CITIZEN DAILY NEWS

  As the campaigns for the Ndiwa parliamentary seat gain momentum, political analysts have dismissed Tedd Odero's candidacy, asserting that he lacks the necessary qualifications to contest for the position. A segment of Ndiwa leaders claims that Tedd has been leveraging his bid for the Ndiwa seat for personal financial benefits. Those with a good memory will recall that Tedd first announced his intention to run in 2007, when he was set to compete against the late Orwa Ojode. Observers of the political landscape in Ndiwa will concur that Tedd solicited funds from prominent politicians in South Nyanza, claiming he would challenge Ojode in the ODM nominations. Ultimately, he backed out and took a sabbatical as Ojode was decisively elected as the MP. After the tragic passing of Ojode in a helicopter crash, Tedd once again declared his intention to run in the subsequent by-election. However, he was later compromised by Agustino Neto, who secured the ODM nominations but served ...

According to the 2025 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report released this week, Kenya continues to be a significant source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking, despite notable advancements in combating this crime.   The report categorized Kenya as Tier 2, highlighting that while the government has made "substantial efforts," it still does not meet the minimum standards necessary for eradication.    "The Government of Kenya does not fully satisfy the minimum standards for the eradication of trafficking but is making considerable efforts to achieve this," the report stated. In the past year, authorities investigated forty-two new cases, nearly double the twenty-two reported in 2023. Prosecutions increased to forty-four cases, with twenty-one convictions, a significant rise from just three the previous year. The government also identified 195 victims, including 154 Kenyans who were exploited abroad, and financed their repatriation. For the first t...

  Uriri MP Mark Nyamita has expressed skepticism regarding the United Opposition, contending that the coalition of leaders opposing President William Ruto is destined to fail due to its lack of a genuine ideological foundation. During a political talk show broadcast on a local television station on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Nyamita remarked that what is referred to as a united opposition is not motivated by policy or a collective vision, but instead by animosity towards the Head of State. "I am uncertain if there is anything that can be termed as a united opposition. Hatred cannot sustain unity for an extended period," he asserted, emphasizing that such a coalition is not viable. Nyamita elaborated that the present opposition movement consists of leaders who are united by their aversion rather than a definitive political agenda. "The United Opposition is a coalition of political figures united by their disdain for President William Ruto and the advancement of Kenya...

Jeremiah Kioni, the Secretary General of the Jubilee Party, has alleged that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is trying to exert pressure on former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i amid negotiations for an opposition coalition.   On Monday, Kioni pointed out that Gachagua has been urging Matiang’i to leave Jubilee and engage in discussions with a lesser-known political party. Kioni asserted that Gachagua has been instructing Matiang’i on which political party to include in the negotiations. "Place Jubilee here, place your UDA there. And the most significant point, which is not a secret, is that they have convened in private and told Matiang’i, ‘Do not join Jubilee,’" he stated. He recounted an instance where Gachagua specifically directed Matiang’i to go to Kisii and secure a local party for the negotiations. Kioni challenged Gachagua’s legitimacy in this situation, remarking, "You openly tell him, in fact, at one point, you might recall Gachagua inst...

Robert Mbui, the Member of Parliament for Kathiani, has publicly endorsed Babu Owino for the position of Nairobi Governor.   During a statement made on Monday, September 29, 2025, the MP, who is allied with the Wiper Patriotic Front, conveyed his confidence in his colleague from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to take over from Governor Johnson Sakaja in 2027. Competent "Having served alongside Babu Owino in the National Assembly for two terms, I believe he possesses the capability for this role, and we also assert that Sakaja should only serve one term as governor," he remarked. Additionally, Babu Owino has stated that he is more than qualified to assume the presidency of Kenya. The MP for Embakasi East encouraged the youth of Kenya to register as voters, emphasizing that voter registration is essential for enacting change through the electoral process. In reciprocation of the endorsement, Kalonzo Musyoka suggested significant alterations within his party's fra...

  Businessman and politician Philip Aroko has urged those who were defeated in the Kasipul Kabondo by-election under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to come together in support of his bid against the party’s official candidate, Boyd Were. In a statement issued on Sunday, Septemb er 28, 2025, the parliamentary hopeful called on ODM’s previous rivals to create a united front with him, asserting that this was the sole means to overcome what he described as external forces being imposed on the residents of Kasipul. Aroko recognized the challenges that all candidates have encountered since the campaign to succeed the late Ongondo Were, who was tragically murdered in May, commenced. “Since the journey to replace our late MP began, Kasipul has experienced its share of challenges. It has been a tumultuous journey for all political participants, regardless of the parties they represented,” he remarked. The politician further accused ODM of trying to impose a leader on the constitue...

