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Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has emerged as a notable figure in Kenya's early 2027 presidential discourse, particularly as a vocal opponent of President William Ruto.  However, claims that he is currently the "strongest contender" remain largely speculative, driven by media hype, his anti-Ruto rhetoric, youth/Gen Z appeal via the Linda Mwananchi movement, and social media buzz rather than comprehensive polling data. Sifuna's Positioning Sifuna has been outspoken against President Ruto, especially post the broad-based government/MoU involving ODM and the government after the late Raila Odinga's era. Key points from recent statements: He leads the Linda Mwananchi ("Protect the Citizen") movement, which is conducting a "digital census" of supporters and aims to build a "people-led wave" to defeat Ruto decisively in 2027 — targeting a 5-million-vote margin as a "lesson" to any government that ignores citizens. He has...

Lawyer Paul Mwangi, a longtime legal advisor to the late Raila Odinga, made these remarks during a radio interview on March 28, 2026, stating Sifuna's crucial role in Raila's power deal with Ruto.  He claimed that when Raila entered the cooperation (or "handshake"-style partnership) with President William Ruto—centered on a 10-point agenda MOU—he deliberately maintained an internal "exit strategy" within ODM. According to Mwangi: 1. Raila never entered alliances without a planned way out. The "Sifuna side" (the faction led by Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, which was vocal against or critical of the full alignment with Ruto) served as that exit plan. These were the people "fighting" the cooperation from inside the party. 2. If the deal with Ruto soured or didn't deliver, Raila could pivot or distance himself by leveraging the opposition faction within his own party. 3. Mwangi framed this as classic ...

There was a significant ODM factional event unfolding on Sunday, March 29, 2026 in Mombasa.  The "Linda Mwananchi" brigade—associated with a faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)—held a major rally at the historic Tononoka Grounds.  It was led by prominent figures including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna (ODM Secretary General), Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and others like Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi (who has aligned with this group despite recent party ouster). Context of the "Linda Mwananchi" Faction "Linda Mwananchi" (roughly "Protect the Citizen" or "Defend the People") represents a faction in ODM amid ongoing internal divisions.  This follows a recent Special National Delegates Convention by the main ODM wing, which ratified new leadership: Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga as party leader, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga as national chairperson, and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Na...

Kenyans are increasingly vocal about the need to tackle exam cheating in national assessments like KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education), KPSEA, and the newer KJSEA.  This issue has long plagued the education system, with widespread reports of malpractices including impersonation, leaked papers, use of mobile phones, and collusion involving students, invigilators, center managers, and even principals. Recent Developments (2025 KCSE Cycle) In the 2025 KCSE exams, authorities reported 418 cases of exam malpractice — down from 614 in 2024. This marks a modest improvement, but the numbers still highlight a persistent problem. Arrests have been frequent: Dozens of individuals (including students, center managers, and impostors) were detained countrywide. Cases involved impersonation (e.g., adults writing for candidates) and smuggling of phones or materials. Education CS Migos Ogamba and KNEC issued repeated stern warnings, with penalties including result nullificat...

President William Ruto recently referred to the opposition as "brainless" during remarks in Western Kenya amid discussions on governance issues at Nairobi Hospital.  He dismissed critics' concerns about the hospital as mere attempts to grab headlines, labeling the opposition as lacking plans, agendas, or vision, and stating they shouldn't get upset when called "brainless" unless they prove otherwise. This echoes earlier instances, such as during his Ukambani tour in late 2025, where he used similar strong language like "fools" and "brainless" to describe opposition leaders, accusing them of having no substantive agenda beyond slogans. The remarks have drawn sharp criticism: Opposition figures and allies have called the language unbecoming, demeaning, inappropriate, and reflective of frustration or desperation from the president. Critics argue it lowers the tone of political discourse, contradicts Ruto's past calls to end ...

The Kenya Senate has been actively discussing and advancing the Artificial Intelligence Bill, 2026, but recent reports (as of March 17, 2026) indicate that the bill has been introduced, tabled, and is under debate in the Senate rather than fully adopted or passed into law yet. Sponsored by Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu, the bill was introduced in February 2026 (published in the Kenya Gazette around February 19, 2026) as Kenya's first comprehensive attempt to regulate AI.  It aims to establish a legal framework for the development, deployment, and governance of AI systems, emphasizing ethical use, transparency, innovation, and protection of human rights and data privacy. Key Provisions of the Bill Office of the Artificial Intelligence Commissioner — This is a central new body proposed in the bill. The Commissioner would be appointed by the President (with parliamentary approval) and head an independent office to oversee AI regulation. Powers include: 1. Classifying AI sy...

