of his followers.

In a statement on Thursday, April 27, Kindiki confirmed that his church, New Life Prayer Centre, was shut down and over 100 people held at the premises were evacuated.

"It is notified for information of the general public that today Thursday, 27th April 2023, Mr Ezekiel Ombok Odero the Head of New Life Prayer Centre/Church at Mavueni within Malindi Sub-County of Kilifi County has been arrested and is being processed to face criminal charges related to the mass killing of his followers.

Pastor Ezekiel carrying a Bible after being arrested in Mombasa on April 27, 2023. /TWITTER

"The said Church has been shut down. The over 100 people who were holed up at the premises have been evacuated and will be required to record statements," stated Kindiki in part.

This comes after Pastor Ezekiel was arrested in Mombasa on suspicion of being pastor Paul Mackenzie's accomplice in the Shakahola massacre.

"This morning we have arrested Pastor Ezekiel Odero at Makueni in Kilifi County for allegations of the deaths that have been occurring at his premises and reported in various media institutions.

"We have also taken action and closed the prayer centre. We are urging and giving information to the public that the church has been closed and whatever was in there has been cleared out," stated Coast Regional Commissioner Rhodah Onyancha.

Onyancha further noted that Pastor Ezekiel was being questioned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Mombasa County, adding that 22 suspects believed to be Mackenzie's accomplices were apprehended.

A contingent of DCI officers questioned the management of the Mortuary, which is located near Pastor Ezekiel's church, on Wednesday, April 26.

Pastor Ezekiel was also questioned over the alleged deaths in his church but denied the indoctrination accusations presented against him.

While inspecting the exhumation operation at Shakahola on Tuesday, April 25, CS Kindiki stated that the National Police Service (NPS) was eyeing flamboyant preachers whose teachings flout the rule of law.

“Any faith that kills people or engages in criminal activities in the name of religion must be stopped, and this is the time to stop these charlatans," said the CS.

Meanwhile, the Kenya Red Cross reported on April 27 that 360 people were reported missing as the operation to exhume bodies in Shakahola continues.

By the time of publication, 98 bodies had been exhumed from pastor Mackenzies' Shakahola forest land, with detectives pursuing the angle of the victims being murdered and not starved to death as initially thought.

Security officers exhuming bodies at Shakahola graves in Kilifi County on Sunday, April 23, 2023. /FILE

Raila, Ruto Suspend Bipartisan Talks

admin — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 12:28:07 +0300

Kenya Kwanza Alliance and Azimio la Umoja bipartisan teams on Tuesday, April 25 suspended the bipartisan talks.

Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Amollo indicated through a statement that the talks had reached a stalemate after Azimio indicated that the two teams failed to reach a consensus regarding the inclusion of MPs Adan Keynan (Eldas) and David Pkosing (Pokot South) to the bipartisan committee.

According to Amollo, who spoke in Nairobi at a hotel, the team was left with three options; either or both Keynan (Kenya Kwanza) and Pkosing (Azimio) choose to step down from the team.

Kenya Kwanza and Azimio leaders during bipartisan talks on April 20, 2023. /TWITTER.MDD

Another option was for both parties to withdraw their objections to Keynan and Pkosing and retain them in the bipartisan team.

The last option was up to Azimio party leader, Raila Odinga, and President William Ruto to decide to withdraw either of the two MPs upon their choosing.

"Until then, we have hit a stalemate and chose to suspend these talks until such time as there may be consensus or position changes. Adan Keynan, who defected to Kenya Kwanza, is not a Jubilee member. He is in Azimio Coalition - as a vice chair deputising Wycliffe Oparanya (former Kakamega governor).

"We have not had an issue of principle on Pkosing. He is a member of the KUP Party, which signed a pre-election agreement with Azimio," Amollo stated.

Amollo further argued that KUP, led by former West Pokot governor, John Krop Lanyangapuo, had indicated in April 2023 that it was in the process of moving to withdraw from the Azimio coalition

"To date, no agreement to withdraw from Azimio. Pkosing is the deputy leader and has not made any indication to move. He is also the deputy treasurer in Azimio.

"This shows that the Pkosing issue was made as an afterthought to appear as if we are on the same pedestal with the grievance we raised on Keynan's issue. It's a basis of intention, not reality," he added.

On Kenya Kwanza's side, the coalition responded to Azimio by noting that they agreed to accommodate their demands, including the listing of a secretariat led by lawyer Paul Mwangi as well as the engagement of their principals regarding Keynan's inclusion.

The ruling coalition proposed a separate meeting between Raila, Ruto and the bipartisan chairs to address the issues.

"On the part of Kenya Kwanza, we have agreed that we require further consultations with the principles of the coalitions so that we are able to move forward," Tharaka Member of Parliament George Gitonga stated.

Gitonga believed that both the principals (Raila and Ruto) could opt to withdraw the matter for their objections on Keynan and Pkosing, which would let them participate in the talks, terming it a win for both Azimio and Kenya Kwanza.

"The third option we have is that both members sit down and evaluate themselves and make voluntary resignations. The coalition principles can either decide to nominate another person or leave the numbers as they are," Gitonga added.

Raila Odinga and other Azimio la Umoja leaders during a press briefing on April 18, 2023. /RAILA ODINGA