Mohamed Salah Criticises UEFA Over Tribute to Slain Palestinian Footballer

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August 10, 2025

Liverpool and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah has publicly challenged UEFA for failing to mention the circumstances surrounding the death of former Palestinian national team player Suleiman Al-Obeid, killed in Gaza earlier this week.

In a brief tribute posted on X, European football’s governing body hailed Al-Obeid as the “Palestinian Pelé,” praising his talent and the hope he inspired. The message made no reference to the conflict or the cause of death.

Responding on Saturday, Salah wrote: “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?” His post rapidly gained traction, amassing more than 840,000 likes by the evening. UEFA has not expanded on its statement, though the Palestine Football Association later shared what it said was a condolence message from UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, lauding Al-Obeid’s resilience and legacy.

The PFA said the 41-year-old was killed by an Israeli strike while waiting for humanitarian aid in southern Gaza, and had scored more than 100 goals over his career. It reported that 325 members of Palestine’s football community — including players, coaches, referees and officials — have been killed since the war began in October 2023.

The UN says more than 1,300 people have died while seeking food since late May, with over 800 killed near aid distribution points linked to the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

Salah, the most high-profile Arab player in global football, has repeatedly called for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza “immediately” and urged an end to the “massacres.” Palestine has been recognised by FIFA since 1998 and competed in the past three Asian Cups, though it has yet to qualify for the World Cup.

Al-Obeid’s death has sparked renewed debate over sport’s role in acknowledging human suffering amid conflict.

Kisumu Governor Demands Highway Redesign After Bus Crash Claims 26 Lives

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Gerald Gekara

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August 10, 2025

Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o has urged the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to redesign the Kisumu–Kakamega highway following a fatal accident that left 26 people dead on Friday evening.

The crash, which occurred at the notorious Coptic blackspot, involved a school bus ferrying mourners from Nyahera to Nyakach in Kisumu County. According to witnesses, the vehicle lost control while attempting to negotiate a sharp corner, rolling several times.

While visiting survivors at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) on Saturday, Prof Nyong’o called for urgent intervention to prevent similar tragedies. He also appealed to Kenyans to donate blood for those injured.

The tragedy has devastated the community, with 22 of the victims reportedly belonging to the same Korwa clan in Koguta, Nyakach Sub County. Relatives have described the incident as a generational loss. Mary Achieng’, who lost multiple family members, said the deaths had “wiped out our lineage” and left them in shock.

The death toll rose to 26 on Saturday morning after one of the five passengers in critical condition succumbed to injuries. The fatalities included 10 men, 10 women and an eight-month-old baby. At least 20 survivors remain admitted at JOOTRH, five of them in critical care, while 28 others with less severe injuries are awaiting surgery.

The government has pledged to cover all medical and burial expenses. The accident follows a spate of fatal crashes along Kenyan highways, renewing public concern over road safety and infrastructure design.

Prof Nyong’o said the Coptic blackspot had claimed many lives over the years and warned that without structural changes, more deaths were inevitable. “We cannot normalise tragedy,” he said. “This road must be fixed before we bury more people.”

Kenyan Detectives Arrest Suspect in Maasai Mara Tourist Theft—He Bought New Bicycle

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Gerald Gekara

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August 10, 2025

Detectives from the Nairobi Region Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau have arrested the man they say orchestrated the theft of thousands of euros from a visiting tourist in a scheme that began at the Maasai Mara Game Park.

According to police, the suspect, identified as Kenas Okello Oyugi, targeted a Greek national who had arrived in Nairobi on 5 August.

The following day, the visitor embarked on a trip to the world-famous Maasai Mara in the company of his tour guide and an acquaintance he had met online.

The man, who introduced himself as “Jeremiah John”, joined them for the journey.

While at the park, “Jeremiah” disappeared, taking with him three debit cards, a mobile phone and a Seiko Crystal wristwatch belonging to the tourist.

Authorities say that soon afterwards, withdrawals totalling €25,000 were made from the victim’s bank account.

An investigation was launched, and forensic analysis revealed that “Jeremiah John” was an alias. Detectives traced the suspect to a hideout, where they moved in to make the arrest.

Police said they recovered several mobile phones, the stolen wristwatch, 54,050 Kenyan shillings in cash, and an undisclosed sum in US dollars.

Also seized was a brand-new tour trek bicycle, believed to have been purchased using the stolen funds.

Oyugi is currently being held at Central Police Station in Nairobi, where he is undergoing processing ahead of his expected arraignment.

