Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. [File, Standard] Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has torn into “tribalists” while defending his economic empowerment tours in Tana River, saying the visits aim to uplift communities, not advance early campaigns. Kindiki landed in Garsen, Hola and Bura constituencies on Tuesday, leading fund drives for women groups and small businesses as part of a push to catalyse local economic revival. Speaking at Garsen Grounds, Kindiki urged support for the broad-based government under President William Ruto, saying development resources are now shared equally, including in coastal areas long left behind. “This time round the country must develop equally…
Author: By Denis Omondi
President William Ruto (C), Raila Odinga (R) and Kilifi Governor Gideon Munga’aro during the burial of Mzee Mung’aro in Kilifi on June 25, 2025. [PCS] President William Ruto has appealed for calm and orderly conduct as thousands of Kenyans took to the streets to mark the first anniversary of the 2024 anti-tax demos. Speaking at the burial of Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro, the father of Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, Ruto called for calm despite the evident difference in opinions on the management of the country’s affairs. He condemned acts of violence, theft, and vandalism that have marred protests. “I’d like to…
Protestors make their way along Moi Avenue in Nairobi on June 25, 2025. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard] The Communications Authority of Kenya has ordered all television and radio stations to stop the live coverage of the ongoing protests. In a statement to newsrooms, CA Director-General David Mugonyi warned of unspecified action against broadcasters who defy the directive. “This is therefore to direct all television and radio stations to stop any live coverage of the demonstrations forthwith,” the statement reads in part. It further states: “Failure to abide by this directive will result in regulatory action as stipulated in the Kenya Information…
A Qatar Airways Dreamliner taxis to the terminal after landing, Düsseldorf Airport, April 28, 2025. [AFP] Qatar Airways has announced a temporary suspension of its scheduled flights after the Qatari government closed its air space due Iran’s missile strikes into the country. In a statement shared on X, the airline acknowledged the security concerns occasioned by the latest attacks adding that it would resume operations upon the reopening of the airspace. “As a result of the closure of air traffic movement in the State of Qatar, we can confirm the temporary suspension of Qatar Airways flights,” reads part of the…
ODM leader Raila Odinga speaks during the third National Executive Retreat held in Kajiado on June 20, 2025. [PCS] ODM leader Raila Odinga has described the cancellation of the controversial Adani airport deal as “unfortunate,” warning that the move risks setting back Kenya’s aviation sector as regional competitors make key infrastructure investments. Odinga criticised what he called the politicisation of the proposed lease, saying repeated cancellations of projects aimed at modernizing Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have hindered its potential. “I was very disappointed when we were unable to move forward with the airport contract. That was very unfortunate,” said…
ODM leader Raila Odinga speaks during the third National Executive Retreat held in Kajiado on June 20, 2025. [PCS] ODM leader Raila Odinga has described the cancellation of the controversial Adani airport deal as “unfortunate,” warning that the move risks setting back Kenya’s aviation sector as regional competitors make key infrastructure investments. Odinga criticised what he called the politicisation of the proposed lease, saying repeated cancellations of projects aimed at modernizing Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have hindered its potential. “I was very disappointed when we were unable to move forward with the airport contract. That was very unfortunate,” said…
Former IPOA Chairperson Macharia Njeru appears on Spice FM’s Situation Room show on Thursday June 19, 2025. [Spice FM] Lawyer Macharia Njeru, the founding chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), has questioned the agency’s independence amid growing public criticism over its perceived inefficiency. The Authority is under fire for sluggish investigations into incidents of police brutality, most notably, the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’, who died earlier this month while in custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. Public outrage has also intensified after an unarmed civilian, identified as Boniface Kariuki, was shot by police during protests…
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) acting CEO Dr William Sigilai during a past event on February 21, 2025. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] Surgeons at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) have successfully removed a bullet lodged in Boniface Kariuki’s skull, after he was shot during protests yesterday. Doctors revealed he was shot on the left side of the head. The gunshot caused massive blood loss and life-threatening injuries. Speaking when he issued a status update on the 22-year-old’s condition, Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr William Kiprono Sigilai said the delicate surgical operation took two hours, and was led by a multidisciplinary team under neurosurgeon…
