Author: By Mike Kihaki

Faith Odhiambo: Gen Z forced courts to speak faster, MPs to apologise

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Faith Odhiambo LSK President during The NOC-K East Africa Gender Conference in Nairobi on Jan 29, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] In March 2024, Faith Odhiambo, 38, made history when she became the 51st President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), and the second woman to be elected President after former Cabinet Secretary Raychelle Omamo. Since then, she has been the most visible and vocal woman, fighting injustices and defending rights crusaders. Having been a board member and secretary at the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and having served as Nairobi Representative at LSK before becoming the Vice President, now…

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Match day gridlock: Traffic diverted for football action

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Traffic at Uhuru Highway/Langata roads roundabout next to Nyayo National Stadium ahead of CHAN 2024 between Morocco- Zambia on August 14, 2025 [Elvis Ogina, Standard] Motorists in Nairobi have to brace for major traffic disruptions this afternoon, and into the evening, as the  city hosts the Africa Championship (CHAN) tournament. The partial and full road closures, alongside traffic diversions were however not officially announced by authorities, but are meant to ease movement around the affected routes. A spot check by The Standard on Thursday revealed that sections of Uhuru Highway, Lang’ata road and Thika round were closed. Routes leading to…

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Devolution at crossroads: Counties struggle with dependency and graft

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President William Ruto and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga samples products at the Devolution Conference on August 13, 2025. [Michael Mute, Standard]    When Kenya adopted devolution in 2013, it was hailed as a transformative step to unite a fractured nation, spur grassroots development, and promote social justice. Thirteen years later, that dream is dimmed by a stark reality: many counties remain little more than ‘distribution units’ waiting for the national government’s cheque — crippled by incompetence and riddled with corruption. Professor Peter Kagwanja, CEO of the Africa Policy Institute, says the rot began at the foundation and has persisted…

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CAF slaps Kenya with Sh6.5m fine over security breaches

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Harambee Stars fans at The Moi International Sports center during clash between Harambee stars against Morocco on Aug 10, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has fined the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Sh6.5 million for multiple safety and security breaches during the Group A CHAN 2024 match against Morocco at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Sunday. CAF’s Disciplinary Board cited insufficient stadium security and failure to  enforce road closures on Sunday. The continental body warned that repeated violations could force Kenya to play Harambee Stars’ home matches at foreign venues, in a ruling,delivered on Wednesday,…

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'Fish diplomacy:' Ruto serves up politics and tilapia in Homa Bay

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President William Ruto joins fish traders at Homa Bay Beach on August 12, 2025. [PSC] President William Ruto traded his presidential motorcade for a jiko on Tuesday evening, rolling up his sleeves to fry tilapia with women traders at Homa Bay Beach. Fresh from a meeting with grassroots women leaders from four Nyanza counties, Ruto strolled to the shoreline, where sizzling oil, laughter, and the aroma of fresh catch hung in the air. With two frying pans balanced over glowing charcoal and Ohangla music playing in the background, the president rubbed each fish with salt before sliding it into bubbling…

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'Fish diplomacy:' Ruto serves up politics and tilapia in Homa Bay

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President William Ruto joins fish traders at Homa Bay Beach on August 12, 2025. [PSC] President William Ruto traded his presidential motorcade for a jiko on Tuesday evening, rolling up his sleeves to fry tilapia with women traders at Homa Bay Beach. Fresh from a meeting with grassroots women leaders from four Nyanza counties, Ruto strolled to the shoreline, where sizzling oil, laughter, and the aroma of fresh catch hung in the air. With two frying pans balanced over glowing charcoal and Ohangla music playing in the background, the president rubbed each fish with salt before sliding it into bubbling…

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Ruto: 'No brains' politics won't derail housing plan

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President William Ruto At State House during launch of the National Equipment Service Project in healthcare service on August 7, 2025. [PSC] President William Ruto has said no amount of criticism will derail his administration’s Affordable Housing Program, which he insists is creating jobs and driving development. Speaking on Sunday in Limuru, Kiambu, during an inspection of a housing project, Ruto dismissed claims the initiative is a waste of resources or failing to deliver employment. He argued that such criticism comes from leaders without a vision for the country. “Kenya will not be changed by empty rhetoric, hate, mayhem or…

