Thang’wa dismissed the claims as false, insisting that Methu was neither in police custody nor facing any treason charges. He went further, alleging that the narrative circulating online had been deliberately engineered.

"Senator Methu is fine. NIS is just testing the waters and Kenyans' patience. Kenya is ready," Thang’wa stated.

Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang'wa speaking during a Sunday service at PEFA Works, Kajiado County on April 12, 2026. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA

The reports, which had gained traction across social media platforms, alleged that Methu was being pursued over treason linked to his recent remarks about President William Ruto.

Part of the misinformation was fueled by resurfaced images showing Methu alongside police officers. These photos were presented as evidence of a supposed arrest. 

However, a reverse image search indicates that the pictures were taken during a past incident in Kigumo, Murang’a County, where members of the United Opposition were teargassed.

Despite being debunked, the claims spread rapidly online, with some outlets even reporting alleged tension in Nyandarua County.

The controversy stems from Methu’s recent criticism of President Ruto, which has continued to spark mixed reactions. While some Kenyans viewed his remarks as bold and necessary, others interpreted them as disrespectful to the presidency.

Addressing the issue during an interview on Citizen TV on Sunday, April 12, Methu clarified that he maintains a cordial relationship with the president and did not intend to undermine him during his remarks in Ol Kalou at the funeral of former MP David Kiaraho.

"I have known President Ruto for quite some time, especially since I was elected, amongst his most favourite legislators then was myself. I have visited most of his farms. He campaigned for me, and I campaigned for him," Methu stated.

Even so, the senator emphasized that respect does not equate to fear, framing his stance as part of his leadership responsibility.

"I respect him as the head of state, as the commander in chief, as a parent; his sons are my age mates. It would be wrong for me to disrespect him, but it would also be wrong for me to fear him because if I fear him, I will not be a good leader," he added.

During his earlier address in Ol Kalou, Methu openly challenged the president, urging the government to fulfill its pledges to Nyandarua residents. He accused the administration of repeatedly making promises without delivering tangible results.

"President William Samoei Ruto, I respect you, but I do not fear you. Your friends are those who tell you the truth. Our job as leaders is not to come here and clap for you, but to tell you what is happening on the ground," Methu said.

His remarks triggered backlash from sections of the public, with some calling on him to apologise. However, Methu stood his ground, maintaining that his comments were not meant to embarrass the president.

Instead, he indicated that if an apology was necessary, it would be directed to the people of Ol Kalou for giving the president yet another platform to make additional pledges.

The debate has since extended online, where some Kenyans have defended Methu by pointing to similar remarks made by Ruto in 2022 when he served as Deputy President under Uhuru Kenyatta. Videos shared online show Ruto declaring that he was not intimidated by his then-boss, drawing parallels to Methu’s current stance.

In a statement sent to newsrooms on Wednesday morning, April 8, the executors — former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Quantity Surveyor Mwaura Mathenge, and Senior Counsel Njoroge Regeru — said all beneficiaries were properly provided for in strict compliance with the will. “No one was disinherited as alleged in media reports,” the statement read.

The executors said the clarification was necessary due to “the prejudicial effects” of ongoing public debate about the estate, nearly a decade after the former governor’s death.

“The Executors would have preferred to limit the publication of affairs of the Estate to court filings and requisite engagement with the beneficiaries rather than engage in public discourse.

Photo description of a last will and testament. /CM ADVOCATES LLP

"However, the magnitude of inaccurate and misleading information disseminated widely in both mainstream and social media constrains the executors, drawing on information and records mostly in the public domain, through court and other filings, to come out to clear the air for the benefit of all the parties concerned,” the statement issued by Musyimi & Company Advocates reads.

The late James Nderitu died on February 24, 2017, at Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea, London. His estate, valued in billions of shillings, included a provision that any beneficiary challenging the will would be automatically disinherited. The will directed that most properties be sold and the net proceeds, after debts, be distributed among 23 beneficiaries, including family members and dependents such as his mother, two wives, and six children.

The executors obtained a grant of probate from the High Court in July 2017, confirmed in March 2018, granting them authority to manage assets, settle liabilities, and distribute the estate. They said beneficiaries were continuously engaged throughout the process, including support for school fees, maintenance, and living expenses, while accounting for all income and expenditure.

Their priority was to settle debts exceeding Ksh1 billion before distributing more than Ksh648 million to beneficiaries. “The estate settled liabilities amounting to Ksh1.07 billion owed to commercial banks and other creditors, after selling some properties, key among them Kiangwachi and Queensgate."

"Other key assets — Olive Gardens and Vipingo Beach Resort — were sold in 2023. The net surplus cash, amounting to over Ksh648 million, was distributed to the beneficiaries in accordance with the terms of the Will,” the statement added.

Property allocations included a house in Lang’ata/Karen to the deceased’s first wife, two houses in Karen and Nyeri to his second wife, and four acres of ancestral land to his two eldest sons, in line with the will.

As per the executors, the respective beneficiaries own and occupy the properties bequeathed to them. Specific bequests have since been honoured and cash distributions made in accordance with the wishes of the deceased.

The executors stressed that no legal proceedings have been filed over alleged disinheritance, and the will has never been challenged in court. They also published the will in local dailies to address contestation from a section of Nderitu’s family, who recently petitioned President William Ruto, alleging forgery and asset misallocation.

According to the will, cash distributions were structured as follows: Susan Kirigo, Mercy Wanjira, Kenneth Gachagua, and Jason Kariuki received 10% each; Martha Kirigo, Margaret Nyokabi, Margret Karungaru, Eve Mukami, and Gachagua received 5% each; Susan Wanjiru and Dorcas Rigathi received 2% each; Lilian Wamuyu and Linda Muthoni received 1% each. Administrative costs and liabilities to third parties took 11%, while the three executors received 5%. Gachagua also inherited his late brother’s shares in Mweiga Homes.

The executors maintain that the estate has been handled transparently and in line with the deceased’s directives, countering recent claims of malpractice and misappropriation.

Rigathi Gachagua with his late brother Nderitu Gachagua during a past event. /FACEBOOK.JESSE KAMWARO

In a statement posted on its social media accounts on Monday, February 9, the foundation acknowledged awareness of the circulating reports and flatly rejected them.

"The Gates Foundation is aware of social media posts claiming that we release mosquitoes in Kenya. This claim is false," the foundation stated.

"The Gates Foundation does not release mosquitoes, operate laboratories that do so, or run vector-control activities in Nairobi or anywhere else."

It clarified that malaria prevention and control initiatives in Kenya are driven by the government, with the foundation’s role limited to supporting state-led priorities.

The organisation emphasised that its support is delivered openly and responsibly through recognised partnerships with public health bodies, researchers, and other stakeholders.

The response follows a surge of social media posts alleging that the foundation had released genetically modified mosquitoes from a laboratory in Nairobi to wipe out malaria-carrying species.

Some of the posts claimed the mosquitoes were biting residents and causing harm, particularly to children and older people. While dismissing these assertions, the foundation acknowledged that it works with other organisations on malaria elimination efforts involving gene drive technology.

According to the foundation, gene drive falls under a broader category of genetically based vector control (GBVC) tools currently under scientific study to curb malaria transmission.

The technology works by altering the genes of malaria-carrying mosquitoes so they either cannot transmit the disease or their populations reduce over time. The approach targets only malaria-transmitting species, leaving other mosquitoes unaffected.

The Gates Foundation backs the research due to malaria’s continued global toll, which it estimates at nearly 600,000 deaths annually, most of them African children. It noted that while interventions such as bed nets and medicines have saved millions of lives, they have not been sufficient to eliminate the disease entirely.

The foundation also highlighted that local communities and stakeholders are typically involved in decision-making around new public health interventions. It pointed out that partnerships with African institutions are aimed at ensuring broad community engagement on genetically modified vector control tools, including gene drive.

Under this funded research, experimental releases of male mosquitoes have taken place in Burkina Faso since 2019. However, the Burkina Faso government halted the project in August 2025 over safety and environmental concerns.

In Kenya, the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), working with Imperial College London, is planning the introduction of genetically modified mosquitoes as part of efforts to combat malaria-transmitting species.

In an official clarification, KMD acknowledged the widely shared alert and emphasised that it does not reflect the department’s position or forecasts.

Kenyans were urged to disregard the message and rely only on information issued through KMD’s verified communication channels.

Inside the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) headquarters. /KENYA METEOROLOGICAL DEPARTMENT

"The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) would like to clarify that the heat wave alert currently circulating on social media is not an official communication from KMD. We are aware of the message and urge members of the public to ignore it," the weatherman stated in part.

The clarification comes amid high temperatures being experienced in several parts of the country, which have fuelled speculation online about an impending or ongoing heat wave. KMD has, however, explained that the prevailing conditions are typical for this time of the year.

According to the department’s temperature climatology, January, February, and March are historically the hottest months in Kenya.

The warmer-than-average temperatures currently being recorded fall within normal seasonal patterns and are consistent with KMD’s forecasts.

Weekly Weather Outlook

For the period between January 27 and February 2, 2026, Kenya Met forecasts predominantly sunny and dry conditions over much of the country.

Isolated light rainfall is expected in a few areas, including the Highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Coastal region, and parts of the south-eastern lowlands.

Average daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C are anticipated in the Coastal region, North-eastern and North-western Kenya, and parts of the south-eastern lowlands. Similar conditions are expected in sections of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and Western Kenya.

At night, cooler conditions are forecast in several regions. Minimum temperatures below 10°C are likely in parts of the Central Highlands, the North and Central Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and areas around Mt. Kilimanjaro.

KMD has reaffirmed that it continues to monitor weather conditions nationwide and will issue official advisories where necessary.

The department has reiterated its call for the public to avoid spreading unverified alerts, noting that misinformation can cause unnecessary alarm.

"KMD will continue to monitor conditions and will issue official advisories as necessary through its verified channels. Members of the public are encouraged to rely only on official KMD information and avoid sharing unverified weather messages," added the statement.

Photo of the Nairobi National Park during hot weather. /THE CONVERSATION

On Thursday, January 15, Mwaura used his verified social media account to alert the public to impersonators exploiting his name and image to create fraudulent online political groups.

"This page is a fraud. Be very careful. Someone is overworking," Mwaura cautioned, sharing screenshots of the fake Facebook group.

Screengrabs of a group falsely claiming that Isaac Mwaura is eyeing the Kiambu Senator seat in 2027. /ISAAC MWAURA

The group, named "HON. ISAAC MWAURA FOR KIAMBU COUNTY SENATOR 2027," was public and had three members at the time it was flagged.

It features Mwaura’s image and appears designed to mimic an official campaign platform for the upcoming Kiambu senatorial elections.

Mwaura also exposed fake opinion polls circulating online that falsely use his name and claim to reflect voting intentions for the Kiambu senatorial race.

The polls, branded as “Swiss Poll Int,” allege to show results of a hypothetical election, claiming that Hon. Karungo Thangwa would get 44.0% of the vote, followed by Hon. Kogi Investor at 20.0%, Hon. George Maara at 14.0%, and Hon. Isaac Mwaura at 12.0%. The graphics indicate 7.0% of respondents are undecided and 3.0% support other candidates.

The fake poll also cites a sample size of 1,141 with a margin of error of ±3.0% at a 95% confidence level, seemingly to add legitimacy. Mwaura has since clarified that these polls are entirely fabricated and part of a scam using his identity.

The 43-year-old is notably a former Senator and had served in Kenya's Senate under the Jubilee Party between 2017 and 2022, where he was nominated to represent Persons with Disabilities during that period. A year later, on October 4, President William Ruto appointed him as government spokesperson, which he has held to date.

Of late, there have been some prominent figures who have stepped down from government posts to pursue political positions.

Eliud Owalo had announced on January 11, 2026, that he resigned from his position as the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency in the Office of the President, hours after he announced plans to run for president in the 2027 General Elections.

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

The environmentalist, who has garnered national attention for her endurance feat, used her social media platforms to refute claims that Guinness World Records had rejected her attempt.

Truphena clarified that while the record is still pending approval, she remains engaged with Guinness World Records as the formal ratification process continues.

“Please disregard false information that my world record attempt cannot be approved by Guinness World Records. I am currently uploading my evidence, and it will be published in the coming days,” she stated.

On Thursday, December 11, Truphena completed a 72-hour tree-hugging marathon in Nyeri without eating, sitting, or using the bathroom, in a bid to spotlight environmental conservation issues.

However, as Guinness World Records is yet to confirm the attempt, her officially recognised record currently stands at 48 hours, which she achieved in February.

She further noted that she is in ongoing communication with Guinness officials and is submitting all the required, independently verified documentation to facilitate assessment and eventual approval of the record.

To back her claims, Truphena shared screenshots of her correspondence with the London-based organisation, indicating she would provide comprehensive evidence relating to the December 11 attempt.

How Guinness World Records Ratifies a Record

To be considered, applicants must notify Guinness World Records before attempting to set a record. After completion, participants are required to submit detailed evidence demonstrating the legitimacy of the feat.

This typically includes uninterrupted video footage, independent witness statements, photographic evidence, and, where necessary, professional logs. The materials are uploaded to the Guinness portal for review by the records management team, a process that can take up to three months.

Applicants seeking expedited review can opt for priority services at a cost of up to Ksh100,000.

Despite the pending status of her record, Truphena has already reaped notable recognition. President William Ruto acknowledged her efforts by announcing her appointment as an ambassador for the national 15 billion tree-planting initiative and awarding her the Head of State Commendation (HSC) Medal.

Additionally, the President revealed that the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) have jointly awarded Truphena and her team a fully sponsored holiday, citing the importance of environmental conservation in advancing sustainable tourism.

In a statement issued on Thursday, November 6, Ogamba clarified that the reports were false and urged Kenyans to disregard them.

"Our attention has been drawn to reports in sections of the media to the effect that boarding fees payable by learners in public senior schools have been revised upwards.

