IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan Resigns, Anne Mwangi Appointed Interim Boss

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February 17, 2026

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA)’s Chairperson, Ahmed Issack Hassan, has formally resigned from his position at the authority.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 17, the Authority confirmed that Hassan had stepped down, triggering a transition at the top of the civilian police watchdog.

Following his exit, IPOA Vice Chairperson Anne Wanjiku Mwangi has taken over the role in an acting capacity as the process of appointing a new chairperson begins, in line with the law.

“The Authority reaffirms its commitment to service delivery in accordance with its statutory mandate, notwithstanding these developments,” the statement read in part.IPOA, which is mandated to provide civilian oversight over the National Police Service (NPS), maintained that its operations will continue uninterrupted despite the leadership change.

Hassan’s resignation comes at a critical time when scrutiny on policing and accountability remains high, placing added focus on how the Authority will navigate the transition and sustain public confidence.

His resignation paves the way for him to take up duties at the Court of Appeal. He and 14 others were sworn in as Court of Appeal judges three weeks ago. On Saturday, the judiciary posted him to Nakuru, marking his first assignment as a judge.

His brief stint at IPOA concluded as he pursued a long-standing ambition to join the judiciary. “As an advocate, I think the highest goal you want to be is join the bench and become a judge,” he told the Judicial Service Commission during last month’s interview.

Issack, also a former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson, was nominated by President William Ruto in November 2024, having been among eight candidates shortlisted for the role. The recruitment process for the role was in accordance with Sections 8, 9, and 10 of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act, 2011.

“The nominee is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with 30 years of experience as a legal practitioner and consultant in various countries, including Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Namibia, and Afghanistan.

“Mr. Hassan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LL.B) from the University of Nairobi, a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, and a Diploma in Contemporary Public Administration Management from Galilee International Management Institute, Israel,” read a statement in part by Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service at the time.

Nominated to IPOA as members of the Authority were Ann Wanjiku Mwangi, Micah Onyiego Nyakego, Boniface Kipkemoi Samati, Annette Mbogoh, John Muchiri Nyaga, Kenwilliams Nyakomitah, and Jackline Lukalo Mwenesi.

IPOA Chairperson of the Selection Panel, Arthur Osiya, revealed on Tuesday, October 8, that the selection panel initiated the process by inviting applications for the chairperson and member positions on September 13, 2024, through print media and the PSC website.

At the close of applications on September 27, 2024, the panel received a total of 22 applications for the chairperson role and 304 for the member positions.

“Following a review of the applications, the selection panel shortlisted eight candidates for the chairperson role and 37 for the member positions,” Osiya said.

Nairobi County Introduces Services at Select Huduma Centres

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John Mutiso

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February 17, 2026

Huduma Kenya has announced that some of Nairobi City County Government services will soon be available at select centres in the capital.

In a brief notice on Tuesday, February 17, Huduma Kenya said residents will be able to access services at Huduma Centres located in Eastleigh, Kibra and Makadara.

“Great news! Nairobi County Government services coming to Huduma Centres Eastleigh, Kibra and Makadara. Stay tuned,” the notice read.

Notably, the rollout is expected to enhance convenience for residents seeking county services, as Huduma Centres are designed to provide multiple government services under one roof.

This comes two weeks after Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja unveiled plans to set up a 24-hour Emergency Operations Centre as part of a sweeping overhaul of the city’s disaster preparedness and response systems.

In a statement on Friday, February 6, he said the move follows the approval of a new Disaster Management Policy and Emergency Response Bill by the county cabinet.

The cabinet agreed to fast-track the proposed legislation to the County Assembly, a move City Hall says signals a deliberate shift away from ad-hoc crisis response toward structured prevention and coordinated action.

The proposed law comes against the backdrop of repeated urban disasters in the capital, including deadly fires, flash floods, building collapses and public health emergencies.

If passed, the legislation will see the establishment of a round-the-clock Emergency Operations Centre, borough-level rapid response units and a new Nairobi Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (NADEMA).

File image of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja

The facilities will be responsible for coordinating all disaster prevention, response and recovery efforts across the county.

