Kenya Insights

Author: Guy Bolding PW

  • Parliament Approves Kenya Pipeline Privatization

    Parliament Approves Kenya Pipeline Privatization

    Nairobi, Kenya – In a move that could redefine the country’s control over one of its most strategic state corporations, Parliament on Wednesday approved a sessional paper authorising the privatisation of the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC).

    Under the plan, the government will sell 65 percent of its stake through an Initial Public Offering (IPO) at the Nairobi Securities Exchange, retaining at least 35 percent ownership.

    Treasury estimates the sale could raise Sh100 billion, funds it says are crucial for the 2025/26 budget, infrastructure projects, and reducing public borrowing.

    Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who seconded the motion, defended the plan as both financially sound and secure for the State.

    “This means we will still maintain control, as no single investor will be able to take up the entire 65 percent. I invite all Kenyans to start saving in preparation to buy shares in this company,” he said on the floor of the House.

    But the approval has sparked outrage among opposition MPs, who accused the Executive of orchestrating a legislative ambush.

    Deputy Minority Leader Robert Mbui said the sessional paper was not on the original Order Paper and was instead “sneaked in” via a Supplementary Order Paper tabled at 3:30 p.m. on the same day.

    “The House has been compromised. This was an ambush,” Mbui charged, vowing to challenge the decision in court. “We are asking Kenyans to move to court even as the united opposition prepares to do the same.”

    Billions in Pending Liabilities

    While the Treasury has marketed the IPO as a landmark opportunity, the Kenya Pipeline Company comes with heavy baggage. The Supplementary Order Paper lists Sh5.75 billion in unsettled liabilities that must be addressed before the privatisation goes forward.

    These include Sh3.8 billion in compensation claims by Makueni County residents over historical grievances linked to pipeline operations, Sh400 million lost in the stalled Mzima pipeline project, a Sh485 million garnishee order in favour of Zakhem International over the Line V project, and Sh192.6 million tied to a disputed takeover of the LPG facility by Asharami Synergy.

    Analysts warn that unless these disputes are settled transparently, the IPO could be undermined, with investors reluctant to buy into a company weighed down by lawsuits.

    Promise vs. Risk

    For government, the sale represents a lifeline. Kenya Pipeline is a cash-generating monopoly that transports and stores petroleum products, and officials hope its IPO will emulate the success of Safaricom’s 2008 listing, which broadened shareholding and energised the capital markets.

    But critics see echoes of Kenya Airways, another privatisation hailed in its time but later crippled by debt and mismanagement, leaving taxpayers to foot the bill.

    “The pipelines are not just pipes; they are the veins through which the economy’s lifeblood — fuel — flows,” one opposition MP told The Informant. “Handing them to profit-driven shareholders undermines sovereignty and could raise fuel prices for Kenyans.”

    For ordinary citizens, the stakes are high. If privatisation drives efficiency, it could lower operating costs and ensure stable fuel supply. But if investors push for higher dividends, consumers may feel the pinch at the pump. For retail investors, the IPO offers a rare chance to own a piece of Kenya’s energy backbone — though history suggests institutional investors may dominate the offering.

    Political Battle Brewing

    The opposition’s vow to challenge the sale in court sets up another test for President William Ruto’s controversial privatisation agenda. The judiciary is already hearing petitions against the proposed sale of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre and other parastatals, raising the possibility that KPC’s IPO could be delayed or blocked.

    The Kenya Pipeline Company, established in 1973 and operational since 1978, has long been on the privatisation programme list first gazetted in 2009. Successive governments have shied away from executing the sale — until now.

    As the government celebrates what it calls a bold step towards efficiency and resource mobilisation, and the opposition warns of a reckless surrender of sovereignty, the privatisation of Kenya Pipeline is shaping up as one of the most consequential and contentious economic decisions of the Ruto administration.

    For investors, it may be the opportunity of a generation.

    For ordinary Kenyans, it could determine not just how much they pay for fuel — but who controls the arteries of the nation’s energy security.

  • Questions Swirl as Former Labour CS Bore’s Wealth Swells by Sh102 Million in Three Years

    Questions Swirl as Former Labour CS Bore’s Wealth Swells by Sh102 Million in Three Years

    Eyebrows raised as Florence Bore’s wealth jumps 51 percent during tenure, reigniting debate on unexplained riches among State officials

    The staggering speed at which former Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Florence Bore accumulated wealth during her time in government has thrust the spotlight back on Kenya’s toothless framework for monitoring how public officials amass their fortunes.

    In just three years, Ms Bore’s declared net worth ballooned from Sh200 million in October 2022 to Sh302 million as she prepares to take up her new posting as Kenya’s ambassador to Namibia.

    The Sh102 million surge represents a 51 percent jump in wealth, translating to a compound annual growth rate of 14.72 percent—a performance that would make even the savviest private sector investors green with envy.

    The mathematics is jarring.

    While ordinary Kenyans grapple with punishing inflation, a depreciating shilling, and an economy that grew at a modest 5.6 percent last year, Ms Bore’s personal wealth expanded at nearly three times the national economic growth rate.

    The question begging for answers is simple yet profound: How?

    Documents tabled before Parliament as part of her vetting for the ambassadorial position reveal that Ms Bore attributed her wealth to income from a family tea and dairy farm, alongside dividends from three Saccos—the Parliamentarians Sacco (Pacoso), Imarisha Sacco, and Kenya Highlands Sacco. But can these sources genuinely account for such exponential growth?

    Tea and dairy farming, while potentially lucrative, are notoriously vulnerable to market fluctuations, climate vagaries, and the chronic challenges that plague Kenya’s agricultural sector.

    Sacco dividends, meanwhile, typically yield modest returns, hardly the stuff of which fortunes are made in three short years.

    The opacity surrounding Ms Bore’s wealth accumulation epitomizes a systemic rot that has turned wealth declaration from a tool of accountability into a meaningless bureaucratic ritual.

    The Public Officer Ethics Act of 2003 mandates all public officials to declare their wealth every two years, ostensibly to deter corruption and illicit enrichment. Yet this requirement has become little more than a paper tiger.

    As the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis pointedly observed in a recent review, wealth declarations have been “kept secret and not subject to public scrutiny,” making it virtually impossible to hold anyone accountable.

    Without verification mechanisms or consequences for suspicious wealth growth, the declarations serve only to legitimize what might otherwise attract uncomfortable scrutiny.

    Ms Bore is hardly an outlier. The nine nominees recently approved as ambassadors collectively declared wealth totaling Sh871 million. Joseph Musyoka, headed to Saudi Arabia, declared Sh137 million.

    Edwin Afande, bound for Austria, claimed Sh125 million. Antony Muchiri, the former Public Service Commission chair now destined for Turkey, is worth Sh86 million by his own account.

    These figures raise uncomfortable questions about the diplomatic service becoming a retirement package for the politically connected, rather than a meritocratic posting for career foreign service officers.

    When did wealth accumulation become a credential for representing Kenya abroad?

    The broader context makes Ms Bore’s wealth growth even more troubling. Her tenure at the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection coincided with a period when procurement scandals erupted across multiple government ministries, with billions of shillings vanishing into opaque deals.

    While there is no suggestion of wrongdoing on her part, the timing invites legitimate public interest in understanding how she managed such impressive financial growth.

    What were her investment strategies? Did she receive consultancy fees or board appointments that supplemented her Cabinet salary? Were there business ventures that proved particularly profitable? These are not impertinent questions—they are essential inquiries in a democracy where public officials must withstand scrutiny.