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I am the darling of Kenyans, Gachagua tells US media

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When former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua spoke to the media from his Karen home. [File, Standard] Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has refuted claims that he is a tribalist, calling the label a calculated political attack aimed at diminishing his rising popularity among Kenyans across the country. Speaking during a media briefing in Kansas City, USA, Gachagua accused President William Ruto and his inner circle of orchestrating the narrative to weaken his growing national influence. “William Ruto has nothing against me and the only remaining strategy is to label me a tribalist to try to demean me before the people…

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'I am Kenya's best president,' Ruto claims

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President William Ruto meeting a delegation from Tharaka Nithi County at State House on August 4, 2025. [PSC] President William Ruto has declared that he bears the responsibility of transforming Kenya and has no excuse for failure, saying he combines the best traits of Kenya’s past presidents. His remarks come at a time when his administration is under immense  public pressure to deliver on campaign promises, amid economic strain. Speaking on Monday at State House while meeting a delegation from Tharaka Nithi County, the President said that he has all that it takes to lead the country to the next…

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Duale: Biometrics to replace OTP use in sweeping SHA reforms

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Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale during official launch of Benefits Package and Tarrifs Advisory Panel on May 26, 2025. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard] Biometric identification will now be mandatory for all Kenyans seeking care under the Social Health Authority (SHA) after Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale announced the nationwide rollout of the new system. The technology, which replaces one-time passwords (OTP) and physical documents, is already operational in Level 4, 5 and 6 health facilities and is being extended to Level 2 and 3 centres.  Duale said the move is part of efforts to eliminate fraud and  streamline access to healthcare…

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Relief for university students as government lowers fees

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The Technical University of Kenya students graduation on December 19, 2023. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard] The government has slashed tuition fees for all academic programmes in public universities and constituent colleges, offering fresh hope to students and parents who have struggled to keep pace with rising education costs. As universities prepare to reopen in September, the new fee structure could mean relief from anxiety that has been hanging around for the last two years, as the government struggled to implement the new funding model. In a notice by The Standard, Higher Education Principal Secretary Beatrice Inyangala said the revised fee structure,…

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Ruto assents to Conflict of Interest and Social Protection Bills

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President William Ruto sign to law the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2023 and the Social Protection Bill, 2025, at State House, Nairobi on July 30, 2025 [PCS]. President William Ruto has this morning signed into law the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2023, and the Social Protection Bill, 2025, at State House, Nairobi. The two laws close the legislative chapter and open the door for critical reforms in public service integrity and social welfare. The Conflict of Interest Bill, which repeals the Public Officer Ethics Act, consolidates conflict of interest laws into a single, enforceable legal framework. The Bill is being…

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Gachagua: We will secure our secret card until the last minute

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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua speaking during a Community Public Rally in Baltimore, USA, on Sunday July 27, 2025. [Courtesy] Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has vowed that the opposition will not reveal its preferred presidential candidate any time soon, saying the decision is a calculated strategy to outmaneuver President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 elections. Speaking during a Community Public Rally in Baltimore, USA, Gachagua said the  opposition is united behind the “Ruto Must Go” movement but is deliberately keeping its cards close to its chest to avoid sabotage. “Why we are saying we have to wait is…

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CHAN LOC wary of Gen Z protests

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With Kenya set to co-host the 2025 CHAN alongside Uganda and Tanzania, LOC Chairman Nicholas Musonye has called for safety preparations. Published Date: 2025-07-25 23:04:40 Author: By Mike Kihaki Source: The Standard

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Govt rolls out Sh1.5b milk coolers to boost dairy sector