"Parents, learners, and the general public are hereby notified that there has been no revision of boarding fees, or any other fees, payable by learners," he stated.

The CS emphasized that the existing school-fee guidelines remain unchanged and that the government is committed to funding education through its capitation programme.

"The prevailing guidance from the Ministry of Education on the amounts payable as boarding fees will continue to apply as has been the case.

"The Government will continue to fulfil its constitutional duty of providing capitation for learners in senior school. The approved rate of capitation for this level of education remains Ksh22,244 per learner per year," he added.

His clarification followed reports alleging that the state planned to standardize boarding school fees at Ksh53,000 per year for all senior secondary schools — a claim he dismissed.

The speculation came amid concerns over budget shortfalls affecting the education sector. Earlier, on June 16, the High Court ruled that no school principal could impose any new levies without authorization from the Education CS, after a parent from a leading Nairobi school filed a petition.

Many schools in Kenya charge extra levies for operations, infrastructure, co-curriculars, exams, and development projects. However, some principals have been accused of exploiting loopholes to impose illegal fees — a practice education stakeholders have urged the ministry to end.

This comes after a fake memo went viral, alleging that Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, KANU leader Gideon Moi, and Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuuda had been nominated as Cabinet Secretaries.

The document, now confirmed as fake, claimed the four had been nominated by President Ruto and were to be vetted “in line with the Constitution.” It was dated October 30 and indicated that the vetting process would be concluded by November 6.

“In line with our constitutional mandate to ensure transparency and integrity in the appointment of high-ranking public officials, we hereby submit a list of individuals nominated for cabinet positions with a request for your commission’s vetting,” the fake letter stated.

The forgery even carried a counterfeit stamp and a signature falsely attributed to the Clerk of the National Assembly.

The letter gained traction online on Friday morning, drawing mixed reactions before being flagged as fake hours later.

“This document is not from the National Assembly or Parliament of Kenya. It is fake. Kindly disregard it,” the National Assembly Clerk clarified in an official statement on Friday afternoon.

The clarification comes amid growing speculation of an impending Cabinet reshuffle, with reports suggesting that President Ruto may bring Gideon Moi and other KANU figures into his government after Moi’s decision to work with the ruling coalition.

In early October, President Ruto revealed that the KANU party would be joining his broad-based government — a move he said was aimed at fostering national unity and advancing the ideals of Kenya’s founding fathers.

Speaking in Baringo County on October 10, the President disclosed that he had personally reached out to the former Baringo Senator to reconcile long-standing political differences.

The speculation also follows recent remarks by Senator Edwin Sifuna, who announced that the ODM Party would continue cooperating with Ruto’s administration.

President Ruto has repeatedly emphasized his goal of building a “broad-based” government that promotes unity and inclusivity as Kenya heads toward the 2027 General Election.

DCI was on Wednesday, October 22, responding to purported allegations that Jumaisi was re-arrested in Launda, Vihiga County, after an altercation with fellow travellers in a matatu and was being detained at the Naivasha Police Station.

The investigative agency clarified that the claims are false and fake, and the suspect is still at large. DCI says they are still in search of the alleged serial killer who broke out of custody at Gigiri Police Station on the night of August 20, 2024, and has remained elusive since.

"Our attention has been drawn to information circulating online regarding the re-arrest of Collins Jumaisi, the prime suspect in the grisly Kware murders, who escaped from Gigiri Police Station in August 2024. We wish to clarify that the information about his re-arrest is false, and Collins Jumaisi remains at large," the DCI stated.

The DCI continues to appeal to members of the public with information about his whereabouts to share with us through our toll-free number, 0800722203, or WhatsApp number, 0709570000. A cash reward of Ksh 1 million will be offered for information leading to his arrest.

Read also: DCI Offers Ksh1 Million Cash Reward In Exchange For Collins Jumaisi's Re-Arrest.

Jumaisi, the prime suspect in the murder of 42 women whose mutilated bodies were discovered in a quarry in Mukuru kwa Njenga, had previously escaped from jail last year alongside 13 other detainees. The group managed to cut through a wire mesh and scale a perimeter wall to secure their freedom.

The escape was discovered during a routine police visit to the station cells at around 5 am when officers went to serve breakfast to the prisoners and found them missing.

Jumaisi’s escape resulted in the arrest of five police officers suspected of aiding in the escape after reports indicated that the alleged criminals exited the police station without resistance. 

The five Kenyan officers, namely Mollent Achieng, Zachary Nyabuto, Gerald Mutuku, Evans Kipkirui, and Ronald Babo, appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate Martha Nanzushi, where she granted them a Ksh 200,000 bond each despite being accused of aiding escape.

Photo of the Gigiri Police Station. /NATION MEDIA GROUP

An official from the office of the National Assembly, while pressed for queries, termed the matter as "Fake news".

Viral reports had claimed that officers from the anti-corruption commission were conducting the raid as of Thursday, August 21, but we can confirm that those reports are false.

A post went viral claiming that EACC was planning to raid Wetangula's home amidst recent developments in the country.

This comes after President William Ruto declared that the government will arrest and prosecute leaders—particularly MPs and Senators—accused of soliciting and receiving bribes in exchange for carrying out their legislative duties.

During a joint parliamentary group meeting on Monday between the Kenya Kwanza Alliance and the Orange Democratic Movement, an irate Head of State lashed out at lawmakers following reports that many, especially at the committee level, have been demanding bribes to influence decisions.

Tensions between Parliament and the Executive escalated on Tuesday when the National Assembly suspended all committee activities in protest against Ruto’s remarks, accusing him of undermining parliamentary processes.

As a result, no National Assembly committee sessions took place, while Senate committees continued meeting stakeholders, albeit under protest.

So, Where Is Wetangula?

Meanwhile, Speaker Moses Wetang’ula is in Mombasa leading a two-day retreat with Members of Parliament.

The meeting brings together PSC Commissioners, Speakers’ Panel members, committee chairpersons and deputies, KEWOPA, county women representatives, and some Budget Committee legislators.

The retreat seeks to review Parliament’s mandate, strengthen collaboration with the Judiciary, and renew leadership cohesion to ensure the effective and responsive execution of the National Assembly’s role.

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

Kenyans on Tuesday evening, May 27, got wind of reports of Jowie's release from prison, coming more than a year after he was sentenced to death over the murder of businesswoman Monica Kimani.

The reports stemmed from a Kenya Gazette notice, dated Friday, May 23, which showed that President William Ruto released 57 inmates in adherence to his Constitutional right of prerogative of mercy.

Among those pardoned by the Head of State was an individual, Joseph Irungu Maina. Many believed that Ruto released Monica's killer, given that his first two names were Joseph Irungu, but we established that this is not the case.

Jowie's real name, per our spot checks, is Joseph Kuria Irungu, not Joseph Irungu Maina. The latter, listed as prisoner number 22, was sentenced 10 years ago in 2015, per the gazette notice.

Jowie, on the other hand was sentenced on March 13, 2024. On April 17, 2024, he filed a petition challenging the High Court ruling, urging the High Court to declare that Section 379(4) of the Criminal Procedure Code is unconstitutional, null and void to the extent that it denies persons sentenced to death the right to bail pending appeal.

Backing this up, Dennis Itumbi, the Digital Strategist and Head of Creative Economy at the Office of the President, quickly shut down the accusations, calling the social media claims fake.

He also took aim at certain online users, accusing them of trying to mislead the public with false info on such a serious issue. Itumbi also called out a prominent local media house for misreporting on the matter.

What Are The Circumstances For a Presidential Pardon in Kenya?

In Kenya, a presidential pardon is a constitutional power granted to the President under Article 133 of the 2010 Constitution. This power is exercised in consultation with the Advisory Committee on the Power of Mercy.

The circumstances under which a presidential pardon may be issued are tied to considerations of justice, public interest, and humanitarian grounds. It is not an arbitrary decision — there's a formal process in place.

A prisoner, their representative, or any concerned party can petition the Advisory Committee for mercy. This committee, appointed by the President, reviews applications and makes recommendations based on factors like the nature of the offence, behaviour during incarceration, time served, and evidence of rehabilitation. The Committee may also consider age, health conditions, or cases where the sentence appears excessive or unjust due to new evidence or evolving legal standards.

Presidential pardon can take different forms: a full pardon (releasing the person and expunging the criminal record), a conditional pardon (release with certain terms), a commutation (reducing the sentence), or a respite (temporary delay or suspension of punishment). These options give the President flexibility in tailoring mercy to each case.

However, the power is not limitless. It is not meant to undermine the judiciary or reward political loyalty. If misused, it risks eroding public trust in the rule of law.

That said, pardons are often issued around national holidays like Jamhuri Day or Madaraka Day as acts of goodwill and reconciliation, especially for non-violent offenders or those who have shown genuine reform.

So, while the President holds this powerful tool, it is framed within a legal structure meant to balance compassion with justice, and it reflects Kenya’s broader commitment to human rights and rehabilitation, not just punishment.

In its statement, the Ministry noted with concern what it deemed as inaccurate newspaper articles in the Sunday Nation, titled, "Raila: I Saved Ruto from Military Coup" and Taifa Jumapili titled, "Nilivyozima Mapinduzi Dhidi ya Ruto."

The articles in question had cited an undisclosed source who alleged that Raila, in an exclusive interview, claimed he prevented a military coup against President Ruto, whose role includes the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces.

CS Soipan Tuya when she joined the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in a Joint and Combined Fire-Power Exercise at Larisoro, Samburu County on February 28, 2025. /KENYA DEFENCE FORCES

"The Ministry categorically states that the claims in the newspaper articles are false, baseless, unfounded, misleading and indeed reckless. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is a professional and apolitical institution committed to the highest standards of integrity, discipline, and service to the nation," read the statement in part.

"KDF remains unwavering in its loyalty to the Commander-in-Chief and its duty to safeguard the security and well-being of Kenya and her people, free from political influence or sectarian interests."

The Ministry thus determined that the publication of the articles by Nation Media Group, based on unverified claims from an undisclosed source, is not only "irresponsible and unpatriotic" but also "a clear example of sensational reporting aimed at increasing readership rather than upholding journalistic integrity."

The Ministry concluded its statement by urging the Nation Media Group to uphold the principles of ethical journalism by ensuring accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in reporting, especially on matters of national security.

In a short statement on Saturday, March 1, the ministry refuted a viral TikTok video that alleged the government was planning a major revision of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) impacting all secondary schools.

The disputed video claimed that the transition to mixed-gender schools would begin in January 2026, coinciding with the move of the first CBC cohort—currently in Grade 9—to senior secondary school.

The false social media post also alleged that all secondary schools would be restructured into specialized career pathways, replacing the existing classification of national, extra-county, county, and sub-county schools.

Nairobi School students during a past trip by President William Ruto on January 12, 2025. /PCS

“You have heard that all the secondary schools will be called senior schools soon and will be categorised under career pathways and not national schools or extra county schools,” the flagged TikTok video claimed.

"From next year, a boys school is expected to be a mixed school as per the recommendations of the CBC; all senior schools will be mixed schools.”

According to the misleading video, the government's proposal to convert all secondary schools into mixed-gender institutions was intended to foster equality and inclusivity among students. Such claims left parents uneasy as they struggled to understand the reasoning behind converting schools into mixed-gender institutions.

It also alleged that the Ministry of Education plans to transform all boarding schools into day schools starting next year. “I do not know if this will work, but all schools will be day schools. This is the confusion that is waiting Kenyans from next year,” the video suggested.

The Embassy, through its official social media channels, clarified that the letter attributed to it was not authentic. As a result, Kenyans were urged to disregard the fake document.

Notably, the Embassy's statement followed the circulation of the letter by some online users on social media.

In the flagged letter, the Embassy revealed that the US government learned with grave concern and profound disappointment of reports that President Ruto had secretly engaged in discussions with the leadership of Al-Shabaab, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization responsible for the deaths of countless innocent civilians, including American citizens.

In this 2010 file photo, Al-Shabaab fighters display weapons as they conduct military exercises in northern Mogadishu, Somalia. /CNN

"This action is not only deeply troubling but also represents a blatant disregard for the shared values of peace, security, and the rule of law that underpin the longstanding partnership between the United States and Kenya," the fake letter read in part.

The letter added that the US government had condemned in the strongest possible terms any engagement with Al-Shabaab, a group that continues to perpetrate violence, destabilize the region, and threaten the lives of Americans, Kenyans, and people across East Africa.

It termed such actions as incompatible with the fight against terrorism and undermined the collective efforts of the international community to combat this global threat.

The fake letter went on to claim that the reported meeting raised serious questions about Kenya's commitment to regional security and its adherence to international counterterrorism principles. 

"The United States has been a steadfast partner to Kenya in its efforts to combat terrorism and promote stability in the region. However, any cooperation with Al-Shabaab, directly or indirectly, is unacceptable and will have severe consequences for the bilateral relationship between our two nations," added the fake letter.

The now-dismissed reports of the meeting were seen as a bizarre move considering the immense damage and loss of life the terrorist group has brought to the country.

Since emerging in the late 2000s, Al Shabaab has orchestrated numerous terrorist attacks in Kenya and the broader East African region, often with devastating consequences.

In Kenya, the group has carried out four major attacks, leading to over 250 deaths and leaving many others injured or traumatized.

One of the most significant incidents was the 2013 Westgate Mall attack, which claimed 67 lives and deeply shook the nation. During the assault, the militants held the mall under siege for nearly three days.

Other notable attacks include the 2019 Dusit D2 Hotel attack, which left 14 people dead, the 2014 Lamu/Mpeketoni attacks that claimed 48 lives, and the 2015 Garissa University attack, which resulted in 148 fatalities.

Additionally, the 1998 US Embassy bombing in Nairobi, carried out by Al-Qaeda, caused significant loss of life.