    The trouble is that our legal framework provides no mechanism for such interrogation.

    Unless criminal investigations are launched—which rarely happens absent a political motive—wealth declarations disappear into filing cabinets, gathering dust until the next perfunctory submission is due.

    This culture of impunity around unexplained wealth feeds public cynicism about government and corrodes trust in public institutions.

    When Kenyans see their leaders amassing fortunes while the country struggles with a debt crisis partly attributed to corruption, it breeds the kind of disillusionment that can destabilize a nation.

    President William Ruto’s administration came to power promising to tackle corruption with unprecedented vigor.

    Yet appointments like Ms Bore’s to plum diplomatic postings, despite questions about her rapid wealth accumulation, send a contradictory message.

    It suggests that wealth growth however inexplicable is no barrier to advancement in government service.

    Parliament, for its part, has shown itself to be a compliant rubber stamp rather than a vigilant watchdog.

    Lawmakers approved Ms Bore and her fellow nominees without demanding detailed explanations for their wealth trajectories. This abdication of oversight responsibility makes them complicit in a system that privileges the connected over accountability.

    What Kenya desperately needs is a radical overhaul of wealth declaration requirements. Declarations should be made public by default, not hidden behind walls of secrecy.

    They should be subject to independent verification, with forensic auditors examining the plausibility of claimed sources.

    And there should be consequences real consequences for officials whose wealth growth cannot be adequately explained.

    Until such reforms materialize, cases like Ms Bore’s will continue to exemplify how easily public service can become a pathway to private enrichment.

    Her Sh102 million windfall in three years is not just a personal success story—it is a symptom of a diseased system that treats public accountability as an optional extra rather than a fundamental requirement.

    As she prepares to represent Kenya in Namibia, Ms Bore leaves behind more questions than answers.

    In a country where the average civil servant earns barely enough to survive, her meteoric wealth accumulation stands as a stark reminder of the chasm between those who govern and those who are governed.

    It is a chasm that grows wider with each unexplained fortune, each unanswered question, each failure to demand accountability.

    The time for uncomfortable questions is now. The people of Kenya deserve nothing less.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • IEBC Launches Ambitious Registration Drive, Targets 6 Million Gen Zs: How and Where to Apply

    IEBC Launches Ambitious Registration Drive, Targets 6 Million Gen Zs: How and Where to Apply

    The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has embarked on what could be the most significant voter mobilisation exercise in Kenya’s democratic history, targeting an estimated 6.3 million new voters with Generation Z at the heart of the campaign.

    The Continuous Voter Registration exercise, which resumes tomorrow, represents a critical juncture for Kenya’s electoral landscape as the commission seeks to capture the political energy of young Kenyans who have increasingly asserted their voice in national affairs.

    IEBC Chairman Erastus Ethekon announced that the exercise will run until November 27, 2025, with registration centres operating across all 290 constituencies except in areas currently scheduled for by-elections.

    The commission has identified youth aged between 18 and 27 as the primary target demographic, recognising their potential to reshape Kenya’s political trajectory.

    “The youth represent the future of our democracy, and their participation is crucial for legitimate electoral outcomes,” Ethekon stated during the launch ceremony.

    The commission’s data indicates that approximately 2.1 million Kenyans turned 18 in the past year alone, with projections suggesting that 7.8 million citizens between 18 and 27 remain unregistered.

    The registration process has been streamlined to accommodate the tech-savvy generation, with services available at all constituency offices from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

    Citizens seeking to register must present either a valid Kenyan Identity Card or passport, be at least 18 years old, and must not have been previously registered as voters.

    Beyond new registrations, the exercise offers comprehensive electoral services including correction of voter details, transfers to new electoral areas, and verification of existing registration through the commission’s online portal at verify.iebc.or.ke.

    The initiative comes at a time when young Kenyans have demonstrated unprecedented political engagement, particularly following recent nationwide protests over governance issues.

    Political analysts suggest this demographic shift could significantly influence future electoral outcomes, with parties already adjusting their messaging to appeal to younger voters.

    However, the commission faces considerable logistical challenges in reaching rural areas where many eligible youth reside.

    Transportation costs and limited awareness remain significant barriers, prompting calls for enhanced civic education programmes and mobile registration units.

    Civil society organisations have welcomed the initiative while emphasising the need for sustained voter education.

    Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association Secretary General noted that registration alone is insufficient without corresponding efforts to educate voters about their rights and responsibilities.

    The commission has also clarified that individuals previously convicted of election offences within the past five years, those declared of unsound mind, or those who have recently changed their residence must complete additional verification processes.

    With Kenya’s political landscape increasingly shaped by youthful voices demanding accountability and change, the success of this registration drive could determine not just electoral participation rates but the very character of future democratic discourse in the country.

    The commission expects to release preliminary registration figures by the end of October, providing the first indication of whether this ambitious target will be achieved.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Kenya Caught in Web of Sextortion and Romance Scam Crackdown as 260 Arrested Across Africa

    Kenya Caught in Web of Sextortion and Romance Scam Crackdown as 260 Arrested Across Africa

    Kenya has emerged as one of the African hotspots in a sweeping Interpol-led sting operation that saw 260 suspected cybercriminals arrested across 14 countries for running sextortion and romance scams that have left victims financially and emotionally devastated.

    The month-long crackdown, Operation Contender 3.0, took place between July 28 and August 11, 2025, and targeted transnational networks exploiting social media and dating apps to lure, deceive and blackmail their victims.

    Authorities seized more than 1,200 electronic devices, SIM cards, USB drives and forged identity documents while dismantling 81 cybercrime infrastructures used to run the fraud schemes.

    While Interpol did not disclose the exact number of arrests made in Nairobi and other towns, Kenyan investigators confirmed they were part of the operation that identified over 1,400 victims worldwide, with losses estimated at USD 2.8 million (about Sh420 million).

    The scams followed a chillingly familiar pattern: in romance schemes, suspects created fake profiles using stolen photos and fabricated identities to trick targets into sending money under the guise of courier or customs fees.

    In sextortion cases, criminals lured victims into explicit video chats, secretly recorded them, and later threatened to leak the footage unless they paid hefty ransoms.

    Kenya’s participation in the crackdown comes at a time when the country is grappling with a surge in cybercrime, particularly in Nairobi where tech adoption has outpaced safeguards.

    Fraudsters have increasingly turned to TikTok, Instagram and WhatsApp as hunting grounds, often targeting young professionals and university students.

    Interpol cited Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal as major centers of the scam networks, with Ghana alone arresting 68 suspects and seizing 835 devices tied to USD 450,000 in victim losses.

    The operation targeted criminal networks using social media to scam people

    But law enforcement officials say Kenya’s involvement is a stark reminder that East Africa is no longer just a transit route for cybercriminals, but an active operating ground.

    “Cybercrime units across Africa are reporting a sharp rise in digital-enabled crimes such as sextortion and romance scams,” said Cyril Gout, Interpol’s Acting Executive Director of Police Services.

    “The growth of online platforms has opened new opportunities for criminal networks to exploit victims, causing both financial loss and psychological harm.”

    The operation was backed by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and supported by cyber-intelligence firms Group-IB and Trend Micro, which helped track fake domains, IP addresses and scam-related social media profiles.

    Kenya has consistently ranked among the top targets of digital fraud in East Africa, with recent studies warning that more than half of internet users in the country have encountered online scams.

