President Kenyatta calls on leaders to work in unity for a stronger nation

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October 6, 2019

KAJIADO, 5th October 2019, (PSCU) — President Uhuru Kenyatta today called on leaders to promote peace and unity saying that is the only way Kenya can achieve its development objectives.

The President, who spoke at the funeral of the former chairman of the defunct OlKejuado County Council Daniel Kasirimo ole Muyaa, said leaders should emulate the late civic leader and several of his peers who stood for the national values of peace and unity.

He said ole Muyaa’s contribution to national cohesion can be seen in the manner in which, as a Maasai community elder and opinion leader, he participated in laying the foundation for Kajiado to become a peaceful and progressive cosmopolitan county.

“Kajiado has never had any ethnic tensions and this is as a result of the leadership of people like ole Muyaa,” said President Kenyatta.

The President narrated how the late Ole Muyaa mentored and ushered him into elective politics saying the former civic leader was a close family friend.

“I have known him for many years as a friend and political teacher. He loved peace and unity,” President Kenyatta said as he called on leaders to emulate selfless leaders like Muyaa.

The President reiterated that his cooperation with opposition leaders is underpinned by the understanding that national unity is important for the achievement of the country’s development objectives.

He said growth and progress cannot be achieved when the country is divided.

“Let us unite, have peace, grow our economy, fight poverty and fight unemployment together,” said the President.

Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku, Kajiado East MP Peris Tobiko and COTU secretary general Francis Atwoli also spoke at the funeral service attended by thousands of Kenyans.

Former VP Musyoka eulogized the late Ole Muyaa as an astute grassroots politician and leader who stood for national unity, peace and progress throughout his public life.

Governor Lenku and MP Tobiko thanked the President for the development projects being implemented by the national government in Kajiado County including the recently completed Kajiado-Mashuru-Loitoktok road.

Will Dr. Matiangi succeed Uhuru as Kenya’s 5th President?

By

Dan Ojumah

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September 2, 2019

Dr. Fred Matiang'i — Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i

BY HENRY MARETE – Whoever was sober on Friday evening must have read the mood of the Abagusii country during the burial of Dr. Hezron Manduku.

The Omugusii, as the community is affectionately referred to have smelt leadership coming their way. A permanent replacement for the aging Simeon Nyachae, whose word was the law to the community.

Leaders led by the two Governors of Kisii and Nyamira urged former premier Raila Odinga to endorse Super CS Fred Matiangi for the Presidency.

Opening the much-postponed debate on the role Dr.Fred Matiangi will play in the President Uhuru succession.

He has already taken over the Presidential Delivery Unit docket. He has the entire cabinet reporting to him. And he has the ear of the President himself and all key players in his administration including the security agencies.

The Matiangi power trajectory reminds one of the late Kenneth Matiba and John Michuki. Matiba was a political colossus who would have easily ruled Kenya had KANU not divided the opposition in 2002. Matiangi forced the ever sly Kenyan men to bond with their wives and girlfriends during the Census weekend. He closed bars and restaurants at 5pm for two consecutive days.

Now his community wants him to go for the ultimate prize.

So what are his chances? He starts off with approximately 600000 votes from the Omugusii country, spread over Gusii land, Nakuru, Transmara, Ukambani and Nairobi.

Should he get the backing of Raila- unlikely as Raila is widely expected to vie, he will easily run away with the greater Nyanza vote expected at close to 2 million and since age at the time are on his side.

Dr.Matiangi can forge an alliance with other leaders in a coalition of sorts…

Better for him, there is every chance that more powerful seats will be created after an expected referendum.

But Matiangi has major hurdles to navigate. Wherever a new political star emerges, political knives are aimed at that particular direction.

The DP Ruto camp must be watching the Matiangi evolution with concern…they will watch his every move as Gusii land has for long being a swing vote of sorts.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, a political ally of the Abagusii will monitor Dr.Matiangi moves.

So will Musalia Mudavadi, Moses Wetangula and others.

All politicians now know Matiangi is not your idea of a “softee“, as the generation he belongs to refers to indecisive leaders.

In 2013, when he was appointed the CS for Information and Communications, Dr. Matiangi took on the media head-on and created a Government Advertising Agency.

Prior to the Uhuruto Government, mainstream media seem to lean heavily on the CORD brigade, then associated with Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka.

Then Matiangi struck where it hurt most and revenues to the media came tumbling down as Government received value for money. By the time Matiangi left the ICT ministry, he had hammered sense into the mainstream media by placing them where they rightly belonged.

When President Uhuru punched his alleged corrupt ministers in Charity Ngilu, Felix Kosgey, Davis Chirchir and Engineer Kamau, Matiangi acted as CS Lands. During that short period, he reigned on a murderous land gang in Murang’a and restored sanity in a disputed piece of land that had claimed more than 30 lives.

Then came his move to the Education Ministry. Here, Matiangi hit the ground running, cleaned all the cartels in the education system, ended exam cheating and restored the credibility of secondary education.

He reversed the years of apathy in the education system, tamed apathy in Universities and placed Kenya’s education system to where it rightfully belongs.

Then his sojourn at Internal Security. He inherited the docket after the demise of Gen Nkaissery, a no-nonsense soldier poached from ODM by President Kenyatta to deal with terrorism and other security threats.

Dr. Matiangi has not disappointed. He took the job on his gusto and has since made Kenya one of the safest places to live in East Africa.

Towards a healthy nation, a doctor’s advice on how you can stay healthy, and wealthy

By

Dan Ojumah

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August 27, 2019

They say health is wealth; – which simply means our good health is our real wealth. Good health enables us to face the challenges of life. If we are not in a good state of physical, mental and social well-being, we will not be able to create wealth and the wealth we have will not mean much to us.