The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has addressed concerns regarding the reduced bonus for this year, asserting that the decline is a result of global market dynamics rather than internal mismanagement.   The agency pointed to weaker currency fluctuations and lower international prices as the primary reasons, highlighting that the shilling averaged 129 against the dollar in 2025, in contrast to 144 in 2024. According to KTDA, this situation resulted in farmers receiving less in shilling terms, even when global prices remained stable. The Agency noted that average tea prices across various factories indicate this downturn. In the East of Rift Valley, Kiambu reported Sh371 per kilo, a decrease of Sh46, while Murang’a dropped to Sh376, Nyeri to Sh388, Kirinyaga to Sh400, Embu to Sh404, and Meru to Sh381. In the western region of Rift, farmers experienced more significant impacts, with Kericho selling at Sh245 per kilo, down Sh101; Bomet at Sh209; Nyamira at Sh266; Kisii at Sh2...

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is scheduled to vote on Tuesday regarding a resolution that has the potential to elevate the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti into a more extensive and formidable Gang Suppression Force (GSF).   The current mandate of the MSS is set to expire on October 2. This vote occurs less than a year after China and Russia obstructed a similar initiative aimed at transforming the MSS into a comprehensive UN peacekeeping mission. At that time, Beijing contended that "there is no peace to keep," while Moscow accused Washington of external interference and cautioned against "hasty decisions." Both nations are anticipated to meticulously examine the GSF proposal, raising concerns about the possibility of them exercising their veto power once more. The resolution, co-sponsored by the United States and Panama, aims to establish a new Chapter VII mandate that would permit the deployment of over 5,500 perso...

The High Court has refused to grant bail to former Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and five co-accused officers who are charged with the murder of teacher and blogger Albert Omondi Ojwang while in police custody.   In her ruling delivered on Tuesday, Lady Justice Diana Kavedza ordered that Talaam, Police Constables James Mukhwana and Peter Kimani, along with three other suspects, remain in custody until key prosecution witnesses provide their testimonies. The six individuals are accused of planning a deadly assault on Ojwang, who passed away on June 8—two days following his arrest in Homa Bay County and subsequent transfer to Nairobi’s Central Police Station. His death ignited nationwide outrage, leading to protests and the burning of a police station, increasing pressure on authorities to ensure accountability. Public confidence Justice Kavedza remarked that while the prosecution had not demonstrated that the accused were likely to interfere with investigations...

  Just a day after the Jubilee Party, led by Uhuru Kenyatta, successfully convened its National Delegates Conference, the party's secretary general, Jeremiah Kioni, launched a fierce critique of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Kioni did not hold back in his remarks, branding Gachagua as a close ally of President William Ruto. This public denunciation underscores the growing tensions within the political landscape, particularly as the Jubilee Party navigates its position in relation to the current administration. Kioni's comments reflect not only internal party dynamics but also the broader implications of alliances and rivalries that are shaping the future of Kenyan politics. Kioni recently launched a series of accusations during a broadcast on a local radio station, asserting that Gachagua is engaged in clandestine negotiations with Ruto regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). He suggested that Gachagua is not genuinely opposed to the current administration a...

The aviation personnel affiliated with KAWU have postponed their intended industrial action until Thursday, allowing for an out-of-court resolution through conciliation discussions organized by the Ministry of Labour.   Originally, the strike was scheduled to commence on Wednesday, October 1, following a seven-day notice issued by KAWU on September 23, which highlighted grievances such as poor governance at the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) board, delays in staff confirmations, and outstanding payments. In a statement released on Monday evening, the union indicated that the suspension was a result of a court order after KAA sought to prevent the strike. The court mandated both parties to participate in conciliation, which commenced at the Ministry of Labour on Monday morning and continued into the evening. "Both the Union and management teams were present. The strike has been suspended for a period of two (2) days to facilitate conciliation," KAWU stated, noting that the ...

  The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) aims to register 28.5 million voters by the year 2027.   The commission has initiated a continuous voter registration campaign with the goal of expanding the voter roll to 28.5 million by the upcoming General Election in 2027. Chairperson Erastus Ethekon indicated that the commission intends to enroll at least 6.3 million new voters, focusing mainly on young individuals who have just turned 18 and those who have not registered previously. This initiative will also assist individuals wishing to transfer their voter registration to different polling locations. Ethekon stated, "The Commission anticipates that by 2027, we should have successfully registered approximately 28.5 million voters. To achieve this goal, we have commenced the first registration exercise today. Following the by-elections scheduled for November 27, we will promptly initiate a mass voter registration campaign that will extend to the villages and...