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Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe The government has launched the installation of 230 bulk milk coolers worth Sh1.45 billion across 40 counties. The project marks a milestone in the dairy value chain, promising relief for farmers who have long struggled with losses caused by poor storage and limited market access. Speaking during the official flag-off in Nyeri, Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the coolers will improve milk handling, increase storage capacity, and enhance the value of dairy produce for millions of farmers. “So far, we have installed eight coolers in various dairy cooperatives…

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Homebound at last: All is set for Stephen Munyakho's return

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Stephen Munyakho [Courtesy] Saudi Arabia authorities have agreed to fully cover deportation costs of Stephen Munyakho, a Kenyan national who had been on death row in the Middle East for manslaughter following release from jail. Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi on Wednesday confirmed that Kenya’s Embassy in Riyadh has already prepared an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) for Stephen Munyakho, whose passport had expired during incarceration. Munyakho is expected to return home as early as today, following his release yesterday, after months of high-level diplomatic intervention. “We are now only awaiting confirmation of the deportation flight, which could happen any…

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Murkomen accuses LSK of defending 'criminals'

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Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen at Harambee House Nairobi address press on 26th June 2025. [Edward Kiplimo,Standard] Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has criticised the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), accusing the legal body of “siding with suspected criminals” and undermining efforts to tackle violence during recent anti-government protests. Speaking in Uasin Gishu County on Wednesday, July 23, Murkomen condemned the LSK’s role in securing lower bail terms for individuals arrested during the June 25 and Saba Saba protests. He further accused LSK of trivialising grave offences, including arson and looting, which he claims amount to terrorism. “I have seen the LSK…

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'Every coin will count,' Maraga tells supporters as donations pour in

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Former Chief Justice David Maraga after attending Kahawa Court on July 16, 2025 where 37 youths were charged with acts of terrorism by allegedly burning down Dagoretti Police Station.  [Kanyiri Wahito, Standard] Former Chief Justice David Maraga has assured that his campaign will be transparent and accountable in handling public donations and data. Maraga said that the digital platform, still under development, will include a public ticker for donations and offer channels for Kenyans to provide feedback on the evolving campaign manifesto. “My commitment to you, as best as humanly possible, guided by integrity and constitutional fidelity, is that of…

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Govt opens 4,000 internship slots under affordable housing plan

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New Mukuru affordable Housing project  buildings along Likoni road  in the Nairobi Industrial Area. [Standard, Kanyiri Wahito] The government has announced 4,000 internship opportunities under the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP), targeting recent graduates across a wide range of professional disciplines. The internships, which will last 12 months, are part of the state’s broader plan to enhance skills among young professionals while accelerating the delivery of affordable homes across the country. In a public notice issued by the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, the internship programme invites graduates in fields such as architecture, civil engineering, environmental science, law, ICT, and digital marketing,…

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'Terror laws used to muzzle youth protests,' Wamalwa claims

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Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa at Chui House in Karen on 22nd July 2025. [Edward Kiplimo,standard] Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa has accused President William Ruto’s administration of using anti-terror laws to silence youth-led protests demanding accountability. Wamalwa on Tuesday, July 22, claimed the government has weaponized the  criminal justice system against citizens, using the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act to clamp down on free speech and digital activism. “The criminal justice system has been used by the government against its own citizens. The law is being twisted to tarnish,…

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Not even the president can direct IEBC', Wetang'ula warns politicians

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National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Kanduyi on July 20, 2025 National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged politicians to stop interfering with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), warning that political meddling could derail voter registration and upcoming by-elections. Speaking on Sunday at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Kanduyi, Bungoma County, Wetang’ula noted that reckless remarks by leaders risk undermining the newly reconstituted IEBC. “Politicians, especially some younger leaders, must avoid making reckless and prejudicial statements that could undermine the autonomy of the Commission,” Wetang’ula noted. He explained that the IEBC is a…

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Maraga: 'We won't allow this to continue!'

