Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has dismissed allegations that the government has a hand in the abduction of activists. He said the Ruto administration no longer tolerates enforced disappearances and that such practices have no place under the rule of law.

Omollo argued that the so-called “abduction culture” ended with the previous administration. He said security agencies now manage protests in line with the law and that people arrested during demonstrations are taken through the justice system rather than subjected to enforced disappearances.

“The abduction culture is long gone. We had that challenge in the last administration, where people were being abducted while others were being found in rivers,” Omollo said. “Since we took over the government, President William Ruto has been clear that there will be nothing like that.”

He added that recent protests showed the government’s approach to lawful demonstrations.

“The other day, we had peaceful protests. Kenyans who wanted to demonstrate peacefully did so, while those with a different intention also went ahead,” he said. “Those who were arrested were taken to court, not just recently but also during previous protests.”

PS Omollo alleged that some people have made false claims of abduction in an effort to portray the government as indifferent to Kenyans’ welfare.

“We have also had people who claimed they were abducted, but in the end, you find that they were hiding themselves in a bid to make it appear that the government is not keen on the well-being of Kenyans,” he said.

Omollo maintained that no state-sponsored abductions have occurred under President Ruto’s leadership. He urged families of missing persons to report the cases to police, adding that the law provides clear steps for investigation.

“There are no abductions under the watch of President Ruto. If anyone is missing, the law is clear. The matter should be reported as a missing person’s case, and if there is evidence that someone was abducted, it is important to indicate who abducted them so that investigations can be carried out,” he said.

He also described some incidents as “purported abductions,” arguing that the individuals involved deliberately went into hiding before later resurfacing.

“The cases that I would call purported abductions are people sleeping or locking themselves in their bedrooms before coming out to claim they were abducted,” he said.

Omollo further called on the media to help identify people he said were staging abductions. He claimed some lock themselves indoors or seek hospital treatment, then reappear to allege that the government was behind their disappearance.

“The media should help us call out some of these characters. Until today, we are yet to hear anyone call out those who lock themselves in their bedrooms or admit themselves to hospital, causing unnecessary anxiety to make the government look bad,” he said.

He concluded by stating that the government respects constitutional rights, including the freedom to criticize it and hold peaceful demonstrations, as long as people operate within the law.

The post Omollo: “Purported Abductions” Are People Hiding in Their Bedrooms appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

According to Gachagua, vehicles linked to the president’s son have already begun monopolizing key pick-up and drop-off points across the capital, a trend he warns could soon crowd out local operators entirely. He further claimed that the administration is leveraging state machinery to systematically push independent operators out of business.

“I have information that Ruto and his son have joined the matatu business. As we speak, Ruto has colluded with NTSA and the police to take over stages in Nairobi, and George has begun taking over the industry.

“I also have information that Ruto plans to send other matatu operators back home to reserve so that he and George can become the head of the business not only in Nairobi, but the entire country,” Gachagua claimed.

The former deputy president urged matatu operators, conductors, and other transport stakeholders to rally behind the movement to remove Ruto from office. Gachagua also alleged that the Head of State, along with his family and close associates, controls Pesa Print – the private firm managing payments for the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

He directly challenged the state’s upcoming regulatory plans, calling on citizens to resist compliance. Gachagua warned that if the government enforces the mandatory inspections, he will orchestrate a week-long motorist strike, arguing that only a peaceful economic shutdown will force the administration to yield.

Additionally, the DCP leader demanded that the government overhaul the current payment platform used for speeding fines.

“The firm called Pesa Print is run by Ruto and his relatives. The issue of the inspection of private vehicles is a means to steal money from car owners. I ask all private motorists not to take their vehicles for inspection,” the ex-DP declared.

Meanwhile, the state is moving forward with its transport reforms. NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa announced that vehicle inspections will resume by December, standardizing operations through a new automated system.

Kondiwa explained that the timeline depends on the system’s readiness and the rollout of private inspection hubs. To scale the project, the authority is mapping the country to license 70 private investors to set up and run these centers.

The post Gachagua Makes Fresh Claims Over George Ruto’s Role in Matatu Business appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

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The World Bank Group has approved a Ksh. 161.8 billion (USD 1.25 billion) loan to Kenya to strengthen governance reforms and support development.

In a statement released on Monday, the lender said the package includes a Ksh. 97.1 billion (USD 750 million) Development Policy Operation (DPO) designed to create jobs, attract private investment, and improve livelihoods.

The DPO will be funded through a Ksh. 44 billion (USD 340 million) loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and a further Ksh. 53 billion (USD 410 million) from the International Development Association (IDA). IBRD provides financial products and policy support to help countries reduce poverty, while IDA offers concessional grants and loans to low-income countries.

The World Bank said the support programme will prioritise stronger governance and efforts to prevent corruption. It expects Kenya to introduce tougher penalties and improved disclosure requirements.

The Bank also confirmed that Kenya will receive an additional Ksh. 64.75 billion (USD 500 million) under a Sustainability Linked Loan (SLL). This will link the DPO’s borrowing costs to green targets, including reducing deforestation and expanding rural energy access.

Backed by a Sustainability Linked Framework under the DPO, the Sustainability Linked Loan (SLL) will give Kenya greater flexibility in how it uses the funds compared with green bonds. It will also tie the loan’s financing costs to performance outcomes.

Under the arrangement, Kenya will pay a lower rate if it meets its green targets, while the cost will rise if it falls short. The World Bank said the DPO form of support reflects Kenya’s acute fiscal and development challenges, including elevated public debt, a wide fiscal deficit, and a high risk of debt distress.

World Bank Division Director for Kenya Qimiao Fan said the programme will also help create a business environment that supports inclusive growth and enables the private sector to generate jobs.

“By supporting reforms to address conflicts of interest, strengthen procurement systems, improve public financial management, and expand social protection, this operation will help Kenya reduce leakage, generate fiscal savings, and ensure that public resources deliver better results and reach the people who need them most,” he said.

Fan’s comments came after Kenya enacted a Conflict-of-Interest law under the Conflict-of-Interest Regulations 2026, which he said is aimed at enhancing accountability and integrity among public officers as they carry out their duties.

The World Bank also insisted that Kenya follow the single Bank account policy for all ministries to reduce idle cash held in separate accounts, limit costly overdrafts, and cut the risk of leakage and misuse of public funds. The programme will rely on Kenya’s Enhanced Single Registry as the main platform for identifying beneficiaries, helping ensure support reaches the poorest households while reducing duplication.

The post World Bank Approves Ksh161.8 Billion Loan for Kenya With Anti-Corruption Conditions appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

During a stakeholder forum on Monday, the Ministry of Health, SHA and the Digital Health Agency (DHA) discussed the transition of the SHA Provider Portal to a new digital platform. SHA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mercy Mwangangi said the updated system will improve data processing and enhance service delivery.

“Within the next three months, I expect all providers to be fully integrated. If not, we will have no option but to deconstruct non-compliant facilities,” Mwangangi said.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the transition of the SHA portal helped drive Kenya’s digital health transformation, which aims to achieve Universal Health Coverage.

He also pointed to improved connectivity between healthcare financiers and other stakeholders as a key factor behind the success of Taifa Care.

“A robust digital ecosystem that seamlessly connects providers, patients, regulators and healthcare financiers is essential to the success of Taifa Care,” Duale said.

According to Duale, the SHA–HMIS will deepen the link between healthcare delivery and financing through real-time patient verification, electronic claims processing, secure health information sharing, and seamless integration with hospital management systems.

The Ministry of Health said it will phase out the old Provider Portal as hospitals shift to the new digitalised health system.

“The transition is expected to enhance efficiency, speed up claims reimbursement and strengthen accountability across Kenya’s healthcare sector,” SHA noted.

The post “We Will Deconstruct Non-Compliant Facilities”: SHA’ Issues Ultimatum to Hospitals appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Gachagua claimed Kenya is now experiencing a growing pattern of intimidation targeting journalists, bloggers, and independent media outlets. He added that the trend reflects developments he has seen in other East African countries.

He said reporters who cover corruption, abuse of power and public accountability increasingly face intimidation, threats and harassment.