We spoke to Dr. Timothy Kingondu, a physician specializing in infectious diseases on a wide array of issues pertaining to our health.

Q: What, in your view, ails Kenya’s health sector today?

A: The biggest problem affecting our health sector has to do with resource allocation, or should I say, misallocation. We have a sizeable budget allocated to health, but the money is not always spent on priority areas, leading to a lot of wastage and less than desired end results.

Q: So where do you think more resources should be channeled in order to ensure a healthy and wealthy Kenyan population?

A: I have four main points in that regard and I think the first and most important is the provision of

Clean water for all; – it will not matter how many hospitals we build, so long as a majority of the population does not access clean drinking water, which does go a long in curbing the spread of diseases.

Secondly, I think we should ensure proper nutrition –a person exposed to poor nutrition has a very low immune system hence stands a higher chance of falling sick

The there’s health education; – it’s time people took responsibility of their own health, being in control over their own lives, this way we will be able to stop most of these chronic diseases

And finally, there is need to strengthen government regulations; – the Government needs to strengthen public health policies so as to ensure harmful or suspect quality products do not find their way into the market.

Q: Specifically, given changes in society, what challenges do you think lifestyle diseases pose?

A: No, personally I don’t think lifestyle diseases pose the biggest threat but infectious diseases do.

For example in children you find diseases like diarrhea, pneumonia, typhoid and cholera and in

trying to combat infectious diseases, water quality is the first thing.

I believe poor quality water is responsible for the spread of most of these diseases we are facing including major ones like cancer. If the water we consume daily has impurities there are high chances that people will end up with cancer at their old age, and even before cancer kills you, you will die of

Diarrhea so it important to take into consideration the quality of the water we consume.

Q: Take us through some of the major diseases affecting Kenyans today, starting with HIV/Aids, what do you have to say concerning the HIV menace?

A: I think the HIV menace is not gone and it is driving cancer in our population because you find

that illness like cervical cancer are on the increase because of HIV infections.

We should also not focus on treatment alone as the way to get rid of HIV but also consider other

Preventative measures like health education, even before treatment comes into the

picture. Young people should be educated on the importance of abstinence and condom use during sexual contact as some of the ways of ensuring they do not contract HIV.

Q: The prevalence of cervical cancer, as you have said is on the increase, why is this so?

A: Cervical cancer is mainly caused by HPV which is a sexually transmitted infection, especially if

One are infected with HPV 16 and 18 which is responsible for 70% of all cancer cases, but this is

not to mean that we are doomed because WHO is actually advising and advocating for young

girls to get vaccinated against HPV, but this should happen before sexual contact for it to be

effective.

Q: Hepatitis B is also on the rise….

A: Well, first of all 6% of Kenyans have it, and it is a liver infection. It can either be caused by a

virus or intake of substances like alcohol. Hepatitis that is viral is either hepatitis B or C which is the worst, Hepatitis B is transmitted through body fluids such as saliva, semen, sweat, and even water… it severely affects the liver causing inflammation and when it gets to the chronic stage it leads to liver cirrhosis. Some of the symptoms of hepatitis are

– Fever

– Weakness of the joints

– Shaking

– Vomiting

– Yellow eyes and in severe conditions, swollen face and abdomen

For chemical hepatitis during treatment one will be advised to withdraw from alcohol as for the

Viral, one yes there is treatment but it really takes a long time to heal.

Q: Is malaria still one of biggest killer diseases in the country?

A: Yes, it is still a major killer disease but there have been interventions like distribution of mosquito nets and drugs to mitigate its risks

Q: Earlier on, you made reference to the prevalence of low quality, sometimes even dangerous products in the market….how can this be contained?

A: I’m not saying that Kenyans are killing themselves because of greed but continued production of

Low-quality foods and other products is increasing the clinical burden. The regulatory authorities have

to realize that if you pass down products of low quality they will be responsible for diseases

spreading and they, themselves will get sick in the process.

Q: You have stated that infectious diseases pose a greater risk than lifestyle diseases…please elaborate

A: I think that people are, so to speak planting these lifestyle diseases on themselves. They are found mostly in urban areas, primarily because people in rural Kenya consume natural food hence they are healthy, so you will find someone living in Turkana very healthy and free from diseases like hypertension but if brought to the urban in 5 years they might suffer from it due to a change in environment.

Q: Your parting shot, matters health?

A: I think that, instead of waiting for people to get sick and hospitalized, we should take the initiative of going to meet them, in their places of residence, examine factors which may lead to them contracting diseases and address these factors …. Remember, prevention is better that cure!

Social media companies on the spot as Manchester United’s Paul Pogba suffers racist abuse

By

Dan Ojumah

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August 27, 2019

Pressure is mounting on social media companies such as Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to act decisively against individuals subjecting football players to racist abuse after Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba became the third black player inside a week to be abused online.

The three players all had one common denominator; – they bravely stepped up to take penalty kicks on behalf of their teams, but unfortunately missed.

Paul Pogba had a penalty saved in the second half as Manchester United were held to a 1-1 draw by Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday Night.

Last week, Chelsea condemned “abhorrent posts” aimed at Tammy Abraham after his decisive penalty miss in the Super Cup against Liverpool.

Then on Sunday, Reading striker,Yakou Meite called out racist abuse sent to him social media after he had a spot-kick saved.

Following the racist abuse aimed at Paul Pogba, one of the more visible players on social media with over 37 million followers on Twitter, the global football community rallied around the French world cup winner.

Manchester United’s new 80-million-pound defender Harry Maguire called on social media companies to “stop these pathetic trolls” while striker Marcus Rashford also expressed support for the France midfielder.

“Manchester United is a family. Paul Pogba is a huge part of that family. You attack him you attack us all,” England forward Rashford said on Twitter.

