Kenya Insights

Author: Our Correspondent

  • Pope Francis’ Cause of Death Revealed

    Pope Francis’ Cause of Death Revealed

    Pope Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure, the director of health of the Vatican City State, Andrea Arcangeli, said in a death certificate released on Monday (Apr 21).

    The 88-year-old Catholic leader died on Monday morning, after he was discharged from a five-week stay in hospital for double pneumonia.

    Pope Francis died at 7:35 am in his apartment at the Santa Marta residence in the Vatican.

    According to the certificate published by the Vatican, the pope had fallen into a coma before passing away early on Monday.

    The pontiff died of “cerebral stroke, coma, irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse”, the death certificate said.

    It added that he had already been affected by a previous episode of acute respiratory failure during his hospital treatment for double pneumonia.

    Pope had also suffered from multiple bronchiectases, arterial hypertension, and Type 2 diabetes, which were not known earlier.

    Burial in St. Mary Major Basilica

    In his final testament, Pope Francis stated that he wished to be buried in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major and not at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, where many of the previous pontiffs were buried.

    In his final will, released by the Vatican, Francis specified that he wanted to be buried “in the ground, without particular decoration”. His will had an inscription of his papal name in Latin: Franciscus.

    Pope’s last message

    Just a day before his demise, the Pope made a public appearance on the occasion of Easter on Sunday (Apr 20), where 35,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square to hear his message. As per tradition, he delivered the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, which means “to the city and the world.”

    Pope Francis’ last message was read aloud by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, in which he called for peace in war-torn regions like Gaza, Ukraine, Congo and Myanmar.

  • How Millennial-Favorite CITAM Made Ksh 2.4B Income, Ksh 598M Surplus in 2024

    How Millennial-Favorite CITAM Made Ksh 2.4B Income, Ksh 598M Surplus in 2024

    Christ is the Answer Ministries (CITAM) church has caused  ripples online after its financial results for the year ending December 31, 2024 showed a healthy balance sheet.

    The church with 31 assemblies recently made a total of Ksh 2.4 billion with CITAM Valley Road which is the main church raising Ksh 404 million during that period; the highest of the collective assemblies.

    CITAM in overall had an 11 per cent increment year on year improvement income comparable to 2023.

    The Church which is popular with millenials also had its Nairobi satellite branches collecting a total of KSh 1.324 billion after overheads.

    According to the report breakdown courtesy of church financials and Independent analyst Pesa Wall, the final figures indicate that Ksh 2,411,925.479 was listed as Assemblies Income for the 12  accounted months in 2024.

    This figure included tithes, offerings, donations, rent, interests and ministries collection. The amount was up from Ksh 2,311,691.617 million raised in 2023.

    At the same time, the report shows that in manning and running the assembly costs, CITAM used expenses amounting to Ksh 1,813,549.869 which was up from Ksh 1,564,227.690 million the previous year.

    The expenses  included administrative costs, ministries costs and staff costs.

    There was an additional Ksh 598,375,610 surplus before projects and capital expenditure.

    This figure indicated showed that a total Ksh 74,422,684 was listed as Projects net deficit with special outreach activities net deficit accounting for Ksh 136,914,862.00.

    The total actual expense under this category was Ksh 211,337,546 million.

    The surplus cash before capital expenditure was Ksh 387,038,064 million against the actual capital expenditure of Ksh 271,702,086.

    The surplus amount in hand for the year before tax was Ksh  115,335,978 million.

    In the report, captured was a Total Asset base of Ksh 16,594,442 ,129 billion which was a dip from the previous year (Ksh 16,675,084.616).

    Of the assets structure labeled as non-current assets and current assets, Ksh 15,097,427.253 under Non-current assets catered for; Property & Equipment (Ksh 7,608,908,269), Rights of Assets (Ksh 6,790,055,281) & Investment Property (Ksh 487,700,000) amongst others.

    In the current assets breakdown; Inventories was Ksh 786,630,418 with Short term fixed deposits amounting to Ksh 351,616,570 with trade receivables, deposits & repayments amounting to Ksh 223,772,072.

    In the same period, under Funds & Liabilities category, stood at Ksh 15,368,184.104 comparable to Ksh 15,373,879,387 in 2023.

    Under this category, Capital Funds amounted to Ksh 14,344,446,805 as compared to Ksh 14,670,073,168 in 2023.

    General Fund accounted for KSh 250,365,619 with Reserve Fund accounting for Ksh 96,437,219.

    Under Designated Fund, Ksh 676,935,162 was indicated.

    Meanwhile, in the non-current liabilities, borrowings accounted for Ksh 482,623,786 while Lease liabilities was Ksh 28,192,841 bringing the total to Ksh 510,816,627.

    This was a decrease from the previous year 2023 whereby under the same  category, Ksh 566,601,214 was utilised.

    In the year ended December 31, 2024, the current liabilities stood at Ksh 715,440,698 against Ksh 734,604,015 last year.

    The total funds and liabilities accounted for Ksh 16,594,442,129 against Ksh 16,675,084,616 in 2023.

    The church runs Hope FM, Hope TV,10 schools and Pan Africa Christian (PAC) University in what is a masterful diversification plan for the seven-decade long institution.

  • Pope Francis’ Will Reveals Final Wish: A Simple Underground Tomb Marked Only ‘Franciscus’

    Pope Francis’ Will Reveals Final Wish: A Simple Underground Tomb Marked Only ‘Franciscus’

    Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday from a stroke and irreversible heart failure, left explicit instructions in his will for a humble burial in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major, a church he held dear throughout his papacy.

    The Vatican confirmed his death following a coma, with an echocardiogram sealing the somber announcement.

    In a will released the same day, the pontiff expressed his desire for a simple tomb inscribed only with “Franciscus,” reflecting his lifelong devotion to humility and the Virgin Mary.

    In his final testament, Pope Francis wrote, “Throughout my life, and during my ministry as a priest and bishop, I have always entrusted myself to the Mother of Our Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary.

    For this reason, I ask that my mortal remains rest – awaiting the day of the Resurrection – in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.”

    Pope Francis will
    Pope Francis will

    He specified that the tomb be placed in the ground in a niche between the Pauline and Sforza Chapels, near the revered icon of the Virgin Mary with the child Jesus, known as Salus Populi Romani.

    The pontiff insisted on simplicity, stating, “The tomb should be in the ground; simple, without particular ornamentation, bearing only the inscription: Franciscus.”

    The Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of Rome’s four papal basilicas, holds profound significance for Francis, who visited it 125 times during his papacy.

    His bond with the church began immediately after his election in 2013 and continued with visits before and after every foreign trip, often bringing flowers to the Virgin Mary’s icon.

    Following a prolonged hospitalization in February and March this year, he made it his first stop upon recovery and returned once more before his death.

    “I always entrusted my life and priestly and episcopal ministry to the mother of our Lord, Holy Mary,” he wrote, underscoring his spiritual connection to the site.