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Former Chief Justice David Maraga and Reuben Kigame at Kahawa Law Courts on July 16, 2025. [Chebet Berir, Standard] Former Chief Justice David Maraga has accused the government weaponising the justice system to create fear and suppress dissent in Kenyans. Speaking at the Kahawa Law Courts on Wednesday, July 16, where eight protesters faced charges under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, Maraga said they lack evidence linking them to any violent acts. “Ruto’s government is clearly weaponising the Criminal Justice System to terrorise the arrested youth and their families. The reckless use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, and ATPU…

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Kenyatta honoured for championing global pandemic treaty

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Former President Uhuru Kenyatta at a burial in Gatundu South, Kiambu on January 17, 2025. [John Muchucha, Standard] Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has been honoured by the World Health Organization (WHO) for his pivotal role in championing the adoption of the WHO Pandemic Agreement. Kenyatta was recognised during a high-level ceremony held on July 10, 2025, at WHO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. “His Excellency Uhuru Kenyatta, former President of Kenya, The World Together, in recognition of your role in championing and advocating for the WHO Pandemic Agreement that was adopted by the seventy-eighth World Health Assembly,” the recognition reads. The…

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Gachagua: No dialogue with Ruto, only the ballot will speak for Kenyans

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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua meets Kenyans in Seattle, Washington on June 12, 2025. [Courtesy] Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has ruled out any possibility of dialogue with President William Ruto, insisting that the only meaningful engagement Kenyans should prepare for is the 2027 general election. Speaking to members of the Kenyan diaspora in Seattle, Washington, Gachagua dismissed any suggestion of talks with the current administration reiterating that together with People’s Liberation Party boss Martha Karua are firm in their resolve not to entertain any backroom deals with the Kenya Kwanza administration. “If there is any talk with Ruto, I…

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Karua: I am not going for anything less than the presidency

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People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua addressing Kenyans in the diaspora at Seattle, USA on July 12, 2025. [Courtesy] People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has declared her intent to run for the presidency in the next general elections, stating she will not deputise any candidate. Addressing the Kenyan diaspora community in Seattle, Washington, during a joint forum with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Karua emphasized that the time for second-tier roles is long gone. “I’m done with the running mate business. That era ended in 2022. This time, I’m going for nothing less than the presidency. I’m working day…

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Shoot and maim, not kill, Ruto orders police over violent protests

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An anti-riot police officer captured in motion during the July 7, 2025 Saba Saba protests in Nairobi. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] President William Ruto has directed security agencies to firmly deal with those looting and vandalising businesses during protests. Speaking in Kilimani duyring the lauch of Affordabe housing project, Ruto said such people should be shot and taken to court. “Mtu ambaye anenda kuchoma mali ya watu an kupiga polisi, mtu kama huyo apigwe risasi ya mguu, apelekwe hospitalini kisha kortini. Wasimue lakini wapige mguu ivunjike, apelekwe kortini,” the President said. This loosely translates to, “Anyone who vandalises any property and…

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Ruto issues tough warning to protesters attacking police

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Police baricade Parliament Road using razor wire during Saba Saba protests on July 7, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] President William Ruto has declared war on unrest, warning that violent protests and attacks on police stations amount to terrorism and will be met with full force of the law. Speaking during an inspection of government projects in Kilimani, Nairobi, Ruto said recent protests that turned violent in several towns across the country have led to looting, destruction of property and attacks on National Police Service (NPS) officers and stations. “We are all Kenyans, but some people think they can cause anarchy…

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Wetangula root for a united country

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National Assembly Moses Wetangula in Lamu on July 7, 2025.  National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on Kenyans to embrace unity and reject divisive politics, regardless of background, tribe, or region. The call comes at a time when Kenyans mark 35th Saba Saba protests that has rocked some parts of the country. Speaking during a Women Empowerment Forum in Lamu County on Monday, the Speaker criticized what he described as tribal and toxic political rhetoric, warning that such narratives threaten to unravel Kenya’s democratic progress and social cohesion. “We must reject the politics of hate and insults. There is…

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Governor Guyo's impeachment to proceed in plenary, Speaker Kingi rules