United said they are “working to identify” those responsible for the racist abuse directed at record-signing Pogba, while Greater Manchester Police said they were working with the club to help identify and apprehend the culprits once a formal complaint was received from a member of the public.

“The individuals who expressed these views do not represent the values of our great club and it is encouraging to see the vast majority of our fans condemn this on social media also,” read a United statement.

England women’s manager Phil Neville, the former United player and coach, suggested footballers should “boycott” social media for six months in order to send a “powerful message” that such abuse is not acceptable.

“It’s not going away,” he said. “We need to take drastic measures in the football community.”

Sports minister Nigel Adams added: “The football season is only a few weeks old and yet we’ve already witnessed sickening examples of racist abuse against players.

“We have been clear that social media companies must do more and the government will hold them to account.”

For the social media companies, it’s a dicey, catch 22 situation; – they’ve been reluctant to take drastic action such as deleting messages or deregistering faceless users who make comments deemed offensive, citing free speech and the risk that they would hurt their bottom lines by limiting traffic on their platforms, which is key to attracting advertising revenue.

Central Bank firm on October 1st deadline for retiring old Ksh.1000 notes

By

Dan Ojumah

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August 27, 2019

New Bank Notes — New Kenyan Bank Notes © Getty Images

Central Bank of Kenya Governor Dr. Patrick Njoroge has reiterated that the October 1^st deadline set during the Madaraka Day launch of the country’s new generation currency for those holding Ksh.1, 000 denomination notes to retire them, is cast in stone.

Speaking in Kwale County over the weekend as he inaugurated a nationwide sensitization campaign on the ongoing demonetization dubbed “Badilisha Noti Za Elfu Moja Sasa”, the Governor once again warned that the old Ksh.1, 000 will be rendered valueless, as at the stroke of midnight, September 30^th.

“I want you to take this message to every corner of the country that people have to dispose of their old Sh1, 000 banknotes by September 30. We shall not extend the period,” Njoroge said.

Without providing exact figures, the Governor regretted that the Central Bank, the country’s sole issuer of currency and custodian of its monetary policy, had not received enough of the old banknotes as it had anticipated.

The new notes are identifiable through a number of ways including touching, identifying a distinctive watermark and pictures.

They each bear a unique theme depicting significant aspects of the Kenyan nation, with the Ksh.50 note symbolizing green energy, Ksh.100, agriculture, Ksh.200, social services, Ksh.500, tourism and the Ksh. 1,000, governance.

Additionally, they all bear an image of Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) and features meant to make them user-friendly to the visually – impaired.

The banknotes also embody each of the big five game animals –lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, and buffalo.

During the June 1^st launch presided over by President Uhuru Kenyatta in Narok County, Dr. Njoroge had noted that the new generation bank notes were also meant to curb counterfeits, money laundering and other illegal financial flows which were hurting the formal economy.

“To deal conclusively with these concerns, all the older one thousand shilling series shall be withdrawn. By a Gazette Notice dated May 31, 2019, all persons have until October 1, 2019, to exchange those notes, after which the older one thousand-shilling banknotes will cease to be legal tender”, the Governor said.

However, the design of the new Ksh.1, 000 banknote is currently subject of court petitions lodged by a number of litigants, among them activist Okiya Omtatah who is contesting the inclusion of the portrait of Kenya’s founding President Jomo Kenyatta outside the KICC, arguing that it flew in the face of a 2010 Constitutional provision stipulating that Kenyan currency shall not bear the image of any individual.

EPL Match Day 3: Man Utd, Spurs stunned, another two-horse race on the cards?

By

Dan Ojumah

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August 27, 2019

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace — Marcus Rashford missed a penalty for the first time as United failed to win at Old Trafford. Source: AP

What an electrifying English Premier League we had over a weekend when Kenyans were forced by ‘Matiang’i law’ to follow proceedings from the comfort of their homes (rather than in bars and other social places), for ease of enumeration as the 2019 census kicked off.

There were two absolute shockers of results, new Chelsea manager Frank Lampard finally has a win under his belt, a firm case for yet another two-horse race for the EPL title is already building up, one manager is under intense pressure, while the early race for the golden boot (scorer of most goals) has one unusual suspect.

Man Utd stunned in injury time

Looks like all manner of (unwanted from Man United fans’ viewpoint) records are tumbling at the Theatre of Dreams (Old Trafford). Now, late (injury time) winning goals were a common occurrence during the 26-year reign of legendary Scotsman Sir Alex Ferguson, but on Saturday Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Man Utd were on the receiving end of a 93^rd minute Patrick Van Aanholt strike, as lowly Crystal Palace stunned the 20-time English league champions 1-2.

For the second time in as many matches, a lethargic display and a missed penalty (this time Marcus Rashford the culprit) capped a largely lethargic display by the same team that wowed the Old Trafford crowd with ruthless counter-attacking display as they dismantled fellow top four competitors Chelsea 4-0 on the opening weekend.

Granted, Crystal Palace, without a win or a goal before this match were overly defensive and have an impressive away record, but pundits are now beginning to question Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tactical shrewdness; – why for example did he play with only one defensive midfielder (Scot McTominay, whom he replaced with Juan Mata in the 85 minute) leaving United exposed to Crystal Palace’s route one football and swift counter-attacks which led to both goals, despite dominating possession (71-29%, 22-5 total shots, 3-3 shots on target, 8-1 corners)?

Newcastle shock Spurs at their new stadium

Come Sunday and another shocker, this time in London, at the new Tottenham Hotspur stadium to be specific. Straight from holding champions Manchester City 2-2 at their own stadium, Spurs were left ruing missed chances as Newcastle beat them 1-nil, with manager Mauricio Pochettino appearing to blame an ‘unsettled squad’ (star midfielder Christian Eriksen is thought to still ‘want out’ with the European transfer window still open) for the lackluster display, despite spurs boasting of a 79.8% ball possession. Just like for Man Utd, the win was new Newcastle manager Steve Bruce’s first of the season.