Within 60 days of the law taking effect, the county will also be required to publish a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan detailing available resources.

These include fire engines, ambulances, rescue boats and designated emergency shelters in every borough.

The framework further provides for mandatory citywide risk assessments, identification and mapping of flood-prone areas, regular building safety audits and the deployment of technology-driven early warning systems and community alert networks.

In addition, routine emergency drills in public institutions will be introduced.

“Nairobi cannot continue reacting to disasters after lives and livelihoods have already been lost. This law is about preparation, coordination and prevention saying never again to avoidable chaos,” Sakaja said.

According to Sakaja, the creation of NADEMA will streamline emergency response by bringing all first responders under a single command structure.

“When an incident happens, every second counts. We are creating a system where fire, medical, rescue and security teams operate as one unit, guided by a clear chain of command,” he added.

The Bill also proposes the establishment of a County Disaster Management Fund, financed through budgetary allocations, private sector support and donations, to ensure rapid access to resources during emergencies.

In the event of a declared disaster, the governor would be granted limited emergency powers, including issuing evacuation orders and authorizing rapid procurement, subject to constitutional safeguards and legislative oversight.

Wetangula Kicks Out MP Kibagendi from Parliament Over Remarks Made on TV

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John Mutiso

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February 17, 2026

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has kicked out Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi out of Parliament over remarks he made during a TV interview.

Speaking on Tuesday, February 17, Wetangula raked the whip on Kibagendi after he claimed that the National Assembly had been auctioned to the government.

Kibagendi had further accused the Speaker and his deputies of destroying and ruining the National Assembly.

Wetangula ordered Kibagendi out of the House, banned him from accessing Parliament and his office until he issues an apology to the House.

“For you, as a member, to say that the House has been auctioned, then you have no business sitting in an auctioned House.

PHOTO | COURTESY A file image of Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi

“Hon Kibagendi, you will be excluded from the sittings of this house until you bring a properly worded apology not to me, but the house, for bringing the house to disrepute,” Wetangula declared.

The Speaker further ruled that Kibagendi will not be allowed attend Parliamentary committee meetings, and declared him a stranger to the House.

Wetangula further reassured that he was impartial in his actions and was not influenced by anyone when making decisions.

“Since I came to this house, nobody has ever called me your speaker to tell me what to do or not to do, and if anybody did, I would reject it.

“I am human, I would have made an erroneous ruling, a ruling that displeases anybody, but the rulings that are made here are but raised by thelaw. I may misinterpret the law as many lawyers do, but that is a right I have,” he stated

The Majority Leader, Kimani Ichung’wah, supported Wetangula’s decision and praised him for restoring the dignity of the House.

Wetangula asked senior members of Parliament to mentor the first-time lawmakers on how to conduct themselves during press interviews.

President Ruto Orders Creation of Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit in 60 Days

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John Mutiso

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February 17, 2026

DNNYERIPASSOUT1001CvA-1320x740 — President William Ruto inspect a guard of honour during the passing out parade of 2,881 recruited police constables at the National Police College Main Campus Kiganjo in Nyeri County on January 10, 2023. Photo | JOSEPH KANYI

President William Ruto has announced plans to launch a dedicated Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit to enhance security within the county.

In a press briefing during the signing of a collaboration agreement between the Nairobi County and the National Government, President Ruto directed Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen to prepare a framework within 60 days for the police unit.

This, Ruto stated, would make the Capital City a safe hub for both its citizens and investors.

“Security is non-negotiable for a modern capital like Nairobi. I therefore direct the Cabinet Secretary for the Interior to prepare and present, within 60 days, a framework for a dedicated Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit. We will make Nairobi safe for citizens, visitors, investors, and businesses alike,” the president noted.

The head of state reassured the public that the new cooperation agreement would transform Nairobi to international standards.

“Taken together, these enhanced cooperation measures will make Nairobi more livable, more secure, and more efficient. Additionally, they will elevate its stature,” he noted.

“In practical terms, this means safer streets, better lighting, reliable water, improved sanitation, stronger mobility, modern waste management systems, and enhanced urban security.”