“We have had a bad pattern in Kenya that ahead of general elections, journalists and bloggers get targeted by unpopular regimes that fear the power of the people at the ballot,” Gachagua said.

The DCP founder also pointed to an incident on June 25, when he alleged a journalist was assaulted by a police officer while covering protests in Nairobi.

Gachagua also alleged that on June 26, armed men believed to be police officers tried to abduct Standard Group associate editor Nixon Kiplimo in Nakuru, but the attempt failed.

He further accused President Ruto of undermining the editorial independence of the Standard Media Group after the outlet published stories critical of his administration.

“This attack is an open defiance to truth and total war on the freedom of the media, as stipulated in Article 34 of the Constitution,” he said.

The former deputy president added that authorities have placed several journalists under surveillance. He warned that the government would be held accountable if any harm comes to members of the press.

“I have been informed in confidence that some top journalists and editors have been marked for crackdown and silenced. If anything happens to any journalist in Kenya, whether a foreigner or a resident, this government must account for it,” he said.

Gachagua also said journalists associated with MediaMax have faced both physical and online harassment. He further alleged that journalist Muthoni Wakirumba received threats from political leaders.

He urged media houses, editors, and journalists to stay united and protect editorial independence despite what he described as growing state pressure.

“We call on all media houses, journalists, and editors to stand in solidarity with one another. Stand firm and speak the truth for the people of Kenya. You are the last line of defense for Kenyans ahead of the 2027 General Election,” he said.

The former deputy president also condemned Uganda’s recent suspension of media operations. He warned that crackdowns on press freedom across East Africa threaten democracy in the region.

He called on the United Nations, international media freedom organizations and regional bodies to monitor developments in Kenya and Uganda and to support journalists who face intimidation.

Gachagua maintained that freedom of expression and media freedom remain protected under Articles 33 and 34 of Kenya’s Constitution. He urged Kenyans not to stay silent in the face of what he described as an assault on the media.

The post Gachagua Links Kenya’s Press Freedom Fears to Uganda’s Media Crackdown appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Ruto said the programme has been central to providing low-cost credit to “hustlers” as part of a broader credit-repair plan aimed at getting them delisted from the bureaus. He added that about 7 million people were on the blacklist and that the credit scores of roughly 2 million had improved.

“I removed all those people from the CRB, gave them a second chance to borrow and pay. Two million have repaired their credit rating. They are off the CRB list. Another 960,000 people have even graduated and are borrowing upto 150,000,” he said in an interview with Dr. King’ori.

He explained that under the government scheme, borrowers can access between Ksh. 100 and Ksh. 50,000 for personal accounts. Ruto said people with strong credit scores and a trusted repayment history can qualify for higher limits of up to Ksh. 150,000 and, in some cases, Ksh. 300,000, through options such as the Bridge Loan or other higher-tier personal products.

President Ruto said many Kenyans struggle to meet their economic needs because they must operate within the limitations imposed by banks. He said the government incentive offers a practical alternative.

He noted that borrowers now have credit scores and that sustained borrowing over the past year, paired with regular repayment, can help improve their standing.

“They now have a credit score. They have been borrowing for the last one year and have been paying. Collateral is not necessarily a title deed, payslip, or log book. It can be your behaviour. If you borrow and pay, it becomes your log book,” Ruto said.

He added that improved credit records have enabled many people to be delisted by credit reference bureaus, allowing them to access larger loans from banks.

Ruto acknowledged that the fund has also faced challenges linked to high default rates.

Speaking during the 2026 World MSME Day celebrations on June 27, Ruto said the programme has disbursed close to Ksh. 90 billion to more than 27 million Kenyans while mobilizing over Ksh. 6 billion in savings.

He further said the government aims to cut back on borrowing and rely more on domestic resources to finance projects, including housing and Universal Health Coverage.

“All I am doing now is to reduce borrowing. We are trying to see how we can raise resources rather than borrow. We have 1.2 trillion contracts on housing and markets with zero borrowing,” he said.

Ruto noted that by the end of April 2026, Kenya’s domestic debt stock stood at Ksh. 7,185.77 billion, equivalent to 38.8 percent of GDP. Of that total, the Central Bank of Kenya said Ksh. 2.57 trillion was borrowed from the banking sector through Treasury bills and bonds.

The post Ruto: Good Hustler Fund Repayment Is the New Collateral for Bigger Loans appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Speaking during an interview on Obinna TV on Monday, June 29, Kebaso said his decision followed what he described as “political realities” in the Gusii region, where he maintains political interests. He added that he plans to contest for the Borabu parliamentary seat in the upcoming polls, a move that he said influenced his decision to abandon his previous party.

“Inject Party will remain in the cupboard. For now, we are working with the Jubilee Party. We have to go with the realities of the politics of the day,” Kebaso stated.

When asked if he had officially joined Jubilee, he responded: “Yes, yes, yes. We have to go with the realities of the politics of the day.”

Kebaso further argued that leaders must operate within the political dynamics of their home regions if they want to connect with voters. He said that in Gusii, political success often depends on aligning with the dominant political formations, noting that smaller parties may struggle to win support.

“In the Gusii region, you cannot talk of any other party. The people won’t listen and might not give you the opportunity to serve them even with good ideas,” he added.

Kebaso added that leaders should not let branding alone block efforts to communicate their political agenda.

“You don’t want to make people emotional because they won’t even listen to the good message that you have or give you an opportunity to serve them,” he said.

He also dismissed claims that working with leaders he previously disagreed with signals inconsistency. Kebaso argued that politics often requires leaders to set aside old differences to pursue shared objectives.

“Leaders fight, and then they agree. The politics of the day is that people have to work together to achieve a national goal. We don’t keep grudges,” he said.

Kebaso urged leaders to focus on long-term vision rather than lingering on past political disagreements.

“If you keep remembering these things, you’ll end up carrying a bag of grudges. I have also been wronged by many people, but you move on quickly so that you’re able to serve people,” he said.

He further noted that public opinion changes constantly and should not shape a leader’s direction.

“The people who support you today may criticise you tomorrow, and those criticising you today may support you tomorrow. You cannot base your leadership on what people are saying. Identify your vision, work with like-minded people and keep pushing towards it,” he said.

Kebaso said the current political climate has created room for leaders to collaborate despite earlier differences.

“It’s true there were issues we did not understand back then, but the time has now called for us to work together,” he said.

The post Morara Kebaso Makes Surprise Jubilee Move as He Eyes MP Seat appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

It is easy to find an online bookmaker. It will take a little more work to find one that is reliable. There are hundreds of betting sites to choose from, and it’s beneficial to take a little time to compare sites before signing up.

Reputable bookmakers are going to provide you with safe payment mechanisms, just odds, clear terms and conditions, and dependable customer support—not just enormous promotional offers.

Begins with Licensing and Regulation

The initial step is to check if the bookmaker has a recognized gambling license.

Licensed operators typically adhere to regulations related to player protection, financial safety, and fair gaming.

What To Check

Check out the following before signing up:

• licensing information;
• company details;
• Define conditions and define clear terms;
• privacy policy;
• responsible gambling tools.

If the information is not available or is hard to find, then be ready to look elsewhere.

Compare Payment Methods

Withdrawals are generally straightforward, but they can also be a great way to test a bookmaker’s integrity.

A trustworthy platform will make it easy to understand:

• payment methods;
• withdrawal times;
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If you know this information beforehand, it will help you to prevent any potential issues.

Read Independent Reviews

An ad always puts a bookmaker in a positive light. It is important to look at independent user reviews, as they are often a truer reflection.

Be attentive to comments on:

• withdrawal speed;
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A few negative opinions are normal, but repeated complaints about the same issue should not be ignored.

Look Beyond Welcome Bonuses

Promotions may attract new customers, but long-term value usually comes from competitive odds.

Why Odds Matter

Even small differences in odds can become important over the course of an entire season.

Experienced bettors often compare prices across different bookmakers before placing a wager instead of focusing only on bonuses.

Check Sports Coverage

Every bookmaker offers football, but not every platform covers the same range of competitions.

If you follow different sports, make sure the bookmaker includes:

• local football;
• international tournaments;
• basketball;
• tennis;
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Some sites also provide live statistics and match trackers, making the experience more enjoyable.