Criminalize missing penalties then…..!

Over the weekend, what is emerging in these early days as the soft underbelly of the new EPL season reared its ugly head again. Marcus Rashford, who alongside Raheem Sterling (also a previous victim albeit under different circumstances), is seen as the future of English football, became the fourth black player to suffer racist abuse upon missing a penalty, after Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham, fellow Man Utd midfielder Paul Pogba and Reading’s (Championship club) Yekou Meite— begging the question; – has it suddenly become a crime for a black player to miss a penalty which is part and parcel of a football match anywhere in the world?

The affected players are however adamant the racist online taunts will not keep them down. Paul Pogba, his toddler in his arms and against the background of portraits of his late father Fassou Antoine Pogba and American civil rights activist Martin Luther King, posted this on his Instagram account on Sunday;

“My ancestors and my parents suffered for my generation to be free today, to work, to take the bus, to play football. Racist insults are ignorance and can only make me stronger and motivate me to fight for the next generation.”

Well said, Pogba!

Business as usual for Liverpool, City as they cruise out of the starting blocks

On Sunday, champions Manchester City won 3-1 at Bournemouth to move within two points of early pace-setters Liverpool who had walloped Arsenal by a similar margin 24 hours earlier. Raheem Sterling helped himself to a goal to take his season’s tally to 5, his goal sandwiched in between Sergio Aguero’s brace.

On Saturday, Liverpool had laid down the marker, beating Arsenal 3-1 at Anfield, thanks to a Joel Matip header and a brace from Mo Salah including a scintillating second where he paced all the way from the halfway line, leaving Arsenal’s new defensive acquisition (from Chelsea) David Luiz dead on his tracks… David Luiz had earlier on stupidly pulled Salah’s shirt, leading to the award of a penalty which Mo Salah cool-ly converted.

For Liverpool, the only (negative) talking point from the match was that their defense stalwart Virgil van Dijk appeared human for only the second time since he joined Liverpool in January 2018: – Arsenal’s new record signing Nicolas Pepe actually outsmarted VVD, becoming only the second player after Newcastle United’s Mikel Merino (in 2018) to successfully dribble past the 28-year-old Dutchman!

It might be early days, but judging from performances on the pitch and consistency, few would argue with the pre-season prediction by most EPL football experts, that 2019/20 will be a replica of the 2018/19 season; – with Liverpool and Manchester City the only two contenders for the Premier League title.

‘Starling’ Raheem, Aguero and a certain Teemu Pukki lead early Golden boot race

Leading the early race for the golden boot, are Raheem sterling with 5 goals and a certain Teemu Pukki of Norwich City, also on five. No one has ever scored more than 5 goals in the opening month of the season (August) but with City and Norwich each having a match left, to be played on Saturday August 31^st, a new EPL record could be set by Raheem, Pukki, both or one other!

By the way, the little-known Norwich City striker, formerly of Celtic (Scotland) and Schalke (Germany), by scoring in the 3-2 defeat by Chelsea, became only the second player after ex-Fulham striker Pavel Pogrebnyak, to score 5 goals in his first three Premier League appearances! Kudos to him.

Pressure eases on Lampard, is Watford’s Javi Gracia likely to become the first manager axed?

Frank Lampard’s start as Chelsea Manager had been humbling before Saturday’s 3-2 win away at Norwich City. He had suffered a heavy loss at Man United, a luckless home draw against Leicester and a penalty shootout loss to Liverpool in the UEFA Super Cup, played between the previous season’s winners of the UEFA Champions League and the Europa Cup. However his youthful team (Chelsea is currently under a 2-season EUFA ban on signing new players) turned up, Tammy Abraham (2) and Mason Mount on the score sheet as Chelsea narrowly edged out newly-promoted Norwich City. Breathe easy, at least for now, Frank!

But, on the other end of League table after Match Day 3, one manager is already feeling the heat. The soft-spoken, amiable Javi Gracia, who took Watford to an impressive 8^th – place finish last season, saw his side beaten 1-3 at home by West Ham United, the third defeat in a row after earlier losses to Brighton and Everton.

Watford, with zero points, is presently perched at the bottom of the EPL table and Javi Gracia is now the bookmaker’s favorite to become the first manager to be sacked this season.

Next weekend’s EPL fixtures

Saturday: Southampton v Man Utd (2 pm), Man City v Brighton, Chelsea v Sheffield Utd, Newcastle v Watford, Crystal Palace v Aston Villa, West Ham v Norwich City, Leicester v Bournemouth (all at 5pm), Burnley v Liverpool (7.30 pm)

Super Sunday: Everton v Wolverhampton (4 pm), Arsenal v Tottenham (6.30 pm). Liverpool (7.30 pm)

The first international break of the new season takes after place next week’s action, so there will be no EPL football matches on the weekend of 7^th-8^th September. Live action returns to a screen near you on 14^th September with Liverpool taking on Newcastle at Anfield, 2.30 pm.

The End is Near, Senator Kiio Tells Ngilu

By

Dan Ojumah

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August 23, 2019

When I say Gov Ngilu stands out as the most incompetent governor in Kenya and that she has presided over arguably the most corrupt administration in the history of devolution, a few of her supporters read malice. They hurl insults at me, and I have come to accept these insults as a small price to pay for standing up to impunity.

Those who don’t support her see in my statement a perfect opportunity to rally more support for the leaders of their choice. Both teams have a right to ride on my statement to advance their cause. But whichever way one looks at it, irrespective of whether one supports Ngilu or not, I have reason to believe that Ngilu has miserably failed the test of leadership and has engaged top gear on a steep, slippery road to nowhere.

