Kenya Police Service DIG Eliud Lagat during a press briefing on Albert Ojwang’s death on June 9, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eluid Lagat announced he had stepped aside from his role yesterday, to allow for an impartial investigation into the death of teacher and blogger, Albert Ojwang. In a statement to the press, Lagat said his decision was intended to give room for a fair probe into the controversial death of the 31-year-old, who died while in police custody. The development comes after sustained public pressure and calls for his resignation over the past week. While…
Author: By Esther Nyambura
Screen Grab of CCTV footage at Mbagathi Hospital the nght Albert Ojwang died. [Screen Grab] Newly released CCTV footage from Mbagathi Hospital has revealed that Alfred Ojwang, the teacher who died in police custody, was left waiting for at least 24 minutes inside a police vehicle before being wheeled into the hospital’s emergency unit, with no visible urgency from the officers. The footage, aired by Citizen TV, shows that a police Land Cruiser carrying Ojwang arrived at the hospital at 1:35 AM. Three officers alighted, two stepping aside as the third followed moments later. None appeared to be in a…
Revealed: What IPOA has achieved so far in Ojwang’s death probe. [Courtesy] As calls grow for a swift and transparent investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang’, a teacher who died in police custody, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has shared what it describes as “tasks achieved so far” in its ongoing probe. Among the progress made is the collection and analysis of blood samples from the scene, comparing those found on the cell wall with those on the floor. The oversight body says it has also retrieved all relevant police documents from Central Police Station and seized the…
Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam arrested. [Courtesy] Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam has been arrested. Talaam who was named as a prime suspect in the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, was arrested in Eldoret on Friday, June 13 where he is said to have been hiding. According to his lawyer Felix Kiprono, Talaam is currently being taken to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) in Nairobi. On Wednesday, the Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin confirmed the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station is being treated as the prime suspect in the death of…
National Treasury CS John Mbadi and other leaders before the reading of 2025/26 budget.[Boniface Okendo, Standard] President William Ruto’s Affordable Housing programme is among the key initiatives set to benefit from increased funding in the proposed 2025/26 national budget. If approved by Parliament, the programme will receive a boost of Sh28 billion, raising its total allocation to Sh120.2 billion, up from Sh92.1 billion in the 2024/25 budget. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi outlined that of the total allocation, Sh91 billion would go towards affordable and social housing, as well as supporting social and physical infrastructure. This marks a notable rise from…
Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba during an interview on Spice FM. [Screengrab] With hours to the reading of the 2025 Finance Bill, Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba has weighed in on what Kenyans should expect, warning that the proposed law could place a heavier burden on both companies and ordinary citizens. Speaking on Spice FM on Wednesday, Wamuchomba criticised Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, accusing him of misleading the public about the Bill’s impact. “This Finance Bill does not favour hustlers. Every time I speak out like this, the so‑called government billionaires call me and tell me to…
President William Ruto. [File, Standard] President William Ruto has acknowledged the death of Albert Ojwang at the hands of the police. In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 11, the Head of State termed his death as outright criminality and negligence, which is heartbreaking and unacceptable. According to him, the National Police Service is expected to perform its mandate and automatically assume the responsibility of an individual’s safety, security, and well-being. To that effect, Ruto has called for a swift investigation, urging the officers to cooperate in order to facilitate a transparent and credible investigation into Ojwang’s death. “It has…
Samuel Ndirangu Muchoki alias Samidoh during a live performance at Grill Park in Nakuru on ushering New Year. [Harun Watharr, Standard] The National Police Service has declared Mugithi singer and police officer Samuel Ndiriangu Muchoki, popularly known as Samidoh, a deserter after failing to report back to duty for over 10 days. According to an internal memo dated June 9, Samidoh was expected to return from an off-duty break on May 27 but has since gone missing. “Efforts to trace him have been futile,” the letter stated noting that his whereabouts remain unknown. To that effect, the officer, who serves under the…
Ruto, Orengo engage during a meeting at State House on THursday, June 5. [PCS] Siaya Governor James Orengo on Thursday, June 5, joined President William Ruto and other leaders from the county for a meeting at State House, Nairobi. The newly found ‘relation’ has sparked whispers within political circles, especially since just weeks ago, Orengo was openly defiant of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party’s budding relationship with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). On Wednesday, the governor joined his counterparts and members of the Cabinet in engaging with the President on various issues at State House. He has also…
People’s empowerment party candidate George Ndung’u Koimburi, address press after voting on 18th May 2021 at Magomano Primary School polling stations during Juja By-election.[Edward Kiplimo Standard]. A court on Friday, May 30, granted the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) access to medical records belonging to Juja MP George Koimburi. In its ruling, the court allowed Inspector Nicholas Njoroge of the DCI application, authorising the agency to inspect, investigate, and obtain medical records from The Karen Hospital (Nairobi branch) and Plainsview Hospital (Ruiru branch). The records are expected to support ongoing investigations involving the MP. “To assuage the anxieties surrounding the George…