Authorities have urged visitors to exercise caution when dealing with strangers during travel, even in popular destinations, noting that organised scams targeting tourists can involve well-planned deception.

The arrest, they added, highlights the role of forensic and intelligence-led policing in combating crimes against foreign visitors.

Police have not ruled out the possibility of further arrests as the investigation continues.

Four Dead in Kibwezi-Kitui Road Crash

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Gerald Gekara

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August 10, 2025

Four people lost their lives late on Saturday night following a road accident along the Kibwezi-Kitui road in Makueni County.

According to police, the collision occurred at around 11pm, claiming three lives instantly. Two other passengers were rushed to Kibwezi AMREF Hospital, but one succumbed to injuries shortly after arrival.

The remaining survivor is in critical condition and undergoing treatment.

Kibwezi Base Commander Morris Situma said the victims were travelling from a dowry ceremony and were headed home in anticipation of a wedding scheduled for next Saturday.

The vehicle they were in is said to have lost control under unclear circumstances, though investigations are underway to determine the cause.

Witnesses described a scene of chaos as passers-by rushed to help before emergency responders arrived. “It happened so fast — all we heard was the screech and then the crash,” said one local resident. “We tried to pull them out before the police came.”

The tragedy was one of five separate road accidents reported in the region on Saturday night alone, a reminder of Kenya’s mounting road safety concerns.

Authorities say they are intensifying patrols and checks along major highways, particularly during weekends when traffic surges due to social functions.

Commander Situma urged motorists to exercise caution, noting that most fatal accidents stem from speeding, fatigue, or impaired driving. “These are preventable losses. We cannot keep losing lives on our roads this way,” he said.

The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the Kibwezi AMREF Hospital mortuary, while police prepare their report for the inquest.

Families of the victims have been notified and arrangements for post-mortem examinations are being made.

DCI Officer Earns PhD; Launches Critical Book on Policing Reforms

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Gerald Gekara

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August 9, 2025

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has recognised Dr Margaret Awino Ong’ale for her outstanding academic and professional achievements, marking a rare moment of celebration in Kenya’s law enforcement community.

Dr Ong’ale was honoured on Saturday at Weston Hotel, Nairobi, where she officially launched her book, Transforming the Law Enforcers, shortly after being awarded a Doctorate of Philosophy.

The ceremony drew colleagues from the DCI, family members and friends, all gathered to celebrate an officer who has built a reputation for discipline, resilience and intellectual pursuit.

DCI Director Mohamed I. Amin, represented by Dr Philip Ouma, praised Dr Ong’ale’s work, describing it as a valuable resource for shaping policing policy.

“I am confident that your work will be of immense value in shaping policy reforms across the country. Such achievement is a great honour in the world of academia. This is truly commendable,” Mr Amin said in his message.

Dr Ong’ale’s book outlines a vision for reforming law enforcement through justice, ethics and effective leadership, blending research with practical recommendations. It is aimed at guiding police transformation and inspiring a new approach to public service.

Her achievements place her among a growing number of women in uniform breaking new ground in the security sector.

According to colleagues, her success demonstrates the role education can play in modernising Kenya’s policing, while motivating other officers to pursue academic excellence alongside operational duties.

For Dr Ong’ale, the milestones represent both a personal triumph and a contribution to the broader cause of justice sector reform.

The DCI described the celebration as not only a recognition of one officer’s success, but also a statement on the value of knowledge in shaping a more effective and ethical security service.

Fireworks in Wiper as Senator Wambua declares Kitui’s 2027 Gubernatorial bid

By

John Mutiso

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August 9, 2025

Written by Were Kelly

The Wiper Democratic Movement (WDM) is staring at an escalating internal rift after a majority of its MPs from Ukambani snubbed Senator Enock Wambua’s official launch for the Kitui Governor’s race.

Apart from Kitui West MP, Edith Nyenze and Mwingi North MP,Paul Nzengu the rest stayed away from the high-profile event, fuelling speculation of a divided party leadership over the choice of candidate for the 2027 elections.

Wambua’s bid comes amid a three-way contest for the coveted Wiper ticket, with Kitui Woman Representative Dr. Irene Kasalu and Kitui Central MP Dr. Makali Mulu also declaring interest in the gubernatorial race.

Party insiders say the stakes are high, with the winner set to control billions in devolution funds and significant own-source county revenue each year.

Wambua, a staunch ally of party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, has been instrumental in Kalonzo’s national campaigns and is considered a key pillar of his 2027 presidential bid. Those close to the senator insist he will be on the ballot “with or without Kalonzo’s support,” and hint he could defect to Rigathi Gachagua’s party if denied the Wiper ticket.