She is behaving like a person who has made the determination that she is leading clueless and desperate people who will, in season and out of season, sing praises to her even when she is stepping hard on their toes. But I have some news for her; the end is near!! The writing is clearly and boldly on the wall; her mischief in leadership must come to an end whether law enforcement agencies rise to the occasion or not. The burning of the Finance offices was the straw that broke the camel’s back.

The alleged appointment of a new County Secretary is the latest evidence that she has ZERO regards for the abundant human resource excellence in Kitui County. I am happy that the Majority Leader of the Kitui County Assembly has called her out on this matter and especially on the issue of due process. The CA must not stop there, I believe the Speaker knows what to do should the governor officially communicate the alleged unlawful appointment. She MUST follow the law as long as she is governor of Kitui County. And now even our mothers in Kitui are speaking out.

I am particularly keen to listen and decisively act on the cry of our mothers because they are speaking candidly about their suffering under Ngilu. In fact, you realize that out of her Cabinet, there is only ONE woman. And she comes from Makueni. NONE from Kitui County. How can Ngilu say she has the interest of Kitui women at heart? Don’t we have qualified women from Kitui who can join her Cabinet? I will act, in close partnership with like-minded leaders and people of goodwill in Kitui, within the law, to make sure that Ngilu either reforms or leaves office.

The people of Kitui can’t endure another three years of impunity, blatant theft of public resources, oppression, intimidation, the extreme radicalization of our youth and disregard to the rule of law under a governor they elected into office.

Enoch Kiio Wambua,
Senator, Kitui County.

Ruto Takes Chopper to Beat Westlands Traffic Jam

By

Dan Ojumah

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June 29, 2019

Deputy President William Ruto was forced to board a chopper to avoid a huge traffic jam in Westlands.

The Deputy President had gone to Consolata Shrine in Westlands for a function.

This was immediately after attending his daughter’s graduation at Strathmore School.
The private chopper picked the DP at around 3pm and flew him to an unknown destination.

On Monday’ Ruto made sensational claims that three cabinet Ministers namely Joe Mucheru, Cecily Kariuki and Peter Munya were plotting to kill him.

The three have denied the accusations but admitted they had variously met at La Mada Hotel to discuss development projects in Central Province.

Have you registered for Huduma Namba?

By

Dan Ojumah

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April 29, 2019

In an effort to further the government’s agenda on serving its people, The government launched National Intergreted Information Management System.

The Government initiated the National Integrated Identity Management System (NIIMS) program through Executive Order No. 1 (2018). The purpose of this initiative is to create and manage a central master population database which will be the ‘single source of truth’ on a person’s identity. The database will contain information of all Kenyan citizens and foreign nationals residing in Kenya and will serve as a reference point for ease of service delivery to the people of Kenya. (Huduma Namba kwa Huduma Bora).

17 years later, How Raila turned Kasarani into a political ‘butchery’

By

Dan Ojumah

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March 18, 2019

Some 17 years ago today, the political careers of former Vice President Professor George Saitoti and former KANU Secretary General went South.
The venue was Kasarani Stadium. The event merger of KANU and Raila Odinga”s National Development Party

The build up to the event was pitch tense. Then President Moi, who was due to retire in 9 months time was in the political market for a successor. And he was already clear that Saitoti was not on his plans.
And so on 18th March 2002, Saitoti and his cronies were kicked out of KANU by delegates.

Saitoti and Moi during National Celebrations

In came Uhuru Kenyatta; Kalonzo Musyoka, Musalia Mudavadi and Katana Ngala as Vice Chairman. A stunned and visibly angry Kamotho was replaced by Raila Odinga.
During the full day drama, Joseph Nyagah and John Harun Mwau were prevailed to step down for Kalonzo after wheeler dealers convinced Moi that Kalonzo should remain in top KANU leadership. William Ruto was elected Organising Secretary.

Political realignments over President Uhuru Kenyatta succession are in top gear. The Kasarani event mad as well have launched Uhuru Kenyattas March to State House which he eventually entered in 2013.
But it is his battles with Raila Odinga and the eventual handshake in 2018 that will define his memoirs once leaves office in 2022.
Pundits are comparing the Kasarani debacle the handshake.

In both cases Raila aka ‘tinga’ aka ‘jakom’ aka ‘baba’ is a prime mover. In both cases, there are huge political prizes to be traded. In 2002, Raila had hoped the KANU deal will thrust him to State House with Uhuru as his deputy. But Moi wanted Uhuru in state house with Raila as one of the pillars. The professor of politics had wanted the constitution to be changed and a non executive Prime Minister position to accommodate Raila created but only after Uhuru takes over.
Raila did not trust Moi…and so he refused to take the bait, struggled the KANU cockerel and backed Mwai Kibaki.

The political season and succession in now back. A change of the constitution has been proposed. The Post of Prime Minister is key to these changes. It is this change of the constitution business that has informed the current bad blood between DP Dr. William Ruto and Raila.
Allies of the DP feel that the creation of a PM amounts to mutilation of the Presidency at a time when the DP is warming up for the Big seat up the hill.

Raila men know the pain of losing. 1997. 2007. 2013. 2017. They would rather share seats via a new constitution rather than continue waiting. And so they have convinced Kalonzo to back the new deal with a firm promise of a deputy PM.
In Mombasa, Hassan Joho has been roped in, Gideon Moi is also in the stable. Musalia Mudavadi political mood is unpredictable but he appears nearer those for constitutional change.
The move is complicating political mathematics and science for the DP. But he appears to be spoiling for a mother of all political battles. He is banking on his die hard supporters to soil their hands since he is already part of the Presidency.

