A director of Cosmic Enterprises Limited was on Wednesday arraigned at the Mavoko Law Courts and charged with defrauding a retired military officer of KSh 50 million.
Amit Mansukhlal Hindocha, who pleaded on behalf of the company, denied the charges before Senior Principal Magistrate Derrick Kuto during a virtual hearing. The court released him on a cash bail of KSh 100,000 or a bond of KSh 500,000.
“Having considered submissions from both parties, including the DPP’s lack of opposition to bail, I order the accused to deposit KSh 100,000 in cash or a KSh 500,000 bond on behalf of the company,” ruled the magistrate.
Co-Accused and Bail Terms
Others charged in the same case—involving the alleged fraud against retired Colonel Abdi Daya Ali—are Edward Mutisya Muhindi and Willy Kipkorir Koske. The duo is accused of falsely claiming they could subdivide, sell, or transfer 50 plots on LR No. 26699/27 (approx. 2.999 hectares) in Mavoko Sub-County. They were released on KSh 200,000 cash bail each.
Fifth Accused’s Absence
The magistrate directed the fifth accused, Amos Kyondu Ngumbi, to present medical documents after his lawyer cited ongoing diabetes treatment. However, the prosecution noted Ngumbi had repeatedly failed to appear in court or submit proof of his condition.
“A warrant of arrest should be issued against the fifth accused for absconding court—this marks the fifth absence without medical documentation,” said Abdirazak Mohamed, the complainant’s lawyer. He urged stricter bail terms given the sums involved.
Ngumbi’s plea-taking was deferred to the next mention date.
Charges and Allegations
The charge sheet states that between 2018 and September 2019, the accused conspired to defraud Col. Ali by falsely asserting they could legally transfer government-owned land. They face additional counts of obtaining money and land registration by false pretenses.
The case will be mentioned on 6th May for pre-trial directions.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has named his starting XI that will face Gabon in a 2026 World Cup qualifier at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, March 23, 2024.
The South African tactician has made four changes to the squad that drew 3-3 against Gambia, with Johnstone Omurwa, William Lenkupae, Timothy Ouma, and Bajaber Mohammed all earning starting slots.
Starting XI: Ian Otieno (GK), Ronney Onyango, Johnstone Omurwa, Daniel Anyembe, Erick Ouma, Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, William Lekumpae, Mohammed Bajaber, Timothy Ouma, Michael Olunga
Subs: Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikalo, Manzur Okwaro, Brian Mandela, Duke Abuya, Ismael Gonzlez, John Avire, Ben Stanley Omondi, Masud Juma, Jonah Ayunga, Elvis Rupia
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has reaffirmed his commitment to a political partnership with President William Ruto through a personal letter dated March 3, 2025.
The letter, obtained by a local newspaper and stamped received on March 4, has paved the way for a formal alliance between Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, formalized on March 8 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.
This unexpected collaboration between two former rivals has sparked both optimism and controversy as Kenya grapples with economic challenges and the lingering wounds of recent unrest.
The letter reveals Odinga’s gratitude for Ruto’s extensive support during his unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, which ended in defeat to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on February 15.
Odinga highlights Ruto’s personal lobbying of African heads of state, alongside the deployment of top officials like Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Intelligence Service Director General Noordin Haji, as evidence of the president’s commitment.
“Your early and enthusiastic support and encouragement for my candidature propelled me forward,” Odinga writes, adding, “The moral and material support that you offered me left no doubt about your belief in my candidacy.”
Rather than framing the AUC loss as a setback, Odinga casts it as a unifying moment, pledging his “total support” to Ruto’s leadership within the AUC and beyond.
“Together, we can steer Kenya toward a future of unity and progress,” he states, signaling a bold intent to heal a nation still reeling from the violent tax protests of June 2024 and the divisive 2022 presidential election that pitted the two leaders against each other.
The partnership was cemented with the signing of the Kenya Kwanza-ODM Framework Agreement, attended by MPs and key officials, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
The 10-point plan outlines priorities such as tackling youth unemployment, auditing national debt—currently nearing 10 trillion shillings—and promoting inclusivity in governance.
Speaking at a funeral service in Trans Nzoia County on March 7, Ruto emphasized that the pact is not about power-sharing or the 2027 elections but about fostering unity for Kenya’s social, economic, and political transformation.
“I called Raila and told him: You have been my party leader, and today, by God’s grace, I am president. I want you to be treated well,” Ruto said, praising Odinga’s selflessness.
However, the alliance has not been without controversy.
Critics, including opposition figure Kalonzo Musyoka, have accused Ruto of diplomatic missteps in the AUC campaign and question Odinga’s motives, with some suggesting he may be softening the ground for Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid.
Odinga’s base, particularly in Nyanza and urban centers, has bristled at the idea of supporting a former adversary, while Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition fears a dilution of its agenda.
In response, Odinga has defended the pact, stating at a Kiambu County burial, “I did not go to Ruto; it is Ruto who came to me.”
