Ugandan TikToker Jailed For Six Years For Insulting President Museveni

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July 11, 2024

A Ugandan court has sentenced a 24-year-old man to six years in prison for insulting the president and the first family through his video posted on TikTok.

Edward Awebwa was charged with hate speech and spreading “misleading and malicious” information against President Yoweri Museveni, First Lady Janet Museveni and son Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is the head of the military.

The court also heard that Awebwa had shared abusive information – saying there would be an increase in taxes under President Museveni.

He had pleaded guilty and asked for forgiveness.

The presiding magistrate said that while he had pleaded for mercy, he did not look remorseful for his actions, and the words used in the video were “really vulgar”.

“The accused deserves a punishment which will enable him learn from his past so that next time he will respect the person of the president, the first lady and the first son,” magistrate Stella Maris Amabilis said.

He was sentenced to six years for each of the four charges against him, which are to run concurrently.

Rights groups regularly denounce Ugandan authorities for violations of human rights and freedom of expression.

In 2022, award-winning Ugandan author Kakwenza Rukirabashaija was charged with two counts of “offensive communication” after making unflattering remarks about the president and his son on Twitter.

He fled the country to Germany after spending a month in jail, where he claimed he had been tortured.

Activist and writer Stella Nyanzi, who is also in exile, had earlier been jailed after publishing a poem that was critical against Mr Museveni.

President Museveni has been in power since 1986 – 14 years before Awebwa was born.

In 2022 he signed into law a against speech which rights groups criticised, saying it was aimed at suppressing freedom of speech online.

Last year, the constitutional court ruled that a section of the act that penalised “offensive communication” was unconstitutional.

Ugandan human rights lawyer Michael Aboneka said Awebwa had been charged under the same broader law that they are still challenging in court because “it is vague”.

He told the BBC Newsday programme that the president and his family should expect to be criticised “at whatever angle”.

“Unless they are saying that they are going to arrest every Ugandan for criticising them at every point,” he said.

CS Kuria: Only election can kick Ruto out of office

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John Mutiso

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July 11, 2024

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has stated that President William Ruto can only leave office through another election.

Kuria made the remarks during an interview with Citizen TV on Wednesday July 10, 2024, when he said that President Ruto was elected by the people of Kenya and can only be removed from office through another election.

“Ruto didn’t come, he was elected and there is another election coming,” said Moses Kuria.

At the same time, the Public Service CS advised youth, especially Gen Z to register as voters and use their large numbers to vote in leaders of their choice in the next elections.

“People are saying Ruto must go but Ruto didn’t come, he was elected and another election is coming. The only way for Ruto to go is through the vote,” Kuria said.

Kuria told Citizen TV’s JKL that youths under the Gen Z movement should shun their antagonism with the government and instead wait for the next election cycle to elect the leaders of their choice.

He asserted that the youths form the biggest chunk of Kenya’s population hence should use their numbers to drive positive change.

“In 2022, 8 million people did not vote and those are the Gen-Z’s,” the CS said.

Kuria noted that Kenya is the only country in Africa that has had a track record of consistent elections, warning that there is a risk of losing this tradition.

Youths under the Gen Z movement have sustained their calls for reforms in the country, with some quotas calling for the resignation of the Head of State.

I’m not in 2024 Paris Olympics delegation – Azziad Nasenya clears the air

By

John Mutiso

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July 11, 2024

Digital content creator and radio presenter Azziad Nasenya has dismissed reports of being part of Kenya’s delegation to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

In a statement on Thursday, July 11, the Nasenya noted that it was unfortunate that someone could come up with such allegations.

“First of all, I am not part of the Kenya delegation to the Paris Olympics 2024. It is unfortunate that someone would come up with false allegations on such a matter,” Nasenya remarked.

She went on to disclose that her involvement with the Ministry of Sports was centered around the Creatives Technical Committee of the Talanta Hela Council which was disbanded last year.

“I was selected and mandated to represent the younger population. in the Creatives Technical Committee. However, the committee was disbanded in June 2023. I’ve not involved myself since,” the radio presenter stated.