Problem is Raila is a political mammal with hands everywhere in Kenya.
One thing is however clear. Some political careers may be consumed by the time the handshake is becomes an embrace.

Cassie’s Lawyers Speak After Diddy Sentenced to Over Four Years in Prison

By

Editor

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October 4, 2025

By Faith Mwende

Attorneys for singer Cassie Ventura have released a statement following the sentencing of Sean “Diddy” Combs, who has been handed a 50-month prison term after being convicted in a federal case.

The former hip-hop mogul was sentenced on Friday, October 3, to just over four years behind bars after a two-month trial that concluded with guilty verdicts on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. He was, however, acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges.

Judge Arun Subramanian granted Combs credit for time already served, meaning he will spend 36 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. The court also imposed the maximum fine of $500,000.

In a statement shared after the sentencing, Cassie’s attorneys, Douglas Wigdor and Meredith Firetog of Wigdor LLP, said the ruling acknowledged the lasting damage caused by Combs’ actions. “While nothing can undo the trauma caused by Combs, the sentence imposed today recognizes the impact of the serious offenses he committed,” they said.

They added that Cassie’s courage continues to inspire others: “We are confident that with the support of her family and friends, Ms. Ventura will continue healing knowing that her bravery and fortitude have been an inspiration to so many.”

Cassie, who dated Combs on and off between 2007 and 2018, sued him in November 2023 in New York, accusing him of years of sexual and physical abuse. The case was settled just one day after it was filed, but public outrage grew after a 2016 surveillance video surfaced appearing to show Combs assaulting Cassie in a hotel hallway.

Following the video’s release, Combs became the subject of multiple sexual assault allegations. Homeland Security agents raided his Los Angeles and Miami homes in March 2024, and he was later arrested in September.

During his trial, Cassie, then eight months pregnant with her third child, testified about the alleged abuse and described the “Freak Off” sex parties she said he organized. She gave birth to her son with husband Alex Fine just days after completing her testimony.

Before sentencing, Cassie wrote to the judge expressing fear of retaliation and urging the court to “consider the many lives that Sean Combs has upended with his abuse and control.”

Combs, in his own letter, admitted his wrongdoing and apologized both privately and in court. “I was dead wrong for putting my hands on the woman that I loved,” he wrote. “I’m sorry for that and always will be.”

Police Arrest Notorious Mobile Phone Snatcher in Dagoretti

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October 4, 2025

By Michelle Ndaga

Police officers in Nairobi have arrested a suspected notorious mobile phone snatcher in Dagoretti following a swift intelligence-led operation.

According to the National Police Service, officers from Muthangari Police Station, who were on foot patrol, received a tip-off about the suspect’s whereabouts. They immediately proceeded to his residence in Soko Mjinga, where they successfully apprehended him.

A subsequent search of the house led to the recovery of three mobile phones an iPhone, an HDM, and a G73 all of which had been concealed by wrapping them in foil paper.

The suspect is currently being held at Muthangari Police Station, awaiting processing and arraignment in court.

Police commended the timely intelligence that aided in the arrest and reassured the public of their continued commitment to combating crime and ensuring community safety.

Confusion Rocks ODM as Abraham Ayaya Rejects Party Ticket for Kisa East By-election

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October 4, 2025

By Faith Mwende

Tensions are brewing in Kakamega County ahead of the November 27 Kisa East Ward by-election after Abraham Ayaya publicly rejected the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party ticket, saying he is not a member of the party.

The by-election was called following the tragic death of former MCA Stephen Maloba, who was fatally stabbed during a public event in his ward earlier this year.

Speaking to Tuko.co.ke, Ayaya said ODM wrongly associated him with the party without his consent. He maintained that he has never been a member of ODM and accused party officials of trying to use his name for political mileage.

“I am not and have never been an ODM member. The party listed my name without consulting me, and I will not contest under their ticket,” Ayaya said.

He urged his supporters to remain steadfast and not bow to pressure from influential ODM figures, emphasizing his allegiance to the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), led by Eugene Wamalwa.

“I have been a registered and active member of DAP-K for a while. I’ll be vying on the DAP-K ticket, so ignore the rumours linking me to ODM,” he affirmed.

In a formal letter addressed to ODM’s Kakamega Branch, Ayaya explained that by the time ODM submitted his name to its National Elections Council, he had already been cleared by DAP-K as their official candidate.

“By the time ODM reached out to me, I was already a fully registered DAP-K member. I therefore respectfully decline the nomination certificate issued to me and have returned it,” his letter read in part.

This development adds to ODM’s internal woes in the region. The party had initially given the ticket to comedian Thomas Omurunga Eshuya, who later returned it citing personal reasons.

In his September 23 statement, Eshuya thanked the party for the opportunity and pledged continued loyalty to ODM despite stepping aside. “I thank ODM for believing in my candidacy. I will forever remain grateful and loyal to the party,” he said.

ODM is now expected to announce a new candidate as the race for the Kisa East seat gains momentum. The contest has already drawn interest from several hopefuls, including former MCA Joel Ongoro, who is running under the MDG party, and Ayaya, representing DAP-K.

Meanwhile, ODM’s Kakamega branch remains divided after Governor Fernandes Barasa and Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera both claimed leadership of the county party structure, further complicating its operations ahead of the polls.

Kindiki Vows to Eliminate Tea Cartels, Promises Better Pay for Farmers

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October 4, 2025

By Faith Mwende

Deputy President Rigathi Kindiki has reaffirmed the government’s resolve to root out cartels in the tea sector to ensure farmers receive higher bonuses following this year’s disappointing payouts.

Speaking during the Kipkelion East Economic Empowerment Forum in Londiani, Kericho County on Saturday, Kindiki said it was unacceptable that farmers were earning less despite the tea industry registering strong growth in recent years.