Nairobi ODM Delegates have endorsed Winnie Odinga for the position of Deputy Party Leader.  Winnie is currently serving as a Member of Parliament for the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and is the daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Makadara MP George Aladwa proposed Winnie Odinga's nomination, suggesting she fills the position left vacant by her late father, Raila Odinga, in the Nairobi Delegates Committee.  Aladwa also proposed creating a fourth Deputy Party Leader position to accommodate Winnie Odinga. If approved, Winnie will join Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and Kisii Governor Simba Arati to deputize Siaya Senator Dr Oburu Oginga. The move is seen as an attempt to bring fresh ideas to the party and represents the views of the young generation.  However, some party leaders have expressed concerns about the Odinga family's dominance in the party.

Russian government has stated that there will be no repatriation for Kenyans allegedly serving in the Russian military; Foreign Affairs CS Mudavadi and his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov claimed that the two nations were not part of the contracts They are on their own! There will be no repatriation for Kenyans serving in Russian army until contract termination. “All Kenyans who signed contracts did it voluntarily,”  Russia Minister Sergey Lavrov stated. However, Russia agreed to place Kenya on its stop list, barring recruitment of Kenyans into the Russian Special Operation forces following bilateral talks between the two nations. The Russian government has denied allegations of recruiting Kenyans to fight in Ukraine, claiming it's a "dangerous and misleading propaganda campaign".  However, the Kenyan government has received assurances from Russia that no Kenyan citizens will be forcibly recruited into their security forces. Reports indicate that over 1,000 Kenyans have...

As of mid-March 2026, the Strait of Hormuz was effectively disrupted and largely closed to commercial shipping due to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, which began with strikes on Iran around February 28, 2026. Iran did not imposed a total, formal blockade on all traffic, but it: 1. Issued warnings via radio and statements that "no ship is allowed to pass" or that the strait is closed. 2. Declared vessels from the United States, Israel, and their allies (including Western nations) as legitimate targets. 3. Attacked or harassed ships attempting transit, including with drones, missiles, and threats of mining. 4. Allowed limited passage for ships from allies like China, Russia, and in some cases India, while restricting or blocking others. This has resulted in: 1. A massive drop in vessel traffic (e.g., near-halt with only isolated transits reported in recent days). 2. Shipping largely stalled since early March, with tankers avoiding the route due to risks. Abo...

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been confirmed safe and is undergoing a medical checkup, according to recent reports and statements from his office amid ongoing rumors during the Israel-Iran conflict. His office has explicitly stated that he is "fine" and actively working, dismissing speculation about his safety and status following Iranian attacks and related misinformation.  This includes clarifications that he recently visited a health center (likely for routine or follow-up care) and a synagogue, while denying any assassination or serious incident. Key context from reliable updates: Netanyahu's office released statements confirming he is healthy, with a strong handshake (metaphorically emphasizing he's operational), and engaged in work. Rumors of his death, injury, or "missing" status (including viral claims about AI-generated videos or "six fingers") originated largely from Iranian sources (e.g., IRGC statements phras...

Raphael Tuju, the former Kenyan Cabinet Secretary and politician, has presented a petition/ protest letter to the Supreme Court of Kenya regarding the ongoing seizure and potential auction of his prime properties in Karen, Nairobi. This incident occurred on March 13, 2026, where Tuju made a dramatic appearance at the Supreme Court premises.  He sought to hand over a protest letter addressed to Chief Justice Martha Koome, likely expressing grievances over the judicial handling of his long-running debt dispute and the related property issues. The core issue stems from a multi-billion-shilling debt (reported figures vary between Sh1.9 billion and higher amounts like Sh2.2 billion or more in accumulated interest and related claims) owed by his company, Dari Limited, to the East African Development Bank (EADB).  The debt dates back over a decade to a 2015 loan facility, secured against high-value Karen assets including: 1. Entim Sidai Wellness Sanctuary 2. Tamarind Kare...