The partnership leverages Odinga’s enduring grassroots influence—honed through decades of political adaptability, from his 2001 alliance with Daniel arap Moi to the 2018 handshake with Uhuru Kenyatta—to bolster Ruto’s administration amid mounting pressures like inflation and a restless Gen Z population.
Yet, the stakes are high. With Kenya facing a debt crisis and unmet promises of jobs and relief, the Ruto-Odinga pact must deliver tangible results to sustain public faith.
As the ghosts of past election violence linger, this alliance’s success—or failure—could define Kenya’s trajectory for years to come.
A Kenyan-registered cargo plane crashed approximately 24 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu on Saturday, March 22, 2025, claiming the lives of all five people on board, according to the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA).
The aircraft, a DHC-5D Buffalo with serial number 109 and registration 5Y-RBA, was operated by Trident Aviation Ltd. It had departed from Dhobley (HCDB) in Somalia’s Lower Juba region, where it had delivered supplies to African Union forces, and was en route to Aden Abdulle International Airport (HCMM) in Mogadishu when the incident occurred at around 14:43Z (5:43 PM local time).
Preliminary reports from the SCAA indicate that the crash took place under circumstances that are yet to be determined. Government agencies, alongside partners, have already mobilized to the crash site to conduct search and rescue operations, though the SCAA confirmed that there were no survivors.
“Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected,” the SCAA stated in a press release. “Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
The DHC-5D Buffalo is a short-takeoff-and-landing (STOL) utility aircraft often used for cargo transport in rugged terrains, making it a common choice for delivering supplies to remote areas like Dhobley, which supports African Union peacekeeping missions in the region. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with aviation authorities expected to release more details in the coming days.
This tragic incident marks another somber moment for aviation safety in the Horn of Africa, a region that has seen its share of challenges with air transport due to aging aircraft, difficult operating conditions, and limited infrastructure. The SCAA has pledged a thorough investigation to determine the factors leading to the crash.
Safaricom has notified its customers of an upcoming M-PESA system maintenance scheduled for Monday, next week.
The maintenance exercise will begin at 1:00am and is expected to last for 30 minutes, ending at 1:30am.
In a notice released on Saturday, March 22, 2025, the telecommunications giant explained that the temporary interruption is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance service delivery and ensure a reliable, safe, and secure customer experience.
“To meet our promise to always offer reliable, safe, secure and a superior customer experience, we will be conducting a scheduled system maintenance,” read the statement in part.
Safaricom has assured its customers that all other services, including calls, data, and SMS, will remain available and uninterrupted during the M-PESA downtime.
Safaricom clarified that the disruption will only affect M-PESA services, which will be intermittent for the short 30-minute maintenance window.
“The timing of this maintenance has been planned to result in the least inconvenience to our customers,” the statement read.
Few weeks ago,Safaricom said it was keen on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to spur its customers experience.
This is part of its ongoing transformation agenda anchored on sustaining digital
transformation as a key player in the technology industry.
The telco says it is already incorporating in its systems to enhance customer experiences, making them more personalized and impactful.
Likewise, Safaricom says it is already integrating AI into its business processes, leveraging machine learning algorithms to increase efficiency across the organization.
Its Digital Transformation lead Joseph Kanyua emphasized that the integration of AI is crucial to achieving this objective.
“We are taking the lead in this; we know we run the largest network in this region, and we’ve set our ambitions to become Africa’s leading technology company by 2030,”he said.
“There’s no way we are going to achieve that objective without figuring out AI – and not just figuring it out, but actually taking it for a spin.”
Moreover, Safaricom says it’s committed to sustainability and energy optimization as it integrates AI into its infrastructure.
The telco says it is deploying predictive models and intelligent solar solutions across its sites to optimize energy use and support the company’s sustainability goals.
INJECT Party Leader Morara Kebaso on Saturday signaled a possible exit from the opposition alliance led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, citing concerns over “tribal-driven politics.”
Kebaso in a tweet criticized Gachagua’s persistent focus on Mt. Kenya politics, accusing him of pursuing power for the region at the expense of national unity.
With Kebaso’s remarks signaling a simmering rift within the alliance, he questioned its ideological foundation and urged leaders to reflect on their shared values and vision for the country.
“Leaders of opposition should unite. I agree 100 percent. But what is the glue that will hold us together? Do we have shared values? Are we uniting to replace the problem with another problem?” Kebaso posed in his post.
Kebaso, who has been associating with Gachagua and other leaders such as Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, People’s Liberation Party Leader Martha Karua, and DAP-Kenya Leader Eugene Wamalwa, underscored that ethnic-driven leadership is not the path to meaningful change in Kenya.
“Kenyan politics is tribal. YES WE KNOW THAT. That is why we want to change it,” he wrote.
Given Kenya’s long history of tribal-centered politics, Kebaso argued that this approach produces leaders without vision and allows individuals to evade accountability for corruption under the guise of tribal protection.