Deputy president Prof.Kithure Kindiki speaking in Kiambaa constituency on April 13. [Edward Kiplimo,Standard] Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has cautioned public servants against engaging in political activities, insisting their focus should remain on serving citizens, not playing partisan games. Speaking in Embu County, Kindiki emphasised that civil servants must dedicate themselves to public service and steer clear of political entanglements. Furthermore, the DP warned politicians against using state officers to advance political agendas, saying disciplinary measures would be taken against any public official found culpable. “We do not want to misuse our chiefs, county officers, and police officers to do politics. Because…
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula addressing the gathering during his visit to the late IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati’s residence in Kitale. [File, Standard] National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has cautioned Kenyans against jeopardising the spirit of unity in the East African Community. Speaking in Bungoma County, Wetang’ula criticised what he described as a worrying trend of Kenyans travelling across the region to stir political tensions, instead of fostering the unity on which the East African Community (EAC) was built. “The East African Community is not a community of flags, not a community of presidents—it is a community of the people of East…
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula addressing the gathering during his visit to the late IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati’s residence in Kitale. [File, Standard] National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has cautioned Kenyans against jeopardising the spirit of unity in the East African Community. Speaking in Bungoma County, Wetang’ula criticised what he described as a worrying trend of Kenyans travelling across the region to stir political tensions, instead of fostering the unity on which the East African Community (EAC) was built. “The East African Community is not a community of flags, not a community of presidents—it is a community of the people of East…
President Williiam Ruto speaking at the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] In an unexpected move, President William Ruto on Wednesday issued a public apology to Kenya’s youth and neighboring countries, Tanzania and Uganda. Speaking at the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast, Ruto apologised to Gen Z, as well as to the governments and citizens of Tanzania and Uganda, calling for unity and a renewed commitment to building bridges. “Our neighbours from Tanzania, if we have wronged you in any way, forgive us. Our friends from Uganda, if there is anything Kenyans have done, we apologise. To our children, if…
President Williiam Ruto speaking at the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] In an unexpected move, President William Ruto on Wednesday issued a public apology to Kenya’s youth and neighboring countries, Tanzania and Uganda. Speaking at the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast, Ruto apologised to Gen Z, as well as to the governments and citizens of Tanzania and Uganda, calling for unity and a renewed commitment to building bridges. “Our neighbours from Tanzania, if we have wronged you in any way, forgive us. Our friends from Uganda, if there is anything Kenyans have done, we apologise. To our children, if…
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during the unveiling of his new party, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP)in Nairobi on May 15th 2025. [Collins Oduor, Standard] “Kenyans have boldly told us to form a party that will form an inclusive government for the people and by the people. We finally have a political party that belongs to all of us, where everyone will be treated equally,” said former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as he unveiled the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) on Thursday, May 15. In an anticipated political move, Gachagua presented DCP as a home for every Kenyan, resonating with…
KRA’s bid for access to personal data returns in 2025 Finance Bill. [File, Standard] The National Treasury has quietly reintroduced a controversial proposal in the 2025 Finance Bill that seeks to grant the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) access to personal data and trade secrets. Despite last year’s backlash, the Treasury appears undeterred, reviving the same clause with minimal alterations. Currently, Section 59A (1B) of the Tax Procedures Act explicitly bars the KRA from requiring businesses to share data relating to trade secrets or personal information collected or held on behalf of customers. According to tax expert Alex Kanyi, the 2025…
Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Live Published Date: 2025-05-09 00:00:00 Author: By Esther Nyambura Source: The Standard
Saving money concept preset by Male hand putting money coin stack growing business. Arrange coins into heaps with hands, content about money. [File, Standard] The total value of unclaimed financial assets received in 2024 amounted to Sh4.3 trillion, up from Sh4.2 trillion in 2023, a report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics shows. According to the 2025 Economic Survey, the banking sector accounted for the largest share, 77.4 percent of the total, valued at Sh3.3 billion. The insurance sector, on the other hand, accounted for Sh17 million, while listed companies and SACCOs accounted for Sh85.9 million and Sh21.2 million, respectively. The information and communication…
Former DP Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Mukhisa Kituyi, Justin Muturi, and Mithika Linturi during a meeting in Nairobi on April 29, 2025. [Courtesy] Kenya’s political scene is shifting once again, as a new alliance of political heavyweights positions itself as the force to beat President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election. In an unexpected show of unity, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’ joined former DP Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and former Public Service CS Justin Muturi met in Nairobi today, declaring themselves the team that will…