    Analysts warn that as the country pushes its digital economy agenda, cybercrime syndicates are exploiting weak laws, slow investigations and poor digital literacy among citizens.

    For Nairobi, the sting operation offers a wake-up call: Kenya is not just a victim of cross-border cybercrime, it is part of the ecosystem where fraudsters are operating — and thriving.

  • No Scapegoats: Blow To Governors As Court Rules They’re Personally Liable For County Procurement

    No Scapegoats: Blow To Governors As Court Rules They’re Personally Liable For County Procurement

    Kenyan governors will no longer be able to distance themselves from questionable procurement deals in their counties after a landmark High Court ruling declared them personally liable for compliance with procurement laws.

    A three-judge bench comprising Justices Jacqueline Kamau, William Musyoka, and Alice Bett held that governors, as the chief executives of their counties, bear ultimate responsibility for ensuring adherence to the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal (PPAD) Act.

    The ruling arose from a petition filed in April 2024 by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah against Governor Paul Otuoma. Omtatah had accused the Busia County Government of failing to provide procurement documents relating to the construction of the Busia Trailer Park at Mundika and the distribution of new trading kiosks.

    In their decision, the judges were emphatic that governors cannot evade accountability by blaming county executive members in charge of finance or procurement.

    “The answer to the question as to whether the first respondent (Governor Otuoma) was primarily responsible for ensuring that the County Executive complied with the PPAD Act was in the affirmative,” the court ruled.

    The judges added that governors, by virtue of their constitutional role, are also deemed the “Access to Information Officers” of their county governments, legally obligated to provide information requested by the public, legislators, or oversight bodies.

    Senators’ oversight powers upheld

    The court also reinforced the right of Senators to demand and receive information from county governments, ruling that such information must be provided promptly and at no cost under the Access to Information Act.

    “Whether as a Senator or as a private citizen, the petitioner had a right to inquire into the dealings of the county government, and the respondents had a legal obligation to supply the information requested,” the bench stated.

    Governor Otuoma had argued that the documents sought by Omtatah could be obtained through the Senate Public Accounts Committee and that some fell under exemptions provided by law. But the court dismissed his defense, holding that the information requested did not fall under any of the limited exemptions such as national security or sensitive commercial interests.

    A precedent in devolution oversight

    Observers say the ruling could fundamentally reshape Kenya’s devolution framework by closing a loophole governors have often used to shield themselves from procurement scandals. It strengthens the hand of both the Senate and the public in demanding transparency on county spending.

    “The information, as sought by the petitioner, was for the benefit and protection of the public,” the judges ruled, making it clear that oversight and accountability cannot be subjected to bureaucratic hurdles.

    The judgment is expected to set a new precedent in the long-running tug-of-war between governors and senators over county oversight, tightening the leash on county executives and reinforcing the constitutional principle of open governance.

  • Shame On You, They Were Going To Improve The Airport Not Take It, Raila Tells Off Adani Deal Critics

    Shame On You, They Were Going To Improve The Airport Not Take It, Raila Tells Off Adani Deal Critics

    Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has launched a scathing attack on critics of the Adani deal that would have seen India’s Adani Group modernise and operate Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), accusing them of misleading the public and costing Kenya a golden opportunity to cement its place as Africa’s leading aviation hub.

    Speaking during an ODM Parliamentary Group meeting on Monday, Raila insisted that the Sh637 billion partnership was never about surrendering control of the airport but rather about bringing in private investment to upgrade Nairobi’s main gateway.

    He said that by politicising the deal, opponents had not only misrepresented the facts but also undermined Kenya’s ability to compete with regional rivals.

    “When Adani came here and they wanted to remake the airport, too much noise was made in Parliament for no reason at all. Adani pulled out, now the airport is just left as it is,” he said.

    “They were not taking it away; they were bringing their money to invest and recover over time. Shame on those who sabotaged it.”

    The arrangement would have seen Adani pump at least Sh238 billion into JKIA’s expansion, operating the facility for thirty years to recoup its investment.

    Raila argued that such a partnership would have spared the government from massive borrowing while delivering world-class infrastructure.

    He warned that the decision to cancel the deal has left Nairobi dangerously exposed at a time when Rwanda and Ethiopia are aggressively positioning themselves as regional aviation hubs.

    Kigali, he noted, has already signed a similar agreement with Adani to construct its new international airport, a project that now threatens to eclipse JKIA’s stature in East Africa.

    Resistance

    Yet for all of Raila’s frustrations, the Adani deal attracted fierce resistance across several quarters.

    Aviation workers feared it would lead to mass layoffs and the erosion of Kenya’s control over a strategic national asset.

    The Kenya Aviation Workers Union went so far as to threaten strikes, saying that Kenyan staff risked being replaced by foreign labour.

    Civil society organisations, including the Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission, moved to court arguing that the contract was negotiated in secrecy, lacked proper public participation and could saddle taxpayers with costly obligations for decades.

    A whistleblower, Nelson Amenya, further fanned the flames by leaking details of the proposal.

    Whistleblower Nelson Amenya
    Whistleblower Nelson Amenya

    His revelations included provisions that would have given Adani an 18 percent equity stake in JKIA even after the concession expired, a clause critics said was far too generous and contrary to the public interest.

    Concerns also mounted that the financial projections underpinning the project were overly optimistic and that if passenger traffic fell short, the government would shoulder the risks while Adani walked away with guaranteed returns.

    The backlash culminated in the High Court temporarily halting the project to allow for closer scrutiny.

    President William Ruto’s administration eventually stepped in to cancel the deal altogether, citing public concerns and the need for a transparent approach to public–private partnerships.

    Raila, however, remains unconvinced by the explanations.

    He accuses unnamed local business and political interests of bankrolling smear campaigns to tarnish Adani’s reputation and clear the way for themselves.

    According to him, the country has once again sacrificed long-term development for short-term politics.

    “Some people were paid under the table to make noise in newspapers. They were not protecting Kenya; they just wanted the deal for themselves,” he said.

    The collapse of the Adani deal leaves Kenya back at square one. JKIA continues to operate with outdated facilities, overcrowded terminals and recurring technical glitches, even as neighbouring countries press ahead with multi-billion-dollar expansions.

    To Raila, the episode is a sobering lesson that Kenya cannot afford to politicise infrastructure investment if it hopes to remain competitive.

    “The deal was politicised. Unless we wake up and act fast, JKIA will remain stagnant while others in the region grow into international hubs,” he warned.

  • EACC Auctions High-Value Properties Seized From Obado Allies To Recover Sh505 Million Looted Funds

    EACC Auctions High-Value Properties Seized From Obado Allies To Recover Sh505 Million Looted Funds

    The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has commenced the auction of ten high-value properties seized from associates of former Migori Governor Okoth Obado in a sweeping recovery operation targeting Sh505 million allegedly stolen from public coffers.

    The anti-graft agency has engaged three prominent auctioneers – Galaxy, Keysian, and Astorion – to dispose of assets belonging to Jared Kwaga, Joram Otieno, Caroline Obwa, and Otago Ojuki, all linked to the corruption scandal that rocked the Migori County government between 2013 and 2017.

    The quartet, alongside Obado and 13 other co-accused, faced serious charges at the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court including economic crimes, money laundering, and unlawful acquisition of public property.

    Court documents reveal that the suspects accumulated their contested wealth through companies that secured lucrative contracts from the county government to supply various goods and services during Obado’s administration.