How to Verify Information

Kenyans can verify authentic communication from the US Embassy on their social media pages that are verified. Important communication is usually shared on the Embassy's website - https://ke.usembassy.gov/.

These tips can also be used to verify information shared by other organisations and government institutions.

The flagged letter dated January 22 stated that the Inspector General of Police had considered and approved a proposal from the DCI for 30 police officers from the Kenya Police and Administration Police Service to be interviewed and once selected, be deployed in the anti-abduction unit.

The letter went on to state that the authority figures directed that interested and qualified police officers be informed of the new development so that they could tender their applications by filling in their details on the Google Forms link provided in the letter.

The counterfeit letter listed seven qualifications that interested candidates must have attained to be eligible to apply. Among them was that applicants had to be within the rank of police constable to inspector. (PC-IP).

Interested candidates were also required to have attained a mean grade of C+ (plus) or above in their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) and be aged 40 years or below to qualify.

Another qualification in the fake letter was that interested candidates had to have served in the police service for five years or more. A clean disciplinary record was also a requirement.

Further, candidates would only have been eligible to apply if they had passed the whole of police law examinations. Possession of a certificate of attendance in basic crime investigation would have been an added advantage as per the letter.

In the fake letter, applications should have been submitted on or before Sunday, January 26 by midnight. The letter noted that the interview date and venue were to be communicated at a later date.

The latest development adds intrigue to the discussions surrounding the recent abductions in the country. Not too long ago, Human Rights Watch (HRW) remarked on the recent surge in abductions and enforced disappearances of Kenyan citizens as well as those from neighbouring countries.

On January 16, 2025, the group attributed them to a shadowy government-linked special squad, reminiscent of the disbanded Special Service Unit (SSU) under the previous regime. The activists alleged that this new unit, known as the Operation Support Unit (OSU), has been behind a series of kidnappings and disappearances. 

ODPP was forced to step in and set the record straight in response to a letter that made the rounds on social media purporting that authorities had received and approved a communication from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

In a statement issued on Thursday, January 16, the ODPP disclosed that the letter purporting to be from the office was fake.

The now-flagged statement claimed that the ODPP had opened an inquiry into Leslie Muturi and three other leaders regarding the June 25, 2024, protests, accusing them of involvement in money laundering and other crimes.

The leaders mentioned in the fake statement included Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru Mwangi, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, and Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje.

"Following your communication dated 24 September 2024, regarding the investigation into the violent protests that occurred in Nairobi on 25 June 2024, I have reviewed the inquiry file concerning the following individuals," read the fake notice in part.

"Benjamin Gathiru Mwangi (alias Mejja Donk) - Member of Parliament, Embakasi Central 2. James Gakuya - Member of Parliament, Embakasi North, Mark Mwenje - Member of Parliament, Embakasi West and Leslie Muturi - former Personal Assistant to Attorney General Hon. Justin Muturi."

The letter, which was laced with a fake signature of the Senior Assistant of the DPP, Vincent Monda, further claimed sufficient evidence had been gathered to charge the four individuals.

It further stipulated that they were set to be charged with conspiracy to commit a felony, contrary to Section 393 of the Penal Code.

"Additionally, I recommend that a separate inquiry file be opened to investigate potential offences related to: Money Laundering and Financial Crimes, as stipulated under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act," added the fake letter.

Which directed that "Please proceed accordingly with the necessary legal actions against the suspects."

Incidentally, the three other individuals in the letter were also named in Justin Muturi's explosive police statement detailing his son's abduction. The statement went viral on Tuesday, January 14.

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. 

As he dragged Kithure Kindiki, President William Ruto, and Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) director Kiprotich Mohammed into the tell-all letter, Muturi alleged that the National Intelligence Service (NIS) was behind the abduction of his son, learning of this through a friend working within the intelligence unit.

The DCI on Tuesday, January 7 flagged as fake a poster that went viral on social media. The poster claimed that the investigative agency was pursuing one Bellamkonda Ram Prasad, deemed a wanted man having escaped custody in India.

"The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is seeking the public's help in providing information that could help in the arrest of Bellamkonda Ram Prasad alias "Pratapan".

"Prasad is believed to be the mastermind behind the international human trafficking network involved in organ harvesting. Prasad escaped police custody in India where he had been held for organ harvesting crimes," the fake poster read in part.

The misleading post additionally claimed that Prasad was believed to have sneaked into Kenya on December 19, 2024, and operated a kidney harvesting syndicate. His victims were claimed to be young men and women below the age of 30.

The fake social media post also alleged that the DCI would offer a cash reward to any member of the public who reported Ram Prasad's whereabouts to them, warning that his ability to communicate in English would allow him to blend in with members of the public.

"A significant cash reward will be provided to anyone with credible information leading to the suspect's arrest. The suspect is of Indian nationality and speaks Hindi and English. Information on the suspect's whereabouts can be reported confidentially to the anonymous DCI #FichuakwaDCI hotline 0800722203 or the police hotlines 999, 911 or 112 or to any police station in the republic," added the fake poster.

DCI was forced to clarify the matter after a section of social media users raised concerns over the post, sparking fear among some Kenyans who questioned why the said person was yet to be arrested.

"Kenyan authorities suspect an Indian Mafia syndicate is exploiting the vulnerable. Interpol is pursuing Bellamkonda Ram Prasad, accused of trafficking Kidneys for 2000 Dollars. Autopsies have revealed missing kidneys in young victims," an X user spreading the fake news posted.

Notably, this comes after police in Kapsabet arrested former Kisumu nominated Member of County Assembly (MCA) Carren Atieno Muga in connection with a suspected organ harvesting syndicate.

In a statement on Sunday, January 5, the National Police Service (NPS) noted the suspected syndicate is tied to the gruesome murder of a man in Nandi County, who was beheaded and his private parts mutilated.

The police stated that Muga is the mother of one of the prime suspects in the murder of the victim.

"She was arrested along Chemelil-Miwani-Kisumu road in a suspected organ harvesting case as she was fleeing her residence for fear of being lynched by agitated members of the public, and her motor vehicle make Toyota Harrier detained as an exhibit at Kapsabet Police Station," NPS stated. 

NPS on Wednesday, November 20 advised Kenyans to ignore the contents of the letter, affirming that it did not come from the police organization, even though the authors crafted it to make it look almost identical to the real thing and accompanied it with a forged signature of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.

The police revealed that the authors had malicious and criminal intentions, aimed at causing havoc and pinning blame on police officers.

"We wish to caution the general public that the document circulating on social media, claiming to be from NPS, is malicious and fake," read the statement in part, adding "The document is from unscrupulous impostors with criminal intent."

Protesters invading Parliament on June 25, 2024. /TV360 NIGERIA

The now-flagged letter by NPS sought to address the situation concerning the #OccupyParliament event, planned for November 21. President William Ruto is expected to deliver his State of the Nation Address in Parliament during a joint session at 2:30 pm.

"It has come to our attention that a gathering is to take place around the Parliament buildings, which are a designated protected zone under national security regulations," the letter read in part.

"As per the law, any public gathering or demonstration around the Parliament area must be notified and approved by the police in advance. To date, no such notification has been received in relation to this event. Therefore, we must inform you that the gathering is unauthorized and is in violation of established protocols."

The letter went on to reiterate to Kenyans that the area at Parliament buildings is sensitive, and any gathering or protest without prior authorization will not be tolerated.

"The National Police Service is committed to maintaining public order and ensuring the safety of all citizens, and as such, we are prepared to take necessary actions should this unauthorized event continue. We strongly urge the organizers to cease all activities around the Parliament buildings immediately," the letter appealed to the organizers.

"Failure to comply with this warning will result in appropriate enforcement actions in accordance with the law. The safety of both participants and the general public is of utmost importance, and we ask for your cooperation in ensuring that the event does not escalate further."

Meanwhile, a section of Kenyans are expected to protest in Nairobi and parts of the country owing to the current state of the nation and going by numerous social media posts, those in Nairobi are threatening to storm Parliament and replicate what was witnessed on June 25, 2024.

Kenyans need not be reminded of what happened the last time the precincts of Parliament were breached. Sections of it were set on fire as protesters overpowered police to storm the compound where lawmakers had passed the controversial Finance Bill 2024 aimed at introducing more punitive tax measures.

As of July 16, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) recorded 50 deaths spanning four weeks of demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024, which began on Tuesday, June 18. 

Anti-riot police officers at Nairobi CBD during past anti-government protests. /FILE

This came after a statement on the same went viral claiming that the Embassy commended Gachagua’s impeachment, claiming that it demonstrated Kenya’s steadfast commitment to upholding democratic processes and the rule of law.

“As partners of Kenya, we commend Parliament for its constitutional and transparent handling of the impeachment of former Deputy President Hon. Rigathi Gachagua,” claimed the statement in part.

“While the circumstances of his departure are regrettable, this moment demonstrates Kenya's steadfast commitment to upholding democratic processes and the rule of law."

A statement by 13 countries flagged as fake on Thursday, October 24, 2024

The letter went on to allege that in light of concerns raised by some of their security and intelligence agencies, in connection with the evidence tabled in the impeachment motion, a decision has been taken to declare Gachagua persona non grata in the European Union, United Kingdom, United States, and Canada.

“This decision, which includes an immediate travel ban, directly follows the outcomes of the process and is a reflection of the seriousness of the issues raised. We also note that legal and security investigations are ongoing, and we will continue to monitor developments closely,” the letter added.

It further read, "Importantly, this impeachment reaffirms the essential principle of the separation of powers-a cornerstone of democracy. In Kenya’s Constitution, it is the legislature that holds the final word on matters of impeachment.”

“While the Judiciary serves as a critical check to ensure that constitutional and legal processes are followed, it does not and should not interfere with the final decision of the Legislature when it comes to impeachment proceedings.”

Additionally, it stated, “This delineation of roles preserves the integrity and independence of each branch of government, ensuring accountability while respecting institutional boundaries.”

The fake letter also claimed that the embassies and high commissioners stated that Kenya once again demonstrated that strong democracies rely on clear checks and balances while also respecting the autonomy of each institution.

“By exercising its constitutional authority, the National Assembly has fulfilled its mandate, and this sets a powerful precedent across Africa and beyond, underscoring that no individual is above the law,” the flagged letter reads further.

Fact Check

Viral Tea had earlier, and independently, flagged this letter as fake, with the tone of the statement particularly puzzling to us given that it was not synonymous with the reputation of the countries. They also flagged the viral letter as fake.

The fake communique bore 13 flags of foreign countries (11 of which are in Europe). The ambassadors included are from the Canadian High Commission, the Royal Danish Embassy, the Embassy of Finland, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, the Embassy of Ireland, and the Embassy of the Netherlands.

Others are the Embassy of the Republic of Estonia, the Embassy of Norway, the Embassy of Sweden, the Embassy of Romania, the Embassy of Belgium, the British High Commission, and the Embassy of the United States of America (USA).

Gachagua was impeached by the National Assembly and the Senate after weeks of proceedings. Some of the accusations levelled against Gachagua included undermining government policies and gross violation of the constitution through propagating tribalism among others.

His legal team moved to court to challenge his impeachment, leading to a spirited fight to save his job and his political career. Following a petition by Gachagua’s lawyers, a three-bench judge was appointed to hear it, a bench whose empanelment the legal team raised issues with, but the bench consisting of Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Fridah Mugambi ruled that the empanelment of the bench by Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu was legal and Constitutional.

Earlier on October 18, the High Court in Nairobi issued conservatory orders stopping the swearing-in of nominated deputy president Kithure Kindiki until a petition filed by Rigathi Gachagua was heard and determined.

Currently, the country does not have a deputy president as Kindiki has not yet been sworn in pending the conclusion of the case lodged by Gachagua.

As per a poster that went viral on social media platforms, Gachagua was expected to hold a presser at 7.00 pm. The second-in-command has not held a press conference since Monday, October 7, a day before more than 281 Members of Parliament voted in favour of the motion to oust him.

Njeri Rugene who heads Deputy Presidential Communication Service (DPCS), responded on X by flagging that poster as fake. She urged Kenyans to ignore it as it did not come from the office of the DP.

A notice deemed fake of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's upcoming address to the nation. /NJERI RUGENE.X

Authors of the fake media invite had also alleged that the presser was to be held at the official residence of the DP in Karen, Nairobi. However, the agenda of the presser was neither mentioned nor indicated.

Gachagua since being impeached by the National Assembly has talked about the impeachment process on a few occasions, including last Sunday while attending the 34th diocesan anniversary celebrations at St Mark’s Teachers Training College in Embu.

He had urged his countrymen to maintain peace no matter the outcome of his Senate trial. "Irrespective of what happens, I am calling for peace in Embu and Mt Kenya and all of Kenya. We only have one Kenya and not any other country," Gachagua stated.

Other than that, he has not had a public appearance, apart from his stint at the National Assembly where he defended himself from the impeachment, a road, which could be the first time in the history of the Republic of Kenya, that 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.

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.

Charlene was on Friday, October 11 responding to a fake Gazette Notice purported to have announced her appointment to head the corporation for a period of three years, which went viral and prompted a clarification from the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs.

In her statement on X, she called out propagators of the fake news, stating that they had zero understanding of the functions and duties of President Ruto and his administration.

“Guys...c'mon...seriously?? Let’s Stop Fake News! And looks like whoever is pushing this doesn't know William Ruto. He believes in giving equal, fair and transparent leadership opportunities to as many Kenyans as possible, so trust me, this he would not do,” her post read.

A fake Gazette notice claiming that Charlene Ruto was appointed as the chairperson of the National Mining Corporation on October 11, 2024. /MINISTRY OF MINING, BLUE ECONOMY & MARITIME AFFAIRS

Charlene further believed that there was no chance that she had been picked to run a company in the mining sector as this was outside her interests. “And in mining? Not even youth? Or agriculture? Just so that you know it is really fake!"

According to her, she is building her own reputation, enhancing her name and aiming to leave a positive impact on what really matters to her.