Edwin Sifuna, the Nairobi Senator and former ODM Secretary General, has effectively launched or promoted the "Linda Mwananchi" online portal as part of his reformist movement within (and aligned with) the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). The portal, accessible at https://lindamwananchi.com/ , serves as the central hub for the Linda Mwananchi movement.  It allows Kenyans to register as members, join the cause, volunteer, and support the group's activities.  The movement, translating to "Protect the Citizen," focuses on pushing for accountability, reforms, constitutional values, and addressing public concerns like governance, the cost of living, and perceived failures in government agendas (such as their recent critique of the ODM-UDA 10-point cooperation agenda, dubbed the "10-Point Lies Report"). Recent promotions (as of March 13, 2026) from Sifuna himself and supporters emphasize signing up via the website to build momentum—calls include ...

ODM's Linda Mwananchi faction (associated with leaders like Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, and others) has publicly criticized and challenged aspects of the 10-Point Agenda — the agreement signed on March 7, 2025, between the late Raila Odinga (former ODM leader) and President William Ruto.  This pact aimed to foster a broad-based government approach, implement reforms from the National Dialogue Committee (Nadco) report, promote inclusivity in appointments and budgets, address economic issues, enhance governance, and tackle other national priorities amid post-2022 election tensions and the 2024 Gen Z protests. The faction accuses the official implementation committee (led by Agnes Zani) and the broader ODM-UDA cooperation of lacking transparency, failing to deliver regular progress reports (supposedly every two months, with a key public report due by March 7, 2026), and misrepresenti...

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire engaged President William Ruto in a public disagreement during a joint UDA-ODM parliamentary group meeting on the NADCO Report. The NADCO (National Dialogue Committee) Report stems from earlier agreements between President Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (via ODM), forming part of a broader 10-point agenda focused on national cohesion, governance reforms, inclusivity, and related issues.  Implementation of the NADCO Report has been a point of discussion and occasional criticism for delays. During the meeting that took place on March 10, 2026, Mbarire interrupted Ruto while he was speaking from the podium. She raised concerns that the two-thirds gender rule (a constitutional requirement for no more than two-thirds of elective or appointive bodies to be of one gender) was not included or adequately addressed in the NADCO Report or its implementation. Ruto responded by assuring her that the issue was included, reportedly saying some...

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has been urged to stop politics and respect Orengo as Luo Kingpin.  This stems from ongoing political tensions in Kenya's Luo community, particularly in Siaya County, involving Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Siaya Governor James Orengo. This seems to reflect grassroots sentiments, social media campaigns, and local criticisms rather than a single formal statement or event.  Supporters of Orengo have been vocal online (especially on X/Twitter and Facebook) accusing Wandayi of overstepping, undermining Orengo's authority in Siaya and pursuing personal ambitions amid debates over Luo leadership succession following Raila Odinga's influence. Key elements from recent developments (around early 2026): 1. There are reports of residents and Orengo allies in Siaya telling Wandayi to "respect" the governor and focus on his cabinet role (energy docket) instead of meddling in local Siaya politics. 2. Phrases like ...

Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED) has announced an agreement to sell its entire controlling stake in Nation Media Group PLC (NMG) to Taarifa Ltd, a company owned by Tanzanian businessman and billionaire Rostam Azizi (also known as Rostam Abdulrasul Aziz). Key Details of the Transaction: 1. AKFED is selling 100% of its shareholding in NPRT Holdings Africa Limited, which holds 54.08% of NMG (approximately 92.6 million ordinary shares). This gives Taarifa Ltd effective majority control of the Nairobi-listed media company. 2. The deal ends AKFED's 66-year association with NMG, which dates back to its founding support in 1959. 3. Rostam Azizi, a prominent East African entrepreneur with interests in media (including past involvement with Tanzania's Habari Corporation and Mwananchi Communications, now part of NMG), mining, telecom, real estate, and more, becomes the new majority shareholder through this acquisition. 4. The transaction is subject to regulatory ...

Reliable reports indicate that Dr. Oburu Odinga, the current leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has relocated the party's operational base after being denied access to the historic Capitol Hill offices in Nairobi's Upper Hill area. The Capitol Hill building (often referred to as Capitol Hill Square or JOOF in some contexts) was long associated with Raila Odinga's political activities and considered a symbolic nerve center for ODM.  Following Raila Odinga's passing, access to the premises has reportedly been restricted by family members, particularly his daughter Winnie Odinga, who has described it as personal family property rather than party-owned. This has effectively barred Oburu and current ODM leadership from using it, with the offices now under lock and key. As a result, party operations have shifted to a new location: a secluded office on Riverside Drive in Nairobi.  Multiple sources describe this as a quiet but significant change, markin...