Mobile Experience Makes A Difference

Many bettors in Mozambique use smartphones to follow live matches and place bets.

A good mobile platform should provide:

• fast loading;
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• live betting support;
• secure login;
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Responsible Gambling Features

Reliable bookmakers also offer tools that help players stay in control, including:

• deposit limits;
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• temporary account breaks;
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These features show that the operator takes responsible gambling seriously.

Compare Several Bookmakers

Rather than choosing the first website you find, it is worth comparing several casas de apostas em Moçambique before making a decision.

A comparison of different operators will help you see the odds, payment options, and available sports side-by-side, as well as customer service. Little extra time spent researching can help you enjoy a safer and more enjoyable betting experience today and in the future.

Final Thoughts

A safe online bookmaker provides a lot more than enticing promotions. A trustworthy site provides clear licensing, secure payment alternatives, equitable odds, customer support, and responsible gambling tools.

To create an account, it is one of the best things a bettor can do is to check out the bookmakers in advance.

The post Choosing A Safe Online Bookmaker In Mozambique: What Every Player Should Know appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

In a judgment delivered on June 23, Justice Nzioki wa Makau ruled that an employer’s cash-flow struggles do not suspend an employee’s right to earn a living, declaring that workers should not shoulder operational business risks.

The precedent-setting decision stems from a legal dispute between Pride Kings Ltd and its former security guard, Innocent Onyango. Onyango resigned from the company after going four consecutive months without pay. The court upheld an earlier finding that the firm constructively dismissed Onyango, ruling that the employer’s failure to pay effectively forced his resignation.

“It is not the responsibility of a worker to figure out how the employer will pay his wages,” Justice Nzioki said.

Court documents show that Onyango joined the company in August 2019 as a security guard earning a monthly salary of Ksh12,500. He told the court that the company stopped paying his salary between July and October 2023, leaving him unable to provide for his wife and three children. The prolonged lack of income pushed him into severe financial hardship, leaving him with no choice but to resign.

Onyango argued that management cut off his pay without any prior notice or communication regarding when he would receive his money. Beyond the unpaid wages, he claimed the company consistently underpaid him, denied him annual leave, and failed to remit his National Social Security Fund (NSSF) deductions. Consequently, he sued the firm, maintaining that the company unlawfully and unfairly dismissed him.

Pride Kings Ltd admitted to the court that it faced severe financial difficulties that disrupted its payroll. While management argued that they informed staff about the situation and eventually cleared the outstanding salaries, they maintained that Onyango should have waited for the business to stabilize rather than resigning.

Justice Nzioki firmly rejected the company’s defense, ruling that the firm’s failure to pay created an untenable environment for its staff. The court held that no employer can expect a worker to report to duty indefinitely without compensation just because the business is struggling.

“The Appellant created a situation that led to the unfair and unlawful termination of employment,” the judge ruled.

The judge agreed with the trial court that withholding wages for several months constitutes a fundamental breach of an employment contract. Consequently, the court upheld the decision that Pride Kings Ltd constructively dismissed Onyango, ruling that he is entitled to salary arrears, notice pay, service pay, and compensation for unlawful termination.

The court also ordered the company to issue him a certificate of service.

While the court sustained the unlawful termination verdict, Justice Nzioki reduced some of the financial awards. He explained that claims regarding underpayments, house allowances, and accrued leave fall under strict statutory limitation periods under the Employment Act.

As a result, the court slashed the underpayment award from Ksh135,035 to Ksh45,011.66, the house allowance from Ksh121,284 to Ksh40,611.66, and the accrued leave payout from Ksh49,114 to Ksh16,371.33.

The court did, however, fully uphold the awards for four months’ salary arrears, one month’s salary in lieu of notice, four years’ service pay, and the standard compensation for unlawful termination.

“No employer should ever decline to issue a certificate of service,” Justice Nzioki said.

The post Can Your Employer Stop Paying You Due to Financial Trouble? Court Says No appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

“As the President has directed, beginning tomorrow, for the first time in the country we will provide stipends for our village elders so they can support the work you do across the country,” PS Omollo said.

Presenting the budget statement for the coming financial year, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi said the state has set aside Sh3.9 billion for stipends for village elders. He added that the funding will strengthen local administrative capacity and acknowledge the contributions village elders make in tackling security issues and other challenges facing communities.

The Ministry of Interior estimates that the country has about 110,000 village elders who support the national government at the grassroots level. For their welfare, the ministry has proposed paying each village elder a Sh3,000 monthly stipend.

For years, village elders have served at the lowest level of informal administration, working alongside chiefs and assistant chiefs to resolve disputes, share government information, and support security surveillance within their communities.

At the event, which also brought in Deputy County Commissioners who had been promoted recently but were yet to be inducted, PS Omollo said the new appointees will be guided on their duties in coordinating the national government’s agenda and state priority projects. He described them as frontline officers responsible for driving implementation at the grassroots level.

“This training has been designed to give you a deeper insight into the responsibilities of the office that you hold, the policies and the procedures that guide our work, the laws that define your authority and the values that must shape your conduct as a public servant,” the PS said.

He added that the officers will also receive training on the standard operating procedures for the incoming National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAPU) ahead of its rollout so they understand the unit’s mandate.

PS Omollo further reminded the officers of what Kenyans expect from public service. He said the majority of the population consists of young people who have access to a wide range of technology.

“The median age is about 19-20 years in this country, so you can begin to imagine the kind of population you are dealing with, and there is a lot of advancement in technology; some of the things we used to do five to six years ago are no longer possible, or even if we are to do them, there are better ways of doing them. So how do we embrace all these changes and technological advancements for purposes of making our services to the public much more efficient and also acceptable?” he asked.

PS Omollo added that the country now sits at a point where citizens want to play a bigger role in government decisions. He urged the Deputy County Commissioners to use their public forums to listen to the public and reflect citizen concerns in their work.

“Citizens expect government officials to be responsive, transparent, innovative and results-oriented. They expect timely delivery of services, prudent management of public resources, respect, fairness and visible development outcomes,” he said.

He also called on the DCCs to lead effectively and work closely with colleagues in other state departments to deliver the government agenda.

“There are other agencies that sit with you at the sub-counties, the various committees that you chair. As the chair, there is a level of inspiration that you must give to the rest of the team; they must be able to look up to you,” PS Omollo said.

He noted that the government wants to build a cadre of fully capable administrators and is therefore rolling out tools and reskilling programmes. He said the initiative will also address long-standing challenges, including mobility issues that have affected many DCCs for years.

The PS assured the officers that the mobility challenge will be addressed within the next three months. He, however, cautioned those dealing with alcoholism and drug addiction to agree to rehabilitation support from the state.

“The face of the government cannot be a drunk DCC in the morning, so we start with you,” he said. “There is that which you must deal with, and we will support you to help manage it. If it becomes impossible, I think there is room to give people lighter responsibilities. As your PS, I will not superintend over drunk officers.”

He further warned the DCCs against graft and engaging in cartelism.

The post Government Begins Paying Sh3,000 Monthly Stipends to Village Elders appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Milimani Principal Magistrate Caroline Mugo dismissed Brian Kiprop Kiplangat’s application for release on bond. She found that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) presented compelling reasons to keep him in custody until the extradition request is resolved.

The court heard that Kiplangat allegedly left the United Kingdom after the death of Maryanne Nduta Kilonzo in January 2025. It also heard that he was arrested on June 10 at the Namanga border while allegedly trying to cross into Tanzania.

In her decision, Magistrate Mugo said Kiplangat’s actions before and after leaving the UK showed a real likelihood that he would abscond if granted bail.

“The DPP has established that the fugitive is a flight risk and releasing him on bond will enhance the incentive for him to flee without trace,” the magistrate ruled.

The court further noted that Kiplangat is wanted in the UK over allegations of murder, manslaughter and perverting the course of justice. It also cited that he holds two Kenyan passports, issued in 2015 and 2022, saying this strengthened the case that he could evade the court process.

Magistrate Mugo said courts must exercise extra caution during extradition proceedings because suspects facing serious offences often have a stronger motive to escape.

“Extradition proceedings are not ordinary criminal cases, and for a court to release a suspect on bond calls for a lot of judicial caution, as the incentive to flee is much higher,” she said.

