Kenya Insights

Tag: 2022 elections

  • Wafula Chebukati and Controversies That Rocked IEBC During His Tenure

    Wafula Chebukati and Controversies That Rocked IEBC During His Tenure

    Wafula Chebukati’s tenure as the chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) from January 2017 to January 2023 was marked by significant controversies that shaped the nation’s electoral landscape.

    From the tragic death of a key IT manager to internal disputes and annulled elections, Chebukati’s leadership faced numerous challenges that tested the resilience of Kenya’s democratic institutions.

    Wafula Chebukati

    Controversies That Defined Wafula Chebukati’s Leadership at IEBC

    Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Wafula Chebukati has died.

    He passed away at a Nairobi hospital after battling a long illness. He was 63.

    Chebukati, a lawyer, took over as IEBC chair in January 2017 after former President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed him. His six-year term ended on January 17, 2023.

    His death has drawn mixed reactions. President William Ruto described him as a principled and diligent leader who served with integrity. Ruto called his passing a great loss to the nation.

    However, some Kenyans reacted differently, remembering the controversies that surrounded his leadership at the electoral commission.

    The Tragic Death of Chris Msando

    In July 2017, just seven months into Chebukati’s tenure, the IEBC’s IT manager, Chris Msando, was found dead on the outskirts of Nairobi. His body, discovered alongside that of a woman, showed signs of torture.

    Msando had been responsible for testing the Kenya Integrated Electoral Management System (KIEMS), designed to enhance the credibility of the upcoming elections by preventing voter fraud.

    His untimely death raised serious concerns about the security and integrity of the electoral process.

    Annulment of the 2017 Presidential Election

    The 2017 general elections saw incumbent President Uhuru Kenyatta face off against opposition leader Raila Odinga.

    Despite allegations of electoral malpractice from Odinga’s camp, Chebukati declared Kenyatta the winner by a margin of 1.4 million votes.

    Odinga challenged the results in the Supreme Court, leading to a historic ruling on September 1, 2017.

    The court annulled the presidential election, citing irregularities in the transmission and verification of results, and ordered a fresh election within 60 days.

    This landmark decision underscored the judiciary’s role in upholding electoral integrity.

    Internal Turmoil and Resignations

    The period leading up to the repeat election was tumultuous for the IEBC. Commissioner Dr. Roselyn Akombe resigned just a week before the scheduled poll, citing the commission’s inability to conduct a credible election due to internal divisions and external pressures.

    Her departure highlighted the deep-seated issues within the IEBC and cast doubt on its capacity to oversee a fair electoral process.

    Wafula Chebukati Was Behind The Dismissal of CEO Ezra Chiloba

    Amidst the political unrest and public outcry following the annulled elections, IEBC’s CEO, Ezra Chiloba, became a focal point of controversy.

    Accusations of mismanagement and failure to implement commission decisions led to his suspension and eventual dismissal in 2018.

    Chebukati cited Chiloba’s gross misconduct and violation of procurement laws as reasons for the termination.

    This move was seen by some as a necessary step towards restoring the commission’s credibility, while others viewed it as indicative of deeper systemic issues within the IEBC.

    2022 Elections: Wafula Chebukati vs the “Cherera Four”

    The 2022 general elections presented another significant challenge. As the nation awaited the presidential results, four IEBC commissioners—Vice Chair Juliana Cherera, Francis Wanderi, Justus Nyang’aya, and Irene Masit—publicly disowned the results, citing opaqueness in the final tallying process.

    Their dissent led to confusion and heightened tensions across the country. Despite the internal discord, Chebukati proceeded to declare William Ruto as the president-elect.

    The Supreme Court later upheld Ruto’s victory, dismissing the petitions challenging the election outcome.

    Legacy and Reflections

    Chebukati’s tenure at the IEBC was undeniably fraught with challenges that tested Kenya’s electoral framework.

    From overseeing annulled elections to managing internal divisions and public trust issues, his leadership navigated a complex landscape of political and institutional pressures.

    While some commend his steadfastness in the face of adversity, others critique the controversies that marred his time in office.

    As Kenya continues to evolve its democratic processes, the experiences from Chebukati’s era offer valuable lessons for future electoral reforms and leadership within the IEBC.

    What Caused Chebukati’s Death?

    Wafula Chebukati’s family has not yet determined the cause of his death. The former IEBC Chairperson passed away on Thursday night.

    Family spokesperson Eric Nyongesa Wafula told the press outside Lee Funeral Home that they will hold a meeting on Friday evening.

    They plan to discuss important matters, including whether to conduct a postmortem to find out the cause of death.

    Facts About Wafula Chebukati

    • Death: Chebukati passed away at 11 PM on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
    • Health: He had been critically ill since 2024 and was admitted to the ICU before his death.
    • IEBC Leadership:
      • Served as IEBC Chairman for six years.
      • Retired on January 17, 2023.
      • Oversaw the 2017 and 2022 General Elections.
    • Education:
      • Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Nairobi.
      • Master of Business Administration from JKUAT.
      • Attended St. Peters Mumias Boys and Lenana School.
    • Family:
      • Married to Mary Chebukati Wanyonyi.
      • Father to Emmanuel, Rachel, and Jonathan Chebukati.
      • First-born son of John Wafula Chebukati and Mama Joina Wafula.