“Cartels have continued to sabotage efforts to streamline the tea sector. We will not sit back and watch them frustrate our farmers. The government is closing all loopholes to eliminate them completely,” said Kindiki.

The DP noted that tea earnings had risen significantly from Sh138 billion in 2023 to Sh215 billion in 2024, attributing this to reforms introduced by the government. He, however, emphasized that the gains would only be fully realized once cartels were wiped out.

“I’m fully supporting the President in the fight against these cartels because they are exploiting our farmers. Just like we took on those in the sugar sector, we’ll use the same determination to clean up the tea industry so that farmers get what’s rightfully theirs,” he added.

Kindiki outlined several ongoing reforms targeting improved farmer earnings, including enhanced transparency and accountability within KTDA-run factories, stronger marketing efforts, and diversification into high-value tea products.

“We must strengthen governance in our factories and ensure farmers have access to accurate information on tea sales and pricing. Some of the governance gaps in these factories are part of what’s holding back progress,” he observed.

He further underscored the importance of improving tea quality and adopting high-yield varieties that are more competitive globally. “We have to focus on quality and diversify into specialty teas that attract premium prices. Our goal is to make sure farmers earn more,” Kindiki remarked.

The DP also highlighted several major development projects in Kericho County valued at over Sh16.7 billion, covering housing, hostels, and market infrastructure. Under the Last Mile Electricity Programme, the government has set aside Sh1.3 billion to connect 14,000 households to the grid, with Kipkelion East receiving Sh143 million.

In addition, he announced that key road projects including the Londiani Hilltop Road linking Kericho to Uasin Gishu County have been revived after years of delay. “With our economy stabilizing, we’ve managed to secure funding to resume stalled road works, which will enhance connectivity and boost local trade,” he said.

Kindiki also revealed that Sh8 billion has been secured for the construction of the Kericho Teaching and Referral Hospital in Londiani, which will give South Rift residents easier access to specialized healthcare.

He encouraged locals to continue enrolling in the Social Health Authority (SHA) universal medical cover, lauding the county’s progress where 500,000 residents have already signed up out of a target of 900,000.

Leaders present at the event included Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, Senator Aaron Cheruiyot, President’s Aide Farouk Kibet, and several MPs and senators from across the Rift Valley and beyond.

Moses Kuria Reflects on Unfulfilled Industrial Vision Two Years After Leaving Trade Ministry

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October 4, 2025

By Faith Mwende

Former Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has spoken out on the second anniversary of his exit from government, expressing frustration over what he calls the collapse of Kenya’s once-promising industrialisation agenda.

In a statement shared on X this Saturday, Kuria revisited his time in the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, recalling the ambitious plans he spearheaded to turn Kenya into a magnet for investors and job creation.

“I had huge dreams for our country,” he wrote. “I dreamt of rapid industrialisation. I launched County Aggregation and Industrial Parks. I launched many Special Economic Zones and Export Processing Zones. I led huge efforts in bilateral trade and regional integration.”

Kuria said his goal was to empower Gen Z through large-scale investment and manufacturing initiatives that would generate millions of jobs. However, he lamented that the momentum behind that vision has since faded.

“Looking back at the last two years, I am disappointed that this dream has been extinguished,” he stated. “But I refuse to give up on Kenya. We still have a great country with immense potential.”

His remarks come amid continued speculation about his political journey, which saw him appointed to several key government positions before being dropped from the Cabinet in July 2024, during a major reshuffle by President William Ruto. The move followed widespread Gen Z-led protests against the government.

Kuria, who began his Cabinet career in the Trade and Investment docket, was later reassigned to the Public Service Ministry before being replaced by Rebecca Miano, who has since moved to Tourism and Wildlife.

After his Cabinet exit, Kuria briefly joined the Council of Economic Advisers at State House but resigned on July 9, 2025, citing disagreement with the government’s handling of the Saba Saba protests.

He maintained that his resignation was voluntary and that President Ruto respected his decision, though he described it as unfortunate.

Once a staunch ally of Ruto and a vocal defender of the Kenya Kwanza administration, Kuria revealed that he was never given a reason for his Cabinet removal and never sought one. “Why would I be entitled to ask why I was removed as CS? Did I speak to him when he appointed me?” he posed.

As he marks two years since leaving the Trade Ministry, Kuria remains both reflective and hopeful acknowledging the setbacks but reaffirming his belief in Kenya’s potential.

“The dream may have dimmed,” he said, “but it’s not dead.”

Nicki Minaj Issues Apology to Cardi B’s Daughter Amid Heated Feud

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October 4, 2025

By Faith Mwende

After days of heated online exchanges between Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, the drama took a new turn when Nicki issued what appeared to be an apology,directed not to Cardi, but to her 7-year-old daughter, Kulture.

Nicki came under fire earlier this week for mocking Kulture, sparking outrage across social media. Facing mounting criticism, the rapper shared an open letter addressed to the child, expressing partial remorse. In the note, she told Kulture it wasn’t her fault she had “funny-looking gums,” but claimed Cardi was responsible for pushing her to act out of character.

While Nicki framed the message as an apology, many fans and Cardi herself saw it as anything but. Cardi responded with sarcasm, accusing Nicki of hypocrisy and even mocking her alleged past drug use by nicknaming her son “Papa Perc.” She also slammed Nicki for choosing to lash out online during her own child’s recent birthday celebration.

The so-called apology has only added fuel to an already intense feud, leaving fans divided over whether Nicki’s gesture was genuine remorse or another calculated dig in their ongoing rivalry.

St Mark Orthodox Hospital Directors, Staff to Face Charges in SHA Fraud Case

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October 4, 2025

By Michelle Ndaga

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has ordered the prosecution of St Mark Orthodox Hospital in Vihiga County, its directors, and an employee of the Social Health Authority (SHA) over fraudulent claims amounting to millions of shillings.