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Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo when he appeared before the Senate County Public Accounts Committee on May 19, 2024 [Elvis Ogina,Standard] Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo is set to appear before the full Senate on July 8 and 9 to answer to a raft of serious impeachment charges after the House on Monday rejected a proposal to form a special committee to investigate him. The decision now paves the way for the plenary to handle the matter directly, with Speaker Amason Kingi calling for the governor and the Isiolo County Assembly  to appear before the Senate next week. This follows the collapse…

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Aukot slams leaders for selfishness

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Thirdway Alliance party leader Dr. Ekuru Aukot [file] Thirdway Alliance party leader Dr. Ekuru Aukot has faulted President William Ruto for remaining silent as his cabinet makes inflammatory remarks. Aukot took particular issue with a recent statement by Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen, who told police officers that shoot-to-kill orders had been sanctioned by higher authority following the nationwide June 25 protests. The remarks, according to Aukot, point directly to the president’s complicity. “The CS is the face of this government, someone who is supposed to protect us. For him to confidently declare, ‘Na hii si yangu pekee yake, ni amri…

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Govt concludes University placement and commits to funding

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JKUAT and PAUSTI Academic staff and some of graduates on June 27, 2025. [Mike Kihaki, Standard]  The government has completed the placement of 2024 KCSE candidates to universities, setting the stage for admissions under a revamped higher education model that includes scholarships and loans for needy students. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, in a speech read on his behalf by Dr. David Watene, Director of Education in the State Department of Higher Education, said the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) had finalized the placement process, with official results set to be released next week. “I wish to…

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Matiang'i urges dialogue and unity amid economic crisis and political tensions

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Former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i joins other leaders in a church service in Thika on June 29, 2025. [Gitau Wanyoike, Standard] Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has called for national unity and dialogue in response to the growing economic hardships and political unrest being experienced across the country. Speaking in Thika, Matiang’i decried the rising cost of living, the destruction of property during protests, and attempts by political leaders to divide Kenyans along tribal and partisan lines. “Kenyans are currently struggling with the high cost of living and need to be rescued. We are calling on the government…

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Kenya Kwanza allied MPs accuse rights groups of taking sides

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Trans Nzoia County MP Lillian Siyoi addresses the media regarding protests that rocked the country on June 26, 2025. [Elvis Ogina, Standard] Members of Parliament have expressed concern over what they see as a growing trend of demonstrations which end in violence and economic disruption. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, June 25, Trans Nzoia MP Lilian Siyoi said the protests disrupted and damaged properties, businesses and livelihoods. “This is not the first time they have been exposed, and there is no benefit they are getting after the demonstrations they have done,” Siyoi stated.  The legislator criticised what she described as…

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Ruto defends police, warns against 'intimidation' ahead of demos

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President William Ruto during a breakfast meeting with the National Police Service football team at State House on June 24, 2025 [Coutesy] President William Ruto has warned against attempts to intimidate police officers carrying out their duties, saying his administration will protect them. Speaking when he hosted the National Police Service (NPS) at State House, Nairobi today, Ruto instead urged Kenyans to support and respect police officers tasked with maintaining law and order. “To those who want to undermine, or try to intimidate our security agencies, I am telling them: you’re doing the wrong thing. Our security men and women…

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Ndii defends crackdown on protests, calls youth 'stupid', triggering backlash

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Protestors engage police in a running battle over the killing of blogger Albert Ojwang’ on June 12, 2025 [Boniface Okendo, Standard] President William Ruto’s chief economic advisor, David Ndii, triggered uproar on Sunday, June 23, after branding protesting youth as “stupid” and warning them of potential casualties in future demonstrations. In a post shared on X, Ndii responded to growing youth-led dissent against the government with a defiant message. “Let me tell you some home truths, you stupid young people. There will be no unconstitutional change of Govt in Kenya,” he wrote. “You allow yourself to be weaponized by self-seekers, there’ll…

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Gachagua accuses Ruto of using state power to intimidate rivals