  • Kingi-Mwathathe war ripping PAA party apart

    Kingi-Mwathathe war ripping PAA party apart

    The fallout between Kilifi governor Amason Kingi and former Chief of Defence Forces General Samson Mwathethe is causing turbulence in Pamoja African Alliance (PAA) party. Mwathethe who enjoys strong links between the party officials and State House has left the party over lack of honesty in operations.

    PAA wrote to the Registrar of Political Parties Anne Nderitu seeking to withdraw from the Azimio La Umoja-One Kenya Coalition. The Kingi led party claimed that it is kept in the dark over the agreement it signed with Azimio Coalition.

    “We confirm that PAA vide its letter dated April 25, to the Registrar of Political Parties is seeking to withdraw from the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition party,” Governor Kingi posted on Twitter.

    Other officials of the Kilifi based political party also told the media that they had not seen the agreement it had signed with the coalition.

    Former Chief of Defence Forces General Samson Mwathathe [p/courtesy]
    But reports are also rife that Deputy President Dr. William Ruto is using former Malindi MP Lucas Maitha, an official of PAA to poach the party from Azimio at a good fee.

    Ruto taking over the party will leave the likes of George Kithi with serious political injuries. He is eyeing the Kilifi gubernatorial seat where he will face off with UDA’s Aisha Jumwa.

    Kithi will definitely be forced to shelve his bid in favour of Jumwa who is Ruto’s sidekick and a powerful political force.

    PAA officials are desperate to make a killing and will not care if the  party candidates win or lose since they have already pocketed their nomination fees.

    Kingi party will be the second from the Coastal region to be swallowed by DP Ruto after he bought Kadu Asili, a brief case party which has no political impact.

    But a section of supporters and candidates vying for various positions are opposed to the hawking move and have threatened to take a legal action.

    They argue that they were attracted to the party because of its affiliation to Azimio la Umoja coalition whose presidential candidate is ODM leader Raila Odinga.

    Kingi fell out with Odinga and in early 2021 when he publicly lectured the ODM leader to let coastal people to form and run political parties that carry their ambitions.

    That lecture sealed his departure from ODM and dented his long political relationship with Raila Odinga and even his stay in Azimio was expected to be rocky.

     

     

  • Kalonzo’s spoiler role in ODM strongholds

    Kalonzo’s spoiler role in ODM strongholds

    Wiper Democratic Movment handed Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko a direct nomination ticket to vie for the Mombasa County governorship in the August General Election.

    Sonko was handed the ticket by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka in a small ceremony held in Nairobi almost two weeks after the Musyoka-led party cleared Sonko and submitted his name to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

    After his entry into the Mombasa race race, the controversial politician was expected to face off with Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo in nominations but Kalonzo managed to broker a deal that will have Mbogo deputize Sonko.

    TThe move now sets stage for Sonko to battle it out against Mvita MP Abdulswamad Sharif  Nassir (ODM) and former Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar (UDA) who are both eyeing the top seat in the port city.

    Sonko-Mbogo ticket is considerebly strong since Mbogo comes from the Mijikenda community which is the largest in the ccoastal region. He is also the sitting in MP in Kisauni which is th most populous constituency in Mombasa County.

    Wiper Leader Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka [p/courtesy]
    The battle to succceed outgoing governor Hassan Joho has seen many aspirants scrambling for Mijikenda community vote which is distributed across the six sub-counties ahead of the August polls.

    Sonko who has had a stint as the resideent of Mombasa began by endearing himself to the community by meeting its elders.

    According to 2017 IEBC register, Mombasa  County has a total of 580,223 registered voters with slightly over 50% of these voters coming from the Mijikenda community concentrated especially in Kisauni and Likoni sub counties and sections of Mvita.

    Experts argue that the Mijikenda factor despit the poverty levels still remains crucial for anyone seeking to be the next governor and like any previous races; Kenyan-Arab aspirants will also have to scramble for Mijikenda running mates.

    Even ODM’s Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir who will fly the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) flag and considered a descendant of the Arab Swahili, a community regarded as wealthy with urban influence is most likey to choose a Mijikendda as his running matte to win the vote.

    Both Sonko and Abdulswamad are in Azimio La Umoja coalition and one would have expected Kalonzo to shelve his party’s interests in a plac considered ODM stronghold but he is hellbent to play a spoiler card.

    He is not campaigning for the Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga but fielding candidates in regions where vote splitting may disadvantage ODM and favor UDA candidate.

    Kalonzo believes that pairing with Mijikenda gives him enough guts to take on ODM in Mombasa. Both Kalonzo and Sonko are from the Kamba community whi boasts of good numericcal figures in Mombasa.