Although the defense pointed to Kiplangat’s family ties in Kenya, calling his mother and sister to court, the magistrate ruled that this was not enough to outweigh evidence about his previous movements.

“Absconding is real as he fled from the UK and flew to Kenya through three other countries and was attempting to leave Kenya again,” the court held.

The magistrate dismissed the bail application, ordered the DPP to fast-track the extradition process, and directed that Kiplangat remain in prison custody.

The court said it had already received a 300-page extradition request. It ordered Kiplangat to file his response within seven days, while giving the DPP 15 days to reply. The case will be mentioned on August 4.

Prosecutors told the court that Kiplangat left the UK on January 13, 2025, shortly after Nduta’s death. They said investigators later traced him to Kenya and arrested him at the Namanga border after alleging that he was trying to flee to Tanzania.

British authorities are seeking his extradition to face trial over the death of Nduta, a Kenyan banker who was working in London at the time of her death.

The post Court Denies Bail to Kenyan Wanted in UK Over Girlfriend’s Murder appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

To achieve this, the government is rolling out a Ksh44.9 billion initiative divided into three strategic phases.

“The first phase, covering 25 signalized junctions and a modern traffic management center, is valued at $61 million (Ksh7.9 billion) and is already under construction,” Ruto revealed.

The president stated that the second phase will invest $100 million (Ksh 13 billion) to expand the system to 60 additional junctions. Following this, the third phase will inject $183.9 million (KSh 24 billion) to extend intelligent traffic management to another 125 junctions.

“Upon completion, more than 210 junctions across Nairobi will operate through a coordinated, real-time traffic management system that optimizes traffic flow, improves road safety, and significantly reduces travel time,” he added.

President Ruto also confirmed that construction of the KSh3 billion Upper Hill–Kenyatta Avenue fire duct has hit the 60 percent mark.

“Once finished, it will significantly improve access into the central business district and ease congestion across one of the city’s busiest commercial zones,” he said.

In tandem with these gridlock-busting efforts, the government has launched a KSh1.6 billion upgrade of State House Road and is building KSh3.9 billion worth of access roads to Talanta Sports City Stadium ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The capital’s outer arteries are also getting an overhaul, with plans underway to dual the 23.5-kilometer Kiambu Road corridor from Muthaiga to Kiambu, alongside its bypasses, via a $221 million (KSh 30 billion) investment.

“Together, these projects are systematically removing the transport bottlenecks that have restrained the growth of our capital city for decades,” Ruto said.

Turning his attention to the wider city, President Ruto noted that the Nairobi Urban Regeneration Programme currently has 729 kilometers of urban roads under routine maintenance. He also disclosed a Ksh2 billion allocation to tackle Nairobi’s drainage challenges ahead of the predicted El Niño rainfall. He explained that a targeted drainage improvement program will deploy these funds to mitigate flooding, safeguarding homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure during heavy downpours.

Ruto Opens Sh3.8 Billion Ngong Road Flyover

The president shared these updates during the commissioning of the highly anticipated KSh3.8 billion Ngong Road–Naivasha Road flyover near Junction Mall. Built by the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and funded through the Spanish Corporate International Fund, construction on the 255-meter, four-lane structure began on September 16, 2024.

The project aims to immediately ease gridlock, bridge communities, slash travel times, and smooth out transit across the city. Ruto underscored how heavily traffic congestion penalizes workers, businesses, and families by driving up costs and draining productive hours.

“Every great city reaches a moment when its ambition begins to outgrow its infrastructure. Nairobi reached that moment many years ago. For too long, congestion has imposed a high cost on our economy and on the daily lives of our people. Congestion is not merely a transport challenge; it is an economic challenge. Every hour lost in traffic is an hour of productivity forfeited, income delayed, and opportunity diminished,” Ruto said.

He framed the new flyover as a strategic investment to unlock Nairobi’s gridlock.

“This Sh3.8 billion project removes one of Nairobi’s most persistent traffic bottlenecks by separating traffic, improving safety for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike, and restoring the strong movement of people and the smooth movement of goods along one of the city’s most important transport corridors and busiest corridors,” he said.

Modern infrastructure, he added, must cut travel times, trim transport costs, boost road safety, and help cities function more efficiently. Beyond vehicle lanes, the flyover introduces upgraded junctions, dedicated walkways, and cycling lanes to protect all commuters. The design also incorporates advanced drainage systems to minimize flooding risks during the rainy seasons, alongside landscaping to beautify the city’s face.

KURA expects the project to elevate daily mobility and build a more liveable urban landscape once it fully opens to the public.

“Every detail matters. As the Ngong Road Flyover receives its final touches ahead of its official commissioning, it showcases precision engineering, innovation & aesthetic appeal, creating infrastructure that improves mobility and enhances the city’s skyline,” the authority said.

The post Ruto Confirms KSh44.9 Billion Plan to Make Nairobi’s Traffic “Intelligent” appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

In a statement issued on Monday, June 29, his lead counsel and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino confirmed that Kyama has been charged with malicious damage to property in and around Parliament. He faces the charges over allegations that he unlawfully accessed the Parliament Buildings and caused damage during the June 25, 2024 anti-government protests.

Nzyoki faces two charges linked to the parliamentary storming. First, he is accused of unlawfully entering the precincts of Parliament without lawful authority, contrary to the Parliamentary Powers and Privileges Act. Second, he is charged with malicious damage to property contrary to Section 339(1) of the Penal Code.

Prosecutors allege that, together with others not before the court, he willfully destroyed property at Parliament Buildings, including parts of the perimeter fence, the mausoleum flag post, furniture, ICT equipment, television screens, kitchenware, vehicles, and electrical installations.

The prosecution says the damaged property belongs to the Parliamentary Service Commission and is valued at Ksh. 41,248,570.

The accused was arrested last week inside the court premises shortly after being released on bail by Magistrate Nyangena in a separate matter. Lawyer and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino represented him in court.

“I Did Not See Him in Parliament,” Babu Owino Tells Court on Kyama

In his submissions, Owino said the prosecution did not oppose the bail application and argued that setting a high bond would violate the accused person’s constitutional right to liberty. He told the court that “issuing a higher bail renders this trial nugatory and limits the right of the accused person to liberty,” which he described as a miscarriage of justice.

Owino also argued that the alleged offenses do not amount to capital offenses, urging the court not to be influenced by what he called unsubstantiated claims from the prosecution.

“Whatever is before you do not equate to a capital offense. Do not entertain what we are being served by the prosecution, which is balderdash,” he said.

He maintained that the Constitution protects accused persons and that the court should not, at this stage, determine guilt or innocence.

“Today this court is not trying the charges of malicious damage to property or unlawful entry into Parliament. I was there that day during the protests, and I did not see the accused person in Parliament,” Owino submitted.

He further added that granting a higher bail would amount to effectively denying bail and would undermine the constitutional presumption of innocence.

Court Says Sh41 Million Damage Claim Against Kyama Lacks Valuation Report

In granting the bond, the trial magistrate noted that the court had not received any valuation report or supporting documents to justify the Ksh. 41.2 million damages figure stated in the charge sheet.

The magistrate said the amount remained an allegation at that stage and could not be relied on to impose excessive bail terms. The court also held that although Nzyoki faced charges jointly with others who have not yet been arrested, he could not be required to carry the burden of people who were not before the court.

Having found no compelling reasons to deny him bail, the court released Nzyoki on a personal bond of Ksh. 100,000 pending further proceedings.

Babu told the press that the court released his client on a personal bond, commonly referred to as a free bond. He said he had pleaded for Kyama’s release so the fourth-year Kenyatta University student could return to complete his exams.

Kyama reportedly went into hiding after videos of him at the National Assembly went viral during the June 2024 Gen Z protests. In earlier interviews, he said the youths who stormed Parliament did not intend to cause harm, adding that they had gone in for lunch and that the damaged cutlery resulted from the commotion as protesters fought over food.

The post Viral ‘Mr Speaker Sir’ Gen Z Protester Charged Over KSh 41 Million Parliament Damage appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Ms. Claire said the attack followed her decision to end a four-year relationship with her ex-lover, Elvis Opiyo, an NIS officer who, she alleges, refused to accept the breakup.

