Sponsored Ad

Ad 1
Ad 2
Ad 3
Ad 4
Ad 5
Ad 6
27.3 C
Kenya
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Home Blog Page 7

Three suspected Ebola cases test negative as Kenya steps up border screening

By Bonface Mulyungi

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has confirmed that three suspected cases of the Ebola virus have turned negative in the latest measures aimed at strengthening the country’s readiness against potential cross-border transmission.

In a press briefing on Friday, CS Duale assured the public that Kenya has no reported cases of the Ebola virus. 

He pointed out that the three cases stemmed from individuals with recent travel history from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) who presented themselves to health facilities upon arrival. 

“Through surveillance systems, three individuals with recent travel history from DRC presented themselves to health facilities. They were isolated and tested for Ebola with all results returning negative. 4 additional contacts who accompanied them were tested and assessed and found negative,” he stated. 

The CS revealed that the government has intensified screening at border points, noting that over 42,000 travelers had undergone the screening process including 2,965 within the last 24 hours. 

He noted that Kenya has designated four national laboratories for Ebola testing comprising the National Public Health lab, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) labs in Nairobi and Kisumu and a mobile lab for rapid deployment where necessary. 

Further, the Ministry identified 22 high-risk counties at risk of the virus, noting that 118 rapid response personnel were on standby to provide assistance across the country. 

“The Ministry has identified 22 high-risk counties. We have placed 118 rapid response personnel on standby. We have sensitised over 880 national and county healthcare workers on Ebola preparedness response,” Duale remarked. 

“(Some of these counties include) Busia, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia and Mombasa. We’re trying to map the whole Northern Corridor,” he added. 

He cautioned Kenyans against unnecessary travel to affected areas including DRC and other affected areas until the outbreak is contained. 

Tulsi Gabbard resigns as US director of national intelligence

By Bonface Mulyungi

Tulsi Gabbard has said she is resigning from her position as the US director of national intelligence in the Trump administration, citing her husband’s recent bone cancer diagnosis.

“His strength and love have sustained me through every challenge,” she wrote in her resignation letter obtained by CBS News, the BBC’s US partner. “I cannot in good conscience ask him to face this fight alone while I continue in this demanding and time-consuming position.”

President Donald Trump said in a social media post that Gabbard “has done an incredible job, and we will miss her”.

Her resignation is effective 30 June. Aaron Lukas, the principal deputy director, will step in as acting director, Trump said.

Gabbard, a loyal supporter of Trump during his 2024 presidential campaign, was confirmed as one of the most powerful figures in US intelligence-gathering weeks after he returned to the White House in 2025. As head of the intelligence community, Gabbard coordinates among multiple intelligence agencies and advises the president.

But this year she has largely been out of public view as the US has taken military action against Iran, put pressure on Cuba, and notably removed Venezuela’s president.

In her letter Gabbard said her husband, Abraham, “faces major challenges in the coming weeks and months.”

Trump posted on social media that Gabbard “rightfully, wants to be with him, bringing him back to good health as they currently fight a tough battle together. I have no doubt he will soon be better than ever.”

Gor Mahia’s title decider against Mara Sugar suspended by SDT

By Bonface Mulyungi

The Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) temporarily suspended the much-anticipated Kenya Premier League clash between Gor Mahia and Mara Sugar after an escalating dispute over the venue of the potentially title-deciding fixture.

The tribunal, in directions issued on Friday, certified the matter as urgent and ordered an immediate halt to the match pending a hearing scheduled for May 26.

“Pending the hearing and determination of this Application, the Tribunal grants an order suspending Kenya Premier League Match No. 293 between Mara Sugar Football Club and Gor Mahia Football Club.”

The clash had initially been scheduled for Awendo Green Stadium, Mara Sugar’s home ground. However, FKF raised security concerns over the venue’s capacity amid expectations of thousands of Gor Mahia supporters travelling for what could be a historic title-clinching match.

Mara Sugar later proposed Wang’uru Stadium in Mwea as an alternative venue, but FKF rejected the request on grounds that the stadium had not been submitted among approved venues at the start of the season.

FKF subsequently directed that the match be played at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, prompting Mara Sugar to move to the SDT seeking intervention.

The tribunal also issued a stay against FKF’s relocation directive.

 “The Tribunal grants an order of stay of execution of the decision of the 2nd Respondent dated 21st May 2026 directing that the Kenya Premier League Match No. 293 between Mara Sugar FC and Gor Mahia FC be played at Raila Odinga Stadium, Homabay.”

The tribunal additionally ordered that no preparations for the match should continue until the matter is heard and determined.