Justin Muturi, the former Public Service Cabinet Secretary and Democratic Party leader, recently shared details on why President William Ruto chose Rigathi Gachagua as his running mate for the 2022 Kenyan General Election. In a statement posted on his X account (and covered by various Kenyan media outlets today, March 10, 2026), Muturi recounted a late-night meeting at Ruto's Karen residence on the eve of the running mate announcement.  Ruto had called him from Mombasa to discuss the matter. Key points from Muturi's revelation: 1. There was an earlier understanding or promise that Muturi could be considered for the role, but it fell through due to internal pressures within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). 2. UDA leaders insisted the running mate must come from the party itself and from the Mt. Kenya region to secure crucial votes in that vote-rich area. 3. Muturi explained that Ruto told him he couldn't be selected because he belonged to another party (the ...

  Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has been a vocal critic of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ODM (Orange Democratic Movement) and UDA (United Democratic Alliance), signed in March 2025 between Raila Odinga and President William Ruto.  This agreement established a 10-point reform agenda aimed at addressing national issues like governance, electoral reforms, economic concerns, youth unemployment, and police misconduct, while forming the basis for the broad-based government arrangement. Sifuna has repeatedly accused certain leaders of mishandling or deviating from the original spirit and details of the MoU.  Key points from recent developments (around early March 2026, marking the one-year anniversary): 1. He has highlighted that the signed document required regular progress reports to Raila Odinga (every two months) and a final public report by March 7, 2026. With the deadline passing and little visible progress on key pledges, he accused leaders of "putting word...

Oburu Oginga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has publicly accused Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna of suffering from a "severe memory problem" (or "memory lapse") in relation to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). This stems from ongoing internal rifts within ODM over the 10-point MoU signed on March 7, 2025, between then-former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (or representatives) and President William Ruto's UDA.  The deal facilitated a broad-based government arrangement, including ODM members joining the cabinet. Key points from recent developments (around early March 2026, near the one-year anniversary): Oburu claims the MoU was signed after the broad-based government was already formed, implying Sifuna is misremembering or misrepresenting the timeline and sequence of events. He stated: “Senator Sifuna suffers from a severe memory problem. The MoU betwee...

The National Infrastructure Fund, recently assented to law by President William Ruto, is set to mobilize nearly Sh5 trillion over the next decade to finance key projects.  Some of the priority projects include: 1. Expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA): The first major project to be funded, with Sh20 billion allocated from the Kenya Pipeline Company IPO proceeds. 2. Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension: Plans to extend the SGR from Naivasha to Kisumu and Malaba, enhancing regional connectivity. 3. Rironi-Naivasha-Mau Summit highway: A 170km road project aimed at improving transportation and reducing congestion. 4. Loosuk-Lessos power transmission line: A 400 kV transmission line to increase grid capacity and support industrial growth. 5. Galana-Kulalu irrigation project: Aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and food security. 6. Dams and water infrastructure: Projects like Soin Koru Dam, Mwache Dam, and others to support irrigation and domestic water suppl...

  Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o is calling for unity within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, urging members to respect each other and adhere to the party's core values of democracy, inclusivity and social justice.  His remarks come as the party prepares for its National Delegates Conference (NDC) on March 27, 2026, amid internal divisions and competing interests. Nyong'o, a founding member and former Secretary General of ODM, emphasized the importance of mutual respect among party members, saying, "As a leader, I believe we must encourage everyone to speak their mind. Differences of opinion do not mean division". The internal strife is largely centered around the proposed pre-election coalition pact with President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, which has created factions within ODM.  Nyong'o's appeal for unity is seen as an attempt to address the growing concerns about the party's cohesion and public image. ...

  Kalonzo Musyoka, Rigathi Gachagua and Justin Muturi were denied entry to a church service at Kaaga Methodist Church in Meru County, where Deputy President Kithure Kindiki was attending.  The opposition leaders had been invited to the ordination service of Bishop David Mwiti Muthuiya, but were escorted out by anti-riot police officers.  The police claimed they were asked to leave, sparking tensions between the opposition and government factions. The incident has drawn criticism from Kalonzo, who blamed Kindiki for the move, calling it a violation of constitutional freedoms. The opposition leaders later attended an alternative church service at the East Africa Pentecostal Church. Later on, Kalonzo Musyoka issued a statement castigating the police for receiving command from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to block them.  Kalonzo termed the act as unconstitutional and repressive.