    EACC investigations exposed an elaborate scheme where these firms served as conduits for siphoning public funds through fictitious procurement contracts and other fraudulent arrangements.

    The properties now facing the hammer represent assets forfeited by the accused as part of a plea bargain agreement aimed at resolving the corruption case through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

    Kwaga stands to lose the most valuable assets, including six properties spread across Nairobi and Migori counties.

    Among these is a maisonette and two apartments located on Savannah Road within Nairobi’s upmarket Greenspan Estate.

    In Migori’s Suna East/Wasweta area, he will forfeit residential houses featuring two identical blocks, each containing ten apartments.

    Perhaps most significantly, Kwaga will lose the imposing Sunrise Centre, a multi-storey office complex strategically located in Suna along the busy Migori-Kisii road.

    The commercial property comprises two detached buildings and represents a substantial investment.

    Additionally, his Town House Number C-1 in Nairobi’s exclusive Loresho Ridge Estate within the Mountain View area will also go under the hammer.

    Otieno’s forfeiture involves a developed plot measuring 0.119 acres in Suna East/Wasweta, positioned along the Migori Town-Isebania highway.

    The property features two identical blocks of one bedroom rental units, complete with associated infrastructure works.

    Obwa faces the loss of two strategic properties.

    The first is a three-bedroom apartment in Nairobi’s Riara area, while the second is a parcel of land in Kisumu municipality within the prestigious Savannah Court in Lolwe Estate.

    The Kisumu property is particularly valuable, featuring a four-storey apartment block.

    Obwa had previously been pursued by EACC alongside former Nairobi County head of accounting Stephen Ogaga Osiro in a separate Sh318 million recovery suit.

    Ojuki’s property, designated for office use, sits in Kamagambo, Rongo township, just off the Rongo town-Homa Bay road.

    The comprehensive development includes a three-bedroom bungalow alongside two blocks of semi-detached two-bedroom rental units, creating a mixed-use residential and commercial complex.

    The commission has indicated that proceeds from the auction will be channeled back into the public development budget, specifically funding essential services such as healthcare and education.

    This approach aligns with EACC’s policy of ensuring recovered assets directly benefit the communities from which they were allegedly stolen.

    The auction represents a significant milestone in EACC’s increasingly aggressive approach to asset recovery, particularly through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

    This strategy has proven effective in avoiding prolonged court battles while ensuring swift recovery of public funds.

    The Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act provides the commission with robust powers to engage individuals possessing unexplained assets or suspected of illegally acquiring public property.

    This legal framework enables recovery without the delays typically associated with lengthy court proceedings, making it an attractive option for both the commission and defendants seeking to resolve their cases expeditiously.

    The Migori corruption case stands as one of the most significant county-level graft scandals in Kenya’s devolved system of government.

    The systematic looting allegedly occurred during the critical early years of devolution when oversight mechanisms were still being established and refined.

    The successful recovery of these assets sends a strong message about the consequences of misappropriating public resources.

    For the residents of Migori County, the recovery represents a partial restoration of resources that should have been used for development projects and service delivery during Obado’s tenure.

    The returned funds will provide an opportunity to address some of the development gaps created by the alleged theft of public resources.

    The auction process is expected to attract significant interest from property investors, given the strategic locations and substantial value of the assets involved.

    The properties span some of Kenya’s most desirable real estate markets, from Nairobi’s upmarket estates to commercial centers in rapidly growing towns like Migori and Rongo.

    This case exemplifies EACC’s evolving strategy in combating corruption, emphasizing swift asset recovery over protracted criminal prosecutions.

    The approach has proven particularly effective in cases where defendants are willing to cooperate in alternative dispute resolution processes, leading to faster recovery of public assets while reducing the burden on the court system.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Opposition Narrows Down Coalition Name to Three Final Options

    Opposition Narrows Down Coalition Name to Three Final Options

    Kenya’s opposition leaders have made significant progress in their quest to form a unified coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, settling on three potential names for their political alliance after weeks of deliberation.

    The United Opposition technical committee, working behind closed doors to craft the new political outfit, has whittled down their options to Muungano wa Ukombozi, Komboa Kenya Alliance, and Mageuzi Coalition.

    A fourth option, Liberation Alliance Movement, was initially considered but later dropped as leaders preferred Swahili names that align with Kenya’s national language.

    Sources within the technical committee revealed that only three of the proposed names have been reserved at the Registrar of Political Parties for potential registration.

    The selection process involved extensive consultations aimed at finding a brand that would resonate with Kenyans frustrated by current economic and political challenges.

    The opposition coalition brings together heavyweight political figures including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, Democratic Party chief Justin Muturi, and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua.

    Political observers suggest the final name choice will signal the coalition’s identity and strategic direction.

    Whether they emphasize liberation, reform, or unity could significantly influence public perception and impact other political actors as the country approaches the next election cycle.

    The opposition leaders are planning a retreat to address internal tensions, particularly regarding the 2027 presidential flag bearer question, and to finalize their coalition name and leadership structure.

    DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa confirmed the upcoming retreat, stating it would happen “soon” to resolve coalition matters.

    This coalition-building effort comes as President William Ruto, now backed by ODM leader Raila Odinga, has intensified his political strategy, putting pressure on Gachagua’s camp to resolve internal disputes or risk political irrelevance.

    Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka has expressed optimism about creating a NARC-like coalition that could challenge President Ruto in 2027, emphasizing the need for opposition parties to unite behind a single presidential candidate.

    Political analyst Martin Oloo warns that without a unified opposition front, President Ruto and his allies could exploit division by supporting minority candidates who would split the opposition vote, similar to historical election patterns.

    The opposition’s coalition-building mirrors Kenya’s two-decade tradition of strategic alliances that have consistently determined electoral outcomes, with successful coalitions often proving decisive in shifting the balance of power.

    As the technical committee awaits approval from the principals for both the coalition name and officials, the opposition faces the critical task of transforming their unity talks into a cohesive political force capable of mounting a credible challenge in 2027.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • iPhone, iPad, iMac: What The ‘i’ in Apple Products Actually Stands For

    iPhone, iPad, iMac: What The ‘i’ in Apple Products Actually Stands For

    With the recent launch of the iPhone 17 series, Apple continues to captivate global markets. However, beyond the sleek designs and advanced features, many users ponder the significance of the lowercase ‘i’ preceding Apple’s product names.

    Initially, during the 1998 iMac debut, Steve Jobs revealed that the ‘i’ stood for ‘internet,’ highlighting Apple’s intent to simplify online connectivity.

    Over time, this meaning has expanded to encompass broader themes, reflecting Apple’s evolving philosophy.

    Five Layers of Meaning

    According to Jobs, the “i” represents more than just internet.

    It conveys individuality, instruction, information, and inspiration, signalling that Apple products are designed to empower users, educate them, and stimulate creativity.

    In this context, the “i” can also be interpreted as the pronoun “I,” emphasising personalisation and user-centric design.

    This layered meaning allowed Apple to extend the “i” branding across a wide range of products, from the iPod in 2001 to the iPhone in 2007 and the iPad in 2010, each product embodying both technological advancement and personal empowerment.

    Evolution in the Age of AI

    With the introduction of AI-powered features in the latest iPhones and iOS updates, the “i” has acquired a new layer of significance: intelligence.

    Apple now uses the branding to signal smart capabilities, from Siri and AI-assisted photography to predictive text and automation, underscoring how the “i” continues to evolve alongside technological progress.

    Beyond its literal meanings, the “i” has become a key branding element for Apple.