“No steps be taken by any party, including the 1st and 2nd Respondents, or any other person acting under their authority or direction, to stage, officiate, broadcast, or otherwise give effect to the said match, until further orders of this Honourable Tribunal. “Read part of the ruling

The fixture carries enormous title implications. Gor Mahia currently top the FKF Premier League standings with 68 points, four ahead of AFC Leopards with only two matches remaining.

Victory against Mara Sugar would mathematically hand Gor Mahia a record-extending 22nd league title and an unassailable 71 points.

Beyond the championship race, massive financial incentives are also at stake. The league winners are set to receive Ksh 15 million in prize money, while Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier has reportedly promised players an additional Ksh 5 million bonus should they seal the title with victory over Mara Sugar.

Historically, Gor Mahia have dominated the fixture, including a convincing 3-0 win over Mara Sugar earlier this year in the first leg.

Wilson Airport Temporarily Closed as Plane Crash-lands on Runway

By Bonface Mulyungi

According to witnesses, the plane crash-landed, missing the airport fence along Langata Road. It is unclear what led to the plane crashing.

Preliminary reports indicate that no casualties were recorded, with the exact number of passengers on board still not yet confirmed. A spot check of similar planes shows it can ferry up to 19 passengers.

According to public records, the plane identified as 5Y-CES is frequently leased and operated by the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) to provide critical transport in East Africa.

Following the incident, emergency response teams were deployed to the scene to contain the situation and assist those affected.

Authorities have reportedly launched an investigation into the crash to determine what caused it.

The incident comes weeks after a similar incident was witnessed at the same airport, raising fears and questions about what might be happening at the airport.

The plane in question crashed on March 20, while carrying 39 passengers, including  Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and 5 plane attendants.

More updates on this to follow

“Kenya will keep the memory of Rex Masai alive” Siaya Governor James Orengo says after visiting late Rex Masai’s Family

By Bonface Mulyungi

Siaya Governor James Orengo has paid a glowing tribute to Rex Kanyike Masai, describing him as a hero whose sacrifice would never be forgotten by Kenyans fighting for justice and democracy.

While comforting the deceased’s parents during a visit to their family in Machakos, Orengo said the country owed them gratitude for raising a young man who became a symbol of resistance during the 2024 Gen Z-led anti-Finance Bill protests.

“I want to tell Mama Rex and Baba Rex and the community here, be strong, and we shall never forget that you produced a hero for us. Rex will continue to be a hero in our hearts and minds,” Orengo said.

The county boss said he had held discussions with Rex’s mother and pledged continued support to the family, including plans to improve Rex’s gravesite.

“I convinced myself that we should build the grave of Rex properly, and when I’m given the signal, we shall work together and make sure that is done,” he said.

Orengo said leaders allied to the opposition would continue visiting the family to honour Rex’s memory and keep alive the ideals he stood for.

“This is not our last visit here, Mama Rex. We will continue to be with you because if we don’t come back again, it is like Rex is gone, and he fought for nothing. But because he fought for something, we shall continue coming back,” he stated.

The governor linked Rex’s death to the broader struggle for democratic freedoms in Kenya, saying the youth-led protests reflected ideals long championed by ODM and opposition leader, the late Raila Odinga.

“We will never, ever let our guard down. We will continue to fight to make sure Kenya is a free, democratic and prosperous nation,” Orengo said.

He also signalled support for planned June 25 commemorations marking two years since the deadly anti-Finance Bill protests that shook the country.

“I know June 25 is coming. Political leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, have talked about the 25th of June. Together we shall stand behind Gen Zs to ensure we have a fitting memorial to people like Rex, who were killed brutally by the police,” he said.

Rex Masai became one of the most prominent faces of the Gen Z protests after he was allegedly shot during demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024 along Moi Avenue in Nairobi in June 2024.

He later died while receiving treatment, sparking nationwide outrage and demands for accountability over police brutality.

The 29-year-old’s death galvanised young protesters across the country and turned him into a symbol of resistance against punitive taxation and alleged state repression during the demonstrations.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) later launched investigations into the fatal shooting.

An inquest into his death, aimed at establishing exactly how he was killed and whether any individual bears criminal responsibility, is still ongoing before the courts, with forensic experts, police officers and witnesses continuing to testify as investigators seek to determine who shot him.

US to send 5,000 more troops to Poland, US President Donald Trump says

By Bonface Mulyungi

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has tried to reassure allies over US decisions on troop deployments in Europe.

Rubio’s intervention at the end of a Nato foreign ministers’ meeting in Sweden came after President Donald Trump said the US would send an extra 5,000 troops to Poland.

That decision was a week after a planned deployment of 4,000 troops to the country was cancelled and days after an announcement that US troops would be pulled out of Germany.

The announcements have caused confusion among the allies of the trans-Atlantic defence organisation. However, at a news conference after the Nato meeting on Friday, Rubio said the US was constantly reevaluating its troop presence in view of its global commitments.