Sources in Kalonzo’s camp suggest the Wiper boss is leaning towards Dr. Kasalu, who hails from his Mwingi backyard and hopes to consolidate support from the region. Kasalu’s team is banking on the Mwingi–Kitui divide to play in her favour.

Dr. Mulu, meanwhile, is seen as the underdog and may face pressure to defend his parliamentary seat rather than risk a bruising gubernatorial battle that could destabilise Wiper in Kitui.

Kalonzo is acutely aware of the perils of a split ticket in Kitui, having lost the governorship to Charity Ngilu in 2017 when he backed Dr. Julius Malombe against David Musila — a division that allowed Ngilu to sweep past both.

Adding a fresh twist, Safaricom Chief Corporate Security Officer Nicholas Mulila has emerged as a formidable independent contender. Mulila has already received high-profile public endorsements, positioning himself as a serious threat to the Wiper lineup regardless of who clinches the ticket.

Livestock PS Jonathan Mueke who vied in 2022 for the Kitui gubernatorial seat but emerged third is also expected to participate in the 2027 race with Ruto’s UDA Party endorsement.

With multiple heavyweights in the ring and loyalties split, Kitui’s 2027 gubernatorial race is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable and politically charged contests in Ukambani’s history.

Gov’t Demands Gachagua Record Statement Over Terrorism Allegations Upon Return

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Editor

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August 9, 2025

dp-og_image — Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua speaking in Dracut, Massachusetts in USA on Tuesday, July 23, 2025. PHOTO|COURTESY

The government has directed Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua to record a statement with the police upon his return from the United States over remarks linking President William Ruto to alleged meetings with Al-Shabaab militants.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Saturday condemned Gachagua’s claims, saying matters of national security must not be trivialised for political gain.

Speaking during his US tour, which began on July 11, Gachagua alleged that President Ruto met three Al-Shabaab leaders in Mandera at night to discuss “business” and accused the government of removing vetting requirements for non-Kenyans before issuing them national identity cards, a move he claimed could enable suspected terrorists to infiltrate Kenya and other countries.

Murkomen, addressing a rally in Keiyo South, blasted the former Deputy President for “disparaging the country” abroad.

“He must record a statement to tell us which meetings he’s doing with terrorists. This country has been too lenient on such reckless talk,” Murkomen said, questioning Gachagua’s suitability for high office.

Kindiki echoed the sentiment, urging security agencies to hold Gachagua accountable.

“If someone claims to have intelligence that can help us prevent an attack, they must give that information to the authorities immediately,” he said, warning leaders against using terrorism as a political tool.

The DP emphasised that Kenya has long suffered from terrorism and cattle rustling, adding:

“We must distinguish matters of national security from everyday politics.”

Gachagua has used his US visit to meet diaspora supporters, open DCP offices, and lobby international stakeholders. His remarks have sparked a political storm back home, deepening tensions ahead of the 2027 general election.

Written By Rodney Mbua

Heavy Police Presence Blocks Access to Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara’s Home

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August 9, 2025

Written by Were Kelly

Tensions flared in Maraigushu, Naivasha, on Saturday morning after anti-riot police officers mounted roadblocks around the home of area MP Jayne Kihara, barring local leaders from visiting her.

Teams of heavily armed officers were positioned along key access roads, sparking fear among residents as what many described as State intimidation against leaders allied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua intensified.

The blockade comes just two weeks after Kihara was arrested at her home and charged at the Milimani Law Courts with incitement.

Despite the security cordon, several area leaders and residents gathered outside her home in a show of solidarity.

Visibly emotional, the Naivasha MP told reporters she had invited friends for moral support and did not require any special clearance to host visitors.

“I have the right to host anyone in my home,” she said, accusing President William Ruto of orchestrating her troubles. “This will not stop me from speaking out and defending the poor from harassment by the State.”

Kihara alleged that both the President and his Deputy, Interior CS Kithure Kindiki, regularly host delegations without interference, yet she and other leaders face reprisals for doing the same.

Naivasha East MCA Stanley Karanja criticised the State for deploying security forces to political standoffs instead of tackling rising insecurity in other parts of the country.

“We will stand with the MP. She’s being persecuted for her political stand and her support for the former DP,” he said.

His Viwandani counterpart, Mwangi Muraya, questioned whether Kenyan law now requires MPs to seek police permission for private visits.

Accusing the President of turning into “a dictator,” Muraya added, “We shall not allow this. The same people who supported him are now the ones being harassed.”