At the same time, Nasenya intimated that her foreign travels were financed by her clients, family or herself, but not the government.

“I would also like to make it clear that my travel to Dubai and other places have been financed by myself, clients, or family, and never, as numerously claimed, by the Government of Kenya. There were allegations that I travelled to Dubai using money meant. for renovating a stadium.

“At the time, I was in Dubai recording content for the #VisitDubai campaign, a trip that was fully funded by the client. The receipts are on my socials – smart people can confirm instead of believing rumours,” she added.

Her response comes after a section of Kenyans compelled Sports CS Ababu Namwamba to make public the list of non-athletes accompanying the Kenya team to France.

Speaking at the unveiling of Team Kenya’s Olympic kit last week, Namwamba said there was no room for joyriders in Paris.

“There’s no room for joyriders in Paris. There is only space for Team Kenya to fly the Kenyan flag in Paris,” the CS remarked.

On Thursday, July 11, Namwamba wrote to the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK), instructing them to make public the full Kenyan delegation to the competition.

The 2024 Olympic Games will be held from July 26 to August 11 in Paris.

‘I Have No Advisors,’ Duale Responds To Plan To Scrap Ministers’ Staff

By

John Mutiso

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July 11, 2024

Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale now says he has no advisers to drop after the Head of Public Service revised the number of advisers permitted for a minister from two to one.

He remarked following Felix Koskei’s memo circulated on Wednesday which directed Cabinet Secretaries to share the name of the adviser they wished to retain following a presidential directive cutting the number of advisers in government by 50 per cent.

Duale who endorsed the move said he did not retain any adviser citing sufficient capacity at the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

“I have no advisers to submit as the men and women at the helm of Defense headquarters’ leadership have the required training, knowledge, and experience to give me strategic advice and guidance to steer the Ministry,” Duale declared.

Koskei issued a letter saying the move is part of the austerity measures announced by President William Ruto to cut government spending.

“It is notified that His Excellency the President directed that the number of advisors in government be reduced by 50% with immediate effect. By dint of that Presidential Action, the number of advisors assigned to each Cabinet Secretary has been revised from two to one,” read the letter in part.

Koskei added, “Consequently, you are requested to assess the requirements of your office and indicate the advisor you would wish to retain to support you in the discharge of your portfolio mandate. Any advisors beyond the set threshold will be immediately phased out from the Public Service,” Koskei stated.

Further, he asked the CSs to submit the full names of the advisors who will be retained to PSC and send a copy to his office, by Thursday, July 11, 2024.

AG Muturi Threatens Legal Action Against the Standard Over ‘Misleading’ Article

By

John Mutiso

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July 11, 2024

Attorney General Justin Muturi has disclosed that he is taking legal action to have the Standard Media Group retract a story that was published in the Standard Newspaper.

On Thursday, July 11, the Standard Newspaper carried the headline: ‘Misadvised? Blame it on Ruto, AG Muturi says’.

The local daily claimed in the story that the Attorney General had revealed that his office has never been consulted on some key government decisions.

“In a bold step, Attorney General Justin Muturi has come out to say the President does not consult him on a number of key decisions, in spite of being the chief legal advisor, on various issues and that is why the government has been a butt of jokes in corridors of justice,” read the front page of the paper.

However, in a swift response, Muturi claimed that the statements in the story were not attributed to him.

He maintained that the statements in the story were misleading to the public, adding that he upheld high levels of integrity and transparency.

“I am deeply concerned by an article published by The Standard Newspaper on 11th July 2024 that quotes statements falsely attributed to me. As a former lawmaker and former speaker of the National Assembly, I uphold the highest standards of integrity and transparency. The misquotations in the article are misleading to the Kenyan public and undermine these principles,” the AG remarked.

Muturi asserted that it was imperative for the media to maintain accuracy to ensure that the truth is upheld.

“I am actively pursuing legal channels to have The Standard retract these statements and correct the public record. It is imperative that the media maintain accuracy and responsibility in their reporting to ensure that the truth is upheld,” he added.