Some US troops are currently involved in the Middle East, following the US and Israeli conflict with Iran.

Trump made the announcement about the new Polish deployment as Nato ministers were in Sweden for talks.

Writing on his Truth Social platform on Thursday, Trump said the decision was based on the US’s relationship with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, whom he backed during presidential elections last year and who is a long-time supporter of his.

The US leader did not elaborate on whether the additional troops were part of the previous planned deployment or a different operation.

The US defence department abruptly said last week it was cancelling the deployment of 4,000 troops to Poland.

Earlier this month, the US announced it would withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany after a row between Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the war with Iran.

It is unclear whether the additional troops for Poland were part of those withdrawing from Germany or a separate group.

The Nato foreign ministers’ meeting in Helsingborg was held in the aftermath of the seemingly contradictory US announcements.

“It is confusing indeed, and not always easy to navigate,” Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said as she hosted her colleagues.

However, her US counterpart said it was “well understood in the alliance that the United States troop presence in Europe is going to be adjusted”.

“That work was already ongoing and it’s been done in co-ordination with our allies,” Rubio said.

Acknowledging the unease, he added: “I’m not saying they’re going to be thrilled about it, but they certainly are aware of it.”

The US is by far the biggest and most capable member of Nato – the Euro-Atlantic alliance that includes 30 European countries as well as Canada.

It has maintained troops in European countries for decades – as a deterrent force originally meant to face off to the Soviet Union.

Since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the US’s European allies have urged Washington to remain committed to their defence.

The largest US presence is in Germany, where there are more than 36,000 troops on active duty. There are some 12,000 troops in Italy and 10,000 in the UK – and an estimated 10,000 in Poland, too.

Trump has often been critical of Nato – at times threatening to pull the US out of the alliance because of the low financial contribution of European allies and Canada compared to the US.

As a result, many countries have now agreed to raise their defence spending.

However, the US president has further been angered by the refusal of Nato countries to help the US in its conflict with Iran.

The White House has signalled in recent weeks that it intends to reduce its overall troop levels in Europe as part of its “America First” agenda.

Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte told reporters that the trajectory towards Europe becoming less reliant on the US “will continue”.

In Sweden, the US secretary of state cautioned that there had always been a debate in American politics about the US contribution to the Euro-Atlantic alliance.

“I understand Nato is valuable to Europe, and it should be,” Rubio said in Sweden. “It also has to be valuable to the United States.”

Michael Carrick confirmed as Manchester United’s new head coach

Michael Carrick has officially been handed the reins at Manchester United after agreeing to a new two-year contract that will run to 2028, the club has confirmed.

The former Middlesbrough trainer and United legend’s new contract comes after he took over the club on January 6, 2026, after the sacking of Ruben Amorim.

He oversaw a period of remarkable revival in which he impressed in his 15 games, secured Champions League football, and earned wins against Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea.

Continue as head coach

“We are delighted to announce Michael Carrick will continue as our head coach, having signed a new contract!” part of the club statement read.

Earlier, the United hierarchy of Jason Wilcox, the director of football, and Omar Berrada, the chief executive, expressed confidence in Carrick as the right person to continue the club’s progress barely days after the gaffer had urged the media to go slow on speculation around his long-term Old Trafford future, stating that it would soon be sorted.

The Englishman acknowledged the task ahead, asserting his readiness to restore United’s competitive edge.

“From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United. Carrying the responsibility of leading our special football club fills me with immense pride.

“Throughout the past five months this group of players has shown they can reach the standards of resilience, togetherness and determination that we demand here. Now it’s time to move forward together, with ambition and a clear sense of purpose. Manchester United and our incredible supporters deserve to be challenging for the biggest honours again,” he stated.

Carrick’s association with United

Carrick, who had previously served an interim spell in charge in 2021, returned to the club after Ruben Amorim was sacked in January, 2026, with United seventh in the Premier League and out of both domestic cup competitions.

In his message to United’s faithful after the final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest, the coach expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the fans. He attributed the extraordinary success to the unwavering enthusiasm of the Red Devils’ faithful.

“I want to say a massive thank you for the season. It’s unbelievable to always see this place full,” he said.

While looking forward to leading the club as the permanent head coach, he exuded optimism that the fans will be able to continue the good times witnessed during his interim tenure.

“We have had some unbelievable moments, big goals, and big results in this stadium over the last few months, and hopefully, there will be a few more of them! Take care and have a good summer,” he added.

Floods damage cars, property in Mlolongo

By Bonface Mulyungi

Residents of the Sabaki, Mlolongo, and Syokimau areas in Machakos county are counting the losses after sudden flash floods swept through the region on Thursday night, damaging vehicles and buildings.