  President William Ruto has officially opened the Siaya Community Digital Hub in Bondo Town, Siaya County, with a strong message to the youth.  Ruto emphasized that the hub will empower young people through digital innovation, skills training, and job creation, bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth.  The hub offers internet services, computers, and digital skills training, aiming to equip youth with relevant skills to participate in Kenya's growing digital economy. Ruto highlighted the government's commitment to expanding digital infrastructure and supporting tech-driven development, with plans to establish ICT hubs in every ward, providing access to digital jobs and e-commerce opportunities.  The initiative is part of the government's Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy pillar under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. In his tour, President Ruto was accompanied by ODM Party Leader Dr Oburu Oginga, ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga, En...

Kenya opposition has criticized President William Ruto over his performance during Kenya's tenure as chair of the East African Community (EAC).  This appears to stem from recent statements, particularly from opposition figures like Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper Democratic Party leader), who described Ruto as "the worst EAC chairman since its formation." Key points from the criticism include: 1. Claims that Ruto failed to effectively lead or unite the regional bloc during his chairmanship. 2. Accusations of partisanship, such as in handling conflicts like the Sudan crisis (or potentially the ongoing eastern DRC tensions involving M23 rebels, Rwanda, and the DRC). 3. Broader perceptions of diplomatic missteps that undermined Kenya's regional influence, including strained relations with some EAC partners (e.g., perceptions of interference in DRC affairs or failure to address provocative statements from leaders like Uganda's Yoweri Museveni on territorial claims). These crit...

Heavy rains have indeed caused significant flooding in Nairobi, Kenya's capital, over the past couple of days (primarily starting March 6, 2026, and continuing into March 7).  This has led to widespread disruption, loss of life, and property damage, turning major roads into rivers and exposing long-standing issues with the city's drainage and infrastructure. Key Impacts 1. Casualties: Reports confirm at least 10 people have died in Nairobi due to the floods. This includes 8 swept away by floodwaters (with some electrocuted) and others in vehicles. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with fears the toll could rise. 2. Property and Infrastructure Damage: At least 71 vehicles have been swept away or destroyed.  Homes in low-lying areas have been partially submerged, businesses disrupted (especially along roads like Kirinyaga, Mombasa Road, Jogoo Road, Uhuru Highway, and in areas like Grogan and South C), and power outages reported in places like Nairobi West. 3. Transport ...

"Nairobi flooding that will send Sakaja Packing as Senator Sifuna reacts" appears to reference ongoing political drama and criticism surrounding recent heavy rains and flooding in Nairobi (as of early March 2026), where Governor Johnson Sakaja faces backlash for the city's poor drainage and response to floods.  This has fueled calls for accountability, with some implying it could politically damage or "send packing" and end Sakaja's tenure or influence. Nairobi has experienced significant flooding in recent days due to heavy downpours, turning major roads (like Jogoo Road, Langata Road, and areas in South C) into rivers, submerging vehicles, disrupting businesses, and causing widespread frustration among residents.  This is a recurring issue tied to inadequate drainage infrastructure, blocked systems, rapid urbanization, and alleged poor preparedness by the county government. Edwin Sifuna, Nairobi's senator and often a vocal critic of Sakaja, has reacted...

The National Treasury of Kenya has retained the budget allocation for the office of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (and his associated pension) in the revised national budget for the financial year ending June 2026 (supplementary estimates tabled in Parliament recently). Key details from recent reports (dated March 6, 2026): The office budget was originally set at Sh63.27 million but was slightly reduced by Sh5 million (specifically cutting insurance costs), leaving it at Sh58.27 million. This covers operational expenses such as staff salaries (Sh8 million), rent (Sh14.8 million), fuel (Sh4.25 million), travel, communication, and other costs. The pension and benefits allocation for former prime minister and vice-presidents (including Moody Awori and Kalonzo Musyoka) remains unchanged at Sh86.4 million. This decision comes nearly five months after Raila Odinga's death, sparking public discussion and questions about why funding continues without an occupant in the office...