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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during a political rally at Mulu Mutisya grounds in Machakos town on May 30, 2025. [ John Muia, Standard] Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of using state resources and youth groups to disrupt his political rallies in Meru County. Speaking during a church service in Rwarera on Sunday, June 22, Gachagua claimed Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki had turned to financial inducements and threats to frustrate his rising political movement under the newly launched Democracy for the Citizens Party. “Kindiki gave MPs Sh3 million to pay youths to chase…

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Linturi warns Kindiki as Wetang'ula urges political unity

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Former Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi during a political rally at Mulu Mutisya grounds in Machakos town on May 30, 2025. [John Muia, Standard] Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has warned Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to tread carefully in his alliance with President William Ruto, claiming Mount Kenya leaders are being used and discarded. Speaking during a Sunday church service at Rwarera in Meru County, Linturi accused Ruto of betraying loyal allies from the region after gaining power. “Ruto has a history of using leaders from Mount Kenya to rise, then discarding them when they are no longer useful. Read…

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DIG will step down if named in Ojwang's death, Kanja tells MPs

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IG Police Douglas Kanja, DCI Director Mohamed Amin and DIG Gilbert Masengeli before the National Assembly’s Internal Security Committe on June 12, 2025 [Elvis Ogina, Standard] Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has said that any officer implicated in the death of Albert Ojwang, including the Deputy Inspector General (DIG), must step aside. Appearing before a parliamentary committee alongside Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, the IG said that no one will be shielded from accountability. “Any person whose name will be mentioned as having played any role in the death of Albert Ojwang must record their statement. If the…

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DIG Lagat will step down if named in IPOA probe, Kanja tells MPs

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IG Police Douglas Kanja, DCI Director Mohamed Amin and DIG Gilbert Masengeli before the National Assembly’s Internal Security Committe on June 12, 2025 [Elvis Ogina, Standard] Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has said that any officer implicated in the death of Albert Ojwang must step aside, including the Deputy Inspector General Eluid Lagat, if found guilty. Appearing before a parliamentary committee alongside Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, the IG said that no one will be shielded from accountability. “Any person whose name will be mentioned as having played any role in the death of Albert Ojwang must record…

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Kagwe's warning shot to cartels over banned pesticides

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Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe at CABI meeting on June 11, 2025 Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has issued a warning to cartels attempting to undermine government efforts to remove toxic pesticides from the market.  The warning follows the Ministry’s recent ban on 50 brands of fertilisers. Speaking at the 2025 Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI) Africa Regional Consultation meeting, Kagwe accused cartels of interfering through various means.  “We are aware that banned pesticide cartels are fighting back—through bribery of legislative and regulatory bodies, infiltration of government institutions, and the sponsorship of media articles to undermine public health…

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When violins meet the didgeridoo

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William Barton Playing the didgeridoo alongside Ghetto Classics. [File Courtesy] An ancient tree branch hollowed out by termites and a finely carved wooden violin—on the surface, they couldn’t be more different. But in the hands of William Barton and Ghetto Classics, these instruments become one voice, telling a story of Australia’s and Kenya’s lands, spirit, and evolving identity. For celebrated musician Barton, the didgeridoo is more than an instrument— it’s a tool of storytelling and mimicry and an extension of his spirit. Barton opens up about the deep influences that have shaped his musical journey, starting with his greatest inspiration: his…

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Gachagua's DCP opts for private venue ahead of launch

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Democracy for the Citizens Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua flanked by other officials after National Executive Committee on June 3, 2025. [Kanyiri Wahito, Standard] The much-anticipated Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) launch, scheduled for June 3, has now been moved to the end of the month. The decision comes after the management of Kasarani abruptly cancelled the initial booking, forcing the Party to seek other means for an alternative launch site. DCP has accused the government of frustrating its planned official launch. “The party launch was scheduled for June 3, but it wouldn’t take place because the management of Kasarani Sports…

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NGEC condemns Isiolo Governor's 'sexist' remarks, demands apology

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National Gender and Equality Commission(NGEC) Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa on January 27, 2025 [Boniface Okendo, Standard] The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has strongly condemned Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo for making “crude, misogynistic” remarks against Senator Fatuma Dullo. NGEC has demanded an immediate public apology, and further called for investigations into the governor’s conduct. Governor Guyo, speaking at a recent public event in Isiolo County, allegedly sought to discredit Senator Dullo’s push for accountability in the county’s use of public funds by making disparaging comments about her personal life. In the statement issued Tuesday, NGEC Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa described the…