In an interview with Citizen TV, she recounted how Opiyo first tried to win her back through cash inducements. She said his alleged attempts later turned violent, culminating in her being doused with sulfuric acid on February 17, 2026.

The 25-year-old woman began dating Elvis in 2021 and only knew that he was married with two children two years later.

“Me quitting the relationship didn’t sit well with him at that time, so he kept coming, making efforts on me going back to him and all that, but I refused,” she said.

Claire said she resolved to move on after ending the relationship in April 2025, relocating from Umoja Estate shortly afterward. She added that by October that year, Opiyo appeared to accept that he could not repair the relationship.

According to Claire, he then demanded that she refund more than Sh300,000 he had spent on her during their time together and return every item he had bought her, including a phone, clothes, shoes, and glasses.

“Morning… I need the phone, glasses, all clothes, shoes, and every coin I ever spent on you… cooperate or else,” read a message on her phone.

“He kept pressuring me to return the things and the money, over 300,000 shillings. I refused to go back into the relationship,” said Claire.

She also claimed that he demanded she resign from her job, arguing that he had helped her secure the position.

“This is when things escalated. I told him, “Let’s wait for a little more time. When everything pans out well, I will hand over your cash.”

Claire Ochieng Alleges Ex Sent Cash, Gifts Before Acid Attack

Instead, Claire said, Opiyo offered another ultimatum; he told her that she would not have to repay anything if she reconciled with him. She said she refused.

“So he kept tracking me.” She said that in November 2025, while she was in Mombasa, her former lover texted her, claiming he wanted to send her money for safekeeping.

Claire said she declined the proposal and told him to use a separate phone line and keep the money in a mobile money wallet if his bank account could not hold it, which she estimated at about half a million shillings.

“I told him I won’t keep his money. Money cannot buy me. I would rather die single than date for money.”

She said he sent the money anyway.

“The following day I called him and scolded him. I told him you can’t be doing this. Even if you want to seem good to me, then definitely money can’t buy me, and if you are sure you really want to keep this money, then the bank is the safest place, so reverse the money.”

In January, Claire claimed Opiyo made another effort to persuade her to reconcile by offering to buy her an iPhone Pro Max. She rejected the offer, saying she would rather stay single than date for money.

“So I told him, ‘Take this phone, use it for your own good, but as for me, I will get my own phone at a time I desire.'”

Claire Ochieng Recounts Seven Alleged Attacks Before Acid Assault

Claire also shared screenshots she said show money Elvis allegedly sent her on different occasions, along with the gifts he offered in an attempt to win her back after she ended their relationship. She said that in many of the messages, she asked him to stop sending her money and returned some of the cash.

She further claimed that the February 17 acid attack followed seven earlier physical assaults, three of which allegedly involved acid. Claire said the incidents included attacks in Mombasa and Migori, as well as an assault at her workplace in Nairobi.

Of the seven incidents, she said only three were reported to police. She recalled Opiyo telling her that she should resign because he “connected” her, adding that he said, “If you’re done with the relationship, you’re done with everything.”

Claire said one of the acid attacks took place at a bus station in February. She also alleged that the same month a motorcycle knocked her down, and she was at one point threatened with a gun.

She described the most serious attack as occurring on February 17, 2026, at about 4pm, as she walked home with a female colleague along Ngong Road.

“We had not even covered a long distance; the next thing is something is on my face. I asked my colleague for water and poured on my face. My clothes were melting. I started screaming. People came with water in a basin and poured it on me.”

Claire, who is currently receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital, dismissed her ex-lover’s allegation that she made him feel betrayed after he paid her full college tuition. She said she studied under a government sponsorship and that her family covered the remaining balance required.

How NIS Officer Elvis Opiyo Allegedly Planned Acid Attack on Claire Ochieng

A man who claimed he witnessed the planning of Claire’s attack also gave details about how Elvis allegedly recruited the three men who carried out the acid assault, including how much he says they were paid. The witness claimed the NIS officer met Lucas Ochieng’, another suspect in the case, through a boda boda rider and a welder operating in Mathare.

“There is a man nicknamed Happy who runs a gang in Mathare and connected Elvis to Lucas and the other men who attacked Claire. Elvis was planning revenge and wanted people to do the job for him. There were discussions about either punishing her or killing her,” the witness alleged.

The witness further claimed that the motorcycle used during the attack belonged to Lucas, though he said it was being ridden by someone else who had allegedly been hired. He said Lucas was arrested, while the other two suspects reportedly escaped after the incident.

Sh300,000 Gang Payment Allegedly Linked to Claire Ochieng’s Acid Attack

According to the witness, the three suspects allegedly agreed to carry out the attack for Sh 300,000, and each received a deposit of Sh 10,000. He also alleged that Elvis frequently visited a club in Mathare where the gang met to drink and that he was introduced to the men later hired for the assault there. The witness added that Elvis and Happy once brought acid to the club and tested its reaction by pouring it into a plastic tumbler.

The witness said Claire remains at risk even after being admitted to hospital.

“She is not safe. Happy can still conspire because he has not yet been arrested. They say it is easier to deal with a case when the victim is dead than when they are alive. Those people can do anything to kill that girl before the case proceeds,” he alleged.

He urged Claire’s family to stay vigilant and ensure her continued safety, warning that the alleged attackers could still pose a threat to her life.

Elvis and Lucas remain in police custody, while the man the witness alleges ferried the attackers is still at large.

The post Claire Ochieng Speaks Out on Ex-Lover’s Alleged Obsession Before Acid Attack appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

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He responded to claims by opposition figures that Ruto failed to honour the pact, which he said had promised Western region 30 percent of government appointments and development projects. Wetang’ula said the opposition has been spreading falsehoods in pursuit of political gains.

According to Wetang’ula, the Western region has benefited meaningfully from the Kenya Kwanza government even though it did not fully back Ruto during the election. He said the president still delivered key appointments and development initiatives to the region.

“The Western region did not give the President the numbers we had agreed on, but he still honored the region through key appointments and development projects,” Wetang’ula said.

He added that Western delivered only 20 percent of its votes to Ruto, noting that the support came largely from Bungoma and other counties. He said, “The bulk of the 20 percent of votes came from Bungoma County, which gave the president 69 percent of the total votes cast; Kakamega, 10 percent; Busia, 5 percent; Vihiga, 15 percent; and Trans-Nzoia, 30 percent. So it is not true that we agreed on a pact, we delivered, and it was not honoured,” he said.

Wetang’ula made the remarks during a church service at St. Francis Miyanga Catholic Church in Bumula Constituency, Bungoma County, on Sunday.

Opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua told residents during their Western tour a week ago that the region had received less than it deserved, despite backing the Kenya Kwanza alliance in the 2022 General Election.

Gachagua argued that the pact Kenya Kwanza leaders made with Western figures, under which the region was promised 30 percent representation in government, including Cabinet and Principal Secretary roles, had not been fully implemented. He urged residents to remain vigilant against political promises that repeatedly fail to materialize.

Wetang’ula, however, pointed to appointments from Western as evidence that the region has not been sidelined. He cited his own election as Speaker and Musalia Mudavadi’s role as Prime Cabinet Secretary, along with Cabinet Secretaries Wycliffe Oparanya (Co-operatives) and Deborah Barasa. Wetang’ula also referenced eight principal secretaries from the region.

“As a region, we have received major government positions despite the low numbers we delivered in the election,” Wetang’ula said.

During the same church service, Bumula MP Jack Wamboka faced criticism after he appeared to abandon promises made to Western leaders during the formation of the Kenya Kwanza alliance. Wamboka alleged that the government had directed major development projects and senior appointments toward the Nyanza region, instead of Western.

He said he would continue pressing for what he described as Western Kenya’s fair share of appointments and development projects.

Wetang’ula disagreed, arguing that the Western region has benefited more under President Ruto than under previous administrations and that the Kenya Kwanza government has revived projects that stalled earlier.

He cited the Misikhu–Brigadier Road and the Musikoma–Sang’alo–Kakamega Road as examples, noting that contractors have already resumed work. Wetang’ula added that the government is also constructing roads, markets, affordable housing units, hospitals, schools, and stadiums across the region, presenting the projects as proof of ongoing development.