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki speaks during a women empowerment program at Scott Christian University in Machakos on June 6, 2025. [John Muia, Standard] Deputy President Kithure Kindiki may be emerging as the principal assistant President William Ruto had long yearned for during his turbulent partnership with Rigathi Gachagua, an alliance that ended in a historic impeachment. Get Trusted News for Only Ksh99 a Week Subscribe Today & Save! Get Started Unlimited access to all premium content Uninterrupted ad-free browsing experience Mobile-optimized reading experience Weekly Newsletters Already a subscriber? Log in Deputy President Kithure Kindiki speaks during a women empowerment program…
Late social media influencer Albert Ojwang.[Courtesy] Albert Ojwang’ died of head injuries, neck compression and multiple soft tissue injuries, an autopsy report has revealed. The five pathologists who conducted the postmortem on Tuesday at the City mortuary have ruled out suicide, adding that the injuries were not self-inflicted. “There were serious injuries to the head. There were also features of neck compression and multiple soft tissue injuries that were spread all over the body,” said Dr Benard Midiai, the lead pathologist. “These are injuries that are externally inflicted and are keeping with assault.” The team collected samples from the deceased’s…
A piece of land in Mau Narok, Njoro on March 25, 2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard] The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has opened investigations into a deadly clash between police and residents of Lolkuruk village in Narok County, which left three people dead and several others injured. The violence erupted on Thursday after residents disputed the ownership of land reportedly linked to a local politician. Witnesses said angry youths stormed the Angama Conservancy, prompting the deployment of local police, who received reinforcement from specialised units, including the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU). Officers allegedly opened…
Ezekiel Kipkosgei Chelimo at the Eldoret GK Prison Uasin Gishu County, where he was alleged to have lost his eyesight. He was sentenced to serve life imprisonment in 2010 for defilement. [File, Standard] President William Ruto has issued presidential pardons to inmates in various correctional facilities at least twice since taking office. The most recent pardon, granted on April 28, 2025, approved petitions from 56 Kenyans and one foreign national, giving them a chance to reintegrate into society. However, the move has stirred controversy. Critics have warned of potential abuse of power, pointing to global examples. Recently, US President Donald…
Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Published Date: 2025-06-04 00:00:00 Author: By Denis Omondi Source: The Standard
Software developer Rose Njeri arraigned at Milimani court over creation of anti-Finance Bill website. [Collins Kweyu, Standard] Activist and software developer, Rose Njeri Tunguru, has been released on a Sh100,000 personal bond pending the ruling on her case, set for June 20. Njeri’s legal team, including former Chief Justice David Maraga and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, successfully blocked her plea taking, citing a defective charge sheet. The prosecution charged Njeri with two counts under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act. The charges stem from a program she developed to enable the public to send mass emails to the National…
Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) Director- General, Bruno Linyiru. [MoA] Mwea rice farmers are set to receive guaranteed and timely payments should a new deal with the government be fully implemented. Through the Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC), the government plans to purchase more than 5,000 metric tonnes of locally grown rice valued at Sh500 million. Farmers can expect to receive payments within a month of delivery. “To protect the livelihoods of over 8,500 rice farmers from Kirinyaga and neighbouring counties, KNTC will mop up over 5,000 metric tonnes of locally grown rice valued at approximately Sh500 million,” said Agriculture…
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba addresses the media at Parliament on May 29, 2025. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has dismissed President William Ruto’s apology to Gen Zs, calling it “too late.” Speaking a day after the president issued the apology during the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast, Wamuchomba said forgiveness cannot come without accountability for young protesters allegedly disappeared or brutalised during the June 2024 anti-tax demonstrations. Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba terms President Ruto’s apology to Gen Zs as too little too late. Video: Elvis Ogina pic.twitter.com/AwsprCAX3w — The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) May 29, 2025 “Telling us to forgive…