    Francis’s burial at Saint Mary Major marks a historic departure from tradition, as he will be the first pope in over 350 years to be laid to rest there, following Clement IX in 1669.

    Unlike many predecessors buried in the Vatican, Francis chose this Marian sanctuary atop the Esquiline Hill, where a “benefactor” has already covered the costs of his burial preparations, as arranged with Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, the basilica’s Extraordinary Commissioner.

    The Pope’s funeral is expected by the end of this week, adhering to Vatican protocol that mandates it occur between four and six days after his death—likely Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.

    A procession will carry his coffin across the River Tiber from the Vatican to Saint Mary Major, followed by nine days of official mourning, known as Novendiali. Cardinals will then convene to select his successor.

    In his will, Francis reflected on his recent ill-health, writing, “The suffering that has marked the final part of my life, I offer to the Lord, for peace in the world and for fraternity among peoples.”

    He also extended gratitude to his supporters, adding, “May the Lord grant a fitting reward to all those who have loved me and who continue to pray for me.”

    Saint Mary Major, enriched by centuries of papal patronage, houses treasures like a Michelangelo-designed chapel, a gold-laden ceiling, and a crypt said to contain wood from Jesus’s manger.

    Yet, it is the Virgin Mary’s icon—credited with saving Rome from plagues and war—that Francis cherished most.

    His resting place near this historic symbol cements his legacy as a pope devoted to simplicity, prayer, and the maternal care of Mary.

    As the world mourns, Francis’s final wish ensures his eternal rest in a place of profound personal meaning, a testament to a papacy defined by humility and faith.

  • How Radio Presenters Exploit Vulnerable Gamblers Through Rigged Competitions as Calls for Aviator Betting Ban Intensify

    How Radio Presenters Exploit Vulnerable Gamblers Through Rigged Competitions as Calls for Aviator Betting Ban Intensify

    A troubling exposé from a radio presenter at a leading Kamba media house has revealed a predatory scheme luring vulnerable Kenyans into gambling with promises of quick riches.

    As calls to dismantle the gambling industry grow louder, leading media houses—including Royal Media Services and its owner S.K. Macharia—face mounting criticism for allegedly fueling a crisis that has driven youth and women into financial ruin, debt, and in some cases, suicide.

    The whistleblower, who requested anonymity, revealed that media houses are allegedly complicit in promoting gambling platforms like Aviator, earning a 20% commission on losses incurred by their listeners.

    “The real problem isn’t just Aviator, but media houses misleading their audience, encouraging them to gamble with promises of easy money,” the presenter claimed.

    “It’s a harmful system based on deception.”

    Once reportedly generating over a million shillings daily, the company is now struggling amid mounting backlash and refund demands from gamblers—yet the damage continues.

    Personal accounts from affected individuals illustrate the severity of the situation.

    Dennis from Kiambu Ngegu lost KSh 220,000 intended for a job opportunity in Qatar, spiraling into debt after staking KSh 1,000 that resulted in losses at 1.00x odds.

    “I sold my woofer, TV—everything went,” he said, cautioning others against similar mistakes.

    Another gambler, a cleaning worker earning KSh 10,000 monthly, wagered KSh 7,000 of his October 2023 salary hoping to double it, only to lose everything and face eviction.

    “Since then, I have never bet in my life again,” he stated.

    For some, the consequences were even more severe. A university student described how his addiction escalated from betting KSh 2 to borrowing from friends and selling his laptop and household items to recover losses.

    After losing KSh 120,000 in semester fees and KSh 45,000 from a freelance job, he reached a crisis point, contemplating suicide before seeking assistance from Kenya Red Cross.

    “You lose, then you win, which makes you believe there’s hope—then you lose again,” he explained, describing the cycle that traps users.

    “My neighbour lost more than 5m to Aviator. They ended up closing the agrovet which was leading in Kebirigo, Kisii. Sold petrol station. Closed all money transactions agents.” added another user.

    In another case, a Nakuru-based primary school teacher has lost her marriage, life savings, and mental health to an escalating gambling addiction—with her family now considering hospitalization as her last hope for recovery.

    The teacher, employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), began betting on the controversial “Aviator” game in 2023. What started as casual gambling spiraled into a financial crisis: she drained her salary, took a KSh 350,000 high-interest loan to chase losses, and even squandered KSh 57,000 meant for planting season—lying to her husband that the money was “swapped.”

    Her once-supportive spouse, who managed their farm, eventually divorced her after repeated betrayals. He has since remarried, while she now lives alone in a Nakuru rental, battling depression and social withdrawal.

    “This Aviator thing is a menace—a real menace!” said, a relative who shared the story. The family is now exploring medical intervention, citing her antisocial behavior and deteriorating mental state.

    Blogger criticizes media

    Blogger Cyprian Nyakundi has criticized media executives like SK Macharia, alleging they profit from this situation.

    “Citizen TV broadcasts prime time advertisements for betting platforms and features alleged winners claiming fifty thousand shillings. It appears staged,” Nyakundi wrote.

    “SK Macharia, how much is enough? Young Kenyans are dying by suicide after losing everything to Aviator.”

    He suggests the silence from media leaders and politicians indicates complicity in a crisis “affecting an entire generation.”

    Government officials have also expressed concern. The State Department for Public Health, led by Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, has described online gambling as a “silent epidemic,” citing its impact on mental health and financial stability, particularly among youth betting with borrowed funds.

    “We are deeply concerned about the escalating cases of gambling-related distress—from debt and depression to suicide,” Muthoni said.

    Proposed interventions include stricter regulations, awareness campaigns, and collaboration with media and telecommunications companies to limit promotion.

    Those affected claim the appeal of Aviator—promoted through radio “competitions” that presenters privately acknowledge are manipulated—lies in its accessibility and the false hope it presents.

    One recovering participant who quit after deactivating his betting accounts said, “At least Mpesa can now retain funds. I don’t want quick money anymore.”

    However, for many, the consequences are irreversible: broken families, sold possessions, and unfulfilled aspirations.

    As the presenter who spoke out reportedly narrowly avoided termination, questions remain: will Kenya’s media organizations and regulators take action, or will gambling promoters continue to target vulnerable individuals?

    For now, the voices of those affected grow louder, demanding accountability and reform.

  • Police Service Renews Private Insurance Contract Despite Sh834M Debt and Idle Hospital

    Police Service Renews Private Insurance Contract Despite Sh834M Debt and Idle Hospital

    The National Police Service (NPS) has quietly renewed a lucrative private medical insurance contract with APA Insurance, even as a fully equipped Sh1.23 billion police hospital in Nairobi’s Mbagathi area remains unused and the government owes nearly Sh834 million to its contractor.

    According to a memo dated April 11, 2025, issued by Apeles Chacha on behalf of the Nairobi regional police commander, the new one-year medical cover will run from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.