“Because the tribal process sows hate and division. We can change it. We must change it,’ he said.
The self-proclaimed Gen Z leader, who gained prominence by publicly criticizing President William Ruto’s government for its development record through social media videos exposing unfulfilled projects, declared that the Gen Z demographic will play a major role in determining the outcome of the 2027 General Election.
“The GenZs have more than 10 million TRIBELESS votes. Keep laughing at us and mocking us. We look like dreamers. WATCH THIS DREAM,” Kebaso declared.
Gachagua made history as Kenya’s first Deputy President to be impeached on October 2024, following allegations by Members of Parliament accusing him of promoting tribal politics — claims he denied but which ultimately led to his removal from office.
Former Kisumu Town West MP, Rev. Kenn Nyagudi, has passed away after a long illness.
Former Nyakach MP Peter Odoyo announced his death, stating that Nyagudi died on Sunday evening while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital’s private wing.
Nyagudi was elected in a 2004 by-election following the death of Joab Omino in January of the same year. He served the remainder of the term but lost the 2007 election to Olago Aluoch.
During his tenure, Kisumu Town West remained intact until the Interim Independent Boundaries Review Commission (IIBRC), led by Andrew Ligale, split it into Kisumu Central and Kisumu West constituencies.
In the 2013 elections, after the adoption of the new constitution, Nyagudi contested the Kisumu Central MP seat but lost to political newcomer Ken Obura.
Following his exit from politics, Nyagudi ventured into business and largely stayed out of the public eye.
Former Health Chief Administrative Secretary Mercy Mwangangi and acting Social Health Authority (SHA) CEO Robert Ingasira are among 12 candidates shortlisted for the SHA’s Chief Executive Officer position.
The vacancy arose following the suspension of Elijah Wachira in November 2024, amid investigations into his professional conduct and performance. Ingasira stepped in as acting CEO.
Others include Kennedy Akello, Roberts Abok, Serem Edward, Wario Tore, Agrippina Fernendes, Abdullahi Abdirahman, Musa Lwegado, Samson Kairang’a, Dinah Kirwa, and Kandie Ng’ochoch.
The 12 were shortlisted from an initial 92 applicants.
SHA advertised for the position on February 27, 2025, with applications closing on March 20, 2025.
In a notice on Saturday, SHA CEO Abdi Mohammed announced that the interviews will take place on April 7 and 8, 2025 at the authority’s headquarters.
“Applicants should report to the venue 30 minutes before the scheduled time,” the notice read in part.
The public has been invited to submit any information regarding any of the candidates before the interview dates.
“Members of the public are invited to avail any adverse information relating to any of the shortlisted applicants to the Chairperson, Social Health Authority Board, SHA Building, 10th Floor, Nairobi, or through email to [email protected] to be received on or before 4th April 2025 at 5 pm,” the notice read further.
Candidates will be required to present their original national identity cards, academic and professional certificates, and transcripts during the interview.
They must also provide clearance certificates from the Kenya Revenue Authority, the Higher Education Loans Board, a registered Credit Reference Bureau, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.
For those with degrees from foreign institutions, a recognition letter from the Commission for University Education is mandatory.
Additionally, applicants should submit recommendation letters or certificates of good standing from relevant professional bodies if applicable.
SHA is a state corporation responsible for managing public health insurance, aiming to provide affordable and quality healthcare for all citizens and eligible residents.
It replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) following the enactment of the Social Health Insurance Act, of 2023, and began operations on October 1, 2024.
Yella Beezy, a standout in Southern rap, rose from Dallas’s Oak Cliff neighborhood to become a key figure in hip-hop.
Known for hits like *That’s On Me* and collaborations with stars like Chris Brown and Quavo, Beezy built a loyal fanbase and a promising career. However, his journey has been marred by legal troubles, including a 2025 capital murder charge tied to the killing of rapper Mo3.
As his net worth and legacy come under scrutiny, Beezy’s story remains a complex mix of musical success, legal battles, and unanswered questions about his future.
Yella Beezy Net Worth
Yella Beezy, born Markies Conway, made his name as one of Dallas, Texas’ top hip-hop artists. The rapper, singer, and songwriter built a strong fan base with his gritty trap sound and sharp business sense.
His big break came in 2017 with the hit single “That’s On Me.” The track gained massive attention and climbed to number 56 on the Billboard Hot 100, especially after a remix featuring stars like 2 Chainz and T.I.
Unlike many rappers, Beezy stayed independent, relying on streaming platforms and regional support instead of major record labels.
With a net worth of $2 million, he became a key figure in Southern rap. His raw lyrics and street-smart approach helped him stand out in the crowded hip-hop scene. However, controversy has followed his rise.
Legal troubles have repeatedly threatened his career. The latest and most shocking setback came in 2025 when authorities charged him with capital murder.
The case now casts a shadow over his future in the music industry, leaving fans and the hip-hop community in shock.