President William Ruto and his Somali counterpart Hassan Sheikh at State House Nairobi on October 23, 2024. [PCS] The Kenyan government has pulled the brakes on a planned inauguration of the Somaliland Liaison Office into a diplomatic office citing the country’s “unwavering recognition” of the federal government of Somalia. In a statement released on Monday evening, the State Department for Foreign Affairs directed that the event scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, be abandoned as it had not received necessary approval. “The Ministry further notes with concern that to the extent the event of 27th May 2025 has not been granted…
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan addresses African Heads of State and Governments during the World Bank IDA African Heads of State Summit in Nairobi on April 29, 2024. [File, Standard] Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan is the subject of cross-border criticism following a government crackdown on foreign human rights defenders, who sought to attend the treason trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu this week. The controversy erupted on Sunday, May 18, with the deportation of Kenyan activists, including prominent lawyer Martha Karua. The move has since reignited a broader debate over Suluhu’s political trajectory, with critics questioning whether the president, initially celebrated…
Activist Boniface Mwangi addressing a press conference in Nairobi in November 2020. [David Njaaga, Standard] The Kenyan government has written to Tanzania demanding the release of activist Boniface Mwangi, who is being held incommunicado following his arrest on Monday, May 19. Through the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Kenya has protested the detention of Mwangi, calling out Tanzania over its silence in the matter, despite multiple requests. According to the ministry, in the event that Tanzania fails to release the vocal human rights defender, it should at least grant the Kenyan consulate in Dar es Salaam access and information…
Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Published Date: 2025-05-22 00:00:00 Author: By Denis Omondi Source: The Standard
Activist Boniface Mwangi. [File, Standard] The whereabouts of Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan advocate Agather Atuhaire remained unclear Wednesday, a day after reports emerged of their release from police custody in Tanzania. The two were reportedly freed around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20, but have not made contact with their families or close associates, fueling speculation and concern. According to Boniface Mwabukusi, president of the Tanganyika Law Society, the pair was released from police custody but not deported, contrary to earlier reports. “It has now come to our attention that, contrary to initial information, the two individuals have…
Caption Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has cautioned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua against reopening wounds of the 2007/2008 post-election violence. Mudavadi termed such political rhetoric as “irresponsible,” adding that it risked pushing the country to the precipice when the nation desires unity. “How somebody who has had the privilege of rising to the position of deputy president can want to take us back to that episode is completely out of line, and out of order,” he said. “Don’t seek votes by threatening people, but by selling your policies. Tribalism won’t take this country anywhere.” According to Mudavadi, the former…
Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba makes her remarks before the Senate Finance and Budget committee during a meeting with the Unclaimed Financial Assets Authority on May 28, 2024. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has expelled nominated senator Gloria Orwoba from the party on accusation of being disloyal to the ruling outfit. Further, the party has withdrawn its sponsorship of the legislator to the Senate and has instead nominated Consolata Wabwire Wakwabubi who hails from Kimilili in Bungoma to replace her. “Consequently, she no longer enjoys any privileges accorded to party members nor is she authorised to represent or…
Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Published Date: 2025-05-20 00:00:00 Author: By Denis Omondi Source: The Standard
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. [PCS] Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says his life is in danger following a Sunday, May 18, incident where unidentified people, believed to be police officers, trailed his convoy with an intention to arrest him. Gachagua, without providing evidence, said he received credible reports of an impending arrest sanctioned by President William Ruto through Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. “This information was communicated to the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), and the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) by the CS Interior Kipchumba Murkomen,” said Gachagua. “A killer squad…