    “You are required to inform officers that NPS has renewed the medical insurance contract with APA and a joint venture with effect from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026,” reads the memo circulated to all sub-county police commanders in Nairobi, officers in charge of law courts, and depots.

    Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Health CS Aden Duale during the hand over of the National Police Service Hospital Level Four Hospital in Mbagathi, Nairobi on May 17, 2024. (Photo: MINA)
    Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Health CS Aden Duale during the hand over of the National Police Service Hospital Level Four Hospital in Mbagathi, Nairobi on May 17, 2024. (Photo: MINA)

    The 150-bed level 4 hospital, built to reduce reliance on expensive private insurance schemes and improve healthcare access for police officers and their families, has been completed since the 2022/2023 financial year but remains non-operational.

    The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), which supervised the construction, has refused to hand over the facility until the full amount is paid, with the government having only remitted Sh400 million so far.

    Nancy Gathungu, the Auditor-General, flagged this issue in her 2023/2024 report, stating that “value for money spent on the project has not been realised” due to delayed payments and failure to operationalize the facility.

    While the memo doesn’t specify the value of the renewed insurance contract, it indicates that “the benefit cover provided under this renewed contract remains the same,” suggesting it could be comparable to previous arrangements. In 2023, the government paid Sh6.7 billion to the now-defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) for police coverage.

    The decision has raised eyebrows among fiscal watchdogs who question the logic of continuing with expensive private insurance while a purpose-built facility remains dormant.

    Officers have been instructed to update their beneficiary lists before April 30, 2025, raising concerns that dependents added after this date may not receive coverage under the new policy.

    The Auditor-General’s report also highlighted several irregularities in previous insurance arrangements, including 262 unpaid Group Personal Accident claims, 21 delayed Group Life payments worth Sh43.5 million, and 509 uncompensated Work Injury Benefits claims at the time of audit.

  • Francis, A Pope For The Internet Age

    Francis, A Pope For The Internet Age

    As an at-times unwitting star on social media, Pope Francis knew how to exploit the internet to preach the gospel, broadening the Church’s appeal while modernising its communications.

    Yet the head of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, who died on Monday, likewise regularly warned against the scourge of disinformation, and in recent years took aim at the possible perils of artificial intelligence.

    It was his predecessor Benedict XVI who created the papal X presence @pontifex in 2012, at a time when the now-Elon Musk owned site was known as Twitter, in a bid at reaching younger people.

    Within months of its creation Benedict stepped down and Francis took over, immediately striking social media gold.

    The handle boasts a total of 50 million followers across its accounts in nine languages, among them English, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Polish, German and Arabic.

    Even its account in long-dead Latin boasts one million followers.

    Then, in March 2016, three years to the day after he became pope, the Argentine went even further by creating an Instagram account.

    Today @Franciscus has nearly 10 million followers on the Meta-owned platform.

    As on X, the Vatican posts daily photos and videos, mostly of a religious nature, as well as excerpts from the speeches, texts and public addresses of the religious leader.

    His last video on Instagram, which consisted of an extract of his speech for the Easter Sunday mass, was liked by nearly 400,000 people.

    – ‘Disinformation and polarisation’ –

    That popularity however has not prevented him from criticising the negative effects of social media.

    While they serve “better to connect us”, they can “also reinforce our self-isolation”, he notably said in 2019, adding that “they also lend themselves to the manipulation of personal data”.

    When Musk’s X was accused of spreading false information and manipulating political debate and Europe in January 2024, Francis condemned “disinformation and polarisation, where a few centres of power control an unprecedented mass of data and information”.

    Just a few days earlier, he had already condemned an era of “fake news” and warned against the abuse of AI to “manipulate people’s minds”.

    Francis himself has been the subject of AI-generated images that have gone viral on the web, showing the pontiff partying in a nightclub or getting married.

    In March 2023, images of Pope Francis dressed in a white puffer jacket from luxury label Balenciaga and a bling crucifix in the fashion of American rappers became an internet sensation within a few hours.

    That is not to say that the Catholic Church has eschewed evangelising via AI entirely.

    Today, worshippers wishing to learn more about Catholic faith, dogma and theology can do so on platforms such as CateGPT — a play on the name of AI market leader ChatGPT — and HelloBible.

  • Inside President Ruto’s High-Stakes China Visit

    Inside President Ruto’s High-Stakes China Visit

    President William Ruto departs tonight for a State Visit to China aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between Kenya and China.

    The visit comes at a crucial time as Kenya continues to position itself as China’s leading Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) partner in Africa.

    According to a press release from the State House Spokesperson, Hussein Mohamed, the President’s itinerary includes several high-profile engagements designed to boost trade, investment, and infrastructure cooperation between the two nations.

    President Ruto will hold bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, focusing on economic transformation, sustainable development, and global cooperation. These discussions are expected to build upon the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2017.

    A key highlight of the visit will be the Kenya-China Business Forum, which will bring together over 100 companies from both countries. This platform aims to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, digital innovation, and industrial growth.

    In a move to enhance Kenya’s agricultural exports, President Ruto will inaugurate the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province.

    Located in one of China’s premier tea regions, the facility is designed to increase visibility and market access for Kenyan tea while supporting smallholder farmers.

    The Kenyan leader will also deliver a keynote address at Peking University, where he will outline Africa’s vision for inclusive growth, leadership, and deeper South-South cooperation.

    Regional security concerns will feature prominently on the agenda, with discussions expected to address peace and security in the Greater Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes Region.

    The visit underscores Kenya’s commitment to aligning BRI cooperation with its national development priorities, particularly the goal of establishing a robust industrial and logistics hub for East Africa.

    Kenya’s flagship infrastructure projects, including the Standard Gauge Railway and Nairobi Expressway, stand as testament to the transformative impact of the partnership.

    As this high-level engagement unfolds, all eyes will be on the concrete outcomes that emerge from President Ruto’s diplomatic mission to strengthen Kenya’s position in this strategic partnership.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Puzzle of a Man who Gained Unrestricted Access to Barracks For Days Before Dramatic Arrest

    Puzzle of a Man who Gained Unrestricted Access to Barracks For Days Before Dramatic Arrest

    Authorities are baffled by the mysterious case of a man who allegedly impersonated a soldier and gained unrestricted access to multiple military barracks across Kenya for days without detection.

    Wellington Kimtai Kipyego is currently being held at Kilimani Police Station following his arrest on Sunday, raising perplexing questions about security protocols within Kenya’s military establishments.

    According to sources familiar with the case, Kipyego has been handed over to the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) for interrogation, deepening the mystery surrounding his activities.

    “It’s quite puzzling how he managed to blend in so perfectly,” revealed an insider who requested anonymity.

    “The suspect wandered freely within secure military facilities in both Nairobi and Mombasa for several days, mingling with actual officers who never questioned his presence.”

    The involvement of anti-terrorism officers has added another layer of intrigue to the case, though officials have kept details about Kipyego’s motives and background closely guarded.