Former DP Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Mukhisa Kituyi, Justin Muturi, and Mithika Linturi during a meeting in Nairobi on April 29, 2025.[Courtesy] Kenya’s political scene is shifting once again, as a new alliance of political heavyweights positions itself as the force to beat President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election. In an unexpected show of unity, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’ joined former DP Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and former Public Service CS Justin Muturi met in Nairobi today, declaring themselves the team that will “liberate…
Former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala with DAP K party leader Eugine Wamalwa in Nakuru few hours after Malala was released from police cells in Eldama Ravine on April 10,2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard] Months after his dramatic ouster, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment remains a hot-button issue. Just recently, President William Ruto denied claims that he initiated the plan to impeach Gachagua. Ruto said he twice attempted to dissuade MPs from tabling the motion but was ultimately overruled, adding that the legislators were determined to proceed with or without his support. While he failed to fully explain what unfolded within his party leading…
President William Ruto delivering a public lecture at Peking university in China.[PCS] President William Ruto has criticised the governance of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, saying that the current structure only favours wealthy countries. Speaking at Peking University in Beijing, China, on Wednesday, April 23, Ruto called for reforms to make these institutions independent and apolitical. “There are many reforms required in these institutions, but I believe that the most consequential is governance changes that will transform them into independent, apolitical global institutions, insulated from the national interest of their shareholders,” he said. According to the…
President William Ruto delivers a public lecture at Peking University in Beijing, China. [PCS] Kenya has secured Sh106.7 billion from seven Chinese companies, funds that will boost the manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism sectors. The deals, signed during the Kenya-China business forum in Beijing, mark a major step in attracting foreign capital to promote job creation and economic development in the country. Agriculture sector Among the notable investments is a Sh51.9 billion deal between Kenya and Zonken Group. The group has invested in large-scale aloe cultivation, processing, and export based on 300 acres of land in Baringo…
Senator Gloria Orwoba while making her remarks before the the Senate Finance and Budget Committee on May 28,2024. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] Nearly three years into his term, President William Ruto and his administration have failed women, Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba avers. Speaking on Spice FM on Tuesday, April 22, Orwoba lamented being sidelined by the government and her Party leader when it comes to championing women’s rights. Citing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as an example, she said that although the President allocated Sh100 million for GBV and femicide awareness, more needs to be done. “There are several women in government who feel let…
Open University of Kenya Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elijah Omwenga during the launch of 10 new academic programs and eight professional courses. [File, Standard] The Council of the Open University of Kenya (OUK) has appointed Prof Elijah Omwenga as the new Vice-Chancellor, effective April 17, 2025. Omwenga has been serving in an acting capacity for over one and a half years. His appointment was confirmed in a notice signed by the Chairman of the University Council, Prof Ezra Maritim, who described the milestone as significant for the institution’s development. “Prof. Omwenga’s leadership shall drive OUK’s growth, ensure sustained stability, and reinforce its commitment to achieving…
Duale suspends kidney transplants at Mediheal, sends two top doctors home. [File, Standard] The Ministry of Health has suspended kidney transplant services at Mediheal Hospital and redirected patients to eight other licensed facilities, including Kenyatta National Hospital and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. “Effective immediately, all transplant services- and in particular kidney transplant services- at Mediheal Group of Hospitals are hereby suspended until further notice. This decision follows credible concerns from government and citizens regarding the facility’s adherence to required ethical standards in the conduct of transplant procedures.” “All patients currently receiving or seeking transplant-related services at Mediheal are advised…
Explainer: Thinking of donating an organ? Here’s what the law says. [Photo, Getty Images] Kenya is slowly emerging as a hotspot for illegal organ trafficking, a documentary by German broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW) has revealed. The exposé, released on Monday this week, alleges that organ trading has been happening at Mediheal Hospital in Eldoret. Initially, the operations reportedly involved kidney recipients from Somalia and donors from Kenya. However, DW reported that the scope of the alleged racket widened in 2022, drawing recipients from Israel and, as of 2024, from Germany. The donors were also flown in from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and…
A Sudanese refugee walks inside the market in the Touloum Sudanese refugee camp, in the Wadi Fira province, Chad, on April 11, 2025. [AFP] African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Youssouf has called for an immediate end to hostilities in Sudan. In a statement, Youssouf condemned ongoing attacks around El Fasher in North Darfur, as well as in the Zanuam and Abu Shouk camps. He called for an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities, urging those besieging El Fasher to lift the blockade and allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need. “The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali…