Further, he reiterated plans to build a new world-class airport this year through the Public-Private Partnership model, citing that this would open up Kenya to global investment and tourism.

Overall, President Ruto noted that the Ksh.80 billion cooperation would revitalise the city’s outlook.

“This will strengthen Nairobi’s standing as a capital worthy of the Republic it serves – orderly, functional, competitive, and globally respected – a first-rank African metropolis that reflects our national ambition and commands both local and international confidence.

President Ruto’s remarks come amid the recent Jukwaa la Usalama Report from the Interior Ministry that revealed over 130 gangs reign terror in the city.

“The activities of the gangs range from political violence, kidnapping, to murder. Some of the gangs are organized, while a majority are amorphous, only regrouping for assignments during elections,” read part of the report.

Part of the recommendations from the report involved the deployment of more specialised units to address unique challenges across the country.

President Ruto Appoints Chairperson, Six Members of National Land Commission

By

John Mutiso

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February 17, 2026

President William Ruto has nominated Dr. Abdillahi Saggaf Alawy as chairperson of the National Lands Commission (NLC), alongside six proposed commissioners.

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei said on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, that the nominations follow the ruling of the Court of Appeal.

“IN ACCORDANCE with the Ruling of the Court of Appeal in Civil Application No. E662 of 2025 (consolidated with Civil Applications No. E663, E680, and E682 of 2025), HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT has caused nominations for appointment to the ranks of the membership of the National Land Commission (NLC),” read the statement.

The appointments were recommended by a selection panel constituted through a gazette notice.

The nominees for membership are Susab Khakasa Oyatsi, Daniel Murithi Muirungi, Kigen Vincent Cheruiyot, Dr. Julie Ouma Oseko, Mohamed Abdi Haji Mohamed, and Mary Yiane Seneta.

Koskei noted that current commissioners Easther Murugi Mathenge and Tiyah Galgalo Ali remain in office after their tenure was affirmed by the court. Their terms are set to expire on December 20, 2026.

“In full fulfillment of the constitutional requirements regarding State appointments, His Excellency the president has transmitted the nomination to the national assembly for consideration and approval by parliament,” Koskei said.

South Sudan Opposition Rejects Kenya-Led Peace Talks, Sets Pre-Conditions

By

John Mutiso

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February 17, 2026

The South Sudan opposition coalition (SSOMA) has reportedly rejected any Kenya-led peace negotiations, setting conditions before the commencement of talks.

In a letter dated Friday, February 13, the South Sudan opposition movement alliance (SSOMA) chairperson, Thomas Cirillo, said the opposition had serious concerns that needed to be addressed before the process commenced.

He said the Tumaini Initiative, a framework drafted for peace negotiations, had serious concerns about both the process and the substance of the framework.

“First, the framework was developed and presented without prior structured consultations with sudanese stakeholders. This approach contradicts the core principle emphasised by the tumaini initiative itself. That peace making process must be owned by south sudanese,” he stated.

“The framework appears to predetermine the agenda, process and outcome. It limits genuine dialogue and constrains South Sudanese parties to negotiate within externally pre-set parameters rather than shaping the process collectively and freely,” he added.

The Tumaini Peace Initiative is a high-level mediation process launched in Nairobi on May 9, 2024, with the primary goal of bringing lasting peace to South Sudan following years of unrest since its independence in 2011.

President William Ruto has been at the forefront of efforts to resolve the crisis in South Sudan, especially ahead of the country’s scheduled election in December 2026.

The resumed talks aim to produce a national consensus charter for peace and democracy, focusing on solution-oriented dialogue rather than fixed political positions.

However, recent scheduled peace talks on February 9 were postponed following the African Union summit in Ethiopia from February 15.

The opposition also called for the immediate release of the country’s first vice president, Riek Machar, who they say has been in detention. The leaders warned that failure to release Machar could mean the peace process would fail.

“All political detainees under the outgoing south sudan regime’s security apparatus should unconditionally released. The top political detainee is south sudan’s first vice president Riek Machar,” Cirillo said.