Former CS, Public Service ,Justin Muturi, before the National Assembly’s Labour Committee at Bunge Towers, Parliament, Nairobi. February 20th, 2025. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has taken aim at President William Ruto, accusing him of contradicting himself over who is responsible for the recent wave of abductions in Kenya. “On December 28 last year, the president said in Homabay that he would end abductions. But in October, while in Kisumu, he said he didn’t know anyone who had been abducted. Then on Monday this week, he told a foreign journalist that abductees had reunited with…
President William Ruto and former Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi chew miraa (khat) during a meeting of leaders and farmers at Maili Tatu Stadium in Igembe Central Constituency. [FILE, Standard] President William Ruto was on a familiar campaign trail last month in Maua, Meru County, when the crowd shifted the agenda. It was April 2, and while the President came with prepared remarks, it was clear the people had a different priority: miraa. The stimulant crop, long synonymous with Meru’s economy and identity, dominated the rally. Residents wanted Ruto to dismantle what they described as entrenched cartels reaping disproportionate profits while…
President William Ruto and former Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi chew miraa (khat) during a meeting of leaders and farmers at Maili Tatu Stadium in Igembe Central Constituency. [FILE, Standard] President William Ruto was on a familiar campaign trail last month in Maua, Meru County, when the crowd shifted the agenda. It was April 2, and while the President came with prepared remarks, it was clear the people had a different priority: miraa. The stimulant crop, long synonymous with Meru’s economy and identity, dominated the rally. Residents wanted Ruto to dismantle what they described as entrenched cartels reaping disproportionate profits while…
Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Published Date: 2025-05-13 06:00:00 Author: By Denis Omondi Source: The Standard
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. [FILE] The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has dismissed an announcement made by its former Deputy Party Leader, Rigathi Gachagua, where he stated that he had formally left the political outfit today. According to the party, Rigathi’s membership was automatically terminated following his impeachment in October last year, and subsequent replacement with the current Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. “The ruling party United Democratic Alliance, UDA. Officially removed one, Rigathi Gachagua, as its Deputy Party Leader, which automatically revoked his membership,” said the UDA party in a statement adding, “Today’s long paragraphs and “exit” from…
Retired Archbishop John Cardinal Njue. [Sammy Omingo, Standard] Cardinal John Njue has withdrawn from the conclave that will elect Pope Francis’s successor following the pontiff’s death on April 21. In a statement, Archbishop Philip Anyolo of the Nairobi Metropolitan Archdiocese revealed that Cardinal Njue had received a formal invitation from the Vatican to participate in the papal election, which begins tomorrow at 5:30 PM East African Time. However, Njue declined the invitation due to deteriorating health that complicates his ability to travel. “I hereby confirm that His Eminence is eligible to participate and was officially invited through the Apostolic Nunciature in…
President William Ruto during the official commissioning of the Suswa ESP Market, in Narok. [PCS] President William Ruto has vowed to keep the numerous promises he has made to Kenyans before the next general elections. This comes as he faces mounting criticism for failing to follow through on most of those pledges. Speaking in Suswa, Narok at the start of his three-day tour of the Maa region, the President maintained that he will put the naysayers to shame adding that he will have delivered. “There are people accusing me of lying to Mama Mboga. I will put all those people…
Final preparations were in high gear across Kisii and Nyamira counties on Friday morning ahead of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s much-anticipated Gusii region tour. The former CS held an early morning strategy meeting with local leaders at his Simbauti Farm residence in Borabu, Nyamira County, to plan for the day-long series of events. Fred Matiang’i kicks off Gusii region tour with stopover in Kijauri, Nyamira, he will be in a day-long meet-the-people tour as he lays ground for a possible 2027 presidential bid.Video By Sammy Omingo pic.twitter.com/Gla5iGpayC — The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) May 2, 2025 He made the…
Inject Party Leader Morara Kebaso appearing on Spice FM on Thursday, May 1, 2025. [Screengrab] Inject Party leader Morara Kebaso has defended his call for Kenyans to contribute to a campaign kitty to support his party’s 2027 election efforts. Speaking exclusively to The Standard on Thursday, Morara urged young Kenyan voters to consider contributing to what he described as a ‘financial war chest’—a necessary tool in a political system that often sidelines youth due to a lack of funding. In the proposal, an estimated 15 million eligible young voters were expected to raise Sh1.5 billion through individual contributions of Sh100.…