Early Life and Career
Yella Beezy grew up in Dallas, Texas, in the Oak Cliff neighborhood. Life wasn’t easy for him. At just 12 years old, he lost his father to violence.
This tragedy pushed him toward music, which became both an emotional escape and a way to make a living.
By the mid-2010s, he started dropping mixtapes, slowly gaining traction in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Beezy’s hustle paid off. He consistently put out projects like *Lite Work*, *Broke Nights Rich Days*, and *Goin Through Some Thangs*.
These releases built him a loyal local fanbase, setting the stage for his eventual rise to national fame. His grind and raw talent made him a standout in the Texas rap scene.
Ascent to Prominence
Yella Beezy’s career took off with *That’s On Me*. The track first blew up in Dallas clubs, then spread like wildfire across the South.
Its rise showed how the music industry had changed—streaming, not radio, fueled its climb up the charts.
This breakout hit opened big doors, including a chance to open for Beyoncé and Jay-Z during their *On the Run II* tour stop in Dallas. The exposure took his fanbase to the next level.
He kept the momentum going with collaborations like *Bacc at It Again* featuring Quavo and Gucci Mane and *Restroom Occupied* with Chris Brown.
These hits solidified his spot in mainstream hip-hop, proving Yella Beezy wasn’t just a local talent—he was here to stay.
Previous Legal Issues
Before his 2025 capital murder charge, Yella Beezy had a string of legal issues. In October 2018, he survived a drive-by shooting, taking multiple bullets.
By 2021, he faced serious charges, including sexual assault and child endangerment, though some were eventually dropped.
In July 2024, Beezy found himself in another legal battle. He and Chris Brown were hit with a $50 million lawsuit filed by attorney Tony Buzbee.
The suit, on behalf of four men—Larry Parker, Joseph Lewis, Charles Bush, and Da Marcus Powell—claimed Beezy and Brown’s entourage violently attacked them backstage after a Fort Worth concert during Brown’s *11:11* tour.
Court documents alleged Brown told Beezy to “f*** up” Parker, who said he was punched and kicked for about ten minutes.
Live Nation and Brown’s head of security were also named in the suit. At least one victim reportedly ended up in the hospital.
Murder Charge of 2025
In a stunning turn of events, Yella Beezy was charged with capital murder on March 21, 2025, for allegedly planning the November 11, 2020, killing of fellow Dallas rapper Mo3 (Melvin Noble).
Court documents claim Beezy hired hitman Kevin Dontrell White to ambush Noble on a Texas interstate.
Prosecutors say Beezy paid White to carry out the attack, which left Noble shot multiple times in the back as he tried to escape his masked attacker.
White was already serving a nine-year sentence for firearm charges tied to the shooting when new evidence reportedly connected Beezy to the crime.
A Dallas County grand jury indicted Beezy on capital murder charges on March 19, 2025.
He was arrested the next day and is being held in Dallas County Jail without bond. If convicted, Beezy could face life in prison or even the death penalty under Texas law.
The alleged murder has sent shockwaves through the hip-hop world, especially since both artists were major players in the Dallas rap scene.
While rumors of tension between the two had circulated, few could have predicted an accusation this severe.
Yella Breezy Musical Legacy and Future
Before the capital murder charges, Yella Beezy was a key player in Southern rap, keeping Dallas on the map in a hip-hop scene often ruled by Atlanta, Houston, and coastal artists.
His unique style—marked by a slow drawl, gritty lyrics, and a hustler’s mindset—inspired a new generation of artists from the region.
Beezy’s entrepreneurial spirit and consistent grind made him a respected figure in the industry. But the murder charge has overshadowed his musical achievements.
It leaves fans and critics questioning his legacy and whether he’ll ever reclaim his place in hip-hop. For now, the future of Yella Beezy—once a rising star—hangs in the balance.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang boasts a net worth of $50 million. A dynamic striker known for his speed and goal-scoring ability, he has left a lasting mark on European football.
From his early days in France to starring for Borussia Dortmund, Arsenal, and Barcelona, Aubameyang’s career is a tale of determination and success.
Beyond football, he embraces a rich multicultural heritage and a strong family bond.
This article explores his journey, achievements, and the fortune he has built through years of excellence on the pitch.
Aubameyang’s goal-scoring prowess earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund in 2013. During his time in Germany, he dominated the Bundesliga, scoring 98 goals in 144 games. [Photo: Courtesy]
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Net Worth
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang boasts a net worth of $50 million. He is famous for captaining both Arsenal and the Gabon national team.
Aubameyang started his youth career at ASL L’Huisserie Football before moving to clubs like Nice, Laval, Rouen, Bastia, and Milan.
In 2008, he joined Milan’s senior squad but never played a competitive match for them. Instead, he spent the next few years on loan.
From 2008 to 2009, Aubameyang played for Dijon, scoring eight goals in 34 appearances. The following season, he joined Lille on loan, netting two goals in 14 games.