Machar was detained under house arrest in March 2025 following a raid on his residence by officers. He was charged with treason and crimes against humanity related to an earlier attack on a military base.

The demand by SSOMA highlights growing tensions surrounding the detention of Riek Machar, which has complicated regional mediation efforts and raised concerns about the viability of new peace talks.

Sheria Mtaani Demand Urgent Action Over Accessibility Barriers at Milimani Law Courts

By

Editor

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February 17, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has been formally urged to address critical accessibility and infrastructure challenges at Milimani Law Courts, following concerns raised by Sheria Mtaani na Shadrack Wambui, Danstan Omari & Associates Advocates along with Advocate Cliff Ombeta over barriers affecting persons with disabilities.

In a demand letter dated December 18, 2025, Danstan Omari & Associates Advocates called on the Commission to take immediate remedial action, warning that the current state of the courts undermines access to justice and violates constitutional guarantees to persons living with disabilities, wheelchair bound individuals, the elderly among other vulnerable groups.

The advocates highlighted that several sections of the Milimani Law Courts, including the Magistrates’ Criminal Division and courts located on upper floors, lack functional ramps and lifts, effectively locking out persons who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids.

They further raised concerns over the absence of handrails and tactile guiding systems for persons with visual impairments, noting that the situation poses significant safety risks and has already led to incidents of falls and injuries within the court premises.

According to the lawyers, these deficiencies not only discriminate against persons with disabilities but also affect judicial officers, advocates, litigants, arrested persons, witnesses and members of the public, thereby undermining the constitutional right to access justice.

In a move to demonstrate the extent of the problem, advocates Danstan Omari, Cliff Ombeta and their team conducted a comprehensive walkthrough of the Milimani Law Courts across multiple divisions in the presence of members of the media, documenting what they described as widespread inaccessibility for persons with disabilities.

During the exercise, the lawyers pointed out that several courtrooms, offices and essential facilities remain inaccessible, particularly for wheelchair users, raising serious concerns about exclusion from the justice system.

“All those courts have no washrooms for the disabled. We have just been told that the people who come to this place when they want their short and long call have to go to the NSSF building. Is that fair?” Omari emphasised that such conditions undermine dignity, equality and the constitutional right of every person to access justice without discrimination.

Advocates Danstan Omari, Cliff Ombeta and their team conducting a walkthrough of the Milimani Law Courts in the presence of members of the media, documenting what they described as widespread inaccessibility for persons with disabilities.

The advocates urged the JSC to prioritise infrastructure upgrades across all divisions of the Milimani Law Courts, including the Criminal, Commercial, Anti Corruption and the Family divisions, to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and principles of inclusivity and dignity.

They also called on the Commission to utilise the judicial recess period to implement the necessary improvements without disrupting court operations.

The advocates stressed that the matter requires urgent attention, urging the Commission to act swiftly to safeguard the rights, safety and dignity of all court users.

Kindiki Critiques the opposition’s ”empty rhetoric”

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Editor

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February 17, 2026

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has dismissed recent opposition criticism as “empty noise” and “juvenile theatrics,” asserting that the Kenya Kwanza administration remains focused on its development agenda.

Speaking at a rally in Kariene, Meru County, Kindiki told off those questioning his position and the government’s performance, declaring that he is a “master of politics” who knows when to work and when to engage in political battles.

Kindiki hit back at former Education CS Fred Matiang’i, who had criticized the government’s management of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and school funding.

Kindiki argued that the current administration is “fixing the mess” inherited from the previous government and has successfully implemented reforms through a professional working party.

Responding to claims from ODM leaders, including Oburu Oginga, regarding a potential power-sharing arrangement for the Deputy President seat in 2027, Kindiki stated the position is not up for negotiation. He urged supporters to ignore “rumours” and “premature political maneuvering,” affirming that he remains the substantive number two in government.

During a meeting with Nyandarua County leaders on February 9, 2026, Kindiki emphasized “action over political rhetoric,” cautioning critics to prepare for a “spectacular and decisive” political showdown in 2027 based on the government’s track record.