The post Wetang’ula Says Ruto Honoured Western Promise Despite Low Votes appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Speaking during a fundraiser at Ngunya Catholic Church in Ugunja constituency, Wandayi said it makes no sense to tell residents that being in government is undesirable after years of campaigning for access to state power.

“Let us ask him to leave the citizens of this place alone. These citizens know where they are going. If he says that being inside the government is bad, then what is good? And all these years we have been fighting so that we can get into government. How can you say that being in government is bad and yet all these years we have been fighting to be in government? What logic is that?” Wandayi said.

He urged Orengo to allow residents to make their own political choices, adding that the community understands its options and can decide where it wants to go politically.

Wandayi said Luo Nyanza leaders, including MPs, cabinet secretaries, governors, and principal secretaries, are currently working within government to advance the region’s development agenda.

“We are working together with all the leaders of this region. We are working together in unity. Therefore, I have no worries. We have decided that our candidate for the presidential seat next year is President William Samoei Ruto,” he said.

The energy CS then challenged Orengo to name an alternative presidential candidate.

“If you have your candidate, Mr. Governor, come forward and tell us who it is. Or if it is you who wants to run, come forward and say it today, and then we can compete against each other,” he said.

Wandayi added that he would spearhead a campaign across the Nyanza region to mobilize support for Ruto in the next election.

The post Wandayi Says Luo Nyanza Has Chosen Ruto Ahead of 2027 Election appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

KRA urged any taxpayer yet to complete the legal requirement to use the additional working hours and support services it has put in place to beat the deadline.

It warned that missing the filing date could lead to default assessments, penalties, and interest.

“KRA wishes to remind taxpayers that there will be no extension of the filing deadline. All returns must be submitted on or before 30th June 2026, in accordance with the law. Taxpayers who fail to file by the deadline will be liable to the applicable penalties and may also be subject to default assessments,” the commissioner in charge of Micro and Small Taxpayers said.

KRA said it understands that the final days before deadlines are often marked by heavy traffic on its systems and has therefore rolled out support to make filing easier. Taxpayers can file through the iTax platform at itax.kra.go.ke, get assistance via WhatsApp on 0711 099 999, or use the eCitizen USSD service by dialing 2225#.

The authority has also extended operating hours at its Contact Centre, Huduma Centres, KRA Service Centres, its social media support channels, and Ushuru Mashinani Service Partners across the country to ensure taxpayers get timely help.

Taxpayers who need assistance can contact the KRA Contact Centre on 020 4 999 999 or 0711 099 999, email callcentre@kra.go.ke, or reach out through the @KRACare or @KRACorporate social media handles. They can also visit their nearest KRA office or Ushuru Mashinani Service Partner.

Despite the additional support, KRA urged taxpayers not to wait until the last minute, warning that higher traffic on its digital platforms could slow down the filing process.

“Filing early gives enough time to address any issues and helps taxpayers comply with the deadline,” the authority said.

KRA’s strict position comes as a departure from last year’s approach, when it extended the deadline for filing the 2024 income tax returns to July 1 after heavy traffic and system slowdowns affected the iTax portal.

The authority also waived penalties and interest for late-filed returns for the year ending December 31, 2024, as long as the returns were submitted by July 5, 2025.

This year, KRA has taken a different position, stating clearly that all income tax return obligations must be completed by midnight today.

In a statement, the authority acknowledged the millions of taxpayers who have already filed their returns and urged those yet to submit theirs to avoid waiting until the last minute.

KRA reminded taxpayers that filing returns is a legal requirement and a key contribution to national development. It said each return filed supports transparency, strengthens the tax system, and enables the government to fund essential public services for all Kenyans.

The tax authority also reiterated that it will continue supporting taxpayers throughout the filing period to help ensure compliance with the country’s tax laws.

The post KRA Warns Millions of Taxpayers: No Extension. File Today or Face Penalties appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

In response to public concerns, NTSA explained that inspection requirements will differ across categories of vehicles and urged members of the public to avoid spreading misleading information. The authority further stated that traffic officers will not enforce the mandatory annual inspection requirement during routine checks for private vehicle owners.

NTSA added that school transport operators and commercial service vehicle operators will not face penalties for failing to comply with the new requirements.

“Information on implementation and enforcement of the above mentioned sections/rules shall be communicated to the public in due course,” NTSA said in a statement.

The authority also indicated that the new inspection regulations will apply to locally assembled vehicles, vehicles involved in accidents, and vehicles that have undergone structural or mechanical modifications.

NTSA said Kenya has more than six million registered vehicles, and, based on the proposed charges, the government expects to raise at least Ksh. 12 billion each year if all registered vehicles pay the Ksh. 1,000 booking fee and the Ksh. 1,000 inspection fee.

NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa said the annual inspection requirement already sits in law, but he acknowledged that a 12-month interval may not work well for vehicles that spend most of their time on the road. He also said the authority is moving to operationalize private vehicle inspection centers to increase its capacity.

The clarification comes after widespread public and political backlash. Opposition leaders and many Kenyans criticized the plan, arguing that it disregards the economic pressures citizens face, including rising fuel prices, higher insurance premiums, multiple taxes, and the overall cost of living.

The post NTSA Clarifies Mandatory Annual Inspection Rules for Private Vehicles appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Professor Makau Mutua, the panel’s chairperson, said that the government expects to compensate another 500 victims this week. Speaking on Citizen TV’s Sunday Live, he added that some of the recipients have already shared that they have experienced a measure of relief.

Mutua, who is also a presidential adviser, said the framework was developed after experts, including lawyers, economists, and doctors, assessed a range of factors.

“We applied a range of criteria by looking at practices in other countries where compensation has been given. We looked at Nepal, Nigeria, South Africa, Bangladesh, and so on,” he said.

He also addressed concerns from victims who say they have not yet been notified or received their compensation, urging them to lodge their claims through the designated centers.

“Victims have to self-identify and go to the places that have been designated. They can contact us through the various phone numbers and email addresses that have been provided,” Mutua said.

He added that the panel has an office at the KICC where victims can submit claims, noting that many have already lodged claims with the KNCHR and IPOA.

Mutua outlined the steps victims of protests must follow to apply for compensation, saying claimants must show that their injuries, deaths, or losses were directly linked to protests or riots that occurred between 2013 and 2025.

He said eligible victims can submit claims through the panel itself, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), or the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission offices.

“We are covering the period from 2013 to 2025, but there are some qualifying events. The claim that is made must be connected to a protest or a riot in the course of trying to exercise the predicates of Article 37, which is a right to protest, to demonstrate, to petition, and so on. So your claim must fall within those events. If it does not, it does not qualify,” Mutua said.

He added that victims who believe they qualify should first identify themselves and then lodge their claims through the designated channels. Mutua said many people have already submitted complaints through KNCHR and IPOA, but those who have not can still approach the relevant offices or contact the panel directly.

“I myself have called openly for anyone who feels that they qualify for compensation to come forward and lodge a claim,” he said.

Mutua also said the panel will require supporting evidence to verify claims before any compensation is approved. He said families seeking compensation for fatalities must provide documents such as post-mortem reports, death certificates, or other proof showing the death occurred during a qualifying protest or riot.

For injury-related claims, he said applicants will need documentation, including police reports, hospital records, medical bills, or other evidence showing they suffered injuries during the demonstrations.

“If you are injured, we would want a police report, a hospital bill, some evidence that, in fact, you are injured,” he said.

Mutua acknowledged concerns that some individuals may try to file fraudulent claims, but he said the panel has put in place mechanisms to verify and authenticate every application.

He pointed to lessons learned from previous compensation efforts for victims of Mau Mau-era atrocities, noting that some people who were not eligible had attempted to present themselves as claimants.

“We know these things can happen. There’s no doubt about it. That’s why we have a foolproof process of authenticating and verifying claims,” he said.

The post How to Claim Protest Compensation as Government Pays Out KSh 448 Million appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The capital leads the pack among the country’s 47 counties after President William Ruto signed the law, unlocking a record Sh428 billion for devolved units. Nakuru follows in second place with Sh14.9 billion, while Turkana takes Sh14.3 billion, Kakamega Sh14.1 billion, and Kiambu Sh13.5 billion.