In 2010, he moved to Monaco, where he scored twice in 19 matches. A year later, he joined Saint-Étienne on loan, again scoring twice in 14 appearances.
Saint-Étienne signed him permanently in 2011, and he delivered an impressive 35 goals in 73 matches over two seasons. His goal-scoring prowess earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund in 2013.
During his time in Germany, Aubameyang dominated the Bundesliga, scoring 98 goals in 144 games. In 2018, Arsenal secured his services, and he quickly became one of their most important players.
On the international stage, he first represented France at the U-21 level before switching allegiance to Gabon. As the nation’s all-time top scorer, he has netted over 25 goals for the senior team.
Aubameyang’s speed, finishing ability, and leadership have made him one of the most exciting strikers of his generation.
Early Life and Background
Aubameyang was born on June 18, 1989, in Laval, France. His father, Pierre-François Aubameyang, was a former Gabonese international footballer, which played a key role in shaping his passion for the sport. His mother, of Spanish descent, gave him a diverse cultural background.
Early Football Development
Aubameyang started playing football at a young age, training in various youth academies across France. He spent time at AS Laval, Nice, Rouen, and Bastia before joining AC Milan’s youth academy in 2007.
Influence of His Father
His father’s experience as a professional footballer had a major influence on his development, providing guidance and mentorship throughout his career.
Club Career
In 2008, Aubameyang joined Milan’s senior squad but never played a competitive match for them. Instead, he spent the next few years on loan.
From 2008 to 2009, Aubameyang played for Dijon, scoring eight goals in 34 appearances. The following season, he joined Lille on loan, netting two goals in 14 games.
In 2010, he moved to Monaco, where he scored twice in 19 matches. A year later, he joined Saint-Étienne on loan, again scoring twice in 14 appearances.
Saint-Étienne signed him permanently in 2011, and he delivered an impressive 35 goals in 73 matches over two seasons.
His goal-scoring prowess earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund in 2013. During his time in Germany, Aubameyang dominated the Bundesliga, scoring 98 goals in 144 games.
In 2018, Arsenal secured his services, and he quickly became one of their most important players.
International Career
Although born in France, Aubameyang chose to represent Gabon at the international level, honoring his father’s heritage.
He first played for France’s U-21 team before switching to Gabon’s U-23 squad. As Gabon’s all-time top scorer, he has netted over 25 goals for the senior team.
Aubameyang’s speed, finishing ability, and leadership have made him one of the most exciting strikers of his generation.
Personal Life
Aubameyang is married to Alysha Behague. They have been together since his early playing days in France. The couple has two sons, Curtys and Pierre.
In 2022, their home in Barcelona was invaded by robbers. Reports revealed that the children were terrified and struggled to cope with the trauma after the incident.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Net Worth, Awards and Recognitions
Aubameyang has enjoyed a successful career, earning numerous individual and team honors.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that Margaret Nduta, a 37-year-old Kenyan woman facing execution in Vietnam for drug trafficking, is alive and receiving humane treatment, despite being “deeply distressed.”
Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei announced on Friday that a consular team, dispatched from Bangkok, successfully secured travel visas and gained access to Nduta at Hoi Chi Minh Prison, where she has been held since her arrest in July 2023.
Nduta’s case has gripped the nation and sparked a diplomatic scramble as Kenya races against time to prevent her execution by lethal injection.
Arrested while transiting through Ho Chi Minh City en route to Laos, Nduta was caught with over two kilograms of cocaine concealed in a suitcase.
She claims she was unwittingly hired by a man known only as “John,” who paid her $1,300 (Sh167,000) and provided air tickets to deliver the suitcase to an unnamed woman.
Nduta told Vietnamese authorities she successfully passed through security checks at three airports—JKIA in Nairobi, Bole International in Ethiopia, and Hamad International in Qatar—before her capture in Vietnam, a known drug trafficking hub in the Golden Triangle region.
Vietnam’s stringent drug laws mandate the death penalty for anyone caught smuggling more than 600 grams of cocaine, a threshold Nduta far exceeded. Convicted on March 6, 2025, her initial execution date was set for March 17 but was postponed amid Kenya’s diplomatic interventions.
Dr. Sing’Oei described the situation as a “difficult matter,” noting that while Nduta lacked legal representation during her trial, an appeal has been filed and is scheduled to be heard soon.
“In the meantime, we continue to engage our Vietnamese counterparts on other options towards resolving this difficult matter,” he said in a statement.
The confirmation of Nduta’s survival offers a glimmer of hope to her family and supporters, who have been vocal in their belief that she was framed.
Easy money
Nduta in Kenya.
However, her case brings to light a troubling trend of young Kenyan women being ensnared by international drug syndicates.
Historical cases, such as that of Floviance Owino, arrested in China in 2013 and initially sentenced to death before a two-year suspension, highlight the perilous lure of “easy money” for vulnerable individuals.