    It signifies simplicity, modernity, and accessibility, while reinforcing the identity of Apple products as innovative and user-focused.

    The success of this branding approach has influenced the tech industry, inspiring other companies to adopt minimalist, symbolic naming conventions.

    Apple continues to expand the “i” ecosystem, with rumours of foldable iPads and iPhones in the near future.

    Each new innovation retains the core philosophy symbolised by the “i”: connecting individuals, fostering creativity, and integrating cutting-edge technology.

  • Audit Exposes Sh39 Billion Fake Supplier Bills Under Sakaja

    Audit Exposes Sh39 Billion Fake Supplier Bills Under Sakaja

    A comprehensive audit has uncovered what appears to be one of the largest financial discrepancies in Nairobi County’s history, with Sh39.8 billion mysteriously removed from the county’s pending bills register, raising serious questions about the authenticity of supplier claims under Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration.

    The Controller of Budget, Dr. Margaret Nyakang’o, has revealed an unexplained 32.7 percent reduction in Nairobi’s supplier arrears, which dropped from Sh121.8 billion to Sh86.8 billion over the year ending June 2025.

    This dramatic decrease has triggered demands for a detailed explanation from the Auditor-General’s office about how such a massive amount could simply vanish from official records.

    The timing of this discovery is particularly concerning as it comes amid widespread complaints from legitimate contractors who continue to wait months or even years for payments from both county and national governments.

    Many small and medium-sized businesses that depend on government contracts have found themselves blacklisted by credit reference bureaus after defaulting on loans while waiting for delayed payments.

    Charles Kerich, Nairobi’s County Executive Committee Member for Finance and Economic Affairs, has attempted to provide explanations for the reduction, citing the elimination of “unjustifiably high” legal fees and the removal of a disputed Sh300 million bank loan from the pending bills register.

    He also mentioned that the county paid Sh1 billion in outstanding pensions and realigned contingent liabilities related to loans borrowed in the 1980s.

    However, these explanations account for only Sh4 billion of the total Sh39.8 billion reduction, leaving a substantial gap that remains unexplained.

    The Controller of Budget has made it clear that Nairobi County must provide a comprehensive breakdown to the Auditor-General of how this reconciliation was conducted.

    This latest scandal adds to a troubling pattern of financial irregularities at City Hall. In April, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission revealed court filings detailing how rogue county officials had paid Sh407 million to shadowy businesses through fraudulent transactions between 2016 and 2022.

    The investigation found that senior officials approved irregular payments to 14 unprequalified business entities for supplies that were never delivered.

    The broader implications of this audit extend beyond Nairobi County.

    The Controller of Budget noted that the reduction in Nairobi’s pending bills caused the overall debt owed by all 47 counties to suppliers to decrease from Sh181.9 billion to Sh176.8 billion.

    Despite this reduction, Nairobi still holds the dubious distinction of having the largest unpaid debts among all counties at Sh86.77 billion.

    The aging analysis of Nairobi’s remaining pending bills reveals another disturbing trend.

    Over 71 percent of the outstanding debts, amounting to Sh62.38 billion, have been pending for more than three years. This prolonged delay in payments has created a ripple effect throughout the business community, with many suppliers facing financial ruin while waiting for their money.

    The situation has become so dire that asset seizures among government suppliers have increased significantly.

    Hundreds of business owners who once eagerly sought government contracts now describe the financial pain of years-long payment delays as unbearable.

    The irony is stark: while the government remains the biggest spender in the country, its payment practices are driving legitimate businesses into bankruptcy.

    Dr. Nyakang’o expressed particular concern about the continued accumulation of new pending bills, noting that counties added Sh48.9 billion to their unpaid obligations between July 2024 and June 2025, despite receiving full disbursements from the Treasury.

    This trend suggests systemic issues in financial management across the devolved units.

    The Controller of Budget also highlighted discrepancies between the pending bills that many counties report to her office and the figures contained in their official financial statements, pointing to potential widespread irregularities in financial reporting across the country.

    For Governor Sakaja’s administration, this audit represents a significant credibility challenge.

    Having come into office promising transparency and fiscal responsibility, the unexplained removal of nearly Sh40 billion from the county’s books without proper documentation raises serious questions about financial governance under his leadership.

    The demand for accountability is growing louder, with the Controller of Budget insisting that Nairobi County must provide a detailed analysis of its reconciliation process to the Auditor-General.

    Until such explanations are forthcoming, the specter of fake supplier bills and fraudulent transactions will continue to hang over City Hall, undermining public trust in the county’s financial management.

    As investigations continue, the people of Nairobi are left wondering how many more financial irregularities remain hidden in the county’s books, and whether the current administration has the political will to root out the systemic corruption that has plagued City Hall for years.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Principals and Deputies in Secondary Schools Must Now Hold Master’s Degrees, TSC Announces

    Principals and Deputies in Secondary Schools Must Now Hold Master’s Degrees, TSC Announces

    The Teachers Service Commission has introduced stringent new academic requirements for senior leadership positions in secondary schools, marking a significant shift in the qualifications needed to helm Kenya’s post-primary institutions.

    Under the revised guidelines presented to the Senate Education Committee on September 12, principals of secondary schools must now hold a master’s degree in a relevant field, while their deputy counterparts are similarly bound by this elevated academic threshold.

    The new framework represents a departure from previous requirements where a master’s degree, though advantageous, was not mandatory for these positions.

    The commission’s document outlines comprehensive criteria for appointment, stipulating that prospective principals must possess a bachelor’s degree in education or equivalent qualification, demonstrate classroom competence, and have served as deputy head or in an equivalent position for at least three years.

    Additionally, candidates must complete relevant Teacher Professional Development modules and meet Chapter Six constitutional requirements regarding integrity and leadership.

    For deputy principals, the requirements mirror those of their senior counterparts, though they must have served as senior masters for a minimum of three years before consideration.

    The policy extends beyond secondary schools, with primary school head teachers now required to hold bachelor’s degrees in education, while maintaining their Primary Teacher Education certificates.

    The commission has also reinforced geographical deployment restrictions, ensuring that institutional heads do not serve in their home counties despite President William Ruto’s earlier directive to abolish the delocalisation policy.

    School administrators are further limited to nine continuous years at any single station, with tertiary institution deans and registrars restricted to six-year tenures.

    However, the new requirements have sparked considerable opposition from teacher unions. The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers and the Kenya National Union of Teachers have condemned the changes as abrupt and discriminatory, arguing that they unfairly disadvantage experienced educators who lack master’s degrees.

    Moses Nthurima, Kuppet’s deputy secretary-general, criticised the timing of the directive, noting that the recent Collective Bargaining Agreement deliberately excluded master’s degrees as promotion requirements.

    He argued that the commission should have first supported teachers in pursuing advanced qualifications rather than imposing sudden mandates.

    The unions have also challenged the continued enforcement of delocalisation policies, particularly when combined with promotions that separate teachers from their families or remove them from hardship areas where they receive additional allowances.

    These changes reflect the commission’s broader alignment with the Competency Based Education framework, emphasizing enhanced academic credentials and professional development in educational leadership.

    However, the implementation faces significant resistance from educators who view the requirements as punitive rather than progressive, setting the stage for potential industrial relations challenges as the policy takes effect.