He issued a stern warning to political figures allegedly fueling unrest, stating that no one is above the law and that the State would “obliterate petty theatrics” to safeguard national peace and stability.

These remarks come as the United Opposition, featuring figures like Fred Matiang’i, Rigathi Gachagua, and Kalonzo Musyoka, intensifies its offensive ahead of the 2027 General Election. Kindiki’s allies, including Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku, have further reinforced this stance, warning the opposition to keep off the DP seat, which they claim is “politically and historically anchored” in the Mt. Kenya region.

By Anthony Solly

Spurs accused of editing meeting minutes by fans

By

John Mutiso

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February 17, 2026

Tottenham have been accused of selectively editing the written version of what was said at a fans’ meeting last month.

Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust (THST) met with representatives of Spurs’ board, including chief executive Vinai Venkatesham on 3 February – eight days before manager Thomas Frank was sacked.

THST said that in the minutes of the meeting, the club omitted a section outlining fans’ concerns about the risk of relegation from the Premier League and how belief generated from winning the Europa League had been “lost”.

The group also claimed that the club left out a line stating they “welcomed the input of THST”.

“As a democratic supporters’ organisation elected to represent fans’ views, we believe it is vital that supporters can see what issues are being raised with the club, how those issues are being discussed and what responses are being given,” THST said.

“Publishing a full record of the points raised helps ensure accountability and allows members, and the wider fan base, to understand how the Trust is fulfilling its role on their behalf.

“Transparency is integral to our role and in our dealings with the club.”

BBC Sport has approached Tottenham but the club is yet to comment on the matter.

Tottenham sit 16th in the Premier League and five points clear of the relegation zone after winning seven games this season.

On Friday, they appointed Croatian Igor Tudor as interim head coach until the end of the campaign.

Questions regarding youth players getting first team opportunities, the club’s ability to generate profits and wanting to see authenticity to stick to Spurs’ DNA and style of play, were included in the final version of the minutes – although THST claimed they were not published in entirety.

Lamine Yamal misses penalty as Girona defeat Barca in derby

By

John Mutiso

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February 17, 2026

Lamine Yamal missed a penalty as Barcelona spurned the chance to return to the top of La Liga, falling to defeat in a fiery Catalan derby against Girona.

Hansi Flick’s side now trail arch rivals Real Madrid by two points in the title race after substitute Fran Beltran struck in the 86th minute at Estadio Montilivi to snatch all three points and ease relegation fears for the home side.

The visitors thought defender Jules Kounde had been fouled in the build-up to the winner, but after a brief video assistant referee (VAR) check the goal was given.

The hosts were reduced to 10 men midway through stoppage time, with substitute Joel Roca bringing down Lamine Yamal with a lunging challenge.

Yet Barcelona were unable to force an equaliser as they succumbed to just a third league defeat against their regional rivals.

The result marks a second loss in succession for Barcelona, who suffered a 4-0 hammering by Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final on Thursday.

It was a fiercely fought contest from the off as the hosts took the game to the league leaders, forcing keeper Joan Garcia into a save inside the first minute.

By contrast Barcelona were lethargic, spurning several gilt-edged chances to take the lead. Lamine Yamal was the main culprit, twice missing from close range before crashing a penalty off the base of the upright in first-half stoppage time.

In the end two defenders combined to break the deadlock on 59 minutes. Centre-back Pau Cubarsi looped a header into the top corner from right-back Kounde’s cross for his first league goal in Barcelona colours.

The visitors’ joy was short-lived though, as Girona hit back two minutes later when midfielder Thomas Lemar tapped home Vladyslav Vanat’s centre for his second goal in as many games.

The hosts scored again 10 minutes later as Garcia failed to claim Viktor Tsygankov’s speculative header, though the goalkeeper was awarded a foul for a shove from Roca on the goalline.

The victory ends a three-game winless run for Girona, who move up to 12th, five points clear of the relegation zone.

Barcelona’s league winning run ends at three games, and they face a possible five-point gap at the summit come their next fixture – Real Madrid head to Osasuna on Saturday (17:30 GMT), before Barca host Levante on Sunday (15:15).

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