    The Kamba community is the second largest vote bloc in Mombasa county. They had initially expressed their will to throw their weight behind businessman Suleiman Shahbal who later ditched Wiper for ODM after alledging that Joho gave them a raw deal.

    They claim that the incumbent who was elected on an ODM ticket has neglected them for close to a decade by ignoring their kins in county xecutive jobs.

    But Kalonzo’s meddling and interferance in ODM strongholds has also been witnessed in Nairobi.

    The former VP had intially reached a deal to have Wiper’s Prof. Philip Kaloki deputize Jubilee aspirant Richard Ngatia. This was despite Ngatia being tainted with looting scandals, fake degree papers and ODM having the favorite to ascend to City’s top sat in Westlands MP Tim Wanyaonyi.

    Azimio has since settled to have Jubilee’s Polycarp Igathe go for the governor deputized by ODM’s Tim Wanyonyi and Wiperman Philip Kaloki has been promised the County Assembly speaker position.

     

     

     

  • What if Uhuru deploys military to handle post poll chaos?

    What if Uhuru deploys military to handle post poll chaos?

    With the 2022 political wars now changing tact from verbal attacks to ‘near deployment’ of the most sophisticated weapons either side may possess, August 9 polls remain a battle between President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy, Dr. William Ruto.

    The trading of political salvos has heightened since President Kenyatta made it public that he is backing the Opposition Chief Raila Odinga in the 2022 presidential race. Kenyatta is backing the man he beat in both 2013 and 2017 presidential polls but not his deputy William Ruto who backed him (Kenyatta) in those polls.

    Ruto is feeling played and he is in the race to win it against Raila Odinga who he accuses of being President Uhuru’s project. Even pundits belittle their war as a mere imitation of a common scene in dirty politics but it is war and power is at play.

    President Kenyatta has power in hands to make bold moves with it. He started with a hard hitting purge targeted on Ruto allies in the Cabinet, State Corporations, in the two parliaments and Jubilee Party where he kicked them out.

    He has painted the picture perfectly that he can play smooth or even extend military. For instance, Nairobi County which was under Mike Mbuvi Sonko, a corrupt Ruto ally was put under the military man. Sonko was first made irrelevant when his tasks were transferred to Major General Mohamed Badi of Nairobi Metropolitan Services (MNS).

    NMS Director, Major General Mohamed Badi [P/Courtesy]
    Kenyatta’s preference for the military guys has seen him deploy numbers of them in civilian functions so a lot can be expected. Deputy President is alleging that there is a ‘Deep State’ or System that can crash a small man’s dreams but he won’t allow them to steal his vote.

    Ruto must be tough enough to resist anything outside the ordinary politics’ because he is facing an incumbent who has many options to respond to a disputed vote.

    If Ruto’s backyard revolts in protest of the vote then Kenyatta who has suffered many legal setbacks in the run up to the coming polls will have to flex muscles. BBI was seen as his sinister way to amend the constitution, water down presidency and to allow Kenyatta, Moi and Odinga families have a firmer hand on the next government.

    Analysts also argue that Rift Valley may choose to disrupt peace and shutting the busy Nairobi-Busia road that connects the larger Western region, Uganda major parts of East Africa.

    A move like that may result into a serious territorial problem that may go beyond the reach of police thus pushing the president to deploy military he says are effective and his preference for a neat job.

    While speaking to CNN in October 2018, Uhuru emphatically stated that he will not extend his term beyond 2022 but is now backing Odinga and his opponents are accusing him of planning to plant his successor.

    And Ruto alleging that the state may be planning to rig the August vote in favor of Odinga is also a sign that no side will take a loss with humility. Kenya lost more than 1500 lives during the violence that followed the 2007 polls and the president who prefers the military for a neat job may rely on the same.

    In the wise words of Carl von Clausewitz, “War is the continuation of politics by other means”. Whether the military is labeled with that scarlet word ‘political’ is not a concern but restoring law and order.

    Studies have shown that arguments of whether military should be apolitical is confusing and counterproductive. Military has itself become a very intensely political institution especially in regimes where Commanders in Chief ruthlessly muzzle their opponents.

    In May 2020, President Kenyatta picked a new team seen as the one he would prefer to take power when he retires after the August polls. The president made the move after making General Robert Kibochi the military boss. He created history by becoming the first non-infantry to be appointed to that position.

    The Chief of Defense forces who has roots from Nakuru and Nyandarua counties will oversee the 2022 power transition together with Lt Gen Levi Franklin Mghalu (Vice-chief of Defence Forces), Kenya Army Commander Lt-Gen Walter Kopoitan Raria, Kenya Navy Commander Major-General Jimson Mutai and Kenya Air force Commander Francis Ogolla.

    It’s four months to elections and already there are sharp rifts between the supporters of Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza Alliance and the President’s Azimio La Umoja Coalition. This also presents the August poll as a test to Kibochi, the first non-infantry man who made it to the military top against all odds.

    Previous presidents preferred infantry men who are regarded as anchors of any land forces where it’s one of the teeth fighting units. Kenya Army produced Daudi Tonje, Jeremiah Kianga, Jackson Mulinge, Joseph Ndolo and Benard Penfold.