President Ruto assented to the County Allocation of Revenue Bill, 2026, at State House, Nairobi, on Monday, marking the 11th presidential assent of 2026. This move gives legal effect to the distribution of county governments’ share of nationally raised revenue under the Division of Revenue Act, 2026.

The Sh428 billion total marks a Sh13 billion increase from the Sh415 billion allocated to counties in the previous financial year. This sum represents 20.9 percent of the most recent audited national revenue for the 2022/23 financial year, comfortably exceeding the constitutional minimum threshold of 15 percent.

President Ruto noted that the formula cushions devolution by giving counties a stable baseline allocation while distributing funds fairly based on equal share, population, poverty levels, and geographical size.

“The formula provides a stable baseline allocation while ensuring a fair distribution based on equal share, population, poverty level, and geographical size. The enhanced allocation will strengthen devolution by equipping county governments with the resources they need to fulfill their constitutional mandate and deliver quality services in line with their budgets and development priorities,” he said.

The new law clearly outlines how both the national and county governments must manage these allocated funds.

Sponsored by Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Budget Chairperson Ali Roba, the Bill moved quickly through parliament. The Senate passed the legislation with amendments on June 17, and the National Assembly approved it without further changes on June 25 before forwarding it to the President in line with Article 110(5) of the Constitution.

The legislation implements Parliament’s fourth revenue-sharing formula, which lawmakers approved in June 2025 under Article 217(7) of the Constitution. To protect devolved units from sudden funding drops, the framework distributes Sh387.43 billion through a Baseline Allocation tied directly to what counties received in the 2024/25 financial year.

The framework handles the remaining funds through targeted streams:

• Affirmative Action: Sh4.46 billion goes to 12 historically marginalized counties to help bridge development gaps.
• Weighted Distribution: The remaining Sh36.1 billion splits among counties using a formula that factors in population, poverty levels, income distance, and geographical size to direct cash where development needs run highest.

Looking closely at the weighted formula, 35 percent splits equally among all counties. Population dictates 45 percent of the funds, poverty levels determine 12 percent, and geographical size guides the final 8 percent, with land area capped at 10 percent.

Government officials noted that this approach shields counties from major budget disruptions while pushing more resources to areas facing heavy population pressure and widespread poverty.

To keep spending in check, the law introduces strict measures to improve financial management and accountability. It slaps budget ceilings on recurrent expenditure for county executives and assemblies, a move designed to contain rising wage bills and free up cash for development projects.

The legislation also rewrites the rules governing functions transferred between county and national governments under Article 187 of the Constitution. County executives must now work jointly with the national government to calculate the exact cost of any transferred functions. To avoid service disruptions, county assemblies must continue setting aside money for these transferred functions at a rate matching or exceeding the previous financial year’s allocation.

Furthermore, national government entities executing transferred county functions must submit quarterly progress and financial reports to both the Senate and the respective county assemblies.

The law places new demands on top financial officials as well. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi must publish a schedule detailing transfers made to counties from the Consolidated Fund, alongside monthly disbursement reports. At the local level, county treasuries must record all incoming transfers and include them in quarterly and annual financial reports, keeping in line with the Public Finance Management Act, 2012.

The government expects this new framework to provide counties with highly predictable financing to support development programs that improve livelihoods, unlock economic opportunities, and expand access to public services. The rules will also tighten transparency, improve oversight of county funds, and promote prudent spending across devolved units.

This county allocation follows the earlier enactment of the Division of Revenue Act, 2026, which split a national revenue base of Sh2.46 trillion between the national and county governments alongside allocations for the equalization fund.

The post Nairobi Gets Lion’s Share of Sh428 Billion County Allocation Funds appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

In a judgment delivered by Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzyoki, the court found that the article, published on August 4, 2020, falsely portrayed Nanok as supporting the controversial Third Generation Revenue Allocation Formula. The publication had attributed a fabricated statement to him: “I support this formula because it will foster development since we will be given more money.”

Nanok, through lawyer Phillip Nyachoti, told the court that he had, in fact, strongly opposed the proposed revenue-sharing formula. He noted that the framework would have slashed Turkana County’s allocation by approximately Ksh324 million.

Nanok argued that the publication falsely depicted him as greedy, deceitful, and ignorant of the revenue formula, which severely damaged his reputation while he served as Governor of Turkana County.

Nation Media Group admitted publishing the article but denied that it was defamatory. The media house argued that the report amounted to fair comment on a matter of public interest and was protected by qualified privilege. The publisher also relied on a clarification and apology it ran two days later, which acknowledged that the paper had wrongly identified Nanok as supporting the formula and apologized for the error.

However, Chief Magistrate Nzyoki held that the apology amounted to a direct admission that the publication was false. The court further found that Nation Media failed to verify Nanok’s position before publication and did not seek his comments, a failure that justified an inference of malice.

The magistrate ruled that an ordinary reader would understand the article to mean that Nanok supported the revenue-sharing formula for personal gain, was deceitful about his position, and lacked an understanding of the formula. Those meanings, the court said, were defamatory and lowered his reputation in the eyes of right-thinking members of society.

Nanok had sought Ksh10 million in general damages and another Ksh10 million in exemplary damages, but the court deemed these requests excessive. When assessing the appropriate award, the magistrate considered Nanok’s public standing, the wide circulation of the publication, and the fact that Nation Media had issued an apology shortly after the story appeared.

Consequently, the court awarded Nanok Ksh2 million in general damages but declined to grant exemplary damages.

The magistrate also rejected Nanok’s request for a permanent injunction to restrain future defamatory publications, ruling that any future defamation would constitute a separate legal issue. Furthermore, the court found the previously published apology sufficient, rendering a fresh order for an apology unnecessary.

Ultimately, the court entered judgment in favour of Nanok for Ksh2 million in general damages, plus interest from the date of the judgment, the costs of the suit, and a 30-day stay of execution.

The post Nation Media Ordered to Pay Nanok Sh2 Million Over Fabricated Quote appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The demands were delivered during a press briefing at the Mathare Ghetto Foundation, where community members, the families of the missing, and prominent rights advocates gathered to denounce what they described as a growing pattern of enforced disappearances targeting activists in the Mathare area.

Lichuma, who belongs to the Social Justice Centre, attended the June 25 maandamano commemorations when he was reportedly taken into custody. His mother, Margaret Lichuma, told journalists that her son visited home on June 24 and asked her to pray for him, noting that his involvement in the protests put him at serious personal risk.

“On June 25 I was told Lichuma had been arrested. Yesterday I was told to go and file a report at Pangani,” she said, adding that others arrested alongside him had since been released, which has intensified her concerns about his whereabouts. She also revealed that her son had a pre-existing stab wound on his abdomen, raising further questions about his health and whether he has received medical care.

The briefing also highlighted the cases of at least three other missing individuals.

Maximilian, known as Maxy, disappeared on June 20 after neighbors said CCTV footage showed a numberplate-less vehicle picking him up outside his gate as he prepared to leave for work. His mother told the press conference that she spoke to him by phone shortly before he went silent.

“It has been eight days. We want our children back,” she said.

A third person, identified only as Zizo, was reportedly taken on June 23 by men driving a double-cabin vehicle near a parcel of land he had recently purchased.

Human rights activist Hussein Khalid said the abductions follow a disturbing pattern and point to state involvement.

“We know Davis Lichuma has been a member of the Social Justice Centre. He was taken in clear violation of his rights. We know those who took them are police,” Khalid said. He said that Kenya should not function as a police state and that officers cannot break the law with impunity.

Salim, a phone repair technician and an MCA aspirant in Kiamaiko, also testified about alleged police extortion, describing what he said happened at his workplace. He told the briefing that armed men arrived in a Tiguan, seized five phones, and threatened to kill him before demanding Ksh. 100,000.

Salim said he negotiated the amount down to Ksh. 60,000 and paid it to secure his release.

“They told me, ‘Even if you don’t have a mistake, we can get one. They also told me today you can have a date with City Mortuary,” he said, adding that the threats left him fearing for his life.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga, who attended the briefing in solidarity, sharply criticized the government. He said the disappearances reflected a wider trend of disregarding the constitution.