  • Kenyan Media Groups Challenge Cybercrime Law in Court Appeal

    Kenyan Media Groups Challenge Cybercrime Law in Court Appeal

    Kenyan journalists, bloggers and lawyers mounted a fierce legal challenge Wednesday against the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, telling the Court of Appeal that the controversial 2018 law has become a weapon for silencing dissent and violating digital rights.

    The Bloggers Association of Kenya, Law Society of Kenya, and Kenya Union of Journalists presented a united front before Justices Patrick Kiage, Aggrey Muchelule and Weldon Korir, arguing that enforcement of the law has led to arrests, harassment and even deaths linked to online expression.

    “Since its operationalisation, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act has become a weapon for the ruling elite,” lawyer Mercy Mutemi told the court, representing the blogger’s association.

    She cited numerous cases of abuse, including bloggers arrested for alleged “fake news,” an author detained over a presidential biography, and a software developer targeted for creating a Finance Bill monitoring tool.

    The most damning example presented was the death of teacher Albert Ojwang while in police custody, allegedly over a social media post. Mutemi described this as “the most egregious example” of the law’s dangerous overreach.

    The appellants challenged 13 criminal offences under the Act, including publication of false information, cyber harassment, and unauthorized interception.

    They argued that Section 50, which mandates courts to grant police warrants for digital information access, has reduced judicial oversight to a “rubber stamp” process.

    Parliamentary records suggest the law was designed as a “panic response” to shield politicians from online criticism rather than address genuine cybersecurity concerns, the petitioners argued.

    They also faulted lawmakers for adding significant amendments at committee stage without public consultation.

    However, the Attorney-General, Director of Public Prosecutions, and National Assembly defended the law’s constitutionality.

    Lead government lawyer Paul Nyamodi argued that regulation of human activity through technology is necessary and that freedom of expression cannot infringe on others’ rights.

    “Libel cannot be constitutionally protected speech,” Nyamodi said, urging the judges to uphold a 2020 High Court ruling by Justice James Makau that found the Act constitutional and balanced individual rights against public interests.

    The media groups are seeking to nullify the entire law, discharge all ongoing cases under the Act, and halt surveillance of social media users.

    They argue that less restrictive alternatives, such as civil defamation suits, could protect reputations without criminalizing speech.

    The Court of Appeal reserved judgment until February 27, 2026, in a case that could reshape Kenya’s digital rights landscape and determine whether the controversial law survives constitutional scrutiny.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Kyalo Mbobu Murder: Detectives Probe Lawyer’s Financial Records in Hunt for Killers

    Kyalo Mbobu Murder: Detectives Probe Lawyer’s Financial Records in Hunt for Killers

    Investigators probing the assassination of prominent Nairobi lawyer Kyalo Mbobu have requested his banking records from financial institutions as they work to establish a possible motive for his brutal murder on September 9.

    The Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ Homicide unit, which has taken over the case, is examining Mbobu’s financial history alongside statements from seven individuals who had contact with the lawyer in his final hours.

    Among those questioned are directors of a company that was locked in a legal dispute with Mbobu, though they are not considered suspects at this stage.

    The 52-year-old lawyer was gunned down by two assailants on a motorcycle as he drove home along Magadi Road.

    The attackers fired eight shots in what investigators have described as a well-orchestrated hit, ruling out robbery as a motive.

    The precision of the attack has led detectives to treat it as a premeditated assassination.

    During their investigation, officers discovered documents in Mbobu’s office showing he had committed to paying 97 million shillings to a Pan-African church organization he represented in a land transaction.

    This financial obligation is among several leads being pursued as investigators seek to understand whether money troubles may have contributed to his death.

    The homicide team has collected extensive CCTV footage from the city center and traffic cameras, hoping to trace the escape route of the motorcycle-riding killers.

    They are also awaiting ballistics results to determine if the weapon used in Mbobu’s murder has been linked to other crimes.

    Three people initially detained in connection with the killing have been released after questioning.

    Among them was a friend and exercise partner who met with Mbobu at Sagret Hotel hours before the shooting.

    Two others, a politician and his nephew who were also at the hotel that day, were cleared after investigators established they had no prior dealings with the deceased lawyer.

    The investigation has revealed that Mbobu spoke to at least 15 people on the day he was killed, including colleagues and friends.

    Detectives are analyzing these conversations for any indication that the lawyer may have expressed concerns about his safety or mentioned potential threats to his life.

    As the probe continues, investigators remain focused on unraveling the complex web of Mbobu’s professional and financial dealings, hoping the banking records will provide crucial insights into who might have wanted the respected lawyer dead and why.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Kenyan Man Arrested in US Over Child Sex Scandal

    Kenyan Man Arrested in US Over Child Sex Scandal

    A 38-year-old Kenyan mechanic has been arrested and charged after allegedly attempting to engage in sexual activity with a minor in an elaborate undercover operation conducted by US federal authorities.

    Stanley Amalemba Ambeyi thought he was communicating with a woman through an online dating platform in December 2024, but he was actually chatting with undercover agents participating in Operation Take Back America, a federal initiative targeting illegal immigrants and transnational criminal networks.

    The operation took a disturbing turn when the supposed woman offered to connect Ambeyi with her 15-year-old niece.

    After days of conversation, Ambeyi allegedly propositioned the minor and offered to pay $150 for sexual favors, unaware he was communicating with federal agents.

    On December 19, 2024, Ambeyi drove nearly 80 kilometers from his Birmingham, Alabama residence to Blount County, Tennessee, believing he would meet the teenager.

    Instead, he walked into a carefully orchestrated sting operation at a house rigged with surveillance equipment.

    The dramatic arrest was captured on camera for Emmy Award-winning television host Chris Hansen’s web series “Takedown with Chris Hansen.”

    Hansen, who has built a career exposing would-be sex offenders, confronted Ambeyi with evidence of their online conversations while federal agents prepared to make the arrest.

    When authorities searched Ambeyi, they discovered a loaded handgun on his person.

    His white Toyota Land Cruiser contained additional concerning items including a machete, lubricant, and condoms.

    Ambeyi claimed he carried weapons for protection due to safety concerns in his Birmingham neighborhood and Bessemer workplace.

    The self-taught mechanic, who learned his trade through YouTube videos, initially attempted to deny the allegations, claiming he was there to meet the minor’s aunt.

    However, confronted with chat logs and other evidence, he eventually acknowledged that his actions would likely result in deportation from the United States.

    Sheriff Mark Moon, who participated in the arrest, expressed disappointment that someone seeking the American dream would engage in criminal behavior that destroys such opportunities.

    On May 22, 2025, Ambeyi appeared in federal court in Huntsville, Alabama, where he was charged with being an alien in possession of a firearm.

    Magistrate Judge Gray M. Borden ordered him detained pending the resolution of his case, citing sufficient evidence of probable cause.

    Ambeyi remains in federal custody represented by a court-appointed attorney as his case proceeds through the judicial system.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Homa Bay HR Officer Beatrice Akugo Interdicted Over Journalist Abduction and Torture

    Homa Bay HR Officer Beatrice Akugo Interdicted Over Journalist Abduction and Torture

    The Homa Bay County Government has taken swift action against one of its senior officials following shocking allegations of journalist intimidation, interdicting Human Resources Officer Beatrice Mercy Akugo pending investigations into her alleged role in the abduction and assault of People Daily journalist Habil Onyango.

    The interdiction, announced on Monday, September 15, came just one day after Onyango was reportedly lured to a Homa Bay hotel where he was ambushed, assaulted, and forced to inhale bhang before being driven around and humiliated by his captors.