    Others like General Samson Mwathathe and Joseph Karangi who are the only rare fete like Kabochi came were from Kenya Navy. Kibochi was picked for his extensive and great professionalism otherwise he would have retired.

    He is also the first Chief of Staff at the Eastern Africa Standby Force who served with United Nations as Commander of the Kenyan contingent in the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone in 200-2001.

    Right now his role includes working alongside other State agencies in safeguarding the country’s security and serving as regime protection.

  • Political Manifestos should Address Reproductive Health Issues To Youth’s Vote

    Political Manifestos should Address Reproductive Health Issues To Youth’s Vote

    By Alvin Mwangi

    It is believed that 70% of the African countries population is made up of youths. In Kenya 25% of the Kenyan population comprises youths aged 18-34 years old, 43% of the population falls below the 15 year old age bracket. It is vital that young people play an equal role in decision making spaces and tables.

    Ahead of 2022 August general elections, Aspirants and politicians have once again started to stream into our homes; playing with kids, helping mama mbogas cut mbogas, attending churches and helping us pray. They are not forgetting to takes selfies.

    Even with the current leadership, Kenya is still faced with quite a number of issues, these issues are still recurring and unfortunately will be in manifestos for parties hoping to win elections come August 2022.

    Some of the pressing issues for young people are around health – reproductive health. Health is definitely wealth and it is paramount that political parties hold consultative forums to widely consult on pressing issues that young people, who are the majority population and voters at the moment in Kenya on some agree on some of the desired changes.

    Young people are tired of bad leaders, Leaders who they only see within their estates, houses, shops after every five years when they come to re-promise and bring the aspect of elect me again to finish up on this road, but what did you do in the 5 years that we elected you?

    Politicians have access to power, resources, partners and information that they would use to improve their work and ensure better access of services, information and enjoyment of rights and freedoms as citizens of this great nation.

    There is need to legislate and ensure wide access of resources to programs aimed to solve the current and emerging challenges around sexual reproductive health and rights for all persons. One of the opportunities is through political manifestos. But are political manifestos binding?

    By now, we have seen so many political aspirants share posters and call themselves honorable, put up whatsapp groups and social media accounts as their start to drum up their support for votes. How do they translate their promises to actions?

    Political aspirants and “old” politicians have continued re-sharing their promises, promises that we have been receivingfor the last 10 years, they are wooing the public with statements like “re-electing me and you will see CHANGE!”

    I have only voted once in the 2017 election and this was after waiting to exercise my voting rights, but unfortunately most of the promises I received have not been actualized.For the longest time political aspirants have not had a huge interest in resourcing and even addressing Reproductive health issues for the adolescents, young people and the general public.

    Most investments done by politicians including statements by aspirants is how they will build roads, create jobs, unfortunately health investment is not seen as a tangible product that can be spoken about by aspirants, as most citizens believe in seeing tangible things to believe that their resources are being used. Investment in health involves purchasing commodities like drugs, availing information in hospitals and in other public spaces, ensuring offline and online campaigns amongst other sort of “invisible” activities that need money but can not be seen by the public as tangible invest.

    According to the 2017 Jubilee Party Manifesto, some of their health plans included: increasing the number of health facilities with community health centres, availing insurance plans for citizens, while the NASA 2017 Manifesto had planned to Establish a National Universal Health Service Fund to be funded by the public budget for curative health services and a minimal basic health insurance contribution by citizens.

    The public should comprehensively understand and learn that when it comes to health, the investments can be deemed as “invisible” The invisibilities of these investments and activities around reproductive health and health in general. For instance when you invest in buying drugs and availing platforms for health information, most of the times we don’t see the ripple effect and the effect of this. But, the effect of this, is that we have a healthier nation and a workforce that is able to work and achieve maximum objectives.

    Unfortunately young people continue to face reproductive health issues that can be legislated and resourced. Most of these manifestos plans on health are just generic and very ambitious and don’t really reflect the ongoing issues that young people are going through kwa ground.

    Political manifestos should be inclusive and should relate to the needs of the citizens especially the adolescents and young people who are the current majority.

     

     

    Alvin Mwangi is a Sexual Reproductive health and rights youth Expert based in Nairobi, Kenya.

    Twitter: @alvinmwangi254

  • Kamba tycoon abandons Kalonzo as 2022 beckons

    Kamba tycoon abandons Kalonzo as 2022 beckons

    Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s hopes of ascending to presidency have been dealt a major blow after key financier, tycoon Peter Muthoka, ditched him as 2022 campaigns gain momentum. Kalonzo was relying on Muthoka to finance his campaigns but the tycoon has been avoiding him since early last year when he [Kalonzo] hosted a political event at his Yatta home.

    Muthoka who dished out hand outs to senators, MPs and MCAs who attended the meeting vowed to only rest after ensuring that Kalonzo is duly elected as president in 2022. But he is not the first one to abandon Kalonzo, former Machakos senator Johnston Muthama also abandoned him complaining that he was going broke for supporting a man who is not focused on becoming the next president of the republic.