Sifuna and Ruto face off at George Oduor’s burial. [File, Standard] Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has taken direct aim at President William Ruto, accusing him of failing to rein in government officials whose actions he says are stirring public outrage. Speaking during George Oduor’s burial, Sifuna criticised the handling of students in Nakuru, where learners were tear-gassed and blocked from performing a school play. “Bishop has told us here that your work is very difficult, and I agree with him; sometimes I wonder how you sleep. But there are times, President, as the Swahili say ‘mwiba wa kujitakia hauwambiwi pole’.…
Sifuna and Ruto face off at George Oduor’s burial. [File, Standard] Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has taken direct aim at President William Ruto, accusing him of failing to rein in government officials whose actions he says are stirring public outrage. Speaking during George Oduor’s burial, Sifuna criticised the handling of students in Nakuru, where learners were tear-gassed and blocked from performing a school play. “Bishop has told us here that your work is very difficult, and I agree with him; sometimes I wonder how you sleep. But there are times, President, as the Swahili say ‘mwiba wa kujitakia hauwambiwi pole’.…
Sifuna and Ruto face off at George Oduor’s burial. [File, Standard] Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has taken direct aim at President William Ruto, accusing him of failing to rein in government officials whose actions he says are stirring public outrage. Speaking during George Oduor’s burial, Sifuna criticised the handling of students in Nakuru, where learners were tear-gassed and blocked from performing a school play. “Bishop has told us here that your work is very difficult, and I agree with him; sometimes I wonder how you sleep. But there are times, President, as the Swahili say ‘mwiba wa kujitakia hauwambiwi pole’.…
Sifuna and Ruto face off at George Oduor’s burial. [File, Standard] Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has taken direct aim at President William Ruto, accusing him of failing to rein in government officials whose actions he says are stirring public outrage. Speaking during George Oduor’s burial, Sifuna criticised the handling of students in Nakuru, where learners were tear-gassed and blocked from performing a school play. “Bishop has told us here that your work is very difficult, and I agree with him; sometimes I wonder how you sleep. But there are times, President, as the Swahili say ‘mwiba wa kujitakia hauwambiwi pole’.…
Butere girls students joined by other students in protest in solidarity at Melvin Jones in Nakuru during the 63rd edition of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival on April 10,2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard] Back in high school, drama was one of the things I looked forward to the most. At first, it was just another form of entertainment — an exciting break from the classroom routines. But as I grew older and began to understand the world of theatre, I realized it was far more than that. Drama wasn’t just about acting or applause. It was a mirror held up…
Former KICC Board chair Irungu Nyakera now says he was fired for saying that he would not attend Mt Kenya political meetings last week, and for urging leaders to focus on development rather than politics during President William Ruto’s tour. Speaking on Spice FM on Wednesday, April 9, Nyakera claimed that he had informed officials he would be out of the country pursuing his master’s degree. However, in his absence, he urged leaders to prioritise development in the meetings. “The statement I made that I will not attend the Mt Kenya meetings, despite being away for 10 days pursuing my…
Rigathi Gachagua , Mary Wamaua Maragua MP during the consecration and installation of Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung’u, in Embu County. [Muriithi Mugo, Standard] In a stunning political move, Maragua Member of Parliament Mary Wamaua has dropped her support for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, instead pledging her backing to President William Ruto. Wamaua, who had been a close ally of Gachagua, stood by him during crucial moments, including when he was rushed to the hospital during his impeachment process. She was also a constant presence by his side, accompanying him to meetings and offering her unwavering support throughout the impeachment ordeal. However,…
Margaret Nduta sentenced to death for drug trafficking in Vietnam. [Courtesy] Kenyan authorities are intensifying efforts to assist Margaret Nduta, a Kenyan woman facing execution in Vietnam for alleged drug trafficking. Nduta, who was arrested in July 2023 at Ho Chi Minh City Airport for smuggling over two kilograms of cocaine, is currently being held in Hoi Chi Minh Prison. In a post on X, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Koris Singoei stated that while deeply distressed, Nduta is coping and has been treated humanely. “Pleased to update that our team from Bangkok finally secured travel visas and made it to…
The First Lady’s wardrobe: Is Mama Rachel getting it wrong? [File, Standard] Rachel Ruto’s fashion sense has sparked conversations, not for redefining elegance in the traditional sense, but for its striking departure from what Kenyans have grown accustomed to seeing in a First Lady. While past First Ladies have often embraced tailored suits, shiny flowing gowns, and subtle yet sophisticated attire, Mama Rachel’s wardrobe leans heavily on vibrant vitenge designs. While her love for the colorful African prints pays homage to cultural heritage, it is a style choice that has, at times, left fashion critics divided. Rachel Ruto’s fashion sense…
Raila Odinga speaking during a church service at St Francis ACK Church in Karen, near Nairobi, on August 14, 2022. [File, AFP] As public discontent with President William Ruto’s administration grows, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has defended the Head of State, dismissing calls for his ouster. With their newfound alliance, Odinga criticised those pushing for Ruto’s removal, asking: “Mnasema Ruto aende, alafu nini ifanyike?” Meaning “Ruto must go, then what?” Odinga acknowledged that the country is grappling with numerous challenges, including the rising cost of living, urging leaders to prioritize addressing these issues instead of focusing on endless political campaigns. …