    The attack has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s media fraternity, with press freedom advocates describing it as one of the most brazen attacks on journalism in recent times.

    People Daily journalist Habil Onyango.
    People Daily journalist Habil Onyango.

    According to the Media Council of Kenya, the assault was directly linked to Onyango’s investigative work exposing fraudulent employment schemes targeting Homa Bay residents.

    His exposé, published on a local newspaper over the weekend, had revealed how county residents were being conned through fake job opportunities – a story that apparently touched raw nerves within the county administration.

    Abduction and torture 

    The journalist’s ordeal began when he was contacted and asked to meet at a Homa Bay hotel under false pretenses.

    Once there, he was ambushed by thugs who subjected him to a horrifying sequence of abuse.

    Beyond the physical assault that left him with facial injuries and soft tissue damage, his attackers confiscated his electronic devices, deleted crucial data, and even posted a fabricated apology online in his name to discredit his investigative work.

    Onyango managed to escape when he spotted an opportunity to jump onto a passing motorcycle taxi, subsequently seeking medical attention at Homa Bay County Hospital where a doctor confirmed his injuries.

    Despite being offered medication, the journalist declined treatment and reported the matter to Homa Bay Police Station, where it was recorded under occurrence book number 25/14/25.

    Homa Bay County Headquarters.
    Homa Bay County Headquarters.

    In its response, the Homa Bay County Government expressed unequivocal condemnation of the alleged actions.

    Chief Officer of Public Communication and Government Spokesperson Atieno Otieno emphasized that the county administration has zero tolerance for such behavior, particularly when it targets members of the press.

    “Journalism is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the safety of journalists is non-negotiable,” Otieno stated, adding that any officer found to have misused their position would face the full force of the law alongside stringent internal disciplinary measures.

    The interdiction of Akugo represents what the county government described as “a standard procedural measure to allow for a thorough, impartial, and unimpeded investigation.”

    This swift administrative action appears designed to demonstrate the county’s commitment to accountability while investigations by various law enforcement agencies proceed.

    The Media Council of Kenya has characterized the incident as representing “a dangerous erosion of democratic norms” and has called for urgent investigations by multiple agencies including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

    The council emphasized that aggrieved parties should seek redress through proper legal channels rather than resorting to violence and intimidation.

    The brazen nature of the attack – involving a senior county official allegedly orchestrating the assault of a journalist over his investigative work – has raised serious questions about press freedom and the safety of media practitioners in the country.

    As investigations continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks journalists face when pursuing stories that expose wrongdoing in public institutions, and the critical importance of protecting press freedom as a fundamental pillar of democratic governance.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Safaricom Call Logs Place Police Officer at Scene of Rex Masai Shooting

    Safaricom Call Logs Place Police Officer at Scene of Rex Masai Shooting

    Nairobi, Kenya — Safaricom call data has placed police officer Corporal Isaiah Murangiri in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) during the anti-finance bill protests in June 2024, contradicting his claim that he had stopped using the mobile number in question a year earlier.

    Appearing before Principal Magistrate Geoffrey Onsarigo at the Milimani Law Courts, Safaricom senior manager Zachary Kirogoi Mburu testified that the company released call records for three lines linked to Murangiri, Benson Kamau and Michael Oginga Okello after receiving two court production orders.

    According to Mburu, the records showed the numbers were active between June 18 and 20, 2024, with signals bouncing off masts in several parts of the CBD, including Kencom, Accra House, Wincer House, St. Ellis, KBC Towers and Hill Town.

    “The network automatically connects to the nearest available mast within a five-kilometre radius. A subscriber may remain in one spot, yet different masts will still capture the signal,” Mburu explained.

    Prosecutors argued that the evidence directly placed Murangiri in the CBD at the time of the protests, undermining his defence.

    The hearing also heard from a forensic ballistics expert, Senior Superintendent Alex Mudindi Mwandawiro of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

    He confirmed that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) had submitted a damaged copper bullet jacket for testing on July 1, 2024.

    Mwandawiro identified the 0.83-gram fragment as part of a 5.56mm rifle round that had struck a hard object, leaving its core missing.

    However, ballistic comparisons with several firearms, including three pistols from the DCI armoury, yielded no match.

    He noted that the Ceska F7226 pistol mentioned in IPOA’s documents was not among the weapons provided for testing.

    Rifles typically issued to police and wildlife rangers, such as the Chalbi and AK-101 models, were also excluded since they use different calibres.

    “The findings were inconclusive because the firearms supplied were of different calibres, and the bullet jacket did not match any of the pistols presented,” Mwandawiro told the court.

    The case, part of the inquest into the killing of protester Rex Masai, will be mentioned again on September 25, 2025.

    Masai was fatally shot along Moi Avenue on June 20, 2024, during nationwide demonstrations against the finance bill.

    Murangiri, along with other officers, has been named in connection with the shooting, as investigators seek to piece together events through mobile phone data, ballistic evidence, and eyewitness accounts.

  • ODM and UDA to Share Sh1.2 Billion from Political Parties Fund, Smaller Parties Cry Foul

    ODM and UDA to Share Sh1.2 Billion from Political Parties Fund, Smaller Parties Cry Foul

    NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 15 – The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are set to pocket the lion’s share of the Political Parties Fund in the 2025/26 financial year, raising fresh concerns over the widening financial gap between Kenya’s dominant and smaller political outfits.

    Acting Registrar of Political Parties Sophia Sitati announced on Monday that UDA will walk away with the single largest allocation at more than Sh789 million, while ODM will secure over Sh421 million.

    Together, the two parties will control more than Sh1.2 billion of the fund, leaving 45 other eligible parties to scramble for the remainder.

    The Jubilee Party, once Kenya’s ruling outfit, has been allocated Sh184 million, making it the only other party to cross the Sh100 million mark.

    Wiper Democratic Movement, led by Kalonzo Musyoka, follows with Sh98 million.

    Other allocations include Sh43 million for Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K), Sh36 million for United Democratic Movement (UDM), Sh35 million for FORD-Kenya, and Sh32 million for KANU.

    The bulk of Kenya’s smaller parties will receive far less, with some set to operate on allocations too low to sustain countrywide offices.

    The funding imbalance has triggered disquiet among minor outfits. On September 10, a coalition of smaller parties petitioned Parliament to amend the Political Parties Act, 2011, arguing that the formula heavily favours dominant parties, stifling political competition ahead of the 2027 General Election.

    “Out of 91 registered political parties, only 47 are funded. This has crippled our ability to operate offices and organise campaigns,” said Augustus Muli, leader of the National Liberal Party (NLP).

    Analysts warn that unless the law is revised to distribute funds more equitably, Kenya’s multiparty democracy risks being reduced to a two-horse race dominated by UDA and ODM.

    Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced campaign timelines for upcoming by-elections slated for November 27, 2025.

    Campaigns will officially begin on October 8 and close on November 24, just 48 hours before polling.

    IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon further directed independent candidates to submit the names of their polling agents at least two weeks before election day, citing the need for vetting and training.

    The by-elections will fill 23 seats left vacant by deaths and appointments, including six National Assembly constituencies, one Senate seat, and 16 ward representative positions.

  • Tycoon’s Construction Empire Crumbles as Assets Auctioned Over Sh861 Million Debt

    Tycoon’s Construction Empire Crumbles as Assets Auctioned Over Sh861 Million Debt

    Wealthy businessman Josiah Njoroge Njuguna’s construction empire is facing its biggest challenge yet, with his flagship company Nyoro Construction Company Limited’s assets heading to the auction block over an unpaid debt of Sh861 million to KCB Bank Kenya.