"I didn't wait for anyone to give me an appointment or position, I am creating my own path. Plus...my name is Chelagat, not Chelangat. Don't support this propaganda!" she appealed.

The Ministry, while flagging the fake Gazette notice, announced the actual appointment of Joseph Kipchumba Lagat by President Ruto.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 25 (1) (a) of the Mining Act, 2016, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, appoint- JOSEPH KIPCHUMBA LAGAT to be the Chairperson of the National Mining Corporation, for a period of three (3) years, with effect from the 4th October 2024,” the original notice read.

The fake gazette notice of the appointment had rightfully angered Kenyans and quickly spread with several Kenyans expressing their opinions on how they felt about the whole situation.

Viral Tea quickly established that the Gazette notice was not only fake but maliciously edited, with Charlene's name having a different font than what is normally in any Gazette notice.

The National Mining Corporation serves as the investment arm of the Kenyan government in the mining sector. Established under the Mining Act of 2016, its primary roles include investing on behalf of the government, which involves acquiring interests in various mining projects.

Additionally, NMC engages in mineral prospecting and mining activities, allowing it to actively participate in the exploration and extraction of valuable resources.

The corporation also has the authority to acquire shares in companies involved in different aspects of mineral handling, from exploration to marketing.

Charlene Ruto speaking during the launch of the Taita Taveta Students Association (TTSA) Annual Plan at Taita Taveta National Polytechnic on March 17, 2024. /CHARLENE RUTO

As per the reports that circulated online, Ruto was expected to address the nation amidst a contested impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, with the Head of State largely steering clear of the matter ever since it came up in Parliament.

Per a media invite that Viral Tea has now determined that it is fake, the presser was scheduled to take place at the State House at 4 pm. However, Najma indicated that the announcement making rounds online is not from the Presidential Communication Service (PCS).

A notice deemed fake of President William Ruto's upcoming address to the nation. /NAJMA ISMAIL.X

Meanwhile, Gachagua is set to hold a press conference on Monday evening, hours before his impeachment motion is debated in the National Assembly. 

In a statement, the commission dismissed the allegations that President Ruto's victory was influenced in part by the votes got from those polling stations.

"Our attention is drawn to inaccurate and misleading content circulating in social media regarding ‘non-existent polling stations’ allegedly used in the 2022 General Election," the statement read in part.

Those polling stations were located in Baringo County and included Kampi Ya Nyasi Secondary School, Kasaka Primary School, Kasaka Mixed Secondary School and Kaptiony Girls' High School.

"The process of mapping where the polling stations will be during the elections is stakeholders-driven with political parties and members of the public included," the commission explained further.

IEBC also shared a link to the 46,229 polling stations which were gazetted before the General Election, evidence that the polling stations involved in the 2022 polls are in the public domain.

The allegations of ghost polling stations stemmed from an expose done by NTV which revealed that the said schools only had a signpost with no learners or structures.

The news piece also uncovered details of the schools' board members, and bank accounts but the institutions did not physically exist.

After the feature, Kenyans shared photos online where Kaptiony Girls High School was listed as a polling station on the IEBC portal during the elections. 

The photo also indicated that President Ruto had accumulated 37,635 votes out of the possible 50,237 votes cast in Baringo North Constituency.

However, fact checks by Viral Tea established that the photos were doctored as only Kaptiony Primary School in Baringo North was listed as a polling station.

Nonetheless, President Ruto was declared the winner with a total vote count of 7,176,141 (50.49 per cent) against his closest rival, Raila Odinga of the Azimio la Umoja coalition with a total of 6,942,930 (48.85 per cent).

The Head of State got 175,170 votes from Baringo County which was better than Raila, George Wajackoyah and David Mwaure.

President William Ruto casting his vote at Kosachei Primary School in Turbo constituency on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. /MATHEWS NDANYI

She was speaking on Monday, April 16 during a Thanksgiving service at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) when she claimed that Ugandans have been beneficiaries of the East African revival that swept the country in the 1930s, where 'God blessed them with fertile land and rains.'

Rachel put a stark contrast to Kenya's reliance on fertilisers for farming, suggesting that Uganda's agricultural success was attributed to divine intervention other than agricultural practices.

EAC had flagged down a post by an X account bearing a grey government checkmark which unveiled the incoming notes.

"The EAC Secretariat wishes to inform all our stakeholders that the Partner States' journey to a single currency is still a work in progress. Kindly ignore any rumours circulating in social media on the unveiling of new banknotes for the region," stated EAC.

The government of the East African Community (EAC) on Sunday, March 3 officially launched a common currency for members of the EAC, which some economic experts believe could save Kenya's worsening economy.

EAC which comprises Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and South Sudan is expected to begin using the unified currency which has been dubbed the SHEAFRA, which means Shilling of East Africa and Franc.

During the launch, the EAC announced that the currency would begin from SHF 5, the lowest of six denominations released by the community.

"The East African Sheafra of SHF.5 Currency Note of fuv5 has finally Landed," stated EAC.

On its part, the East African Community Interruling Party Union (EAC-IPU) introduced the six other denominations, which conclude with the highest currency of SHF 200.

"Welcome the last East Africa Sheafra Currency Note Specimen. We have 6 Denominations, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and SHF.200 as the biggest East African SHEAFRA Note," stated EAC-IPU.

However, it was revealed that the official use of the currency was still yet to take effect as it was still at the specimen stage.

One of the would-be first beneficiaries of the new SHEAFRA currency was Benson Kipruto who won the Tokyo Marathon, announced after President William Ruto posted a congratulatory message for the athlete.

“We would award them with East African Sheafra Money but they are still in specimens,” President Ruto was told.

The East African Sheafra (SHF1 SHEAFRA) is estimated to be valued at US$0.76, almost a Dollar; Tsh2,800 Tanzania Shillings, Ksh760 Kenya Shillings, RFr.1,230 Rwanda Franc, USh3,400 Uganda Shillings and BF.3,103 Burundi Franc.

Features of SHEAFRA Note

At the bottom, the note featuring the currency will contain the insignia ‘The East African Sheafra’ written in capital letters. 

The note will further have a magnetic strip and two watermarks bearing the East African Logo as well as the currency initials - SHF. 

The currency will have the signature of the bank’s governor and secretary as proof of authenticity.

SHEAFRA Background

The conversation on the introduction of the common currency for East Africa and probably even growth to an African common currency (AFRO) is good news to the region. This would mean, enhancing economic integration among East African countries, simplifying trade, reducing currency exchange costs, and promoting price stability. 

Also, the incoming currency would be a big boost to trade and investment, as well as facilitate cross-border transactions, and foster a sense of regional unity and cooperation among member nations. 

Plans for a single currency in the region began as far back as 2020 when EAC announced that partner states were in the process of harmonizing critical policies and putting in place the requisite institutions to attain a single currency for the region by 2024 as outlined in the EAC Monetary Union Protocol.

Who Will Issue SHEAFRA Currency?

EAC Secretary General Amb. Liberat Mfumukeko said on January 27, 2020, that the Bill for the establishment of the East African Monetary Institute (EAMI) had already been assented to by the Summit of Heads of State.

This would set the precedence for the EAMI to later be transformed into the East African Central Bank which would issue the single currency, thus the power to issue national currency would be transferred from governments to the common institution.

“The establishment of this institute will help to provide impetus towards the formation of the East African Monetary Union, which is the third pillar of our integration,” said Amb. Mfumukeko.

Amb. Mfumukeko disclosed that the Council of Ministers had approved the EAC Domestic Tax Harmonization Policy, adding that proper implementation of the policy would reduce tax competition thereby enhancing cross-border trade and investment in the region.

The introduction of the single currency will see EAC join the likes of Europe whose Euro (currency code EUR) is used by 20 out of the 27 member states of the European Union (EU).

The photo gained traction online and prompted many users to insinuate that travellers were resorting to staying away from the SGR following the recent increase in fares.

The fares which officially took effect last month saw Kenyans pay Ksh4,500, up from an average of Ksh3,000 for a full trip from Nairobi to Mombasa in the first-class category and Ksh1,500, up from Ksh1,000 in economy on the same trip.

Photo collage of the SGR Madaraka Express train at Kibwezi station, Makueni County and an empty coach. /NAIROBI NEWS.FACEBOOK

The photo which went viral sparked concerns online with Kenyans as per the current norm, blaming President William Ruto's administration for the high cost of living.

"This is an SGR coach departing Mombasa yesterday at 10:00 pm. The coach is empty since the fares hike to Ksh4,500 from Jan 1, 2024. Someone explain to me how this bottom-up economic model is working. The future doesn't look very bright."

"Both first class and economy are empty. No travellers in sight."

"SGR was my favourite transport vessel when I was studying at the Technical University of Mombasa. We used to pay Ksh1,000. Even VVIP was never Ksh4,500. The economy is indeed on the verge of collapsing," read some comments online.

However, Kenya Railways in a statement on Friday, February 2 denounced the photo doing rounds, clarifying that the SGR was operating as normal.

“Kenya Railways has taken note of a picture doing its rounds on social media, of an empty coach indicating a lack of passengers. We wish to state that this picture is in no way a representation of the actual status of the Madaraka Express Service and bookings for travel are going on as normal.

“We remain committed to serving our customers and will do all we can to ensure that rail continues to remain their preferred mode of transport, via the Madaraka Express Service,” Kenya Railways stated.

The SGR which was built at a cost of more than Ksh350 billion, rose sharply in popularity in its early days among Kenyans seeking alternative- and safe- ways of travelling between Nairobi and Mombasa cities, on a friendly budget.

To be specific, air transport is expensive with fares tending to cross above Ksh10,000 for a one-way flight and road, even though some Kenyans enjoy it for the scenery, makes one spend thousands for a full tank of fuel for the nearly 9-hour journey and the risk of road accidents along the major road.

Kenya Railways, in hiking the SGR charges in November 2023 ahead of the January 2024 review period, explained that "This increase is informed by changes in the energy and petroleum sector where prices of fuel have significantly increased thus affecting the cost of our operations."

Other than the Madaraka Express Passenger and Commuter services, rail transport services such as the Nairobi Commuter Rail Service, Kisumu Safari Train and Nanyuki Safari Train were affected by the upward price review.

Earlier in 2023, Kenya Railways scrapped the cash payment method for passengers to purchase their tickets beginning February 1.

Sholla had claimed that he managed to establish the full facial identity of the man pictured on the CCTV footage who was said to be of light complexion, with photos he posted on X showing the two Nigerian suspects captured with a friend who had a similar skin tone to the one on the CCTV footage.

"Guys; I think I have managed to ID the full face of the Nigerian white man that was captured on CCTV. In this pic, the black guy is J.B. who was presented to court with W.O. as the murderers of Rita Waeni.

"By morning we should have a name. NB - this pic was taken around 2020 allegedly in Kenya," Sholla wrote in the post that was viewed more than 560,000 times by the time of publishing.

Sholla further shared another photo of the light-skinned man captured with the suspect as they enjoyed drinks at a residence, claiming that "The brown-standing guy is said to have been a very close friend of J.B. It's also said J.B. and W.O. stayed in different houses."

When Sholla's tweet was forwarded to Viral Tea's newsdesk, we raised questions, the most important being how the tweep managed to claim he matched the light-skinned man's identity with the one captured on CCTV before Waeni's murder, before detectives investigating the case could officially ascertain his identity.

Viral Tea sought the help of a crime reporter who differed with Sholla's sentiments, indicating that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)'s Crime Research & Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) had traced the number that was used to book the short-stay where Waeni was murdered.

"And you can see that this W.O. is one of those in custody. If they know nothing, how were they using that SIM card?" he posed. 

Nonetheless, Kenyans online urged the DCI to investigate the photos further, and attention could also possibly shift to the tweep who shared the photos, meaning the user could also be treated as a person of interest in the ongoing case.

Lavish Lifestyle Of Nigerian Suspect

Meanwhile, details emerged regarding W.O.'s opulent lifestyle while living in Kenya, with the same photos showcasing him tending to party alongside friends, dressing in designer clothes as well as indulging in expensive alcohol.

They also showed women's purses within the suspect's residence, suggesting that he had a knack for socializing with ladies looking for a good time and engaging in festivities.

Spot checks on his social media platforms by Viral Tea indicated that the suspect was alleged to run a company specialised in stem cell therapy technology products.

"We offer a great mentoring program for our members with top executives. We are on the cutting-edge technology. You will be working with the best equipment of software in your web system," read part of the advertisement posted on the suspect's platform.

In various posts, he advertised jobs in the company, seeking a business analyst to either work full-time or part-time, with a monthly salary ranging from Ksh37,000 to Ksh51,000.

The offer also included competitive packages and generous bonus programs.

What We Know So Far

The two Nigerian suspects were arraigned at the Makadara Law Courts on Monday, January 22 after DCI investigations revealed that the duo were living in Kenya illegally, with one having an expired passport and the other not having any travel documents at the time of his arrest, telling detectives that he lost his passport two years ago.

The Nigerian suspects were traced by the DCI’s CRIB detectives to an apartment in Ndenderu in Kiambu County where they were picked up on Sunday.

During the raid, a hatchet, butcher’s knife, a national identity card belonging to a Kenyan, six mobile phones, three laptops, 10 SIM cards from different telecom services providers and other items were recovered at the house where the two suspects were residing before their arrest.

The letter shared by a user on X claimed that the institution of higher learning had denied being associated with the Kenyan graduates whom President Ruto had awarded certificates of completion after they enrolled for free online courses.

"In response to recent assertions, the University of Arizona categorically denies any affiliation with the graduates in Kenya, whose ceremony was presided over by President Ruto.

A building at the University of Arizona. /UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

"We wish to emphasize our unequivocal disassociation from this fraudulent claim and underscore that these individuals did not pursue their studies at our esteemed institution," claimed the letter in part.