    Kilimani Sub-County Police Commander Patricia Yegon declined to provide details when contacted by the media, stating only that “it would be inappropriate to release information at this stage.”

    Most alarming is how Kipyego allegedly operated with complete freedom within military grounds, reportedly spending several days with military personnel who apparently never questioned his identity.

    He was found in possession of a counterfeit military ID card and uniforms believed to have been acquired from a former soldier discharged from service.

    A law enforcement source at Kilimani station, who was not authorized to speak publicly about the case, revealed that Kipyego was brought in “under tight security” on Monday.

    “Although he is being held here, the matter is being handled by ATPU officers who are expected to transfer him tomorrow for further questioning,” the source added.

    The investigation has taken an intriguing turn with reports suggesting that Kipyego works as a security guard for two influential civilians with strong military connections. Investigators are now examining whether these connections facilitated his unrestricted access to secure military facilities.

    Kipyego is expected to face multiple charges including impersonation and trespassing, with additional charges possible as the ATPU investigation progresses.

    The military has not issued any statement regarding potential security reviews following this breach, but former intelligence officials suggest internal procedures will likely be scrutinized in the wake of this infiltration.

    Authorities are expected to provide more details as the investigation unfolds.

  • ‘WE HAVE CROSSED THE RUBICON’: Linturi Blasts Ruto, Vows Political Revenge in 2027

    ‘WE HAVE CROSSED THE RUBICON’: Linturi Blasts Ruto, Vows Political Revenge in 2027

    Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has categorically denied President William Ruto’s claims of ongoing talks between them, in what appears to be a complete severing of ties with the administration that once counted him among its top officials.

    In an explosive interview with Weru TV, a vernacular station based in Meru, Linturi declared he has “crossed the Rubicon” and is now actively seeking opposition partners ahead of the 2027 elections, setting the stage for a potential political realignment in Kenya’s political landscape.

    “This is what jolted me into speaking out and walking away from the government,” Linturi said, referring to President Ruto’s April 2 remarks in Maua suggesting the two were in discussions about him potentially joining the broad-based government.

    “Nine months after I was hounded out of government, a pregnancy has come to term and a baby must be born. I have been quiet since I was fired but I have to come out and discount lies about me.”

    Linturi was removed from the Cabinet in the aftermath of the Gen Z protests that rocked the country in June last year.

    According to the former CS, his last communication with President Ruto occurred in December at State House, where the President reportedly told him he was “a victim of perception.”

    “I would rather die on my feet than live on my knees”

    In the interview, Linturi adopted a defiant tone, vowing that no form of enticement or intimidation would draw him back to Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

    “I don’t want his job; I am not interested. I will sort myself out,” he stated emphatically.

    President William Ruto
    President William Ruto.

    Perhaps most politically significant was Linturi’s revelation that he is now open to talks with several high-profile figures who have fallen out with the Ruto administration, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, as well as opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

    “We need to reenact a 2002 moment in 2027,” Linturi said, alluding to the historic coalition that ended KANU’s long rule in Kenya.

    Cold War with Head of Public Service

    The former Agriculture CS also shed light on his troubled working relationship with Head of Public Service Felix Koskei during his tenure in the ministry.

    “My relationship with Koskei was very bad,” Linturi revealed, as he attempted to clear his name over the controversial fake fertiliser scandal that plagued his time in office.

    This account appears to corroborate former Deputy President Gachagua’s recent claims that the Agriculture Ministry during Linturi’s tenure was effectively being run by the President and the Head of Public Service.

    In a startling revelation, Linturi claimed that on multiple occasions, appointment decisions were made using his name without his knowledge or consent.

    “At one time, Imenti South MP Shadrack Mwiti requested that we retain Jenaro Gatangugi as a director in the Pyrethrum Company. I committed to do that on a Wednesday. However, to my shock, on a Friday, a gazette notice was published with my name firing Mr. Gatangugi,” he disclosed.

    Fertiliser Scandal Clarification

    Addressing the fertiliser scandal that dominated headlines during his tenure, Linturi distanced himself from any wrongdoing.

    “As far as the fertiliser is concerned, I was not involved. After receiving the fertiliser donations from Russia and Algeria, I handed the consignment to NCPB. However, I later learnt that it had been given out as raw material for reformulation with directions from State House,” he explained.

    His account contrasts with recent statements from Agriculture PS Paul Rono, who claimed Kenya received donations of fertiliser raw materials in powder form that were subsequently given to manufacturers through an open tender process for granulation and blending.

    Regrets and Future Plans

    Expressing regret over his support for Ruto in the 2022 elections, Linturi stated, “If I knew he would change, I could have done things differently. I can’t believe that after all the prayers we made, Ruto changed for the worse.”

    The former CS revealed that he is in discussions with other politicians to form a regional political party, asserting that UDA has “significantly lost ground in Mt Kenya region.”

    Looking toward the future, Linturi, who unsuccessfully vied for the Meru gubernatorial seat in 2022, indicated he has several options for 2027 but emphasized his commitment to opposing the current administration.

    “We are now looking for appropriate partners. I wish Ruto all the best. There are no hard feelings. We have crossed the Rubicon. Let’s face off in 2027 as the people decide,” he concluded.

    This dramatic political realignment could signal growing dissatisfaction within President Ruto’s former strongholds, potentially reshaping alliances as the country edges closer to the next general election.

  • How The Next Pope Is Elected

    How The Next Pope Is Elected

    Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, after 12 years as spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

    His death has set in motion the centuries-old process of electing a new Pope.

    What does the Pope do?

    The Pope is the head of the Catholic Church. Roman Catholics believe he represents a direct line back to Jesus Christ. He is considered a living successor to St Peter, who was chief among Christ’s initial disciples, the Apostles.

    That gives him full and unhindered power over the entire Catholic Church and makes him an important source of authority for the world’s roughly 1.4 billion Catholics.

    While many Catholics often consult the Bible for guidance, they can also turn to the teachings of the Pope, which govern the Church’s beliefs and practices.

    About half of all Christians worldwide are Roman Catholics. Other denominations, including Protestants and Orthodox Christians, do not recognise the Pope’s authority.

    The Pope lives in Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world. It is surrounded by the Italian capital, Rome.

    The Pope does not receive a salary, but all his travel costs and living expenses are paid for by the Vatican.

    A papal funeral has traditionally been an elaborate affair, but Pope Francis recently approved plans to make the whole procedure less complex.

    Previous pontiffs were buried in three nested coffins made of cypress, lead and oak. Pope Francis has opted for a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc.

    He has also scrapped the tradition of placing the Pope’s body on a raised platform – known as a catafalque – in St Peter’s Basilica for public viewing.

    Instead, mourners will be invited to pay their respects while his body remains inside the coffin, with the lid removed.

    Francis will also be the first Pope in more than a century to be buried outside the Vatican.

    He will be laid to rest in the Basilica of St Mary Major, one of four major papal basilicas in Rome.