US embassy issues security alert over Finance Bill protests

By

John Mutiso

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July 11, 2024

The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi has warned American citizens over possible protests across multiple cities in the country on Thursday, July 11.

In an alert on Wednesday, July 10, the embassy noted that calls for protests continued in Kenya and urged U.S. citizens to be vigilant.

It added that even peaceful protests could turn violent at any time and urged citizens to monitor local media for information on road conditions before travelling.

“Calls for protests in Kenya are continuing, including for protestors to block major roads around the country on Thursday, July 11. Even protests that seem peaceful can turn violent at any moment. Traffic disruptions and delays can be expected,” read part of the alert by the U.S. Embassy.

Americans in Kenya were also advised to avoid crowds, keep doors locked and windows rolled up while in a vehicle, notify friends and family of their whereabouts and safety, review their personal security plans, and carry a copy of their U.S. passport with a current Kenyan visa.

Multiple foreign embassies in the country, including Russia and Ukraine, have previously issued travel advisories to their citizens due to the widespread protests that have hit the country.

The protests began after several Kenyans took to the streets to oppose the Finance Bill 2024 which was proposing an increase in taxation.

However, the protests later turned anti-government as they continued even after the bill was withdrawn by President William Ruto.

SDA Church Withdraws Notice Suspending ‘Controversial Pastors’

By

Gerald Gekara

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July 10, 2024

The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Kenya Coast Field (KCF) has withdrawn a directive suspending several prominent pastors, citing concerns over maintaining doctrinal and organizational integrity.

The initial directive, issued on July 4, 2024, listed Pastor Kenneth Maina, Evangelist Shaban Ndege, Evangelist Millicent Odhiambo, Pastor Elizabeth Mokoro, and Evangelist Lantern as prohibited from conducting any church services. However, the church has now retracted this decision with a new letter dated July 10, 2024, signed by Pr. Eliab Ombuoro, Executive Secretary.

The controversy surrounding the suspension has sparked heated debate among church members and leaders. One of those affected by the suspension is Pastor Elizabeth Mokoro, a popular figure known for her engaging preaching style and ability to tackle real social issues.

Mokoro’s sermons have resonated deeply with the congregation, making her a beloved figure in the church. Her popularity has also made her a target within the church hierarchy, which appears to prefer more traditional and less engaging preaching styles.

This latest development comes shortly after the removal of Pastors Matara and Martha Isaac, who were known for incorporating humor into their sermons to the delight of worshippers. Their approach was deemed inappropriate by church leaders.

The sudden about-face by the church has left many wondering what led to the initial suspension and its subsequent withdrawal. The church has not commented on the matter, leaving many to speculate about the reasons behind the decision.

Suspect Who Murdered BBC Journalist’s Wife And Two Daughters Arrested

By

Gerald Gekara

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July 10, 2024

A man wanted in connection with the brutal murder of a BBC journalist’s wife and two daughters has been found in north London following a massive manhunt.

Kyle Clifford, 26, was discovered in the Enfield area on Wednesday afternoon after police launched an extensive search operation. He is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the search.

Clifford, who was known to the victims, is believed to have used a crossbow in the attack, although police suspect other weapons may have also been involved.

The bodies of the three women – the wife and two daughters of BBC racing commentator John Hunt – were found at a house in Bushey, Hertfordshire, on Tuesday evening. The victims, aged 25, 28, and 61, were all pronounced dead at the scene.

The BBC has described the incident as “utterly devastating” and has pledged to support Hunt and his family during this difficult time.

“John’s family is utterly devastated by this tragedy,” said a statement from the BBC. “Our thoughts are with John and his family at this incredibly difficult time and we will provide him with all the support we can.”

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has also expressed her condolences and has urged anyone with information about the case to come forward.

“This is truly shocking news. My thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have been killed and with the community,” she wrote on Twitter.

A neighbor of the victims described them as friendly and kind, saying she would often see them passing by and they would exchange good mornings.