  Alfred Keter, the former Nandi Hills MP, received a rousing, hero's welcome from mourners at the funeral service for the late Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng'eno in Emurua Dikirr (recently held amid the helicopter crash that killed Ng'eno and others). Videos and reports show crowds erupting in cheers, chants like "Wantam",  linked to his WANTAM movement, and loud applause as he arrived and spoke.  He delivered an emotional tribute and condolences, briefly pausing the proceedings due to the enthusiastic response. This moment stood out because prominent UDA figures like Oscar Sudi and others aligned with President William Ruto and Kenya Kwanza administration were reportedly present and watching.  Some accounts describe them appearing sidelined, "in disbelief," or "kicked out" of the spotlight, as the crowd's energy favored Keter—especially after he reportedly criticized the Ruto led government harshly in his speech including references to perfor...

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Kenya's ruling party under President William Ruto, has rejected the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)'s push for political zoning ahead of the 2027 general elections.  This stems from ongoing negotiations around their broad-based government arrangement and potential pre-election coalition. Zoning refers to an agreement where coalition partners agree not to field candidates in each other's traditional strongholds (e.g. barring UDA from contesting in ODM-dominated areas like Nyanza, parts of Western Kenya, and the Coast, and vice versa).  ODM has pushed for this to protect its parliamentary, senate, and county assembly seats, accusing UDA of "raiding" or encroaching on its bases by fielding or supporting candidates there. 1. UDA's rejection is based on several key reasons from party officials and statements: UDA positions itself as a national party with broad support across Kenya, not confined to ethnic or regional blocs. It ...

  President William Ruto has lauded the successful outcome of the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Initial Public Offering (IPO), describing it as a major milestone in Kenya's privatization agenda and economic recovery efforts. The KPC IPO, which concluded recently, was oversubscribed at 105.7%, with investors applying for more shares than offered.  The government aimed to raise approximately KSh 106.3 billion (about $825 million) by selling a 65% stake in the state-owned oil pipeline firm—the largest such offering in East Africa in local currency terms and Kenya's first major IPO in over a decade (since Safaricom in 2008).  Applications reached around 12.4–12.5 billion shares, leading to refunds for the excess and strong participation from local Kenyans (over 67% individually and through institutions), as well as regional investors from Uganda and Rwanda. In his statement (shared via his official channels, including Facebook and X), President Ruto expressed pleasure with the...

  There is an ongoing public outrage and criticism regarding the Kenyan government's alleged issuance of passports to questionable foreign nationals, with little to no official response from authorities.  This controversy has been prominent in Kenyan media and social discussions in early 2026. Key details from recent reports include: Allegations that Kenyan passports were issued to individuals linked to controversial or sanctioned figures, such as associates of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader (including Algoney Hamdan Dagalo Musa, brother of "Hemedti"), and others like a Zimbabwean businessman with a fraud conviction (Wicknell Chivayo). Claims suggest these passports were granted through irregular channels, possibly on direct orders from high-level offices such as State House, bypassing standard vetting and security protocols. A leaked document reportedly lists dozens of such foreign nationals who received Kenyan citizenship documents. Concerns raised includ...

  State agents allegedly recorded a conversation between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and late MP Johana Ng'eno at the Acacia Premier Hotel in Kisumu.  Gachagua claimed the National Intelligence Service (NIS) bugged his presidential suite, capturing their discussion about Ng'eno's warnings of President Ruto's plans to destabilize the government and Gachagua's impeachment.  The recording allegedly happened during the height of Gachagua's impeachment battle, when Ng'eno met him to discuss the process. Gachagua claimed that the recording was taken to President William Ruto, who then summoned and intimidated Ng'eno. Gachagua alleged the NIS's actions are linked to Ng'eno's subsequent death in a helicopter crash, calling for an independent investigation, possibly involving international agencies like the FBI, due to distrust in local agencies.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris made that accusation recently.  In response to U.S. (and Israeli) military strikes on Iran under President Trump's administration, she issued a strong statement condemning the action as an unnecessary escalation. Her key points from the statement (posted on X and widely reported): "Donald Trump is dragging the United States into a war the American people do not want." She explicitly opposed a "regime-change war in Iran." She argued that U.S. troops are being put in harm's way "for the sake of Trump’s war of choice." She described the strikes as "a dangerous and unnecessary gamble," "unwise, unjustified," and lacking congressional approval. She accused Trump of lying during his campaign by promising to end wars rather than start them. She called on Congress to use its powers to prevent further U.S. commitment to the conflict. This appears tied to recent events involving airstrikes on Iran, repo...