    The financial institution has moved to recover its money by putting up for sale several prime properties belonging to the construction giant and its sister company, Asphalt Concrete Ltd. Philips International Auctioneers has scheduled the public auction for September 16, 2025, marking what could be the end of an era for one of Kenya’s most prominent road construction firms.

    Among the properties earmarked for sale is the Light Industrial Complex located in Kyang’ombe area along Mombasa Road.

    This substantial facility comprises six interconnected warehouses, a milling block, and a fuel shed, all sitting on approximately two acres of prime industrial land.

    The complex currently houses the operational offices of both Nyoro Construction and Asphalt Concrete.

    Also under the hammer is a 20-acre quarry site in Karagita area, Mihang’o, Nairobi County, registered under Asphalt Concrete Ltd.

    The quarry, strategically positioned about 500 meters from Buru Farmers Road and 3.1 kilometers from the Eastern bypass, represents a significant asset in the construction materials supply chain.

    The debt stems from multiple loans totaling Sh1.5 billion that KCB advanced to Nyoro Construction, using various properties as collateral.

    The construction firm’s financial troubles have been compounded by what appears to be a cash flow crisis, despite claims that the government owes the company Sh1.5 billion for completed projects.

    Njuguna’s companies mounted a desperate legal battle to prevent the auction.

    Asphalt Concrete Ltd argued in court filings that their exposure was limited to Sh400 million and that Nyoro Construction had already paid Sh486 million, which should have discharged the guarantor’s liability.

    The firm warned that the sale would cause “irreparable loss” to its real estate investments and have devastating effects on shareholders, employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders.

    However, their legal strategy crumbled when Justice Aleem Visram dismissed the case on grounds of res judicata, meaning the matter had already been decided in a previous ruling.

    The judge lifted a temporary order that had briefly halted the auction process, clearing the way for the sale to proceed.

    The fall from grace is particularly striking given Nyoro Construction’s illustrious past.

    During its golden years under the administrations of the late President Mwai Kibaki and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, the company secured lucrative government contracts worth billions of shillings.

    Notable projects included the construction of Processional Road in Nairobi and the comprehensive repair and rehabilitation of Nakuru town roads.

    Asphalt Concrete, which has operated for over four decades undertaking road projects across Kenya, now faces the prospect of losing its operational headquarters and key assets.

    Director Dickson Wahome Njoroge expressed concerns about the company’s ability to continue operations if the auction proceeds, given that the properties house essential facilities shared with Nyoro Construction.

    The situation reflects broader challenges facing Kenya’s construction sector, where delayed government payments and tight credit conditions have squeezed even established players.

    For Njuguna, once considered among Kenya’s construction tycoons, the auction represents a dramatic reversal of fortune that could reshape the industry landscape.

    As the September 16 auction date approaches, stakeholders across the construction sector will be watching closely to see whether last-minute interventions can save the empire that Njuguna spent decades building, or whether the hammer will fall on one of Kenya’s most recognizable construction brands.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Kenya’s Mixed Relay Dreams Crushed, Disqualified From the World Championships

    Kenya’s Mixed Relay Dreams Crushed, Disqualified From the World Championships

    Heartbreak struck Kenya’s athletics contingent at the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo on Saturday as their mixed 4×400 metres relay team was disqualified from the final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, despite posting what could have been a new African record.

    The Kenyan quartet of Brian Tinega, Mercy Oketch, Allan Kipyego and Mary Moraa had crossed the finish line second in their heat with an impressive time of 3 minutes and 10.73 seconds, trailing only Belgium who clocked 3:10.97. The Netherlands finished third in 3:11.11, with Poland taking fourth place in 3:11.15.

    However, celebration quickly turned to devastation when the electronic results board revealed Kenya’s disqualification under technical rule TR17.2.3, indicating a lane infringement violation. The team’s result was marked as “DQ” and they were relegated to last place, while the Netherlands moved up to second and Poland claimed third.

    The disqualification was particularly crushing given that Kenya’s time would have shattered the existing African record of 3:11.88, set by a Kenyan team at the Athletics Kenya trials on June 15, 2024, ahead of the Paris Olympics. According to World Athletics regulations, TR17.2.3 refers to a direct disqualification for lane infringement, typically applied when an athlete completely steps over the lane line or commits multiple infractions.

    The emotional toll on the team was immediately evident. When the quartet faced the media moments after learning of their fate, tears spoke louder than words. Mercy Oketch, struggling to compose herself, could only offer: “We are out of the final. We got DQ, and we don’t know why as of now. We don’t know what to say. Let’s wait for the next one. Maybe the 400m race will have a better outcome.”

    The disqualification represents a significant blow to Kenya’s medal aspirations at the championships being held from September 13-21 at Tokyo’s premier athletics venue. The mixed 4x400m relay has become an increasingly competitive event since its introduction to major championships, and Kenya’s strong showing suggested they were genuine medal contenders.

    For a team that appeared to have executed their race plan to near perfection, the lane violation serves as a harsh reminder that in athletics, margins for error are razor-thin and consequences absolute.

    As Kenya’s athletes regroup for the remaining events at these World Championships, the mixed relay team’s experience will serve as both a painful memory and perhaps motivation for future redemption on the global stage.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • PHOTOS: Millicent Omanga Gifts Son Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class For His 20th Birthday

    PHOTOS: Millicent Omanga Gifts Son Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class For His 20th Birthday

    Millicent Omanga Celebrates Son’s Milestone Birthday with Luxury Car Gift

    Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga pulled out all the stops to mark her son Wayne’s 20th birthday on September 12, 2025, presenting him with a brand-new Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class in a touching display of maternal love and pride.

    The political figure took to social media to share the joyous moment, posting photos of the surprise gift presentation alongside a deeply emotional message to her firstborn. Omanga described the occasion as a significant milestone, expressing her overwhelming pride in watching Wayne transition into manhood.

    “Happy 20th Birthday, my dearest Wayne. Today marks not just another year, but a milestone in your journey to manhood,” the former senator wrote in her heartfelt tribute. “Watching you grow into the young man you are today has been one of my life’s greatest joys.”

    The luxury vehicle gift was accompanied by a mother’s blessing, as Omanga offered prayers for her son’s future endeavors. Her message carried profound spiritual undertones, reflecting her hopes for Wayne’s continued growth and success in his adult years.

    “May this new chapter bring you wisdom, strength, and endless blessings. I pray that God continues to guide your steps, protect your path, and fill your heart with purpose and peace,” she shared, demonstrating the depth of her maternal devotion.

    The celebration photos showed a beaming Wayne alongside his mother, capturing the special bond between them during this memorable occasion. Omanga’s gesture reflects not only her financial capability but also her commitment to celebrating important moments in her family’s life.

    In her closing remarks, the former senator reinforced her unwavering support for her son, telling him, “You are deeply loved and believed in more than you can imagine. Keep shining and embrace the opportunities ahead.”

    The public display of affection and generosity has garnered attention across social media platforms, with many praising Omanga for her dedication to her family while maintaining her public profile.

    The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, known for its luxury features and reliability, represents a substantial investment in her son’s future mobility and independence as he enters his third decade of life.

    This celebration adds to Omanga’s reputation as a family-oriented public figure who doesn’t shy away from sharing personal milestones with her followers, maintaining a balance between her political legacy and her role as a devoted mother.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​