The flooding, which occurred at around 9:14 pm. behind Signature Mall, saw a number of cars submerged and some damaged by bricks falling from buildings.

Authorities said the situation escalated rapidly after intense downpour overwhelmed natural drainage channels, triggering overflow from a seasonal river that runs through the area.

Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti said emergency response teams acted swiftly after receiving alerts.

“Our Department of Emergency and Disaster Management, together with the Fire and Rescue team, responded within five minutes of the alert and successfully evacuated all affected residents and guests to safety,” she said.

She said no fatalities or serious injuries were reported, commending the responders for their rapid coordination and professionalism during the night operation.

“I commend our emergency response teams for their professionalism, bravery and quick action in securing the area and supporting those affected,” she said.

The incident has renewed concerns over settlement in flood-prone zones within fast-growing urban areas such as Mlolongo and Syokimau, where rapid development has increasingly encroached on natural waterways.

Meanwhile, the Kenya Meteorological Department had warned that rainfall will continue in several parts of the country, including the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the South Rift Valley, the Coast, parts of the Southeastern Lowlands, and Northeastern Kenya.

The agency’s forecast raises concerns that already saturated ground conditions could heighten the risk of additional flash floods in vulnerable regions.

Authorities have urged residents living near rivers, riparian reserves, and other flood-prone areas to remain alert and avoid crossing swollen waterways, as the rainy season intensifies.

Wandeto’s Autopsy reveal she died of severe burn injuries

By Bonface Mulyungi

A postmortem examination has confirmed that gospel singer Rachel Wandeto died from severe burn injuries following an attack in Nairobi’s Mwiki area.

The postmortem conducted by Chief Government Pathologist Dr Johansen Oduor said Wandeto sustained 85 per cent burns on her body and succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.

According to preliminary police reports, unknown individuals attacked Wandeto before setting her on fire. She was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, where she later died.

During the postmortem at the Nairobi Funeral Home, forensic teams collected DNA samples to assist investigators in identifying the perpetrators.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) homicide unit has assumed control of the case. No arrests have been made, and detectives are currently pursuing multiple leads to establish a motive.

The killing has sparked widespread public condemnation and renewed national debates regarding insecurity and gender-based violence (GBV) in Kenya.

Human rights activists, religious leaders, and musicians have publicly demanded swift judicial action, while civil society groups call for stronger protections against violence targeting women.

Family members and close friends described Rachel Wandeto as a humble and talented gospel singer whose life was cut short in a cruel and painful manner.

President William Ruto on Thursday condemned tribal politics and hate-driven profiling following the death of gospel artist Rachel Wandeto, warning that those fuelling division in the country will be held accountable.

Ruto linked Wandeto’s killing to growing intolerance and ethnic hostility in the country, saying leaders promoting divisive politics are endangering national unity.

“The life of Rachel Wandeto will not go unanswered. You who call others traitors, mnaita wengine wasaliti mpaka mama Rachel Wandeto ameuawa kwa sababu ya chuki yenu,” the President said.

Ruto claimed unnamed political leaders are profiling Kenyans and branding those with differing political views as traitors, warning that the country would not allow a return to ethnic divisions and blackmail.

“We will not allow anybody to divide our nation using ethnicity and hate. One day you will answer for the tribalism and hate you are spreading in Kenya,” he said.

He was speaking Thursday at Mama Ngina drive in Mombasa at the start of his development tour of the coastal region.

Former DP Rigathi Gachagua to know his fate in impeachment case on June 8th

By Bonface Mulyungi

A three-judge bench will deliver its verdict on June 8, 2026, in petitions challenging the constitutionality and legality of the removal of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office by the National Assembly and the Senate following an impeachment process that has since attracted multiple legal challenges.

The decision date was set after the parties in the matter concluded their submissions before the court.

During the hearing, Gachagua’s lawyers raised 18 grounds challenging the impeachment process, arguing among other issues, that he was never accorded a fair hearing and that there was inadequate public participation before his removal from office.

However, the Senate and the National Assembly urged the court to dismiss the petitions, maintaining that the impeachment process was conducted in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws. 

They argued that Gachagua was given sufficient opportunity to defend himself before both Houses and that adequate public participation was undertaken before the proceedings were concluded.

“We will retire and prepare a judgment bringing these proceedings to a close. We hope to do that on June 8 in the ceremonial hall at 11:00 am,” Justice Eric Ogolla stated.

The ruling is expected to shape Gachagua’s political future ahead of the upcoming elections, as an upheld impeachment would bar him from contesting for public office, while a favourable ruling would clear the way for his participation in the polls.


Create a free account, or log in.

Gain access to read this content, plus limited free content.

Yes! I would like to receive new content and updates.

Sponsored Ad

Ad 1
Ad 2
Ad 3
Ad 4
Ad 5
Ad 6