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Activists Mwangi and Atuhaire recount sexual assault, torture in Tanzania

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Activists Boniface Mwangi and Agather Atuhaire Narrating their harrowing experiences in the hands of Tanzanian Authorities last Month.Mwangi claims he tortured and stripped naked and inserted all manner of objects from the rectum. [Benard Orwongo, Standard] Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan human rights lawyer Agather Atuhaire have shared chilling details of their alleged abduction, torture, and deportation by Tanzanian authorities — a harrowing ordeal that has drawn condemnation from across the region. Speaking in Nairobi a week after their return from Tanzania, Mwangi recounted the terrifying experience that began with their arrest while attending court proceedings for Tanzanian opposition…

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Twist as Somaliland President opens Nairobi office despite disapproval

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Celebration on the Inauguration of Somaliland Liaison Office in Nairobi [Courtesy] Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed has today inaugurated a liaison office in Nairobi’s Runda estate, days after Kenya said the launch lacked official approval. The government had attempted to block the event on Monday, reaffirming Kenya’s recognition of Somalia as a sovereign state, and warning that the May 27 opening did not have its endorsement. “The event of May 27, 2025, has not been granted approval from this Ministry. Its investiture of the  status of a diplomatic office does not enjoy the imprimatur of the Republic of Kenya and cannot…

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Finance Bill threatens housing, jobs and Investment, warns lobby

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Treasury CS John Mbadi before the Senate’s Finance Committee to deliberate on matters of 2025 Budget Policy Statement and also to Consider the Public Finance Management (Amendment) Bill (National Assembly Bills No. 45 of 2025 ) at County Hall, Parliament, Nairobi. March 18th, 2025. (Elvis Ogina, Standard) Real estate stakeholders have raised concerns over the Finance Bill, 2025 and the National Rating Act, 2024, saying they could choke investment, drive up housing costs, and destabilise an already fragile property sector. Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi yesterday, the Treasurer of the Real Estate Stakeholders Association (RESA) Peter Gitau said the…

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Gachagua faces backlash from musicians after boycott call

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Deputy President Kithure Kindiki hosts musicians from Central Region at his Karen residence on May 23, 2025 [Courtey, X] Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has come under fire after accusing a group of Kenyan musicians of betrayal and urging supporters to boycott their music following their visit to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s residence over the weekend. Dennis Itumbi, Head of Presidential Special Projects, issued a scathing rebuttal, accusing Gachagua of political intimidation and hypocrisy. “That Gachagua would stand at a church altar and shamelessly urge Kenyans to unfollow musicians and instruct event venues to deny them work — simply because…

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Duale inaugurates Benefits and Tariffs Panel to advance Universal Health Coverage

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Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale before National Assembmly Health Committee on May 14, 2025 [Elvis Ogina, Standard] The newly formed Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel faces mounting pressure to tackle high treatment costs, lack of health data and fragmented donor programmes as it begins shaping the country’s push toward Universal Health Coverage.The panel, gazetted on April 23 under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, will guide the design and review of health benefits and tariffs. It is hosted at the University of Nairobi’s College of Health Sciences and includes a team of experts drawn from multiple disciplines.Health Cabinet Secretary Aden…

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Governor Sakaja pushes for power reforms in Nairobi's slums

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A section of Laini Saba, Kibera slum raze on August 13, 2024 [Pkemoi Ng’enoh, Standard] Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is calling for urgent, systemic change to protect slum dwellers. This refers to the recent spate of fire that has engulfed Mathare and Kibera slums. “The common strand in all these fires is energy-related. Most are caused by illegal connections using substandard cables and equipment,” Sakaja said. “I’ve had discussions with the Energy CS. These illegal connections have been going on — if you can’t beat them, join them.” The fire claimed eight lives—among them a woman and seven members of…

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