The incident has further heightened political friction in the Rift Valley, where the rivalry between Ruto’s allies and those loyal to Gachagua appears to be deepening.

Ruto Distributes Business Equipment to 15,000 Nairobi Youths in Major Empowerment Push

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August 9, 2025

Written by Were Kelly

Thousands of young men and women from across Nairobi County braved the chilly Saturday morning to attend a massive youth empowerment programme hosted by President William Ruto at State House.

The event brought together members from 1,115 youth groups across Nairobi’s 17 constituencies, each receiving income-generating equipment tailored to their requests.

Among the allocations:

380 tents and 38,000 chairs (one tent and 100 chairs per group for 380 groups)
Over 200 carwash stations
120 public address systems
80 catering equipment sets
63 groups with 245 motorbikes
Tailoring machines, salon and barbershop kits, juice vending machines, egg trolleys, pool tables, large format printers, photography gear, rickshaws, wood-cutting machines, posho mills, industrial ovens, welding machines, and carpet washers.

Additionally, 49 women’s groups received 300 sewing machines to boost small-scale textile ventures.

Entertainment came courtesy of top Nairobi DJs and musicians, including Bahati and Toxic Lyrikali.

Addressing 15,000 attendees, President Ruto declared that the empowerment programme would continue “uninterrupted” despite political criticism.

“We have no apologies to make. This programme is about economic independence for our people, and we are expanding it to every ward in the country,” Ruto said.

He announced a new KSh50,000 grant for 70 youths per ward across all 1,450 wards, targeting 100,000 young people nationwide. The initiative will be funded jointly by the Government of Kenya and the World Bank.

Ruto also defended the Hustler Fund, criticising opponents for lacking alternatives.

“Those lecturing us from posh hotels, sipping tea worth KSh1,000 a cup, do not know the problems of hustlers at the grassroots,” he said.

On politics, the President dismissed talk of a one-term presidency, stressing that “Kenyans have the final say” on leadership terms. He reiterated his commitment to uniting the country and eliminating tribal and divisive politics.

The event was attended by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Woman Rep Esther Passaris, MPs including Beatrice Elachi, John Kiarie, Felix Odiwuor (Jalang’o), Peter Orero, Mark Mwenje, Anthony Oluoch, George Aladwa, TJ Kajwang, Ronald Karauri, Tim Wanyonyi, and nominated MPs Karen Nyamu and Tabitha Mutinda, along with several Nairobi MCAs

IEBC Sets November 27, 2025 for Nationwide By-Elections

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August 9, 2025

Written by Were Kelly

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced that all pending by-elections across the country will be conducted on November 27, 2025.

In a public notice, the electoral body revealed that the gazettement of the by-elections will take place in two batches. The first batch, published on Friday, August 8, covers 16 ward by-elections along with the appointment of Returning and Deputy Returning Officers.

The wards include:

Angata Nanyokie (Samburu)
Chemundu/Kapng’etuny (Nandi)
Chewani (Tana River)
Fafi (Garissa)
Kariobangi North (Nairobi)
Kisa East (Kakamega)
Metkei (Elgeyo Marakwet)
Mumbuni North (Machakos)
Narok Town (Narok)
Purko (Kajiado)
Tembelio (Uasin Gishu)
Nyansiongo, Nyamaiya, and Ekerenyo (Nyamira)
Lake Zone and Nanaam (Turkana)

The second batch will be gazetted on Monday, August 11 and will include:

Member of Senate for Baringo County
Members of the National Assembly for Banissa, Kasipul, Magarini, Malava, Mbeere North, and Ugunja constituencies
Member of County Assembly for Kabuchai/Chwele Ward (Bungoma)

Political parties intending to participate must submit names and specimen signatures of authorised officials, as well as the names of contestants, by Wednesday, September 17, 2025. Independent candidates have the same deadline to present their names and symbols.

The IEBC also reminded public officers seeking to contest to resign within seven days of the notice, in line with the Elections Regulations, 2012. Independent aspirants must not have been members of any political party for at least three months before the election date.

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon will lead the eight-member Dispute Resolution Committee to handle nomination disputes and other pre-election complaints. The committee includes Fahima Araphat Abdallah (Vice-Chairperson), Marykaren Sorobit, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Hassan Noor Hassan, Francis Odhiambo Aduol, Ann Njeri Nderitu, and Nancy Cherono Koros (Secretary).

Ethekon emphasised the commission’s readiness to ensure the by-elections are conducted transparently, securely, and within the law.

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