It further compelled President Ruto to shift focus to addressing the immediate needs of the Kenyan populace and cut down on his international travels which have been numerous and have attracted widespread criticism for several weeks.

"Fair taxation measures and the provision of essential resources, such as wheelbarrows, should be at the forefront of his agenda to uplift the lives of citizens.

"We encourage President Ruto to refrain from unnecessary international travels and instead concentrate his efforts on domestic matters, actively contributing to the nation's development. By prioritizing these essential issues, we believe President Ruto can play a crucial role in fostering the well-being and prosperity of the Kenyan people," added the purported letter.

However, Kenyans were quick to flag down the letter as fake owing to the letter as well as demands issued, with some claiming that the tone of the press release represented someone unhappy with the current regime.

Viral Tea can also confirm that this letter is fake as no such communication was issued by the University of Arizona on its official channels.

A quick look at the University of Arizona's website reveals a media section which consists of media information and news releases for journalists covering the affairs of the university, with its last news release being on Friday, December 8.

On social media, the University has also not posted anything related to the same, the last post coming on Friday, as the institution and the government were yet to comment on the matter by the time of publishing this article.

Meanwhile, the President issued the certificates on Saturday, December 9 during the second day of the ongoing Youth Connekt Africa Summit 2023 being held at Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

"To all the good people who took up the challenge when I made the announcement last year, it didn't look real then, but today we have evidence that it is reality, and we have graduates here today with certificates," he expressed.

This comes after, during last year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations, President Ruto declared that everyone present at the Nyayo Stadium would be granted a scholarship for the Global Entrepreneurship and Innovation program from Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University.

President William Ruto awarding graduates of the University of Arizona on December 9, 2023. /PCS

The Head of State through Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha appointed Atwoli as one of the pioneer members of the inaugural board, which will be chaired by Timothy Olweny for a period of three years.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 7 (1) (a) of the Social Health Insurance Act, I, William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces appointed Timothy Olweny to be the Chairperson of the Social Health Authority, for a period of three (3) years, with effect from the 22nd November, 2023,’ the notice read in part. 

President William Ruto and COTU boss Francis Atwoli during the Labour Day Celebrations at Uhuru Gardens on May 1, 2023. /PCS

Nakhumicha in the Gazette notice appointed Atwoli to the board, also to serve for three years, and he will work alongside Zakayo Kariuki and Kacinta Kathamu Mutegi.

Rai Group on Monday, September 25 termed the reports as "misinformation bordering on unhelpful propaganda coming at this time of severe economic challenges".

The company went on to assure its business partners, stakeholders, employees, and farmers that it was not exiting the Kenyan market.

“The management at Rai Group of Companies wishes to inform all its business partners, stakeholders including farmers, employees the media and indeed the general public that the information circulating on social media platforms to the effect that that Rai Group is closing down all its operations and is relocating to another country is, to say the least, regrettable misinformation bordering on unhelpful propaganda coming at this time of severe economic challenges,” read the statement in part.

The company also noted that it is aware of its contribution to the growth of the Kenyan economy through the creation of jobs, production of quality goods, and provision of services that circulate and are consumed both locally and internationally.

The Rai Group further said it would continue to maintain high standards of delivery in strict compliance with the regulatory, legal, and social expectations of its partners.

The reports claimed that the billionaire was closing down his business empire in Kenya and relocating to an unnamed country.

They had emerged on Saturday, September 23 and spread all the way to the following day, Sunday, September 24.

The news sparked fear among Kenyans who claimed that the exit would worsen the state of unemployment in the country given that thousands of employees would be sacked, a matter that would also cripple the sugarcane industry and leave farmers without a market for their harvested crops.

The notice that circulated across social media platforms on Saturday, August 26 had claimed that the attacks were planned to take part within the city before the end of August and in September 2023.

Among the targets marked included bases of Western troops in Kenya as well as hotels and social places frequented by Western diplomats in Nairobi.

"The armed attackers believed to be already in Nairobi, plan to detonate suicide vests reinforced with sporadic shooting in crowded places and/or targeted areas.

A notice to SCCIOs claiming possible terrorist attacks in Nairobi by Al Shabaab, which has since been flagged as fake. /DCI

"Noteworthy, hotels frequented by foreigners, embassies, international schools, vital government installations, and social places such as malls remain vulnerable," read the statement in part.

The notice furthermore called for heightened security vigilance, and enhanced screening into vital installations and social places across the City to forestall likely attacks by terror elements.

The DCI in a statement on social media deemed the notice, which had a signature under the name of the DCI Regional Coordinator in Nairobi, as fake.

"This report doing rounds in sections of the media is FAKE NEWS," wrote the DCI on social media.

Notably, it is not the first time police authorities have downplayed purported intelligence reports of planned terror attacks by the notorious terrorist group in Nairobi, highlighting the issues surrounding the change of command.

On December 14, 2022, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome took disciplinary action against a police officer who raised a terror alert to other police officers regarding six public areas in Nairobi targeted by terror suspects associated with the Al Shabaab militia group ahead of the festive season.

Makadara Sub-County police commander Timon Odingo in a letter to all STAPOLS who fall under his jurisdiction dated December 13, 2022, named church-owned institutions amongst areas targeted by the militants.

Odingo listed the Presbyterian Guest House and Conference Centre in South C and Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in South B among religious institutions that were under threat.

He also claimed that the group may also be targeting other guest houses and conference centres owned by churches as well as Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations.

IG Koome however stated that the officer broke the chain of command by issuing the alert to other officers regarding potential terror attacks on six areas in Nairobi.

"The National Police Service has noted with utmost concern the contents of a letter circulating on social media warning of a potential attack in Nairobi. In tandem with the communication procedure with the NPS, we wish to clarify that the letter has neither originated from the Office of the Inspector General nor has the undersigned officer received any instructions in accordance with the chain of command to author or disseminate the letter

"As a deterrence measure, administrative action has been taken against the concerned officer," Koome stated, further assuring the public that the country was safe under the surveillance of security teams and urging Kenyans to continue with their daily businesses without fear.

DCI detectives notably on Friday, August 18 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 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.

"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. 

The photo shared by multiple channels, some of which are allied to Azimio, showed an individual in plain clothes stepping out of a police car while clutching his camera.

He was wearing a pink sweater and light blue jeans as well as donning a grey cap.

Viral Tea has established that the individual in question is Clint Obere, a cameraman working for Africa Uncensored, and was taken when he and his colleague, Calvin Rock, were set free on Monday, March 27 by the police after intervention by  co-founder John-Allan Namu and Citizen TV's Hassan Mugambi.

"After being held for 30 minutes by the police for doing our job, they've finally released us. Thanks to Hassan Mugambi and the quick response by John Allan Namu," tweeted Calvin Rock at the time.

The two journalists were arrested in Mathare while covering the protests with Allan-Namu expressing uncertainty regarding where they were taken.

Our findings were further corroborated by Africa Uncensored journalists, including John Allan-Namu himself, who reprimanded the channels for posting information on Twitter deemed to be misleading.

"On a serious note, you need to retract this. Clint is currently in the field and this may put him in danger.

"Again, this was taken when Clint and Calvin were apprehended during the last round of maandamano. It wasn't taken today or yesterday," Allan-Namu tweeted in response to a politician.

The subject of police officers posing as journalists to arrest protestors gained prominence after one of them was on Wednesday, July 19 captured on camera sneaking up on a protestor in Mathare and arresting him, all while posing as a photojournalist.

In a video shared by Africa Uncensored, a young man who was aggrieved after the police targeted his daughter, expressed his anger and was whisked away by a man who was among the people covering the demonstrations. 

The statement alleged that the DP and Ichung'wah alongside Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria and  Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro had their visas revoked following the raid on Kenyatta family-owned Northlands City Project on Monday, March 27.

In addition, the sanctions were allegedly issued on Wednesday, March 29 by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

It further claimed that the four politicians planned and sponsored attacks on private properties owned by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Alliance leader Raila Odinga on Monday, March 27, 2023.

"The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of the Treasury administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions based on US foreign policy and national security goals against targeted foreign countries and regimes, terrorists, and international narcotics traffickers.

"Also, those engaged in activities related to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and other threats to the national security, foreign policy or economy of the United​ States," US Treasury explained on its website.

The purported statement, which emerged as others linked it to a supposed probe by The Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC), was also flagged down by the US Treasury.

The article titled Kenya in turmoil as government raids Kenyatta land had claimed that goons sponsored by President William Ruto's government had stormed the property without notice.

The article was captured as a live blog, with minute-by-minute updates of the daring invasion which occurred during the Azimio la Umoja mass protests staged on March 27.

Screenshot of an Al Jazeera article about the Northlands invasion, flagged as fake. /VIRALTEAKE

Viral Tea can authoritatively report that the image is fake, edited to make it look like a credible screenshot, and identified the following loopholes.

First of all, the cover image does not correspond with the live update, let alone the title. The story had shown protesters gathered around a fire holding Israeli flags.

Second, from spot checks we conducted on its official news website, Al Jazeera's last story about Kenya was published six hours from the time of publishing this story, titled Kenyan opposition leader Odinga says protests on despite police ban.

During the daring invasion, the individuals were reported to have gained access to the land by breaching the fence from the Kamakis side through the bypass.

In addition, the youth were reported to have carried sheep away from the land with videos showing a number of them, armed with power saws, cutting down the trees planted on the property.

The invasion which was staged on Northlands from the Eastern Bypass side near Kamakis saw the unknown individuals ferrying the sheep using motorcycles while others carried them on their shoulders as they hurriedly exited the area.

The goons also allegedly set the firm on fire but the motive behind the invasion was yet to be established. The fire later at night was later visibly seen through videos shared on social media.

Former Nyeri Town Member of Parliament Ngunjiri Wambugu had previously expressed that the invasion would prompt property owners to seek more dire methods of security.

Wambugu condemned the attack and noted that it would trigger a series of daring invasions similar to the Northlands one by unknown people without alerting the property owners beforehand.

"Whoever came up with the idea of having people invade the land of Kenya's Founding Father and the First President Jomo Kenyatta, in a world that's connected everywhere via the Internet, has done Kenya a lot of harm today.

"At this rate, what will stop a rich family from inviting young men and women to volunteer to protect their property if it becomes clear that their government will not protect them? Isn't this how private militias are formed?" he posed.

The daring invasion was also condemned by Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga who went on to blame Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua after his East Africa Spectre Limited gas plant was invaded by goons on the same day.

Odinga had called upon Kenyans to turn out in large numbers at the city centre, from where they will proceed to President William Ruto’s official residence to air their grievances.

He assured them that they will “reclaim” their 2022 General Election win, which he insists was stolen through a rigged exercise by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

“Let us all converge in the CBD and begin our grand march to State House to reclaim our stolen victory,” he said in part in a video message.

Raila Odinga addressing supporters in Ongata Rongai on March 19, 2023. /RAILA ODINGA

It is worth it to note however that Raila on Saturday, March 18 stated that not every protester will go to State House, save for a few representatives from the opposition.

During an interview with Citizen TV, Odinga clarified that the coalition would not unlawfully march to the house on the hill but would send its representatives to communicate their grievances to President Ruto, contrary to reports circulating online.

“We are people who respect and know the law. Our leader Wycliffe Oparanya wrote to the Inspector General of Police informing him that we would hold a rally. Those who will be able to come to Nairobi will come to Nairobi and those unable will hold their meetings wherever they will be,” he stated.

“It will be peaceful protests and they have the memorandum which they will take to different government offices. Here in Nairobi, we also have the memos which we are going to take to the President. If he will be in Harambee House, we will take the memos there, if he will be in State House, we will send people to take it there; not the crowd. We will send a message through a few people to take our petition to the President, not the whole crowd.”

Even though Odinga did not reveal who would be sent to the highest house in the land, he stated that the party’s committee would make the decision in due course.

“We will send a message through a few people to take our petition to the President. I don’t know if I will be part of the team but if I’m picked by the party members, I will go.”

Consequently, Odinga allayed fears of trespass for his supporters owing to the fact that the State House is a protected zone adding that Constitutionally, the residence is a public office that every Kenyan should be allowed to visit.

He however noted that if denied entry, the selected team would leave their message to the Head of State at the State House entrance.

“State House is a public institution where you can go any time, it is not private. It is not that it is a protected area where the public cannot access, it is the office of the president,” Odinga emphasized.

Interior Security Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki on Sunday warned protesters against breaching restricted premises such as State House and State House Lodges among other protected areas that will be off limits on that day.

"It is notified for information of the general public that pursuant to the Protected Areas Act (CAP 204 of the Laws of Kenya), security agencies shall prevent unauthorized access to all protected areas. The same Constitution that gives freedom for assembly limits enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms to ensure the protection of the rights and freedoms of others and to promote broader societal interests including public order, safety and morality," the CS warned.

According to Raila's recent social media update, the protests would begin at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

The photo captured the two walking side by side with each other, with the member of former President Uhuru Kenyatta's Cabinet dressing casually compared to Mama Rachel who rocked a navy blue suit.

It sent Kenyan netizens on overdrive with many wondering if this was one of the indications of a reported 'handshake' loading between Matiang'i and President William Ruto.

Former Interior CS Fred Matiang'i with Rachel Ruto during a past event. /FACEBOOK.MAMA RACHEL RUTO

However, Viral Tea through a simple search on social media platforms traced the photo to as far back as October 22, 2019, back when Matiang'i was still steering the Ministry of Interior and Mama Rachel was the country's second lady.

The two had paid a visit to the Michael Joseph Centre on that day for an exhibition, with the First Lady at the time thanking Matiang'i for his support and presence at the exhibition.

"We would like to thank our CS Dr Fred Matiang'i Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Security in Kenya for the great support and for visiting the Cross stitch International Exhibition at the Michael Joseph centre this morning. Together we continue to support our ladies in prison and give them hope and dignity.