    Kalonzo refuted claims by Muthama, arguing that former Machakos law maker made money by selling his candidature to highest bidders. In the run up to 2007 elections, Muthama was used by the handlers of president Mwai Kibaki to strike a deal that saw Kalonzo supporting Kibaki immediately after the disputed polls of 2007.

    Kibaki who could not beat Raila Odinga with a clear margin then appointed Kalonzo as his vice and rented his party, then ODM-Kenya, to support him in parliament where Odinga’s party would easily impeach him through a vote of no confidence. In fact Kibaki men financed Kalonzo’s 2007 campaigns and a similar move played out in 2013 polls when Muthama struck a deal with ODM men to have Kalonzo deputize Odinga as the running mate.

    Tycoon Peter Muthoka [p/courtesy]
    Muthama pocketed millions from Kibaki and Raila deals and when he quit the former VP’s camp for DP William Ruto, Muthoka filled the gap he left and vowed to do more than Muthama did only to ditch Kalonzo in the hour of need. Muthoka campaigned for Jubilee in Ukambani, financed Jubilee party candidates in the region in 2017 and he even hosted Ruto at his Vota church where congregants were bribed with hand outs and food stuff.

    But Muthoka has been financially limping since the completion of standard gauge railway and the government’s move which made it compulsory for all cargo from Mombasa to be transported to Nairobi using the SGR. He was a heavy investor in logistics where he raked in millions through Global Logistics Company that was started by his late brother Andrew Muthoka.

    His financial constraints were also worsened by the government’s decision to buy vehicles from Aurasia which deals in Peugeot and not VW and Landrover vehicles from CMC where Muthoka is the Managing Director.

    He has also not bagged any contracts that Uhuru Kenyatta and Jubilee charlatans promised him in the run up 2017 polls leaving him to only survive on a contract he signed with Safaricom to clear and transport its equipment from Mombasa port.

     

  • Inside Orengo, Oburu plot to command Siaya politics

    Inside Orengo, Oburu plot to command Siaya politics

    The political temperatures in Siaya county are fast rising with elites like Senator James Orengo and former Bondo MP Oburu Oginga crafting a team that would lock out other aspirants out of ODM party which is the most popular one in the region.

    Orengo is eyeing the gubernatorial seat while Oburu is going for the senatorial seat, a pairing that is fast gaining momentum but at the same time leaving the ODM leader Raila Odinga who is eyeing presidency with a tough balancing act in his home turf.

    Oburu’s is Raila Odinga’s elder brother but his senatorial aspirations have been met with considerable resistance in the past after a section of the electorate expressed opposition to many members of the Oginga family going for elective positions.

    He is currently serving as an MP at the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), in Arusha Tanzania, his son Jaoko Oburu, who is currently serving as a county executive committee member of roads in Siaya county is eyeing the Kisumu Central parliamentary seat while his sister Ruth Odinga is eyeing the Kisumu gubernatorial seat.

    Former Police spokesman Charles Owino [p/courtesy]
    In 2013, Oburu was forced to shelve his senatorial ambitions in favour of Orengo after his candidature threatened to split ODM into factions. He then opted to go for the gubernatorial seat but he was disqualified together with William Oduol after shambolic party primaries.

    After being openly rejected in the ODM primaries, Oburu tried to snatch the nomination certificate from Oduol, a move that led to brutal chaos but being an elder brother to ODM party leader, he was handed a nomination to the national assembly in 2013 and then to EALA in 2017 while his point-man Rasanga was handed the gubernatorial ticket.

    Rasanga’s tenure has been marred with massive corruption scandals pushing the residents of Siaya to call for free and fair process to enable them elect a leader of their choice but the pairing of two ODM big wigs looks like a sinister move to lock out possible threats like former police spokesman Charles Owino and former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo.

    Eng. Gumbo gave Rasanga a run for his money in 2017 but was not satisfied with ODM nominations which forced him to run as an independent candidate against the ODM euphoria which was sweeping across the county.

    Oburu will face off with Tony Lights Yogo Yogo, Peter Muhula from Alego and JT Okinda who have declared their interests for the senatorial seat with Okinda currently is enjoying a massive support in Odinga’s home county.

     

  • Video Of Nude Mukhisa Kituyi And Girlfriend In Bed Leaked Online

    Video Of Nude Mukhisa Kituyi And Girlfriend In Bed Leaked Online

    Presidential hopeful Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi has been trending on all Kenyan social media platforms for a better part of Thursday and this has all to do with a video purportedly of the former UNCTAD boss caught in a compromising situation with his lover.

    In the video that has been shared widely on the socials, a visibly burnt out Mukhisa laying naked is secretly taped by his catch who’s seen enjoying a glass of wine, perhaps a clear indication that they were having drinks before the act.

    While it’s not yet clear whom the lady recording the video is, what’s apparent is the politician has been on the news for being sought after by the DCI following an assault complaint lodged against him by a lady claiming to be his girlfriend.