Similarly, Rose Achieng Ojala faced execution in Malaysia in 2017 for trafficking methamphetamine, only to have her sentence commuted to life imprisonment, while Oliviah Singaniabe Munoko received a life sentence in China in 2006 for smuggling heroin.
Kenya’s Foreign Ministry has pledged ongoing consular support as Nduta’s appeal progresses, amid broader efforts to address the plight of over 1,200 Kenyans imprisoned globally for drug-related offenses as of 2019.
The government’s diplomatic engagement with Vietnam signals a critical push to either secure clemency or negotiate Nduta’s repatriation to serve a sentence in Kenya.
As the appeal date approaches, Nduta’s fate remains uncertain.
The Court of Appeal has declined to stay High Court orders regarding the majority coalition in the National Assembly, despite Speaker Moses Wetangula’s decision overturning the declaration on account of autonomy.
The Court ruled on Friday that granting a stay order would amount to prematurely endorsing the Speaker’s decision, as the High Court had yet to determine whether it complied with its earlier judgment.
“Even after the contested Speaker’s ruling of 12th February 2025, the National Assembly has continued to discharge its duties, albeit with some acrimony,” the court observed.
On the claim that the High Court judgment had significantly disrupted parliamentary operations, the Court reiterated that there was no compelling evidence to support this assertion.
Embarrassment
Additionally, the Court dismissed concerns that the ruling could lead to legal consequences — such as contempt of court proceedings against Speaker Wetangula.
“The likelihood of a party being summoned to court to respond to an allegation of contempt of court — and the attendant inconvenience or embarrassment that may result — is not sufficient reason to stay court proceedings,” the Court noted.
Regarding Wetangula’s dual role as Speaker of the National Assembly and leader of Ford Kenya, the Court stated that no dispositive order had been issued by the High Court on the matter.
“In such circumstances, we cannot pronounce ourselves on the same in an application for stay of proceedings or execution as the one before us. We can only stay a positive order that was issued by the trial court,” the court determined.
Wetangula had appealed the ruling, arguing that it had severely disrupted legislative functions.
However, the Court dismissed this claim, stating that there was insufficient evidence to prove the claim.
The media fraternity is in mourning following the sudden death of Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) reporter Fredrick Parsayo on Friday.
The devastating news was announced by KBC Managing Director Agnes Kalekye.
The young reporter died under unclear circumstances at his home in Kinoo, Kikuyu constituency, and police are currently investigating the matter.
“It is with profound sorrow that we inform you of the demise of Fredrick Parsayo, a reporter at the KBC Editorial Department. The late Parsayo met his death on Friday, 21st March 2025, under unclear circumstances at his residence in Kinoo – Kikuyu constituency. The matter was reported to the Kinoo Police Station”, said Kalekye in a statement.
Ms. Kalekye deeply mourned Parsayo, describing him as a cherished member of the newsroom team, adding that his absence would be profoundly felt by all.
“The late Parsayo was a valued member of the newsroom team and his loss will be felt by all those who knew and worked with him”, she said.
His body has been transferred to St. Teresa Mortuary, and the next of kin have been notified of the tragic loss.
There has been an outpouring of heartfelt sympathies from the Editor-in-Chief, Samuel Maina and colleagues who are still struggling to come to terms with the news.
President William Ruto has nominated former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Nairobi.
The appointment was part of a reorganization of Kenya’s foreign missions, announced Wednesday in a statement from State House.
President Ruto’s Chief of Staff and head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, are part of efforts to accelerate the administration’s development agenda.
Nakhumicha previously served as the Cabinet Secretary for Health, a position she held from October 2022 to July 2024.
During her tenure, she faced mounting challenges, including rampant strikes by healthcare workers and scrutiny over stalled reforms in Kenya’s public health sector.
Ruto named Nakhumicha alongside five other nominees including former Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum whom he has nominated as Ambassador to Kinshasa.
The President also nominated Afred Ombudo and Geoffrey Kaituko and Deputy Heads of Mission to Brussels and Rome respectively.
He nominated EAC Principal Secretary Abdi Dubat Consul-General to Arusha and James Muhati in a similar capacity in Guazhou, China.
The new appointees will be vetted by the National Assembly before assuming their positions, as stipulated in the Constitution.
The diplomatic reassignments come amid as Ruto works to strengthen Kenya’s global engagement strategy months after the Cabinet endorsed a revised Foreign Policy.
President William Ruto has unveiled a sweeping reorganization of Kenya’s government, announcing new appointments and reassignments of Principal Secretaries (PSs) alongside key diplomatic postings to foreign missions.
The changes, detailed in Executive Order No. 1 of 2025 and signed by Chief of Staff Felix K. Koskei on March 19, aim to align government operations with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), a flagship policy targeting economic growth and social equity.
In a press release from the Executive Office of the President, the restructuring is described as a response to emerging economic opportunities and persistent social challenges.