"We also thank PS Zeinab Hussein and Commissioner General Wycliffe O. Ogallo for walking this journey with us," Mama Rachel wrote in part.

Matiang'i on his part had met Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu on Sunday, March 12 in Nairobi in a meeting that also involved leaders from the Gusii region. 

The Gusii leaders meeting was chaired by Machogu, with reports indicating that the meeting was aimed at uniting all the Gusii leaders, no matter where they stand politically.

Solicitor General Nominee Shadrack Mose, former Deputy Majority leader Jimmy Angwenyi and wealth businessman John Simba were among those who attended the meeting.

Machogu was reported to have convened the meeting to quell the simmering political tension in the Kisii region following Matiang'i's summoning.

During the meeting, Matiang'i is said to have set the record straight regarding his woes with the current administration, further noting that his focus was now to work on his private activities saying that is why he has never attended political rallies or even a church function.

CS Machogu had initially vowed to consolidate all Gusii leaders to have the community realize its development agenda.

"I will meet and have discussions with all our leaders. We are working as a team to achieve our development goals. Nobody will be left out. Those interested in politicking will have themselves to blame.

"No region will be left out, our two counties will have a share of the national cake," he noted. 

The meeting came barely two days after an alleged State House meeting hosted by President Ruto and attended by MPs; Anthony Kibagendi (Kitutu Chache South), Patrick Osero (Borabu) and Dr Daniel Manduku (Nyaribari Masaba) all elected on ODM party ticket.

The leaders are meeting ahead of President Ruto's scheduled tour of the Gusii region and homecoming ceremony for CS Machogu later in this month.

This will be the first meeting the former CS is attending with other Gusii leaders since he left office. Some of the leaders attending have not met with the former CS eye to eye since last year August when Kenya went to the polls.

The list that circulated social media platforms featured big names such as Cleophas Malala, Caleb Kositany, Purity Ngirici, Okoth Obado, Charles Njagua (Jaguar), Millicent Omanga and Isaac Mwaura, among others.

Viral Tea has established that the list is fake. Weighing in on the list and further flagging it as fake was Nandi Senator, Samson Cherargei.

An alleged list of appointed CASs which has been flagged as fake. /TWITTER.SAMSON CHERARGEI

"Ignore this fake propaganda the recruitment process is ongoing.

"H.E Ruto loyalists & supporters should relax that their rewards are coming in full as per your commitment during campaigns. Let's pray for our nation as we work towards its transformation. Blessed Sunday," he stated.

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.

“Employment and Labour Relations court delivers judgment on the CAS case and finds that the PSC followed the correct procedure in setting up the office. The petition by the Law Society of Kenya is dismissed,” she ruled.

The PSC and the Attorney General had sought to have the case dismissed which would have allowed President Ruto to recruit 21 CASs to serve in his government.

The respondents had filed that according to article 165(3), of the constitution, it is the High Court that had the powers to determine the legality of the actions of President Ruto in establishing the office of the CAS.

Beforehand, the public was notified on September 21, 2022 that the government decided to kick start the review process as its intention of creating the post after former President Uhuru Kenyatta's introduction of the posts was thrown out by the High Court in April 2021.

A letter to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula that circulated widely on social media platforms alleged that Keynan stepped down as MP owing to the continued communal hostilities within his constituency.

It was also claimed that he had quit his role owing to his deteriorating health.

"After much thought and with deep regret I'm pleased to inform you that I have made the difficult decision to resign as a Member of Parliament for Eldas with immediate effect. This decision has been necessitated by continued hostilities among different clans in my constituency; requests from the elders and my deteriorating health.

Adan Keynan during a past address. /THE STAR

"These factors put together have made discharging of my duties tedious and involving which requires more energy, agility and movement. Indeed, it has been a privilege to work with your office the office of the Jubilee Party(under Azimio Coalition) and all my fellow Members of Parliament since I was elected," read the letter in part.

The letter also claimed that Keynan would "forever remain steadfast in fighting for the betterment of the lives of the people of Eldas and the Kenyans as a whole as I seek an alternative path of engagement."

A response from Keynan's team seen by Viral Tea however flagged the letter as fake.

"My attention has been drawn to a widespread FAKE letter with unfounded and patchy information circulating on social media by purveyors of deceit and misleaders.

"I wish to notify members of the public to consider the letter FAKE and disregard the baseless details as I seek to bring the matter to the attention of relevant investigative agencies to swiftly act and pursue the matter to its ultimate end," Keynan subsequently stated on Facebook

The lawmaker has not indicated any plans to resign due to the above-mentioned factors, with his last tweet showing him congratulating UDA candidate Dekow Mohamed for winning the Garissa Township by-elections.

Dekow garnered 11,572 votes, ensuring that the President William Ruto-led party retained the seat, vacated by Aden Duale who took up a role as Defence Cabinet Secretary (CS).

Keynan served Wajir West from 1997 to 2002, and then from 2007 to 2013. He then moved to Eldas constituency which was curved from Wajir West.

He served as Eldas MP in the 11th Parliament and he was then re-elected to serve the same constituency in the 12th parliament. He represented the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party until 2017 when he switched to the Jubilee Party.

The lawmaker was again re-elected on the Jubilee ticket in the 2022 Elections. He is now serving the 6th Term thus attaining the longest-serving MP in the 13th Parliament of Kenya.

National Youth Congress representative Jephnel Nyakwama Orina wrote to UDA Party Leader President William Ruto on Sunday, December 18 to compel him to kick her out following the drama she caused during her trip to Dubai.

Orina had attributed his wishes to the dramatic confrontation in Dubai over the weekend involving her and Mugithi singer Samidoh Muchoki as well as his wife, Edday Nderitu.

"Our attention has been drawn to videos and pictures of the above named Senator nominated to the Senate pursuant to article 98 (1) (d) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 by our Party. As members of the National Youth Congress we are deeply disappointed and embarrassed by the conduct of the Senator who appears intoxicated and disorderly in what appears to be a night club.

Scene shots from the drama that unfolded at a nightclub in Dubai between Mugithi singer Samidoh his baby mama Senator Karen Nyamu and his wife Edday Nderitu. /NAIROBI NEWS

"The conduct of the Senator in our view is in contravention of Article 75(1) of the Constitution of Kenya and the United Democratic Alliance Party Constitution. Her actions have brought ridicule and greatly tainted the name and reputation of The Party Leader and the Party," the statement read in part.

Orina wants action to be taken against her as her actions contravened the laws of the Constitution and the Elections Act.

"In view of the forgoing, we recommend the immediate Expulsion of Senator Nyamu Karen Njeri from the party and subsequent expulsion from the Senate pursuant to Article 103(1) (e) (i) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 37 of the Elections Act with the immediate effect," the statement added.

Speaking to Viral Tea, however, sources close to the party revealed that the letter that circulated across social media platforms is not authentic, even though the drama that sparked an uproar across the country was not well received by the party members.

"The UDA CEO says it is not authentic, that before such a decision, she must be summoned by the National Executive Committee (NEC), something that hasn't been done yet.

"There are members who are offended by it but they haven't formally realised it. So it's okay to say the matter has not been taken well with party members," the source disclosed.

UDA Director of Communications Wanjohi Githae told NTV that Orina wrote in his personal capacity and not that of Congress or the Party, despite the document having UDA's letterhead as well as his signature.

“Misuse of our letterhead. He is not an official,” Wanjohi said.

Nyamu was forced to part ways with Samidoh following the standoff in Dubai when she stormed the entertainment joint he was meant to perform at and headed straight for Samidoh where she then sat on his lap.

Edday, who was close to Samidoh, was alarmed, a matter that ignited verbal confrontations between Nyamu and Samidoh as captured in a video that went viral on social media.

Samidoh's wife tried evacuating Nyamu from the scene before security officers eventually whisk her away from the venue. However, the drama seemed to have been forgotten in another video that captured Nyamu dancing and performing on stage with Samidoh and Akorino singer Karangu Wa Muraya.

Samidoh was performing with other Mugiithi artists among them Joyce Wa Mama and DJ Dbul. He flew into Dubai with Edday for enjoyment with family and friends and it was by coincidence that Nyamu was also in Dubai.

After defending her actions by stating that she was under the influence of alcohol and promising to quit drinking in 2023, she penned a statement shared on her Instagram stories, promising to never again repeat her actions since she is a member of a top government arm.

"Great and powerful women will attest that many times our weakest link is the men we get involved with. I am stopping the pattern. I have made the conscious decision to end for good my involvement with the father of my babies and now ex, Samidoh Muchoki. 

"I know I could have called him and ended it quietly but I decided to make this as public as the drama and the controversy has been. This had become a concern, especially with the position I hold as a member of the Senate," she stated. 

The reports surfaced online on Thursday, December 8 insinuating that Masit had quit her position pending an investigation by a tribunal formed by President William Ruto.

Her lawyer Donald Kipkorir revealed to The Standard that “my client will not resign from her position. The viral reports on her resignation are false”.

IEBC Commissioner Irene Masit. /DAILY NATION

She is the only commissioner poised to face the tribunal set up to investigate their conduct during the August 9 general elections whereby they are accused of almost subverting the will of the people.

They opposed IEBC chairperson Wafula Chebukati’s declaration of William Ruto as the winner of the hotly-contested August 9, 2022, presidential election.

Masit had filed a petition before a Nairobi court seeking to stop the Justice Aggrey Muchelule-led tribunal from investigating her. The court will issue its directive on the petition later on Thursday.

She holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Human Resource Management from the University of Manchester in the UK, Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Nairobi, Bachelor of Arts degree in social work from the University of Nairobi, and she is a Post Graduate Dip from Kenya School of Law.

Her colleague, Francis Wanderi, had stepped down from his role earlier in the day over what he termed as a predetermined fate in the process of evaluating whether he, alongside Juliana Cherera, Justus Nyang'aya and Masit were suitable for office as conducted by the tribunal.

Cherera had stated in her letter to President Ruto on Monday, December 5 that she was stepping down from the commission, explaining how she carried out her duties in line with the mandate of her role at the commission.

The former Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary General in a statement on Thursday, November 11 termed the reports as fake while explaining how the qualified candidate for the highly coveted position is decided upon.

“My attention has been drawn to social media fake reporting that I have been appointed TSC CEO. This is not true.

Wilson Sossion talks with President William Ruto. /FACEBOOK

"TSC CEO is appointed through competitive advertising when a vacancy arises. Please ignore such rumours,” Sossion wrote.

Sossion was rumoured to replace Nancy Macharia in the position, but Macharia's term was extended in 2020 by five years and will last until 2025.

How TSC CEO Is Recruited

According to Section 8(1) of the TSC Act, whenever a vacancy occurs in the commission, it must declare the vacancy by publishing a notice in the Gazette and appointing a panel to select qualified individuals to serve as the commission’s chairperson or members.

According to the TSC act, the President must appoint a chairperson to lead the selection committee. The panel will also include the Attorney General, as well as the Cabinet Secretaries in charge of Education and Public Service or a representative of each of the three officers.

The Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) will front one candidate, and the teachers’ unions will put forth two candidates, a man and a woman, for the panel.

The selection panel will also include a nominee from the Private Schools Association and a well-known educationist who has been appointed by the Education Cabinet Secretary.

The panel then conducts interviews with those who made the shortlist before recommending qualified candidates to the president for appointment.

Sossion has been a fan of President William Ruto and his administration ever since he dumped the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) which had nominated him to Parliament to represent the workers.

Through the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, he vied for the Bomet Senatorial seat in the August 2022 elections but lost.

During the polls, he slammed the Azimo la Umoja One Kenya Coalition party for demonising Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairman Wafula Chebukati over the elections. 

"Trying to demonise Chebukati at Bomas was the biggest tragic mistake by Azimio; the Supreme Court ruling in 2017 made it very clear that the results at the polling station shall be final, so the presidential election ended at the polling station," Sossion said.

He referred to the Supreme Court order in 2017 which compelled the IEBC to capture everything in Form 34A and upload it to its portal for every Kenyan to access; over 46,000 documents of Form 34A.

A collage of Teachers Service Commission Chief Executive Officer, Nancy Macharia and Wilson Sossion. /FILE

A netizen shared a video online claiming that there was lava coming from the mountain, which is a dormant volcano thought to have last erupted in the 1860s.

Additionally, the lava was alleged to have started wildfires coupled with high-temperature levels.

Mt Longonot. /FILE

“I'm here at Maai Mahiu and I'm seeing a live scene of the Mt Longonot eruption. Temperature levels around are high. Wildfires due to drought also start from lava,” the netizen claimed.

This sparked a frenzy with many netizens made to believe that Mt Longonot had finally erupted after many years of inactivity.

However, a correspondent who spoke to Viral Tea denied claims of an eruption at the mountain, stating that it was just a wildfire that started around the area.

"It's a wildfire. Plus this is something geologists at KenGen would have picked first because they monitor the tectonic activities as they mine geothermal power," the correspondent told Viral Tea.

Former Citizen TV reporter, Enock Sikolia, who is now attached to CGTN Africa, further denied the claims, stating that the fire started earlier in the day and had further escalated into the night.

“I am along Mai Mahiu road and I can see the forest around Mt. Longonot on fire.

Smart on Wednesday, October 26 had stated that Jumwa had failed to show up at the High Court in Mombasa on grounds that she was waiting to be sworn in to President William Ruto's Cabinet on that day, which is since scheduled for Thursday, October 27.

The journalist alleged that Jumwa was ordered to stay near State House as a result.

NTV journalist James Smart at his work desk posted on October 22, 2021. /TWITTER.JAMES SMART

"Aisha Jumwa failed to attend her murder trial today, ODPP instead told the court that she said "her and other nominees had been ordered to stay near State House for a possible swearing in today"," Smart tweeted.

However, the ODPP in its own statement clarified that her legal team, led by lawyer Dunstan Omari, argued that Jumwa was directed to prepare for the swearing-in, in response to why she was attending the court proceedings virtually.