    Diana Opemi Lutta in an OB report filed at Nyali Police Station alleged the former United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) secretary-general descended on her with kicks and blows after she rejected his sexual advances.

    “Assault report to the station by one Diana Opemi Lutta who has submitted a report today May 22, at around 0200 hours. She has been assaulted by a person known to her within Tamarind Village, namely Mukhisa Kituyi whom she claims to be her boyfriend,” the OB report said.

    The aggrieved woman said the former Cabinet minister pushed her from the bed and kicked her until she fell down. The lady alleged she was injured on the left knee in the process and was advised to seek medical attention by the police as they investigated the case.

    Mukhisa Kituyi’s side-chic Diana Opemi Lutta.

    The ex-Kimilili MP is married to a Norwegian Ling Kituyi and have three children Sitati Kituyi, Laila Mayilila and Thor Masalule Kituyi.

    Sitati is the co-founder of AfricanStockPhoto, a stock photography marketplace featuring images from across the continent. The last born Masalule Kituyi recently graduated from the University of Portsmouth with honours in Mechanical Engineering.

    Masalule, now 22, is a biker whose riding skills have wowed many. He begun the sport at a tender age of six.

    The Kituyis pose for a family photo during day out at the beach.

    Kituyi is one of the politicians who’ve declared their interests for the top seat in Kenya during the 2022 general elections where he’ll be vying for presidency.

    He now joins the controversial list of politicians who’ve had to battle their nude photos being published online.

    West Pokot Governor, John Lonyang’apuo, the Professor of Applied Mathematics came under siege following the leak of his his nude photosleak of his his nude photos that went viral on social media.

    Former Nairobi Governor Sonko also had his share of the battle when his nude photos with Rachel Shebesh were leaked online in 2013.

    Mukhisa who has been putting up his 2022 machinery now has a nightmare for his PR team who’ll have to do the magic to get the talk out of the mouths and until then, there’s a lot to learn from the men exposed and much telling about the kind of women going down the barrel to expose the photos when things don’t go right.

    You may watch the video of Kituyi HERE

    BONUS:

    As a public figure, here’s how you avoid your video getting leaked online for the entertainment of Kenyans.

    1. Have a guard at your place take all phones from your visitors, especially if you are going to be having sex.
    2. Have sex at your home.
    3. If drinking, have your bodyguard check on you after every hour or so and get you out of the place safely for the sake of appearances when you have had too much to drink.
    4. Plan ahead of time, escapeds with a mistress cannot be random, you are a politician for heavens sake.
    5. Hire a PR firm to get ahead of the news.
    6. Payback fire with fire.
    7. Its not the end, this too shall pass, just ignore it if it happens.
  • 36 shortlisted to battle for IEBC jobs

    36 shortlisted to battle for IEBC jobs

    Thirty-six applicants have been shortlisted to battle it out for the four vacant positions of commissioners at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

    The Selection Panel for the appointment of the commissioners has published the names of the 36 individuals from a pool of 660 applicants who had expressed interest to fill up the four positions.

    The Elizabeth Muli led panel has also invited members of the public to  submit written memoranda or any information of interest regarding the suitability of the shortlisted applicants not later than June 25, 2021.

    “It is notified that the selection panel may interview any member of the public who submits a memorandum on any of the applicants,” Muli said.

     

    IEBC selection panel [p/courtesy]
    The shortlisted applicants include activists, former members of the constitutional commissions and university lecturers who are eying the four vacant positions at the IEBC.

    “The youngest applicant was 23 years old and the eldest 73 years old,” Muli added.

    The four positions fell vacant following the resignations of Dr. Roselyn Akombe, Paul Kurgat, Margaret Mwanchanya and Connie Maina after the disputed 2017 general elections.

    The shorlisted candidates include Former KNCHR chairperson Florence Shimbiri-Jaoko (Nairobi), Koki Muli and former NCIC commissioner Joseph Gitile Naituli (Meru).

    Former national police service commission member Abdalla Mohamed (Nairobi), former judges and magistrates vetting board vice chairperson Roseline Doreen Adhiambo Odhiambo Odede (Siaya) and former KNCHR chairperson Kagwigira Mbogori (Meru).

    Juliana Whonge Cherera (Mombasa), Julius Kiplagat Rotich (Nandi), Justus Abonyo Nyang’aya (Homa Bay), Justus Maithya Munyithya (Kitui), Koli Muli Grognon (Kitui), Lucy Jebet Chelimo (Baringo) and Maurice Amutabi (Vihiga).

    Others include  Francis Wanderi (Nyeri), Harriette Igonanga Chiggai (Kakamega), Irene Cherop Masit (Elegeyo Marakwet), Irene keino (Uasin Gishu) and Joseph Kang’ethe Ng’ang’a (Kiambu).

    Muli claimed that her panel will discharge its mandate with utmost fidelity to the constitution as she warned candidates that any attempt to influence the process will lead to outright disqualification.