According to a press statement issued on October 4, 2025, the case stems from claims totaling Ksh 4,916,800 that were paid to the hospital by SHA, despite the correct amount being only Ksh 18,000.

The DPP said the fraudulent scheme was uncovered following investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

The hospital itself will face charges of conspiracy to defraud, cheating, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and falsification of health documents.

Two directors of the facility Desouza Fenley and Mark Dhilion Sydon are also set to face personal charges. Fenley has been accused of conspiracy to defraud, cheating, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and falsification of health documents. Sydon will be charged with conspiracy to defraud and falsification of health documents.

In addition, Sammy Otieno, an employee at the Social Health Authority, has been implicated and will be charged with conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to commit a felony.

The DPP emphasized that the prosecutions are part of ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and integrity in the management of public resources, particularly within the health sector.

“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions undertakes to continue exercising its mandate in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws,” the statement read.

The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court in the coming days.

DPP Orders Prosecution Over Fraudulent Claims at Social Health Authority

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October 4, 2025

By Michelle Ndaga

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has directed that charges be brought against a medical facility and several of its directors and employees in connection with fraudulent activities targeting the Social Health Authority (SHA).

According to a press statement issued on October 4, 2025, the DPP acted after receiving and reviewing an inquiry file from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

The file implicated Jambo Jipya Medical Clinic in Kilifi County, which is accused of submitting fraudulent claims amounting to Ksh 2,032,680.

The clinic, along with its directors Patrick Kimuyu Kanya and Faith Chepkururi Bii, faces multiple charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, fraudulent alteration of information, acquisition and use of proceeds of crime, and cheating under various provisions of the Penal Code, the Social Health Insurance Act, and the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act.

Several employees Steven Okinyi Ojwang, Justine Baraka Glen, Maina Macharia, Pauline Wanjiru, and Nadia Mbeyu have also been linked to the fraudulent scheme.

They are to face charges ranging from forgery, uttering false documents, and knowingly making false statements to conspiracy to commit a felony.

The DPP emphasized that the decision to prosecute followed an independent and thorough review of the evidence provided by investigators.

In its statement, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) reaffirmed its commitment to exercising its mandate in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws, stressing that accountability in the management of public resources remains a top priority.

The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court in the coming days.

WADA Delays Sanctions as Kenya’s Anti-Doping Agency Shows Progress

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Mary Mumbua

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October 4, 2025

By Bradley Shahenza

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has held off imposing sanctions on the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) after acknowledging what it described as “significant and demonstrable progress” in addressing critical compliance gaps.

In a statement released on Friday, October 3, WADA confirmed that ADAK had submitted a corrective action plan ahead of the October 2 deadline, following a formal non-compliance notice issued on September 11. The notice stemmed from unresolved issues flagged during a May 2024 audit.

WADA said the plan outlined measures to resolve the shortcomings within four months, prompting the agency to refer the case back to its Compliance Review Committee (CRC) for further evaluation. “This has led WADA Management to refer the matter back to the CRC for further consideration. Therefore, until such time as the CRC reassesses the case and potentially makes a further recommendation to the ExCo, and the ExCo reaches a subsequent decision, the aforementioned consequences for ADAK will not apply,” WADA’s update read.

The development means Kenya will, for now, avoid the severe consequences of a non-compliance designation. If declared non-compliant, ADAK and Kenyan sport could have faced penalties including the loss of WADA funding, exclusion from vital global programs, and ineligibility for Kenyan representatives to sit on WADA boards and committees.

Kenya, a dominant force in global athletics, has long faced scrutiny over doping-related challenges. The latest reprieve provides ADAK with critical breathing space to strengthen its structures and reassure the international sporting community of its commitment to clean sport.

Observers note that while WADA’s decision buys time, ADAK must fully implement its action plan to avoid future sanctions that could threaten Kenya’s athletes and reputation on the global stage.

Kenya Secures Ksh193 Billion Loan, Retires Ksh129 Billion Eurobond Early

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Mary Mumbua

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October 4, 2025

treasury-1- — picture courtesy Serrari Group

Nairobi — Kenya has secured a USD 1.5 billion (Ksh193.8 billion) loan from international markets, using part of the proceeds to retire USD 1 billion (Ksh129.2 billion) of the 2028 Eurobond ahead of schedule. The transaction, announced on Friday, October 3, marks a significant step in the country’s debt management strategy.

Treasury Principal Secretary Dr. Chris Kiptoo hailed the deal as a demonstration of the government’s resolve to manage public debt prudently. “This is the third such transaction since 2024, and it shows the Government’s firm commitment to managing debt more wisely, paying off loans on time, and protecting Kenyans from sudden repayment shocks,” he said.

The financing was raised through a two-part issuance: a 7-year loan at 7.875% interest and a 12-year loan at 8.8%, resulting in a blended rate of 8.7%. This is about one percentage point lower than what Kenya would have paid earlier in the year, a development Kiptoo said would “smoothen and lengthen loan repayments, giving Kenya more breathing space in managing its finances.”

Investor appetite proved strong, with the issuance attracting over USD 7.5 billion (Ksh969 billion) in bids—five times the amount sought. According to Kiptoo, the overwhelming demand was driven by robust support from international fund managers, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. “It signals renewed global confidence in Kenya’s economy,” he noted.

The move is expected to ease pressure on Kenya’s external obligations by restructuring maturities falling due in 2027, while also allowing the government to balance development financing needs with sustainable borrowing.

Analysts say the transaction underscores Kenya’s determination to stabilize its debt portfolio, a critical step as the country navigates fiscal pressures and works to safeguard long-term economic growth.