Haji's office further told journalists to uphold facts while reporting their stories, particularly involving court proceedings.

In addition, ODPP warned that it will not hesitate to take action in the event journalists are responsible for misreporting.

"Correction. Dunstan Omari, one of Jumwa's lawyers, while responding to why his client was appearing virtually, said that she had to hang around State House, waiting for her appointment. Court records can confirm this. ODPP would like to encourage factual reporting," the ODPP tweeted.

"The ODPP takes great exception to such reporting from journalists and media houses that continue to misreport and misrepresent facts. We will take action against such reporting. The ODPP is always available for clarification."

The court in Mombasa heard that the Jumwa defence team had not furnished the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) with specific details regarding her bid to settle the matter out of court, as requested by the family of the deceased - Michael Ngumbao Jola.

DPP, through Senior State Counsel Vivian Kambuga, informed High Court judge Anne Ong’injo that the case would only be dropped after reviewing the agreement between Jumwa's side and the deceased family.

"We cannot proceed with the application for withdrawal since the defence team led by lawyer Jared Magolo is yet to provide specific information on the agreement to have the matter settled out of court with the deceased’s family," Kambuga stated.

The new developments compelled High Court judge Ong’injo to adjourn the case. In addition, Jumwa was ordered to surrender her passport on November 30, when the case will be mentioned and to appear in court in person.

Speculations went rife online over the past week that the government could declare a holiday to celebrate Diwali.

According to Google Trends, the interest in Diwali grew rapidly in the last seven days with "Is Monday a public holiday in Kenya?" being amongst the most-searched terms.

However, by Friday, October 21, the Ministry of Interior under outgoing Cabinet Secretary (CS) Fred Matiang’i had not issued a statement on the same to incorporate Kenyans who don't subscribe to Hindu faith.

Speaking to Viral Tea, an official at the docket revealed that Diwali will not be gazetted as a public holiday.

Candles being lit during Diwali. /FILE

"It has not yet been gazetted as a public holiday. They would have released a notice by Friday but they haven't done so," the official revealed.

He further remarked that Diwali could be an occasion celebrated by Hindus in the country and across the globe but it won't be celebrated by all Kenyans as per the government’s calendar.

The Ministry of Interior has on two occasions dismissed social media rumours that it had gazetted Thursday, November 4, 2021 and Monday October 28, 2019 as public holidays to mark Diwali.

“The government has not declared a public holiday on Thursday, November 4, 2021. The purported gazette notice declaring a holiday is fake!,” read a statement from the Ministry of Interior in 2019.

Lasting over five days, the holiday is celebrated by millions of Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs worldwide.

The name of this festival is derived from ‘avali,’ which means ‘row,’ and ‘deepa,’ meaning ‘clay lamps.’

When merged, these words mean ‘a row of lights.’ For this reason, lights are symbolic of this festival and Indians go overboard with sparklers and fireworks to fuel the inner light that spiritually protects them from the darkness.

President William Ruto’s National Security Advisor and Energy CS Monica Juma issued directions on how Kenyans celebrating Diwali should carry out fireworks displays.

Consequently, the Hindu community is requested to ensure that fireworks displays are carried out within the requirements of the Explosives Act, Cap 115 of the Laws of Kenya.

“Fireworks displays should be carried out in an orderly manner so that members of the general public are not inconvenienced,” she said in a notice.

Those planning to celebrate Diwali are expected to obtain licenses to carry out the fireworks displays from the Ministry of Petroleum and Mining offices across the country.

The notice also outlined that fireworks are used only at authorised venues such as clubs, hotels, temples, sports grounds, school compounds or any other venue as may be authorised by an Inspector of Explosives.

“They must also ensure that the displays are held between 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm only during the authorised dates, display shells are limited to a maximum of four-inch calibre in all venues in urban and built-up areas except as may be exempted by an Inspector of Explosives in writing and that only qualified, experienced and sober persons shall be allowed to fire aerial shells,” she said.

Juma warned that fireworks should not be sold to or handled by children below 13 years old since it would be a contravention of the Explosives Act.

Monica Juma during the launch of the Kenya Power Manufacturers, Technology and Innovation Expo in July 2022. /CAPITAL GROUP

The Hindu population in Kenya, as per official estimates, is believed to compose of about 0.13 per cent of Kenya’s total population.

In October of every year (Diwali days), the gazetted public holidays are only two – Utamaduni Day on October 10 (formerly Moi Day) and Mashujaa Day on October 20 (formerly Kenyatta Day). Kenya has a total of 12 public holidays annually, excluding special occasion holidays gazetted on-need basis by the government.

The 12 are New Year (January 1), Good Friday (mid-April), Easter Monday (late mid-April), Labour Day (May 1), Idd-ul-Fitr (early May), Madaraka Day (June 1), Idd-ul-Adha (early July), Utamadauni Day (October 10), Mashujaa Day (October 20), Jamhuri Day (December 12), Christmas Day (December 25) and Boxing Day (December 26).

In a statement, the Treasury termed a report carried by the Business Daily as erroneous, the headline alarming and that Kenya has never failed to settle its debt obligations.

The CS added that the country has not had any debts accumulated in 10 years to suggest tough times in recouping its debts.

"We wish to state categorically that Kenya has never defaulted on the settlement of its debt service obligations to any of its creditors, nor has any creditor filed or reported any claim of default on debt service payments on facilities extended to the Government of Kenya.

"Furthermore, Kenya has not accumulated any debt arrears in decades to suggest difficulties in debt servicing," read the statement in part.

The Treasury added that Kenya would not be flagged by financial institutions outlining the SGR loan repayments model.

The government assured the country's creditors, development partners, investors and the general public that Kenya's financial position is sound and robust.

"As a country accessing international financial markets to raise resources, Kenya undergoes frequent independent sovereign rating reviews whose outcomes are published widely. At no time has Kenya been flagged as a country defaulting on its external debt obligations.

"It is also important to note, that all public debt, including the SGR loans are paid from the Consolidated Fund in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act, 2012. Debt service is a first charge on the Consolidated Fund and takes precedence over other forms of expenditure," Treasury added.

The report revealed that the Chinese banks fined Kenya Ksh1.312 billion in the year ended June for loan defaults. Kenya tapped over half a trillion shillings from Chinese lenders, led by the Export-Import Bank of China, to fund the construction of the SGR from Mombasa to Naivasha.

Taxpayers have been forced to shoulder the burden of the SGR loans because revenues generated from the passenger and cargo services on the track were deemed not enough to meet the operation costs, which reportedly stood at Ksh18.5 billion in the year to June against sales of Ksh15 billion.

SGR posted an operating loss of Ksh3.4 billion and wired Ksh22.7 billion in loan repayments in the year to June.

China in August handed the country a big blow when it excluded the East African nation from a loan relief this year, as part of its plans to support the poorest countries in Africa.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that the programme was aimed to support countries that were struggling to repay their debts.

The deal announced last week will see Beijing waive 23 matured interest-free loans for 17 unnamed African countries, which are classified as least developed countries.

He revealed that Kenya was left out of the deal as it was classified as a lower-middle-income country, which does not sit well with the Beijing scheme.

On Sunday, September 11, rumours went wild that the two judges who unanimously upheld the election of William Ruto as president had tendered their resignations to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), adding that the reasons for their decision were not disclosed.

The Judiciary however explained that the information that was circulated across social media platforms was false.

The seven judges at the Supreme Court on September 2, 2022. /COURTESY

The verdict which was also ruled by the two judges has been drawing debate between two political factions; one praising the verdict and the other castigating it.

Orengo's Harsh Remarks On Supreme Court Verdict

Siaya Governor, James Orengo, became the latest to hit out at the seven judges, specifically focusing on Chief Justice Martha Koome, as he termed the verdict as a shame to the Judiciary.

While speaking at a burial on Sunday, September 11, the governor, who is a close ally of Raila Odinga, claimed that the seven-judge bench had made a political judgement at a time when the country needed an objective verdict.

"Chief Justice Koome you have brought shame to the Judiciary by rendering a judgment that in the eyes of the ordinary people who fought for you to make sure a Chief Justice can have independence. You have brought shame to the people of the Republic of Kenya!” he claimed. 

The Siaya governor further accused the apex court of having sinister motives in the ruling which threw away all nine issues that were raised by the Azimio la Umoja legal team. He also took fault with the nature of the words used during the ruling.

"The person who wrote that judgment has done a great injustice to the rule of law. I respect the court, and I have practised law for a very long time. A lot of the judges in the Supreme Court are my juniors."

“Judges speak in words that are measured so that even the loser in a court of law feels like justice has been done. Not even a baraza presided by a Chief would use the kind of language that was used at the Supreme Court. Shame to you judges!” he noted.

Orengo however assured that they would unite and continue with the fight to ensure that justice is served.

The apex court has been subject to criticism from the Azimio coalition for terming the evidence presented to the court as hot air and giving the justices a wild goose chase. 

Ruto is set to take the instruments of power on Tuesday, September 13 at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.

Soweto appeared before the seven-judge bench at the Supreme Court on Friday, September 2 and presented a PowerPoint containing a Form 34A document with Camargo's name, a form she claimed was uploaded on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) portal. 

The form belonged to Gacharagu Primary School polling station in Muguru ward in Murang'a County. By way of his name appearing on the form, Soweto argued that he was solely responsible for interfering with the forms to change votes uploaded on the portal.

She further believed that it was through this that he played a major role in determining who between Raila and Ruto was the president-elect.

"At the top-hand left corner there, we have the name of one the Venezuelans Jose Camargo. This is the person who decided the President-elect of the country," she stated.

"We didn't make this up! We were told that we forged these forms, but this is how, My Lord, the staging was happening. This is on August 9 when we were told they (Venezuelans) did not have access to the system,"

The mention of Camargo at the Supreme Court raised eyebrows regarding Camargo as well as IEBC's assurance that the system would not be infiltrated, an assurance affirmed by IEBC's lawyers led by former Attorney General Githu Muigai.

Viral Tea established that her allegations had finer links to a response by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) regarding the evidence it gathered from the three Venezuelan nationals who were accused of interfering with the systems of the IEBC.

The evidence had placed Camargo allegedly at the centre of access to key election material ranging from the KIEMS kit to data on the deployment of election technology and passwords of IEBC personnel.

The report emerged after the three foreigners, Salvador Javier Suarez, Camargo and Joel Garcia were arrested at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on July 21, 2022, which later ignited a stalemate between the DCI and the IEBC.

In its affidavit, the DCI argued that the Venezuelan was able to access the IEBC system remotely and change details of it anytime he wanted.

“It was established that the confiscated exhibits had substantial information held in the IEBC systems are in full control of foreign employees of M/S Smartmatic International Holdings B.V. and Seamless Limited who have been contracted by IEBC.

“Camargo was in a position to remotely access the entire IEBC data and has the capacity to add, delete, edit or manipulate in any manner the entire IEBC system," it read in part.

During the arrest, Camargo was found with a laptop that had vital information regarding the August 9 polls. Forensic analysis showed that the laptop had an IEBC database schematic diagram, IEBC network diagram, IEBC KIEMS kit, IEBC KIEMS kit deployment list, user name and passwords, local IP address configurations, virtual private network (VPN) settings and Smartmatic Mobile device management(MDM).

He was also found with a hard disk, 1TB (terabyte), which was found with file folders. The folders had IEBC election system information as follows; IEBC system Network details, IEBC system Network details, IEBC database development credentials, IEBC KIEMS project schedule and his travel details.

Also found were IEBC VPN access credentials, settings for remote access to IEBC server, results in the transmission system, IEBC dashboard users, IEBC system users’ access rights, IEBC intergraded data management system and updates development. 

Camargo was also found with a bag of 17 rolls of stickers targeted to serve various polling stations estimated to be 10,000 in number targeted to serve 10 counties. They included Nairobi, Kiambu, Nakuru, Meru, Machakos, Murang'a, Bomet, Nyeri, Tharaka Nithi, Nyandarua and Kericho.

"The officers were shocked how a foreigner all the way from Venezuela, Panama, Turkey to Nairobi contracted for a very sensitive and high-level service by supposedly IEBC had nobody waiting for him and in particular to receive the sensitive confidential materials which were supposed to be in secure custody after confirmation and reception by the procuring entity," added the statement.

DCI also disclosed that from its analysis, 21 individuals had access to the system with two being Kenyans working at the electoral commission.

As a result, the detectives recommended for an audit be done on the IEBC system to uncover if there was any case of interference.

Speaking to the media a day since they held a similar conference away from the results at Bomas of Kenya, Cherera accused IEBC chairperson, Wafula Chebukati of giving her and three other commissioners what she termed as the wrong aggregation of results.

According to her, Chebukati gave them a total of 100.01 per cent, meaning that 0.01 per cent was translating to around 142,000 votes which would make a huge difference in the presidential results.

IEBC chairman, Wafula Chebukati, during a past media briefing. /TWITTER

However, Viral Tea can now confirm that she got her calculations completely wrong.

Simple access to the results the IEBC shared showed the performance of Raila Odinga of the Azimio la Umoja coalition and William Ruto of Kenya Kwanza, the president-elect across the 47 counties.

Ruto amassed a total of 50.49 per cent and if we were to take his 7,176,141 votes and divide by the total vote count being 14,213,137 valid votes, then multiply by 100, we would get 50.48988509 per cent.

If we went to Raila's 6,942,930 votes and divide them by the total vote count, then multiply them by 100, we would get 48.84868133 per cent.

For Roots Party leader, George Wajackoyah, the method is the same; 61,969 votes divide by the total, multiplying them by 100 equals 0.43599805 per cent

It is the same case for Agano's David Mwaure; 31,987 votes divide by the total, times 100 equals 0.22505236 per cent.

The total percentage comes to 99.99961683 per cent, which if rounded off, comes to 100 per cent. This means that Cherera's claim of 100.01 per cent is mathematically incorrect.