    A basilica is a church which has been granted special significance and privileges by the Vatican. The major basilicas have a particular connection to the Pope.

    Who chooses the new Pope?

    Who chooses the next pope
    Who chooses the next pope

    The new Pope has to be chosen by the Catholic Church’s most senior officials, known as the College of Cardinals.

    All men, they are appointed directly by the Pope, and are usually ordained bishops.

    There are currently 252 Catholic cardinals, 138 of whom are eligible to vote for the new Pope.

    The others are over the age of 80, which means they cannot take part in the election, although they can join in the debate over who should be selected.

    When the Pope dies (or resigns, as in the rare case of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013), the cardinals are summoned to a meeting at the Vatican, followed by the conclave, as the election is known.

    During the time between the Pope’s death and the election of his successor, the College of Cardinals governs the Church.

    The election is held in strict secrecy inside the Sistine Chapel, famously painted by Michelangelo.

    Individual cardinals vote for their preferred candidate until a winner is determined, a process which can take several days. In previous centuries, voting has gone on for weeks or months. Some cardinals have even died during conclaves.

    The only clue about how the election is proceeding is the smoke that emerges twice a day from burning the cardinals’ ballot papers. Black signals failure. The traditional white smoke means the new Pope has been chosen.

    After the white smoke goes up, the new Pope normally appears within an hour on the balcony overlooking St Peter’s Square.

    The senior cardinal participating in the conclave will announce the decision with the words “Habemus Papam” – Latin for “we have a Pope”.

    He will then introduce the new Pope by his chosen papal name, which may or may not be his original given name.

    For example, Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, but he chose a different name for his papacy in honour of St Francis of Assisi.

    Who can become the Pope?

     

    In theory, any Roman Catholic man who has been baptised can be considered for election to become Pope.

    In practice, however, the cardinals prefer to select one of their own.

    When the Argentine-born Pope Francis was chosen at the previous conclave in 2013, he became the first pontiff ever to hail from South America, a region that accounts for roughly 28% of the world’s Catholics.

    But historical precedent suggests the cardinals are far more likely to pick a European – and especially an Italian.

    Of the 266 popes chosen to date, 217 have been from Italy.

  • Billionaire Narendra Raval Pressures KRA to Waive Sh1.6B Tax Amid Kenya’s Economic Struggles

    Billionaire Narendra Raval Pressures KRA to Waive Sh1.6B Tax Amid Kenya’s Economic Struggles

    As Kenya grapples with mounting public debt and austerity measures, billionaire industrialist Narendra Raval, through his Devki Steel Mills, is locked in a high-stakes legal battle with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) over a disputed Sh1.6 billion tax exemption.

    The case, currently before the High Court in Mombasa, highlights growing tensions between Kenya’s business elite and tax authorities at a time when the country faces significant economic challenges.

    Tax Exemption Controversy

    According to court documents, Devki Steel Mills is seeking to prevent both the KRA and the National Treasury Cabinet Secretary from collecting what the tax authority describes as “Exempted VAT” on plant and machinery imported for the establishment of a major steel factory.

    The dispute centers around a June 2020 undertaking allegedly made by the Treasury, which Devki claims exempted it from paying the VAT on imported equipment.

    The company argues that based on this understanding, it proceeded to clear the imported machinery, establish its factory operations, and has since employed approximately 10,000 workers.

    KRA Pushes Back

    Narendra Raval and President Ruto are seen in State House, Nairobi at a past event.
    Narendra Raval and President Ruto are seen in State House, Nairobi at a past event.

    The KRA, however, contends that the alleged undertaking lacks the signature of the responsible Cabinet Secretary—a critical element for its validity. The tax authority has questioned the legitimacy of the document given the substantial tax amount involved.

    “The absence of the signature raises concerns about the authenticity and legitimacy of the undertaking,” the KRA stated in its court filing, adding that without proper authorization, the understanding “cannot be considered a proper binding commitment.”

    Timeline of Dispute

    The case reveals a complex sequence of events:

    – In June 2020, Devki requested tax exemptions for its major steel project
    – The Treasury allegedly approved the exemption and communicated this to KRA
    – KRA reportedly advised Devki to proceed with releasing the goods VAT-free
    – In August 2024, KRA sent Devki a demand letter for Sh1.3 billion in unpaid VAT
    – By September 2025, the amount had grown to Sh1.6 billion with interest and penalties
    – In October, the Treasury reportedly withdrew its undertaking, claiming no legal provisions supported the exemption

    This dispute comes amid increasing scrutiny of tax exemptions granted to wealthy businesses in Kenya.

    A separate investigation by Parliament is reportedly looking into 14 companies including Raval’s companies that received tax exemptions totaling Sh15 billion.

    Devki’s fears come from recent NCBA precedent, where the bank linked to former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s family, suffered a legal setback after a court ruled that the 2019 tax exemption granted for the merger of NIC Group and Commercial Bank of Africa (CBA) was unconstitutional.

    The exemption, granted by the National Treasury, bypassed legal procedures. During former President Kenyatta’s administration, the Treasury had waived a Sh350 million share transfer tax for the merger.

    The case raises important questions about tax policy consistency, government accountability, and whether large corporations are paying their fair share as ordinary Kenyans struggle with rising living costs.

    Devki’s legal argument hinges on the principle of “legitimate expectation,” claiming that once the exemption was granted and acted upon, the government cannot legally reverse its position.

    For now, the matter remains before the court, with Devki seeking both to block the tax demand and to compel the Treasury to honor what it describes as a binding commitment to settle the tax bill with KRA.

    Economic Context

    This legal battle unfolds against the backdrop of Kenya’s efforts to increase tax revenue collection while simultaneously attracting industrial investment. The Devki steel plant in Kwale County represents a significant industrial development, but critics question whether such tax exemptions create an uneven playing field.

    As this case progresses, it will likely set important precedents regarding the government’s ability to revoke tax exemptions and the obligations of major corporations to contribute to Kenya’s tax base during challenging economic times.

  • What Happens When The Pope Dies?

    What Happens When The Pope Dies?

    A papal funeral has traditionally been an elaborate affair, but Pope Francis recently approved plans to simplify the entire procedure.

    Previous pontiffs were buried in three nested coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak.

    Pope Francis has opted for a single, simple wooden coffin lined with zinc.

    He has also eliminated the tradition of placing the pope’s body on a raised platform—known as a catafalque—in St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing.

    Instead, mourners will be invited to pay their respects while his body lies inside the coffin with the lid removed.

    Francis will also be the first pope in more than a century to be buried outside the Vatican.

    He will be laid to rest in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four major papal basilicas in Rome.

    On Monday, the Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis, setting the stage for the selection of a new head of the worldwide Catholic Church.

    A new pope is chosen under only two circumstances: the death or resignation of the current pope. Typically, the position of pope is a lifelong one, with rare exceptions.

    There is no provision under canon law to remove a pope from office.

    This has posed challenges in the past—for example, during the final months of Pope Saint John Paul II’s papacy.