     

  • Raila sister returns to disrupt Governor Nyong’o’s development streak

    Raila sister returns to disrupt Governor Nyong’o’s development streak

    Ruth Odinga- the sister to the ODM leader Raila Odinga has returned to revive her flopped political ambitions by throwing salvos at Kisumu governor Anyang’ Nyong’o. Ruth recently shocked many when she trashed the fact that Raila has endorsed Nyong’o for a second term over his development records.

    The controversial politician deputized the former Kisumu governor, Jack Ranguma, between 2013 and 2017 but Runguma was beaten by Nyong’o in 2017 after ODM owners including Ruth cut links with him and rigged Nyong’o in.

    But she only settled for the deputy position after ODM elders prevailed over her to shelve her small ambitions in favour of Ranguma and her brother Raila Odinga who ran for presidency in the 2013 polls.

    Ruth made clear her intentions to oust Nyong’o in 2022 after she accused the performing governor of despotism during an interview with a local fm station. She believes that her dismal performance with Ranguma and five years in the political cold qualify her to disrupt the good work that the residents of Kisumu have witnessed during the tenure of governor Nyong’o.

    She now joins a clique of aspirants who are have grouped themselves in clan outfits to deny Nyong’o a win in 2022. Friend turned foe, Senator Fred Outa leads the KKK cocoon that also includes Ranguma and former Kisumu Central Mp Ken Obura.

    Kisumu County Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o [p/courtesy]
    Ruth’s candidature does not sit pretty with her elder brother Raila who considers Nyong’o a close ally and reliable think tank. Her entry is further complicating Kisumu’s 2022 gubernatorial arithmetic after Raila openly endorsed Nyong’o for a second term last year.

    “Hasn’t Nyong’o done a great job? Are you happy? he deserves five more years” Raila told Kisumu residents.

    Ruth on the other hand downplays the endorsement adding that she is running on her own merit to serve the residents of Kisumu but not on the Odinga fame which is obvious. “I am Oginga Odinga’s daughter and sister of Raila, but I am vying on my own merit,” Ruth said.

    The outspoken politician ditched Ranguma in the run up to 2017 polls and backed Nyong’o despite working with Ranguma for five years and failing together.

    Governor Nyong’o will rely on his record to defend his seat but he is fighting many enemies after he fell out with his 2017 supporters like Senator Outa who was lining to dish out plum jobs to clansmen and mistresses to loot from county coffers. His former chief of staff Lumumba Ouya is also claiming that the governor is covering up corruption scandals while Ruth is accusing the bearded professor of recycling old staffers from Ranguma’s administration.

    Ruth last made news when the former Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko directed police to prosecute her and Senator Fred Outa for attacking Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission officials and vandalizing electoral devices. But the case collapsed on Feb 27 2020 after nine witnesses failed to testify against her.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • What Ruto means with his ‘plastic support’ for the BBI document

    What Ruto means with his ‘plastic support’ for the BBI document

    The politics around the handshake and BBI were designed to corner the Deputy President Dr. William Ruto as the enemy of ‘unity’ as well as to paint him as a very corrupt politician.

    That resulted to the continued bitter bickering between DP Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga who are likely to face off in the 2022 elections.

    But Ruto made a peculiar shift from opposing to supporting BBI report, making BBI a document that will just pass without ‘juice’. Exactly what Raila and Uhuru had not planned for, they have been left punching the air.

    He will miss BBI rallies and at the same time deny his enemies the opportunity to use the rallies as a major scheme to gauge Raila’s sway ahead of 2022 since majority may not participate except some few sycophants who will rise and vote it.

    Appearing to support the document also saves the DP’s 2022 budget that President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga had trapped him to waste on leading No campaigns but hustlers are known for avoiding impulse at all costs.

    Ruto is also ‘supporting’ the document fully aware that it was set to act as Raila’s springboard to 2022 presidential race with the secretariat already headed by Raila’s Mohamed Junet.

    Plots are also underway to have the secretariat turned into Raila’s 2022 campaign secretariat, meaning Ruto cannot be ‘a legit member’ of that team.

    The possible beneficiaries of a million positions Odinga is drumming for in the a bloated executive and parliaments are in there to draft how senior positions will be shared thereafter.

    The DP has been reading too much mischief in BBI to give it ‘a legit support’, he even called for reviews but Uhuru and Raila gave called him a bluff.

    He will take a low profile once the campaigns kick off to force Uhuru and Raila to hawk BBI to the less interested public.

    Raila Odinga (c) with BBI secretaries Junet Mohamed and Dennis Waweru (right) [p/courtesy]
    Ruto’s camp is also informed that BBI is setting stage for the rigging of the 2022 polls. He cannot vote in a process that is purely designed to shoot down his ambitions.

    Boycotting the referendum will then confuse his enemies who are dying to gauge his strength, an opportunity he will deny them through a low turn-out since no one is opposing Raila’s BBI.

    Having no one to oppose the BBI will have the Uhuru and Raila exposed to explain to the public how the bloated cabinet and decision to hold the referendum amid the covid-19 will benefit this broke country.

    Ruto recently hosted 150 Mps and senators at his Karen residence to make known their irreducible minimums in supporting the unpopular document.