Presidents Xi Jinping and William Ruto walk past a military parade during the latter’s state visit to China in April 2025. [William Ruto, X] Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has revealed that a group of Kenyan lawmakers attempted to organise a parallel visit to Taiwan during President William Ruto’s state visit to China last week, despite the sensitive territorial dispute between the two Asian countries. Appearing before the Senate Security and Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday, April 29, Mudavadi criticised the lawmakers’ plan as “unpatriotic,” saying it would have amounted to a serious diplomatic blunder. Mudavadi said the proposed…
Former Bahati MP Kimani Ngunjiri during an interview on Spice FM on April 23, 2025. [Courtesy] Former Bahati MP Kimani Ngunjiri has distanced himself politically from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, citing ideological differences, and a growing discomfort with what he described as ‘tribal political posturing.’ Speaking during an interview on Spice FM on Wednesday, Ngunjiri criticised Gachagua’s recent rhetoric, warning that it mirrors the kind of politics that could polarise the country ahead of the 2027 elections. The former MP likened the current political environment to the one preceding the 2007 post-election violence, when ethnic divisions erupted following the…
Catholic faithful march along Kisii – Kilgoris road during a Way of the Cross procession. [Sammy Omingo, Standard] An estimated 40 million people in Kenya- about 85 per cent of the population- identify as Christians, according to the last census report. This Easter, they join believers around the world in marking the Holy Week, which culminates in Easter Sunday on April 20. The events of the Holy Week are recorded in all four Gospels of the Bible’s New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These accounts guide the way modern-day Christians go about Easter. So, what are some of the…
Butere girls students protest at Melvin Jones in Nakuru during the 63rd edition of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival on April 10,2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard] While the play, Echoes of War, never lived to see the stage at the Melvin Jones School in Nakuru, its message has reverberated far beyond the 63rd National Drama and Film Festival, thanks to digital renditions of the play that have surfaced online. The play has sparked widespread public interest after an initial ban, a court reinstatement, and a subsequent boycott by Butere Girls High School students. Its themes—reportedly unsettling to some in government—have…
Catholic faithful take part in the 14 Kilometers Way of the Cross walk along Parliament road, Nairobi on April 18, 2025. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] President William Ruto has urged Kenyans to observe traffic rules as they travel for the long Easter weekend, which begins today with the commemoration of Good Friday. In a video message, the President extended his Easter wishes to all Kenyans as Christians across the country mark the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. “Happy Easter, everyone,” said Ruto. “Please be safe on the roads, and mbarikiwe sana (be blessed). To all the families, all the friends,…
Dr. Alex Kamau during an interview on Spice FM on April 14, 2025. [Spice FM] US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, April 9, walked back on his new tariffs that were widely expected to upset global trade leaving her trade partners like Kenya breathing a sigh of relief, although temporarily. It remains unclear whether the taxes levied on goods getting into the US will return in the same form, or will be adjusted, at the end of the 90 day pause. Dr. Alex Kamau, a business analyst, opines that Kenyan products destined for the US may be in greater demand…
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba with her lawyers at Kiambu police station on April 7,2025. [Kimaku Chege , Standard] Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba claims her life is in danger after she continued to receive phone calls from unidentified individuals claiming to be working with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, (DCI). Wamuchomba was speaking at Kiambu Police Headquarters where she had presented herself to honour a summon over the heckling of some leaders during President William Ruto’s visit to Kiambu County, including in her constituency on Saturday, April 5. “As a public servant, elected by the people of Githunguri, should…
Lake Turkana Wind Power Executive Chairman George Njenga during an interview on Spice FM on March 26, 2025. [Spice FM] A growing population, a surge in industries, push for clean cooking alternatives, and a seemingly inevitable era of electric cars are some of the things that could stretch Kenya’s power consumption in the foreseeable future. More consumption translates to more generation even as Kenya banks on sources other than fossil fuels as pangs of climate change such as drought bite. The country has an ambitious target of a hundred per cent reliance on renewable energy sources including wind, solar, geothermal,…