The changes, enacted under the President’s constitutional authority per Articles 132 and 155, include the nomination of 14 new Principal Secretaries, the reassignment of six existing ones, and the appointment of several diplomats to strengthen Kenya’s global presence.
All nominations await National Assembly approval.
New Faces and Reassignments
Among the notable appointments, Dr. Jane Kare Imbunya has been tapped as Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Service & Human Capital Development, while Ms. Regina Akoth Ombam will take the helm at the State Department for Trade.
Dr. Caroline Wanjiru Karugu, a known ally of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has been nominated for the State Department for East African Community Affairs, hinting at a move toward political inclusivity. Other nominees include Dr. Oluga Fredrick Ouma (Medical Services), Prof. Abdulrazak Shaukat (Higher Education & Innovation), and Mr. Aden Abdi Millah (Shipping & Maritime Affairs).
Six current Principal Secretaries face reassignments to new portfolios. Prof. Julius Bitok moves to Basic Education, Ms. Teresiah Mbaika to Aviation & Aerospace Development, and Mr. Harry Kimtai to Mining, among others.
Nakhumicha’s appointment
On the international front, President Ruto has nominated several individuals to key diplomatic roles. Susan Nakhumicha Wafula will serve as Permanent Representative to the UN Habitat in Nairobi, while Mr. James Buyekane Muhati takes up the Consul-General post in Guangzhou, China.
Eng. Peter Tum is slated as Ambassador to Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mr. Alfred K’Ombundo will be Deputy Head of Mission in Brussels, Belgium.
The nominations have been forwarded to the National Assembly for vetting, a process that will determine the final lineup of Ruto’s restructured government.
The government has suffered yet another setback after the high court annulled the government’s decision to channel all advertisements exclusively through the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) is unconstitutional.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi on Thursday quashed a directive issued by ICT Principal Secretary Edward Kisiang’ani in March last year, which required all government ministries, state agencies, independent commissions, and public universities to place advertisements only with KBC.
Justice Mugambi held that the government desicion violates Articles 10 and 27 of the Constitution, which uphold principles of good governance, equality, and non-discrimination.
It was the court’s finding that Kisiang’ani acted beyond his authority, noting that such a policy decision could only be lawfully made by the Treasury Cabinet Secretary.
The court further noted that the PS had unlawfully assumed powers he did not have, rendering the directive null and void.
The court said that restricting government advertisements to a single broadcaster undermines media freedom and breaches Article 34 of the Constitution.
Adding that the move amounted to indirect control over the media and circumvented fair procurement processes.
He said that excluding private media from government advertisements cannot stand constitutional scrutiny, as it is detrimental to media freedom and fair competition.
Jubilee Party has started campaigns to popularise former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i as its presidential candidate in the next elections.
Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni recently led party officials to Nyamira County, Matiangi’s backyard, where they drummed up support for the former CS’s presidential bid.
He also ruled out the possibility of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua being on the ballot.
“If a person has been impeached by the Senate there is no court that can reverse the decision. Gachagua has now joined the club of former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and now Kawira Mwangaza of Meru who were impeached by the Senate,” said Kioni.
He dismissed what he termed cheap propaganda by the ruling party, UDA, that the Mt Kenya region could field a presidential candidate to divide Matiang’i’s support.
Kioni said Mt Kenya has dominated the presidency and the region should support a candidate from another region, particularly those who come from small tribes like Matiang’i.
The official asked Kenyans to support Matiang’i, saying he was the only person who would fix the economic, political, security and social issues caused by President William Ruto’s regime.
He lashed out at President Ruto’s leadership.
“How can a president spend much of his time on top of vehicles, campaigning instead of sitting in his office addressing challenges facing Kenyans like insecurity, health services and deteriorating education standards?” he posed.
Kioni criticised Ruto for subjecting Kenyans to hard conditions of living because of over-borrowing.
He said Ruto had borrowed more money within the two years he has been in power compared to what his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta borrowed in his 10-year tenure.
“The president has borrowed Sh5.2 trillion within the short time he has been in office compared to Uhuru Kenyatta’s Sh6.2 trillion in his entire stay in office,” he said.
Kioni said delivered in his assignments.
The secretary-general accused Ruto of ignoring projects that had been initiated by his predecessor.
He disclosed that there are talks between Matiang’i, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
According to Kioni, the Ruto and Raila Odinga political union was inconsequential and would not go far.
“Jubilee Party cannot be ignored in the formation of the next government owing to the fact that its current voter membership is 7.1 million compared to Raila’s ODM which is 5 million members.
According to Kioni, the Ruto administration had lost grip of 29 counties which he noted are key in determining the outcome of the next presidential polls.
Politicians from Nyamira led by the party’s branch chairman Ben Nyabunga said that the Kisii would vote for Matiang’i as a bloc.
Nyabunga said Matiang’i deserved the seat given his record.
Three directors of Tareef Enterprises Limited have been charged in court for obtaining goods by false pretences.