    He was gravely ill and incapacitated, but the College of Cardinals could not begin the process of conclave until after his death.

    A doctor confirms the pope’s death, but only the Camerlengo (Chamberlain) can initiate the complex series of rituals that follow.

    The Camerlengo serves as the Vatican’s overseer of property and revenues and is responsible for executing the protocols and organizing the funeral.

    The current Camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, will refer to a 400-page handbook titled Funeral Rites of the Roman Pontiff, which guides him through the strict protocols governing a papal funeral.

    First, he will call out the pope’s baptismal name—Jorge Mario Bergoglio for Pope Francis—three times.

    This was traditionally done to ensure the pope was deceased and not merely sleeping.

    Only when there is no response does the Camerlengo confirm the official death.

    The next step is the ceremonial destruction of the “Fisherman’s Ring.”

    Also known as the Piscatory Ring, this is an official part of the regalia worn by the pope.

    Historically, the ring served as the pope’s seal on official documents, and its destruction prevented misuse, such as forging documents.

    Today, the act is purely symbolic and marks the end of the pope’s authority.

    Finally, the papal apartments are sealed—a measure historically intended to guard against looting.

    The public’s first indication of a pope’s death is the tolling of the mourning bell at St. Peter’s Basilica.

    The bell rings once for each year of the pope’s life; it tolled 84 times for Pope Saint John Paul II in 2005.

    In contrast, the bells remained silent in 2013 when Pope Benedict XVI’s papacy ended, as he resigned rather than passed away.

    The Vatican has now entered an interregnum period known as Sede Vacante—the throne of St. Peter is empty.

  • Babu Owino Eyes 2027 Presidential Bid with Ndindi Nyoro as Potential Running Mate

    Babu Owino Eyes 2027 Presidential Bid with Ndindi Nyoro as Potential Running Mate

    Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has signaled his presidential ambitions for the 2027 general elections, suggesting Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro could serve as his running mate.

    During an interview on a local radio show, the outspoken lawmaker declared that a joint ticket with Nyoro would be formidable enough to secure victory without extensive campaign infrastructure.

    “It all depends on our collective decisions with my brother Ndindi, who has proven himself as a high performer,” Owino stated. “If we decided to pursue the presidency today with Ndindi as my deputy, we could achieve victory effortlessly—by early morning!”

    Ndindi Nyoro.

    The ambitious MP outlined potential allies for his political journey, mentioning several influential figures including Kalonzo Musyoka, Edwin Sifuna, James Orengo, Eugene Wamalwa, Gladys Wanga, Irungu Kang’ata, and George Natembeya.

    Not mincing words about current leadership, Owino expressed sharp criticism of both President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.

    He specifically highlighted alleged financial mismanagement in Nairobi, claiming that a World Bank allocation of Ksh.380 million intended for road construction projects in Embakasi East, Mathare, and Roysambu had been squandered.

    “The World Bank released funds to improve our infrastructure, but contractors have abandoned sites with nothing to show for it,” Owino charged. “The responsibility falls squarely on Nairobi’s governor.”

    When discussing his political future, the Embakasi East representative described himself as being “spoilt for choice” and “overqualified” for either gubernatorial or presidential aspirations, citing passionate support from his base for a 2027 presidential run.

    In a particularly pointed assessment of President Ruto’s administration, Owino expressed disappointment in what he perceives as unfulfilled potential.

    “This is a president who had every opportunity to be Kenya’s finest leader, especially coming from humble beginnings,” Owino remarked.

    “After his 2022 victory, I believed he had secured 2027 as well. But watching developments unfold, I now see him losing ground due to obvious shortcomings.”

    The pronouncement adds another dimension to Kenya’s already complex political calculations as the country gradually looks toward the next general election cycle.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Revealed: Mediheal Hospital Forced Kenyan ‘Organ Donors’ to Adopt Somali Names Before Removing Their Kidneys

    Revealed: Mediheal Hospital Forced Kenyan ‘Organ Donors’ to Adopt Somali Names Before Removing Their Kidneys

    As Kenyans grapple with one of the biggest scandals in Kenya’s healthcare history, more damning evidence continues to surface about Mediheal Hospital in Eldoret.

    New investigative findings reveal that the hospital allegedly forced hundreds of Kenyan kidney donors to adopt Somali identities before harvesting their organs—effectively turning them into fugitives in their own country.

    According to Dr. Darwin Ambuka, a medical law expert and deputy vice chair of the Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacist & Dentist Union (KMPDU) North Rift branch, Mediheal Hospital has allegedly manipulated medical records and exploited vulnerable donors through questionable consent procedures.

    “If you look at those official forms Mediheal generated and has been using, ‘organ donors’ seem to have become fugitives in their own country after they were made to adopt Somali names,” Dr. Ambuka told a local newspaper after reviewing 80 pages of internal medical records, forms, and affidavits.

    “A fugitive cannot sign a form that is legally binding, their families are not even aware they are donating organs yet we all know that in organ donation, consent extends to family,” he added.

    The investigation found that Mediheal had allegedly turned at least 372 Kenyans into unwitting participants in what appears to be an elaborate organ trafficking scheme.

    Government Action

    Last week, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale ordered the immediate suspension of all kidney transplant services at Mediheal Hospital pending further investigation into “serious allegations of malpractice and ethical violations” related to transplant procedures.

    President Ruto has also suspended Dr. Swarup Mishra, the chair of Mediheal, from his position as BioVax chair to allow for an unimpeded investigation into the organ trade allegations.

    Legal Loopholes Exploited

    The investigation revealed that a lack of clear legislative framework has allowed the alleged organ trafficking to thrive.

    Kenya’s Health Act 2017 provides only broad guidelines for organ transplantation, with critical regulatory gaps that unscrupulous operators have allegedly exploited.

    “In this country, we import corneas from India yet we don’t know the circumstances of obtaining these corneas because we don’t have a regulatory framework. Parliament has never addressed this issue and whenever a problem arises, they only do firefighting,” Dr. Ambuka explained.

    Several key regulatory failures have enabled the alleged scheme:

    – The Health Ministry has failed to establish regulations as stipulated in the 2017 Act
    – There is no national body or ethical committee to vet transplant applications
    – Current regulations focus on licensing facilities rather than protecting the transplantation process
    – No coordinated oversight between the multiple regulatory bodies involved

    Hospital Defense

    Swarup Mishra.

    Dr. Mishra has vehemently denied the allegations, stating, “We at Mediheal have not done any selection of any donor and have not paid them for a kidney.”

    He further claimed that the hospital is “waiting for the government to develop a legal framework that will aid us do proper donor selection and the health ministry is currently working on it.”

    According to Dr. Mishra, “Foreign recipients come here after being given Visas by their government and permits by the Kenyan government, it has nothing to do with Dr. Mishra.”