“It’s really sad what’s happened, very shocking,” she added.

Clifford left the British army in 2022 after a short period of service. He is currently being treated for his injuries and will be questioned by police once he is well enough.

We Are Heart-Broken: Chief Justice Koome Mourns Justice Majanja

By

Gerald Gekara

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July 10, 2024

Chief Justice Martha Koome has expressed deep sadness at the sudden passing of High Court Judge and Judicial Service Commission Commissioner, Hon. Justice David Amilcar Shikomera Majanja.

Justice Majanja passed away while undergoing a medical procedure at a Nairobi hospital. The news has sent shockwaves throughout the Judiciary and the JSC fraternity.

The Chief Justice extended her condolences to Justice Majanja’s family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Judiciary and JSC community. “We are all heartbroken,” she said.

“Justice Majanja will be remembered as a towering figure in the development of our transformative post-2010 jurisprudence and a crucial pillar in the institution-building of the JSC and the Judiciary.” CJ Koome added.

The Judiciary and JSC have asked for sensitivity and compassion as they come to terms with the sudden loss and share in grief with one another and with the people of Kenya.

Details of the funeral arrangements will be shared in due course. In the meantime, the Judiciary and JSC family call for respect and dignity for Justice Majanja’s memory.

Colleagues, friends, and fellow jurists have taken to social media to pay tribute to Justice Majanja’s life and legacy.

“Farewell to a great judge, a dedicated public servant, and a true friend. Your wisdom, wit, and wisdom will be deeply missed,” wrote Supreme Court Judge, Philomena Mwilu.

“Justice Majanja was an exceptional judge, a true leader, and a dear colleague. His passing leaves a huge void in our midst,” tweeted former Chief Justice, David Maraga.

“Rest in peace, Hon. Justice Majanja. You were an exemplary jurist, a true champion of justice, and a shining example of integrity,” said Human Rights Lawyer, Okiya Omtatah.

As the nation mourns the loss of this illustrious son of Kenya, we remember his dedication to upholding the rule of law and his tireless efforts to promote justice and human rights.

Justice David Majanja Dies At A Nairobi Hospital

By

Gerald Gekara

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July 10, 2024

High Court Judge David Majanja has died at a Nairobi Hospital at the age of 53.

Justice Majanja, a renowned High Court Judge, He was admitted to the hospital for a surgery and sadly did not recover.

His death has left the Judiciary fraternity in shock, just one month after he was sworn in as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) representing Judges and Magistrates.

Justice Majanja, who was stationed at the Milimani Civil Division court, had a remarkable career spanning over two decades.

He was first appointed as a Judge of the High Court in 2011 and went on to serve in various capacities, including as the chairperson of the Human Resource Management Committee and a member of the Audit Committee.

Before his appointment to the bench, Justice Majanja had a distinguished career as a lawyer. He worked for several law firms, including Mohammed and Muigai Advocates and Onyango and Ohaga Advocates, before founding his own law firm, Majanja Luseno and Company Advocates, in 2007.

He was a respected specialist in civil and commercial law and had also been involved in public interest litigation. Justice Majanja was an assisting counsel for the Commission of Inquiry into the Post Election Violence, popularly known as the Waki Commission.

In his latest role, he was sworn-in as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in May this year, after being re-elected to represent the Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association (KMJA). This was his second term on the JSC, having first been elected in 2019.

The Judiciary is mourning the loss of Justice Majanja, who will be remembered for his dedication to the rule of law and his commitment to upholding justice.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague and friend,” said Chief Justice Martha Koome. “Justice Majanja was an outstanding jurist who will be remembered for his wisdom, integrity, and dedication to the Judiciary.”

Tributes have been pouring in from colleagues, friends, and family members, celebrating Justice Majanja’s life and legacy.

Born in Eldoret, Justice Majanja attended Hill School and Alliance High School before pursuing his law degree at the University of Nairobi. He holds a Master of Laws (LLM) degree from the University of Pretoria and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Nairobi.

Justice Majanja is survived by his wife and children. His funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.