The three directors; Ali Sheikh Hassan, Ahmed Mohamed Karshf and Abdulaziz Mohamed Karshf are accused of obtaining cement, bitumen and paraffin valued at Ksh 7.8 million from John Mwaniki Kiarie by falsely pretending they were in a position to pay.
According to the prosecution, the directors fraudulently obtained the said goods on diverse dates between January 2019 and December 2020.
The Directors were also charged with fraudulenty obtaining from Mwaniki Ksh 4,335,000 by falsely pretending they would construct a road in Maua, Meru County.
Allegedly, the directors after defrauding the complainant, they proceeded to issue him with a Ksh 990,000 bad Cheque knowing pretty well that the Tareef Enterprises Limited account had insufficient funds.
The directors appearing before Magistrate Benmark Ekhubi denied the charges and were released Ksh 2 million bond with an alternative cash bail of Ksh 500,000.
Hamon Nyakundi, a prominent Mombasa businessman and managing director of Go-Green Garbage Collectors, finds himself at the center of a brewing storm.
The contractor, whose firm was hired by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) to manage waste collection across KPA estates in Mombasa, is now under police scrutiny following allegations that he threatened a human rights activist who exposed his company’s illegal activities.
The controversy erupted after the activist lodged a formal complaint at Makupa Police Station on February 14, 2025, under OB number 043, claiming his life was in danger.
The whistleblower accused Nyakundi of making verbal threats over the phone, a reaction allegedly triggered by a letter sent to the businessman on February 11.
The letter accused Go-Green Garbage Collectors of unlawfully dumping waste in residential areas, specifically at Block JA within the KPA High Level estate—an area not designated for waste disposal by the Mombasa County government.
“Your company disposed of waste and garbage at the same place, which is unlawful and contrary to the Waste Management Regulations of 2005 under EMCA 1999 and Mombasa County by-laws,” the activist wrote in the letter.
The document also demanded that Nyakundi’s firm provide a valid license from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) authorizing waste transportation and disposal, giving the company a three-day ultimatum to comply.
Nyakundi’s response was swift and furious. According to the activist’s police statement, the businessman called immediately after receiving the letter, hurling insults and threats. “He called me a conman and a gun for hire,” the whistleblower reported, adding that Nyakundi’s tone suggested a clear intent to intimidate.
The activist’s claims paint a picture of a contractor rattled by the accusations and unwilling to tolerate scrutiny.
The businessman’s legal team wasted no time escalating the rhetoric.
In a letter dated February 12, 2025, signed by Collins Ondeng of Mutisya Mwanza and Advocates, Nyakundi’s lawyer dismissed the activist as “a busy body, hoodlum, and idle character peddling rumors and defamatory statements” against their client.
The letter further argued that the whistleblower had no authority to act as a regulatory or licensing body, accusing him of masquerading as a human rights defender with ulterior motives.
Not content to leave the matter in the hands of his lawyer, Nyakundi took his own steps, filing a counter-report at Central Police Station on February 13 under OB number 24.
When approached by a local newspaper for comment, Nyakundi was dismissive and combative. Answering the phone with palpable arrogance, he brushed off the activist’s letter as a “fake and forged demand” designed to extort him. “This is just an attempt to con me,” he snapped before abruptly ending the call.
The activist’s allegations, however, are not without substance.
Eyewitness accounts corroborate claims that Go-Green Garbage Collectors’ trucks have been spotted dumping waste at undesignated sites within the KPA High Level estate.
The incident on February 11, observed at around 1:15 p.m., has fueled concerns about the contractor’s compliance with environmental regulations—a matter now likely to draw the attention of both NEMA and Mombasa County authorities.
Nyakundi’s troubles are compounded by whispers of a broader pattern of behavior.
According to news reports, anonymous sources have described him as a “rogue contractor” with a history of intimidating detractors.
A licensed gun holder, Nyakundi is said to boast of having senior security officers in Mombasa “in his pocket,” a claim that, if substantiated, could raise serious questions about accountability in the region’s waste management contracts.
The former Nyandarua County Governor Daniel Waithaka Mwangi and former CEC Member for Water Grace Wanjiru Gitonga, have each been sentenced to two years in prison or a fine of Kes1 million for their involvement in the Kes50 million tender scandal.
The two were convicted on March 13, 2025, when the Court found them guilty of various corruption related offences.
Before Chief Magistrate Hon. Evans Keago in Nyahururu, Governor Waithaka, who was convicted on charges of abuse of office and failure to comply with procurement laws has today, March 20, 2025, been sentenced to two years imprisonment for each count or a fine of Kes1,000,000. The sentences will run concurrently.
Similarly, Ms. Gitonga who was also convicted on two counts of failure to comply with procurement laws, and initiating a project without prior planning has been sentenced to two years imprisonment for each count or a fine of Kes1,000,000. The sentences will equally run concurrently.
The Court will convene on March 24, 2025, for a mention to confirm payment of the fines or to commit the convicts to start their sentences.