    Identity Manipulation

    What makes this case particularly troubling is the alleged systematic manipulation of donor identities. By reportedly forcing Kenyan donors to adopt Somali names and identities on official paperwork, Mediheal may have been attempting to obscure the true nature of these transactions.

    “They misused those forms as an escapist tool which is illegal,” Dr. Ambuka noted.

    The KMPDU has learned of individuals “descending on villages in the area to hunt for organ donors,” suggesting an organized network targeting vulnerable populations.

    As the investigation continues, questions remain about how many people may have been affected and whether other medical facilities might be involved in similar practices. For now, the Health Ministry’s suspension of kidney transplant services at Mediheal remains in effect as authorities work to unravel the full extent of the alleged organ trafficking operation.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Githunguri MP Wamuchomba Unveils Presidential Ambitions

    Githunguri MP Wamuchomba Unveils Presidential Ambitions

    Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba has made a bold declaration of her presidential ambitions, unveiling an economic vision centered on transforming Kenya’s manufacturing sector through cottage industries.

    In a recent post on X that has sparked online debate, Wamuchomba outlined a comprehensive plan that would fundamentally reshape Kenya’s approach to industrialization and job creation.

    “One day I will lead this country. I will turn around available labour to riches,” declared the outspoken legislator.

    Wamuchomba’s presidential vision hinges on establishing what she calls “cottage special zones” with subsidized power and water rates.

    These zones would aim to transform every Kenyan home with a backyard into a production unit for domestic consumption goods—ranging from toothpicks and spoons to towels and belts.

    “Our idle stadiums will be cottage markets from 6 pm to 1 am daily, with special cleaning squads,” she proposed, outlining a plan to create round-the-clock economic activity in public spaces that often remain underutilized.

    The MP’s industrial policy would also include a ban on raw material exports of key agricultural products like macadamia nuts, coffee, and tea, preferring instead to focus on local processing and value addition.

    “When I’m president, we will NOT export raw macadamia, coffee, and tea but rather process locally and sell final goods,” she emphasized.

    In a nod to environmental sustainability and women’s empowerment, Wamuchomba further proposed localizing production of personal care items such as hair wigs “made from banana fibers and biodegradable materials” and sanitary towels “from biodegradable fibers.”

    The ambitious plan includes creating a national award system for cottage industry innovators, establishing a cottage fund for incubation in every county, and deploying extension officers to provide technical advisory services.

    Wamuchomba concluded her statement with a candid acknowledgment of the financial hurdles facing her presidential bid: “Who will make me a president? I have no money to campaign.”

    While Kenya’s next presidential election is still years away, Wamuchomba’s early declaration positions her as a potential contender with a distinct economic vision that differs from the mainstream political discourse.

  • MPs Push for Cancellation of Multibillion e-Citizen Deal Over Contract Loopholes

    MPs Push for Cancellation of Multibillion e-Citizen Deal Over Contract Loopholes

    Members of Parliament are calling for the cancellation of the government’s multibillion-shilling e-Citizen platform contract after identifying serious loopholes that they claim primarily benefit suppliers while exposing taxpayers to financial risk and potential data breaches.

    The parliamentary Administration and Internal Affairs committee has raised alarm over what they describe as a “lopsided contract” that handles hundreds of millions of shillings in daily government service payments but was signed by junior officials without the necessary oversight signatures from key government authorities.

    Missing Signatures Raise Concern

    According to committee members, the contract conspicuously lacks the signatures of the Attorney-General—the government’s chief legal advisor—as well as Cabinet Secretaries from the National Treasury and Interior Ministry, despite the platform’s immense financial implications and security considerations.

    “You cannot have an agreement to which trillions of shillings are going through without the signatures of the Attorney-General, the Cabinet Secretaries of the National Treasury and the Interior Ministry. It is scary,” revealed one committee member.

    Mr. James Ayugi (on the left), the founder of e-Citizen. [Photo: Courtesy]
    Mr. James Ayugi (on the left), the founder of e-Citizen. [Photo: Courtesy]
    Instead, the agreement was signed by Stanley Kamanguya, CEO of the ICT Authority, on behalf of the government and witnessed by Thomas Odhiambo, acting director at ICT Authority, and Isaac Ochieng, the Director-General of e-Citizen.

    Auditor General Conducting Special Audit

    The call for cancellation comes as the Auditor General conducts a special audit of the platform following discrepancies noted in the 2023/2024 financial year audit.

    The report highlighted variances of Sh44.8 billion between “balances reflected in the revenue statements, e-portal system and the ledger.”

    “The special audit is informed by the current strategic importance of e-Citizen in the financial architecture of the government,” states the Auditor General’s report, adding that it would “interrogate both IT and physical security, governance arrangements and the adequacy of the controls in place.”

    Contract Duration Ambiguity

    MPs also raised concerns about ambiguities in the contract terms.

    While the agreement is supposed to run for three years from 2023 to 2026, it does not specify exact effective and due dates—a loophole that parliamentarians fear “could be explored at the government’s expense.”

    Data Security Risks

    Perhaps most alarming to the committee is a termination clause that potentially puts government data at risk.

    The contract stipulates that if terminated, “the suppliers shall be entitled to rescind, withdraw or otherwise uninstall all their proprietary infrastructure and resources including all technical infrastructure and resources whether software or otherwise defined in the Service Level Agreement.”

    Kisumu West MP Rozzah Buyu criticized Immigration and Citizen Services Principal Secretary Dr. Bellio Kipsang for failing to provide the required contract information in a timely manner, despite multiple requests since last year.

    “We oversight you on behalf of the people. Kenyans want to know where the money they pay goes,” said MP Buyu during a committee session.

    The Consortium Behind e-Citizen

    The e-Citizen ecosystem is supported by a consortium of developers registered as Electronic Services Solutions (ECS) LLP, which includes:

    – Webmasters Kenya Limited: Responsible for support, maintenance, and customer care services
    – Pesaflow Limited: Handles payment matters in accordance with the National Payment System Act of 2011
    – Olive Tree Limited: Manages bulk messaging, security support for notification services, and revenue mobilization

    The consortium was represented in the contract by James Ayugi, CEO of Webmasters Kenya Limited, with signatures from Evid Araka, director at Pesaflow Limited, and James Kabiru, director of Olive Tree Media Limited.

    As parliamentary scrutiny intensifies and the special audit continues, questions remain about the future of Kenya’s primary government digital payment platform that processes billions of shillings in public funds.

  • High Court Rules in Favor of CS Duale-Linked Firm in KSh 1.3B KRA Tender Dispute

    High Court Rules in Favor of CS Duale-Linked Firm in KSh 1.3B KRA Tender Dispute

    In a landmark ruling delivered on April 11, 2025, the Court of Appeal has directed the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to award a KSh 1.182 billion security services tender to Vickers Security Services Limited, a company reportedly linked to Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale, a close ally of President William Ruto.