    What Ruto is doing is not any different from what Raila did when boycotted repeat presidential polls in 2017.

    Raila’s baby cry was that the same IEBC that he wants to pass BBI now was against reforms then and that Jubilee had also changed election laws days to election.

    But Ruto is also well aware that the dynasty members will unleash state machinery to force the document through.

    He avoided a gruesome contest to focus on 2022 when he is most likely to face a betrayed, stressed and heartbroken Odinga in the polls.

    This also presents a better opportunity to avoid a direct face off with Uhuru Kenyatta because he still intends to widen the inroads he has made into the president’s backyard in Mt. Kenya region.

     

     

     

  • New List Of Raila’s Trusted Lieutenants As He Drops Traditional Allies

    New List Of Raila’s Trusted Lieutenants As He Drops Traditional Allies

    Even though not yet officially announced, Raila’s name will be on the ballot paper in the 2022 polls. The recent reshuffle of who the AU’s special envoy intends to keep beside him are also in line with his political truce with President Uhuru Kenyatta.

    The former Premier through an ODM internal taskforce led by Catherine Mumma is rebuilding the once biggest political party in Kenya by shaking off chaos filled primaries that has been the main reason as to why ODM was losing seats in past polls.

    Raila is also shaping his Western and Nyanza bloc inner circle after falling short of soldiers who were politically swayed and bought out from his buddies by Jubilee party some directly while others influenced through affiliate parties.

    When the former Gem MP, the mouthy Jakoyo Midiwo and former Chief of staff in the Grand Coalition government Caroli Omondi ditched RAO, whose impact in Nyanza has been felt and seen, the AU envoy is now refilling the cuts.

    Also, Raila’s fallout with the former ODM vocal secretary-general Ababu Namwamba, and former vice-chairman Paul Otuoma dented his Western tight-circle.

    In Nyanza, Raila is replacing Midowo and Caroli with current vocal insiders, ODM Chairman John Mbadi, and the Director of elections Junet Mohammed. The two are also leading  ODM’s campaign to repossess the Kibra Constituency seat.

    Kisumu Governor and a political scientist Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, Raila’s sister and former deputy governor Ruth Odinga, Nyando MP Jared Okello and Seme legislator James Nyikal have also been lined up in Raila’s team.

    Dr Nyikal Okello, who has a vast international  connection, the chairman of the Luo Parliamentary Group, is also in Raila’s kitchen cabinet as the Secretary of Public Policy and Economic Affairs.

    Raila also has former minister and now senators Sam Ongeri and the former Attorney General Amos Wako as part of his team Nyanza.

    Confirming this yesterday was ODM Chair and Suba MP John Mbadi who said this reshuffles are a normal political strategy in every formidable team.

    “I can tell you that we have recruited new people to our team as part of our preparations. People like Senator Sam Ongeri, Amos Wako are part of our team. We also have people from Jubilee who are now working with us,” Mbadi Said.

    “That new working relationship was demonstrated in how county assemblies rejected the Punguza Mizigo Bill. You could see central and Nyanza leading in rejecting the bill. I can assure you that we will have a very formidable alliance.” ODM’s Chair added.

    In the Gusii bloc, Kisii Governor James Ongwae leads Raila’s team while in Southern Nyanza, Homa Bay Woman Representative Gladys Wanga is a key backer.

    “Junet is not only Baba’s man in southern Nyanza, he is also a national errand boy. He is a trusted emissary. He is also a good negotiator. This is why you always see him by Raila’s side in some very difficult missions, like during the March 9, 2018 handshake at Harambee House.” said an ODM insider.

    In western, Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, one of ODM’s two deputy party leaders, leads the team of Raila’s generals.

    Raila is also outsmarting the ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi in Western Kenya by swaying Mudavadi’s own Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, Saboti MP Caleb Hamisi, and evicted ANC Secretary General and nominated MP Geoffrey Osotsi. ODM SG Edwin Sifuna and Busia Woman Rep Florence Mutua are also Raila’s key allies.

    “Stop reading too much into this. I believe nobody can claim to be closer to the party leader than the other.” Nyando MP Okello replied on claims that he was included in Raila’s 2022 team.

    “It is too early to speak about 2022. The strategy we may have now may change before then. As a party, we will continue to strengthen our outfit.” Junet commented on the reports yesterday.

    In Siaya, Ugunja MP Opiyo Wandayi, who is also the ODM director of political affairs, and East African Legislative Assembly MP Oburu Oginga are key figures in Raila’s political strategy.

    Siaya Senator James Orengo, in a previous TV interview hinted to an Uhuru Raila alliance in the comming elections that is probably, going to happen after a referendum to change the system of governance.

    “Raila wants to build a new generation of leaders in western while scheming for better things. He has stopped shooting straight from the hip and has succeed in calming the hitherto hot waters in the region,” says governance expert Joshua Orero.

    “It is difficult to say who is his man in Nyanza and western. It is only guesswork. Raila does not want to burn bridges,”  Ochieng’ Obiero, a political commentator and strategist said.