We now focus on Cherera's 0.01 per cent. She claimed that 0.01 per cent amounts to 142,000 votes, but our calculations show that it amounts to 1 per cent.

0.01 per cent translates to 0.01 divided by 100 which is 0.0001. Multiply that by the total number of votes and you get 1,421.3137. That's one thousand, four hundred and twenty-one point three, zero, two seven in words, meaning Cherera's mathematics are wrong as well.

Cherera noted that the four commissioners, including Francis Wanderi, Justus Nyangaya, and Irene Masit, rejected the presidential results because the accuracy of the source of the figures was not adding up.

"Within seven (7) days after the presidential election, the chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission shall; (a) declare the result of the election; and (b) deliver a written notification of the result to the Chief Justice and the incumbent president," reads Article 138(10) of the Constitution.

Even before the results are released, Kenyans are urged to exercise caution, especially when sharing fake news on social media platforms. Take for instance, Viral Tea intercepted alleged claims that there was a Form 34C uploaded on the IEBC portal.

Screenshot of an error message displayed on the IEBC portal when one tries to download the Form 34C. /FILE

The statement signed by RMS chairman, S.K. Macharia and ousted Baringo Senator, Gideon Moi indicated that the two media houses had tallying teams for the presidential elections based on Form 34A, with each carrying out their own tallying exercise.

RMS added that it has been tallying results of the previous elections from 2003 to 2017 (both rounds) and displayed the outcome on its screens for purposes of public viewing.

A statement by Royal Media Services and Standard Media Group on the presidential election results flagged as fake. /COURTESY

"After the polling stations closed on 9th August 2022 at 5pm and images of Form 34A started being populated at IEBC and the public portal, RMS had already integrated its own system to tally from the public portal. Every form 34A image that we have tallied has been stored in our cloud servers at Amazon.

"With the Supreme Court order you can download these forms 34A that we have tallied and using the link to view the forms," it claimed in part.

The statement added that the results of the forms as tallied had placed Azimio la Umoja presidential candidate, Raila Odinga, ahead of Deputy President William Ruto, with George Wajackoyah of the Roots Party coming in third and Waihiga Mwaure of Agano Party following in fourth. Raila amassed 51.13 per cent against Ruto's 48.22 per cent, Wajackoyah's 0.43 per cent and Mwaure 0.22 per cent.

It concluded by stating that the results showing Raila leading the elections are based on the 46,229 form 34As downloaded from the public portal, tallied and stored at its Amazon server.

A fact check by Viral Tea has since confirmed that the alleged statement is false. RMS has had its own platform where Kenyans had access to presidential results as they streamed in, drawn from the Form 34As from the IEBC portal.

RMS, Nation Media Group (NMG) and other Kenyan media houses had been getting Form 34As from the platform, curating them before broadcasting them on screen. However, some media houses have been faster than others in transmitting results due to their capability.

"The figures you see on the screen will keep going up, some media houses are faster than others, some are efficient," Citizen TV anchor, Yvonne Okwara explained the technique of transmission, with punctuality and acute data analysis being the key to the different figures.

Her colleague, Trevor Ombija, seemed to have a different perspective as he showed off the station's capability to present figures more accurately and effectively.

"Some people have more data analysts and have state-of-the-art equipment," Ombija noted.

NTV journalist, Daniel Mwangi noted that their figures were based on Form 34As picked at random from all constituencies.

Each media house has an established data centre with teams working round the clock to process the results. This includes manually downloading Forms 34A from all the polling stations as loaded in the IEBC’s portal and tabulating them.

NMG on Saturday, August 13 had explained that it slowed down on updating the presidential results on its platforms to reorganise its resources used to count the votes uploaded on IEBC's portal. It added that it was setting itself up to count the Form 34Bs uploaded into the system and to allow its team to validate its data.

London-based news outlet, Reuters explained that Kenyans could not access the presidential results tallies on its feed on the Google Search engine since its team was involved in the tedious work of compiling the data and tabulating it.

"We are aware that the Reuters tally of results from the Kenya presidential election no longer appears on Google searches. Our tally is based on preliminary constituency-level forms posted on the election commission website and collated by our data team outside the country.

A screenshot of the Reuters presidential tally showing Raila Odinga ahead with 44 million votes. /KENNEDY WANDERA

"Reuters continues to report on the Kenya election – including providing updates on the commission’s preliminary and final voting data - in an independent and unbiased way," the media house's press team explained.

The disappearance of the tallies from Google saw social media users suspect that the media house was hacked after an initial human error on the results it had displayed.

Reuters and British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) are some of the media houses that have been updating their tallies on their platforms based on Forms 34A and 34B downloaded from the IEBC portal. Only the IEBC will announce the final results officially.

To further fuel the claims, the eagle was reported to have snatched the drone belonging to Royal Media Services' (RMS) Citizen TV which was offering live coverage of the Azimio presidential candidate, Raila Odinga, making his final submission before the August 9 general elections.

In addition, the photo was also circulated by supporters of the Kenya Kwanza coalition under Deputy President William Ruto, who was hosting the coalition's final mega rally concurrently at the Nyayo National Stadium.

One of the reports insinuating that the eagle caught a drone in Kenya during the Azimio final mega rally on August 6, 2022. /FACEBOOK

Supporters of both sides began clashing over the incident, making multiple claims that the bird of prey had caught the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) device, adding that it was a bad omen for both candidates.

The photo was intercepted by Viral Tea and upon a reverse search, it was revealed that the image did not stem from either of the rallies nor was it taken in Kenya.

It was traced to photographer Koen Van Weel, who took the picture in March 2016. It documents a trained eagle, from the Guard from Above company, wrapping its talons around a drone during a police exercise in the Netherlands.

“An eagle of the Guard from Above company, grasps a drone during a police exercise in Katwijk, on March 7, 2016. The bird of prey can get drones from the air by catching them with his legs.” the image was captioned by Getty Images.

The eagles were used by police in the Netherlands to bring down rogue drones which were being used to commit crimes. However, they were retired in 2017 after a number of issues arose during the exercise.

The low-tech solution first hit the headlines in early 2016 when Dutch law enforcement showed off the seemingly impressive skills of their feathered friends.

Drones such as DJI’s Phantom 4 machine were no match for the bird of prey, its sharp talons and equally sharp eyesight able to pinpoint and pluck a drone from the sky in a single, lightning-fast manoeuvre.

According to local media, the eagles didn’t always do what was expected of them, which presumably means they were occasionally distracted by other things happening around them during training sessions. 

In addition, eagle lovers had begun expressing concern that the drones, which come with fast-spinning propellers, would result in serious injuries to the eagles in bringing down the rogue drones.

The Netherlands was the first country to tackle rogue drones in this way, and Dutch police revealed that they were looking at other options as they moved the eagles to a shelter.

The US Air Force, meanwhile, has been conducting research on falcons and how they target prey to develop defense systems against drones.

A black kite taking flight in Kenya. /iNATURALIST

A video shared by NTV which has since gone viral captured Wajackoyah addressing supporters at a club in Kisumu on Tuesday, August 2 dressed in a durag.

He spoke highly of the former Prime Minister, recalling how he brought him out of his tribulations given that he had spent time in jail during his political career.

Wajackoyah termed Raila as a person he would look up to, and touted him as the reason he was alive and well to address the revellers who went wild with screams during his endorsement of Raila.

George Wajackoyah during a past campaign address. /PEOPLE DAILY

"Because of that, man (Raila). The man whose tears come out every day because of what happened to him in jail, including me.

"I am here to join liberators. And the person I look at, the person who makes me stand here is none other than Raila Odinga," Wajackoya said.

The following day, he denied endorsing the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya candidate, blaming Deputy President William Ruto's faction for creating what he termed as an altered video.

“I have seen the video. You know people are just mad. William Ruto’s people have created an image of me on Facebook saying I am supporting him. Some are saying I have endorsed Raila.

“Yes, I said those words, that I look up to Raila just like I what I said about Ruto in Eldoret. I was acknowledging what Raila has done in Nyanza, and what he has done for the people. What is wrong is that?” he told The Standard.

His spokesperson Wilson Muirani (Jaymo Ule Msee) subsequently released a statement, clarifying that he was only giving the other three presidential candidates “some level of respect", adding that the party is confident of Wajackoyah's victory in the August elections.

“We have not and will not endorse any other candidate. The notion that Prof Wajackoya has endorsed Raila Odinga is a hopeless imagination and wishful thinking that only exists in the minds of biased media.

“We understand the various political camps have panicked over their expectations vs reality in this election and therefore have resulted in all underhand means to create a notion of winning this election," Jaymo stated.

Wajackoyah has been emerging third best in recent opinion polls, only ahead of David Mwaure of the Agano party. Two of them released on Tuesday, that is, Infotrak and IPSOS Synovate placed him at 2 per cent and 2.9 per cent respectively.

In the IPSOS poll, it was revealed that voters took issue with Wajackoyah's ambition to legalise marijuana in the country, despite him assuring that it would be for commercial purposes to boost Kenya's economy.

During his manifesto reveal on Thursday, June 30, he also promised to export hyena meat and hyena testicles to China if elected president, as another way of creating employment and creating more money for the country. 

"But we shall export dog meat to China, we shall export hyena meat to China. Because we don't need hyenas in our country, Chinese eat hyenas," he said amidst claps from the audience at the Kenyatta International Conventional Centre.

He further explained that hyena testicles fetch a huge market value, claiming that they can be utilised for medicinal properties.

"One thousand male hyenas have two thousand testicles and I hear hyena testicles are used as medicine in China.

"Therefore, testicles are much more valuable than ganja (weed), one testicle goes for around Ksh6 million. So we shall export Hyena meat, dog meat and also hyenas!" he added.

However, conservationists took fault with his sentiments that exposed the animals to poachers, with a section of Samburu County residents affirming that hyenas are among wild animals that attract visitors including researchers and tourists who promote tourism generating income and employment opportunities for the local communities.

The clip was doctored to make it look as though the Kenya Kwanza presidential candidate was alleged to be uttering inciteful and divisive remarks when he took his campaigns to Uasin Gishu County. 

The clip was divided into several parts and left out the rest of the address to convince netizens that Ruto was trying to incite residents of the county ahead of the August 9 general elections. 

Deputy President William Ruto speaking during a past rally. /FILE

Both personalities posted that video on their verified accounts on Tuesday, August 2, slamming the Deputy President for allegedly using those remarks to turn Uasin Gishu residents against non-indigenous Kenyans, urging them to drive them out if they do not back his presidential bid in the elections. 

"Completely unacceptable! It is just not right. This is now dangerous. 

"Someone remind Ruto that Kenya is a country for all of us. Live where you want and vote your choice freely. This is exactly why we need Azimio la Umoja," Joho wrote. 

"Madharau na Vitisho ya watu wa Central, Western na Nyanza itaisha Tarehe Tisa mwezi huu. (Disrespect and insults against Central, Western and Nyanza residents will stop on August 9). What a shame for a Deputy president of a county of many communities to speak like this," wrote Junet. 

The posts drew the anger of KOT whose members were quick to spot the irregularities in the clips. 

"It's sad how low leaders can go to sway voters but let us not play with people's lives. Such a shame Hon Junet for posting this fake clip/ translation," one user replied. 

"6 days to the election, this is so sad! Deputy President William Ruto should urgently record a statement at the nearest Police Station. Leaders that are trying to divide Kenya shame on you!" Alinur Mohamed weighed in. 

Others proceeded to report the clips to Twitter for further action.

Viral Tea has established that the clips were indeed doctored, with the original clip showing Ruto urging the Uasin Gishu residents not to let politics separate their need to unite as Kenyans ahead of the election period. 

"The people of Western Kenya, Nyanza, Central and other parts of the country who are here all belong to Uasin Gishu and their home is Uasin Gishu. This county is the home of every Kenyan and we want to tell those who want to divide us, shame on you and we will report you to God if you try to divide us," he said. 

Kenyans are urged to be wary of disinformation and misinformation as the elections draw closer.

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) recently highlighted TikTok as the social media platform most prevalent in spreading hate speech messages.

The commission, in a weekly report, noted the increase from 14 cases in the previous week to 20 cases between July 15 and July 21 on TikTok. 

Facebook came second with 12 cases while Twitter had 11 cases of hate speech. Two cases were highlighted on Telegram.

NCIC Commissioner Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia. /FILE

During a Spice FM interview on Monday, July 4, the lawmaker had revealed that he will not run for any elective office or nomination in the upcoming August 9 General Election.

“The issue of contesting is a personal decision. I decided this time round not to seek any elective position.

Nominated MP David Ole Sankok. /DAILY NATION

"I need to focus on my businesses because I started engaging in the advocacy of people with disabilities at a very early age, so I never had space to develop myself and that is what it is,” he said.

He however noted that he wanted to continue fighting for the rights of people with disabilities even after his departure from politics.

"If you've followed debates in Parliament, you've probably noticed that I always arrive on time for debates and always leave after the Speaker.

"I am always on time because I don't want anything to go by without me bringing up the issue of persons with disabilities. I was recognized as the best performing male MP for three years," he added.

The following day, in an interview with TV47, he termed the statement on retiring from politics as false, noting that he was too young to quit the game.

"I did not say that I am retiring from politics, those are rumours. I said that I am not going for any elective seat just like my brother and friends Prof Kindiki, just like Sabina Chege. Just like John Mbadi the ODM chairman.

"Not going for an elective seat does not mean retiring from politics and if you see me very well, at the age of 43, yet we have people at the age of 80 still in politics, do I look like somebody who can exit politics?" he posed.

Sankok recently took the podium to rally support for Deputy President William Ruto’s manifesto, urging Kenyans to vote wisely during the August 9 general elections.

He has been known for showing up to the National Assembly in bright green attire with national flag stripes.

He is currently battling charges of improper storage of a firearm following the death of his 15-year-old son through alleged suicide earlier in May.