“We have a government that does not listen to its people, does not respect the constitution, and does not respect the law. Why should police hide their faces? Why conceal their identity?” Maraga said.

He dismissed government compensation as an insufficient response to killings and disappearances connected to last year’s protests. He argued that Kenyans would not accept a situation in which the same government that authorized violence against citizens then sought to pay compensation using taxpayers’ money.

“The death of over 120 people and abductions will not go without protest. Compensation will not help. We want our children,” he said.

Community organiser Olal said enforced disappearances in Mathare have surged in recent weeks, with at least four people going missing in the past month alone. He accused the police of changing tactics, moving from extrajudicial killings to enforced disappearances.

“Mathare must be a safe space for everyone. We are not at peace. We are giving the police and the government 24 hours to produce Lichuma. Failure to which, this country will not be governable,” Olal said.

The post Activists Threaten Fresh Protests if Government Fails to Produce Missing Activist Lichuma appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Speaking during a Thanksgiving service at Burieruri High School in Meru County, Ruto expressed concern about cases of arson and damage to school property. He said education builds character as much as it delivers academic success.

“Education is not only about passing examinations but also about forming character, resolving differences peacefully, and understanding that every action carries consequences,” Ruto said.

He challenged learners to pause and reflect before acting in ways that could derail their future.

“Every choice you make writes a chapter of your future. Some mistakes pass with time; others leave scars that last a lifetime. Before you act, ask yourself: will this decision make my future greater or diminish it?” he added.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed the President’s call, urging students to air their grievances through peaceful and lawful channels rather than through acts of indiscipline.

He told learners that the government stands ready to listen, but he warned that violence undermines their future and that of their classmates.

“Whenever there are grievances, let us resolve those grievances because we want to listen to you, understand you and support you. It is improper to use concerns to involve yourself in acts of indiscipline because you destroy not only your own future but also that of your brothers and sisters,” Kindiki said.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba added that the government will bring together teachers, parents and other education stakeholders to develop lasting solutions to the rising unrest in schools.

“We have agreed to form a multi-stakeholder team to discuss the issues affecting students in all our schools. Without discipline in our schools, we cannot develop the leaders of tomorrow,” Ogamba said.

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The Jubilee Party deputy leader said the rollout moved forward without enough public participation. He argued that while road safety remains a legitimate national goal and many Kenyans want safer roads, fewer accidents, and vehicles that meet acceptable standards, the process must remain transparent.

“Public policy must be evidence-based, proportionate, transparent and sensitive to the economic realities facing citizens. The proposed inspection regime fails that test,” Matiang’i said.

In a statement issued Sunday morning, the former interior cabinet secretary said motorists already face heavy financial pressure from high fuel prices, multiple taxes and levies, rising insurance premiums, expensive spare parts, parking charges, licensing fees, and a growing cost of living.

“Introducing another compulsory annual payment without demonstrating its necessity places yet another financial burden on households and businesses that are already under immense pressure. Road safety is essential. Excessive financial extraction is not,” he said.

“We therefore call upon the Government to immediately suspend the implementation of this directive and subject it to a comprehensive public review. This is also a constitutional issue. Public power must always be exercised reasonably, proportionately, and in the public interest. Citizens should never be treated merely as sources of revenue,” Matiang’i added.

Matiang’i said the Jubilee Party will urge Parliament to subject the policy to immediate scrutiny and require the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to present all supporting evidence before it proceeds.

“We call upon all Kenyans to reject this policy in its current form and to demand a transparent, evidence-based, and affordable road safety framework that protects both lives and livelihoods.”

He said Kenyans deserve clear responses to concerns surrounding the planned inspections. “Specifically, Kenyans deserve clear answers to the following questions: How many active private vehicles will be affected by this policy? How much revenue does the Government expect to collect annually?”

Matiang’i also asked NTSA to explain what evidence shows that annual inspections for vehicles older than four years will significantly reduce road accidents. He questioned how often mechanical defects contribute to crashes compared with human error, poor road engineering, and traffic congestion. He further asked whether NTSA currently has the inspection capacity to serve millions of motorists efficiently without long delays or opportunities for corruption.

The former minister further said NTSA must explain what safeguards it has put in place to ensure the programme does not turn into another route for rent-seeking and harassment of motorists.

“Road safety cannot be reduced to the collection of inspection fees. Before imposing mandatory costs on citizens, the government must publish the data, the policy analysis, the cost-benefit assessment, and the implementation plan that justify such a far-reaching decision,” he added.

Matiang’i also argued that if the government truly wants to save lives, it must tackle the major causes of road accidents in a comprehensive way. He listed reckless driving, speeding, drunk driving, poor road design, inadequate road maintenance, weak enforcement of existing traffic laws, and traffic congestion.

“Vehicle condition is only one part of a much larger road safety strategy,” he said.

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Gachagua said peaceful resistance, through a tax boycott, would be the next option if the government does not change course.

“If William Ruto continues to harass people, continues to bring violence, chaos and kill people, we will not fight him with violence. I will issue a directive to Kenyans to suspend the payment of taxes until William Ruto comes to his senses,” he declared.

The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader said withholding taxes would serve as a peaceful weapon if the government keeps using violence and intimidation.

“We are peaceful people. Since we cannot match you in violence, we will suspend the payment of taxes until you come to your senses.”

He insisted he does not support violence and argued that Kenyans should pursue peaceful, constitutional ways to push for political change.

Gachagua also urged motorists not to comply with the government’s planned mandatory vehicle inspection programme for vehicles older than four years.

He claimed the inspection exercise aims to raise billions of shillings for political purposes and called on Kenyans to reject it.

“Nobody should take their vehicle for inspection and give William Ruto money.”

His remarks come days after Gen Z-led protests rocked parts of the country.

Gachagua defended his decision to urge residents of the Mt. Kenya region to stay away from last week’s demonstrations, saying the move helped protect lives and businesses.

He thanked residents, traders, and young people for heeding his advice, saying they listened when he warned business owners that shops could face destruction, when he urged residents to organise youth to protect property, and when he asked Gen Z participants to stay at home. “I want to say thank you.”

He added that he received intelligence warning that the region had been targeted for violence. He alleged that organisers planned to kill thousands of people and destroy businesses in Mt Kenya to intimidate the community into abandoning him politically.

“They wanted to create fear by killing our people and destroying our businesses so that the community would ask me to stop fighting William Ruto.”

Gachagua further alleged that senior government officials coordinated the plan, naming President Ruto, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Moses Kuria, and Mwangi Kiunjuri.

He also claimed that some police officers and civil servants secretly shared information with him, including allegations that Sh200 million had allegedly been set aside to fund gangs intended to disrupt the Mt Kenya region.

Despite his criticism of the government, Gachagua urged his supporters to avoid violence. Instead, he called on Kenyans to prepare to vote President Ruto out of office in next year’s General Election.

“The Constitution has given us an opportunity to remove William Ruto next year. We should organise ourselves and remove him peacefully through the ballot.”

He argued that protecting lives and livelihoods now would allow Kenyans to participate in the elections. “A good soldier must live to fight another day.”

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Murkomen made the remarks at Kimwogo Grounds in Elgeyo Marakwet County during the Kabiemit Community Empowerment Programme, where he alleged that Gachagua relies on violence and misinformation to drive his political agenda.

“The reason Gachagua fears me is that I know him, and I know he’s the father of violence in our country,” Murkomen said, adding that Gachagua has a “twisted mind” and rejects Kenya’s governance systems. He also accused Gachagua of misleading Kenyans through what he described as political double-speak.

“He has conned people for far too long, but I want to tell him, ‘You can con some people some of the time, but you cannot con all the people all the time,” he said.

Murkomen’s latest remarks came two days after the June 25 Gen Z anniversary demonstrations, which the government described as largely peaceful. They also followed weeks of increasingly bitter exchanges between the two leaders.

He further alleged that some politicians exploited the public protests by recruiting criminal gangs to trigger violence. Murkomen warned that the government would move decisively against anyone found responsible.

“Any person who is involved in recruiting gangs and criminals, we will deal with them decisively and in accordance with the law,” he said.

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