    The three-judge bench overturned an earlier decision by the Public Procurement Administrative Review Board (PPARB) that had nullified KRA’s original intention to award the contract to Vickers and instead directed it be given to Hatari Security Guards Limited at a higher cost of KSh 1.382 billion.

    Justices Wanjiru Karanja, Kathurima M’Inoti, and Lydia Achode ruled that the PPARB had exceeded its statutory powers and violated constitutional principles by failing to accord Vickers and KRA a fair hearing before disqualifying Vickers’ bid.

    “The procurement of goods and services by a public entity is not to be conducted arbitrarily and opaquely,” the judges stated in their ruling, citing Article 227 of the Constitution, which demands transparency, equity, and accountability in public procurement.

    The dispute originated from a tender issued by KRA in August 2024 for security and safety services over three years, divided into three lots. Following evaluation, KRA awarded Lot 1 (Guarding Services) to Vickers, whose bid was approximately KSh 200 million lower than Hatari’s.

    Hatari challenged the award, alleging that Vickers had failed to attend mandatory pre-tender site visits at six of the 162 designated locations. However, both Vickers and KRA maintained that the tender documents only required site visit registers to be stamped by a KRA officer or local government representative, a requirement Vickers had satisfied.

    Although the PPARB agreed that Hatari’s complaint lacked merit, it introduced new grounds unrelated to Hatari’s application to disqualify Vickers, citing alleged anomalies in site visit certificates and missing details in price schedules.

    The Court of Appeal criticized the Board’s approach, noting that Hatari, the eventual beneficiary, had allegedly committed the same infractions used to disqualify Vickers. The judges questioned how the Board could uphold cost-effectiveness while awarding the tender to a firm with a higher bid and similar documentation irregularities.

    “If the Board has such roving power to review procurements as it has claimed,” the judges said, “then nothing could stop it from inquiring whether Hatari had itself complied with what the Board was penalizing Vickers for.”

    The Court emphasized the need for holistic constitutional interpretation, especially when fundamental rights like the right to a fair hearing are at stake. It issued an order quashing PPARB’s decision and compelling KRA to award Lot 1 to Vickers as originally intended.

    Vickers and KRA were also awarded costs in both the High Court and the Court of Appeal. The ruling represents a significant victory for Vickers Security Services Limited amid ongoing scrutiny of government procurement processes.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • 14-Year-Old Girl Mauled By Lion In Nairobi

    14-Year-Old Girl Mauled By Lion In Nairobi

    A lion has killed a 14-year-old girl outside the capital Nairobi, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) said on Sunday.

    The incident occurred on Saturday in a ranch to the south of Nairobi National Park.

    The attack was witnessed by another teenager, who raised the alarm, the KWS said in a statement.

    “KWS rangers and response teams were swiftly mobilized and traced bloodstains leading to the Mbagathi River, where the girl’s body was recovered with injuries on the lower back,” the conservation agency said in a statement.

    “The lion was not sighted at the scene,” it added.

    It said a trap had been set for the lion and teams deployed to comb the area, along with additional safety measures.

    The KWS said a 54-year-old man had also been killed by an elephant in Kenya’s Nyeri County on Friday.

    “KWS conveys its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and continues to work closely with local law enforcement and communities to enhance the safety of people living near protected wildlife areas,” it said in the statement.

    It called for more investment in “human-wildlife conflict mitigation”, including early warning systems and greater collaboration with affected communities.

  • KNUT Slams Politicians’ Meddling in Teacher Recruitment

    KNUT Slams Politicians’ Meddling in Teacher Recruitment

    The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has condemned alleged involvement of politicians in the recruitment of teachers.

    KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu claims that interference from members of the political class has unjustly excluded deserving teachers from employment opportunities.

    He expresses concern that the commission responsible for this mandate has abdicated its role.

    “Never in the history of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have we seen what is happening now. The TSC should work and operate within its mandate. The manner in which employment forms are being distributed by some politicians leaves much to be desired,” charged Oyuu

    The union urges the Teachers Service Commission to organise its processes and take full control of recruitment as mandated by law.

    “The issue of employment is causing a lot of concern in the circles of the Kenya National Union on Teachers (KNUT). The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is an independent commission by law and has the mandate to recruit teachers for the teaching service. It is alarming that the TSC has abdicated this role,” explained Oyuu.

    As a result of this alleged interference, the KNUT boss asserts that the hiring process has become biased, leaving many candidates feeling disheartened.

    “You must be fair and human. The idea of picking a teacher who completed college in 2023 while leaving out the one who finished teacher training in 2010 raises more questions than it answers,” he remarked.

    According to Oyuu, many teachers who have served for numerous years remain without formal employment and should not be overlooked.

    “Be human. We have teachers who are over 50 years old who are not employed. They are out there. Where do you want them to go? They must be employed,” appealed the KNUT Secretary General.

  • Kidero Scandal Rocks KNTC: Nepotism and Misuse of Power Alleged at State Corporation

    Kidero Scandal Rocks KNTC: Nepotism and Misuse of Power Alleged at State Corporation

    Former Nairobi governor Evans Kidero is again at the center of a brewing scandal, this time as Chair of the Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC).

    Allegations of nepotism, favoritism, and misuse of public resources have cast a dark shadow over his leadership, raising questions about the integrity of one of Kenya’s key state institutions.

    Sources reveal that Kidero’s son, Roney Kidero, and maternal cousin, Evance Ochieng’, have secured prominent positions at KNTC’s Industrial Area headquarters, occupying offices adjacent to the boardroom.

    The appointments, which appear to prioritize family ties over merit, have sparked outrage among observers who see a troubling pattern of favoritism reminiscent of Kidero’s past tenures.

    “This is not reform. It’s a consolidation of family power within a national institution,” a source familiar with KNTC operations stated. “The same nepotism that plagued Mumias Sugar and Nairobi County is now eroding KNTC.”

    Kidero’s track record invites scrutiny. As CEO of Mumias Sugar Company, he oversaw its catastrophic collapse, devastating livelihoods in western Kenya.

    Later, as Nairobi’s first Governor, his administration was marred by fiscal indiscipline and systemic corruption, shattering public trust in his technocratic credentials.

    Now, at KNTC, critics argue that Kidero is repeating history, transforming a public institution into a hub of personal enrichment.

    Appointed by President William Ruto to steer KNTC in the public interest, Kidero’s leadership has instead been marked by allegations of backroom deals and the systematic sidelining of qualified professionals in favor of loyalists and kin.

    The presence of “familiar surnames and recycled networks” within KNTC, as one insider put it, has fueled perceptions of state capture.

    Adding to the controversy is the silence of KNTC Managing Director Lucy Anangwe.

    Her failure to address the alleged irregularities and labor violations has raised questions about her complicity or competence.

    “Leadership that ignores rot becomes part of it,” the source remarked.

    Kidero’s trajectory—from the ashes of Mumias to the scandals at City Hall, and now the erosion at KNTC—serves as a stark warning of the dangers of entrusting public duty to individuals who blur the line between service and self-interest.