The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) has encountered a setback following the resignation of Magarini parliamentary aspirant Furaha Chengo from the party in the upcoming by-election on November 27. Chengo expressed that he could no longer fulfill his role as a member of the National Executive Committee (NEC), citing frustrations with the leadership and internal structures of the party. In a letter directed to the Secretary-General of the party led by Rigathi Gachagua, which was also sent to the Registrar of Political Parties and various media outlets, he outlined his grievances. The aspirant accused the National Elections Board (NEB) and the Secretary-General of not providing adequate support to aspirants, pointing out issues such as poor communication, neglect of grassroots concerns, and a lack of transparency in decision-making processes. "The ongoing absence of communication, neglect of grassroots issues, and the inability to offer clear guidance have fostered a situation wher...

  The High Court has ruled that hospitals and mortuaries cannot legally detain bodies due to unpaid bills, labeling this practice as unconstitutional and a breach of human dignity. In a significant ruling, Justice Nixon Sifuna instructed Mater Hospital to promptly release the body of Caroline Nthangu Tito, which had been retained for almost two months due to a disputed medical bill amounting to Sh3.3 million. Tito, a widow and mother of two college students, passed away on August 2 while undergoing treatment at the hospital. Her family was unable to proceed with her burial as the hospital insisted on full payment of the bill, in addition to a daily mortuary fee of Sh2,000. In delivering the judgment, Justice Sifuna criticized the practice as "inhumane and degrading," asserting that it causes unnecessary distress to grieving families. "The detention of bodies by mortuaries and hospitals for debt collection traumatizes bereaved families and shows a lack of respect for ...

  The Moi University Savings and Credit Society (MUSCO) has been placed under liquidation. Two officials have been appointed to oversee this process. Kennedy A. Emali, the Principal Cooperative Auditor from Nairobi, along with Druscillah Jebet Cherogony, the Principal Cooperative Officer from Uasin Gishu, will act as joint liquidators responsible for managing assets, raising funds, and settling debts. "Therefore, I appoint Kennedy A. Emali… and Druscillah Jebet Cherogony… to serve as joint liquidators in relation to the aforementioned Co-operative Society, effective immediately," stated David K. Obonyo, the Commissioner for Co-operative Development. MUSCO’s license was revoked in 2018 due to debts exceeding Sh1 billion, attributed to mismanagement and non-performing loans. Established in 1988 by the staff of Moi University, the Sacco has encountered resistance to its dissolution from over 3,000 members and political figures; however, the government has ruled out any possi...

Former Managing Director of Unga Group, Joseph Malel Choge, along with the previous head of the Kenya Literature Bureau, Victor Lomaria, are among the nine candidates who have been shortlisted for the Managing Director position at New Kenya Co-operative Creameries (New KCC).   The list of candidates also features Hussein Ada Mohamed, Linah C. Boit, Charles Mwirigi, Ingasira Mbarani, Richard Kibengo, Moses Njagi, and Samuel Ichura. These shortlisted individuals have been called for interviews following the completion of the application process that was announced on July 1, 2025. The search for a new Managing Director follows the conclusion of Nixon Sigey’s term. His third term, which was controversially extended in 2021 despite facing a court challenge, resulted in the expansion of facilities in Nyahururu, Dandora, and Eldoret. New KCC re-advertised the position in September 2024 after previous attempts to fill the role were unsuccessful, indicating a move towards restructuring l...

Patients suffering from infectious diseases will now benefit from quicker, life-saving diagnoses and treatments, thanks to the new technology implemented at Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi. This technology identifies disease-causing organisms in a mere 30 minutes, significantly reducing the previous wait time of 8 to 18 hours. This advancement is made possible by the installation of the Vitek MS Prime, a cutting-edge diagnostic platform developed by bioMérieux. Employing MALDI-TOF technology, this machine can swiftly detect a diverse array of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, yeast, and other difficult-to-identify pathogens responsible for pneumonia, meningitis, gastroenteritis, urinary tract infections, and various other illnesses. In contrast to its predecessor, which had a limited capacity, the Vitek MS Prime can identify a much wider range of disease-causing organisms, such as anaerobic bacteria, filamentous fungi, and specific mycobacteria, in just a matter of ...

Kenya Utalii College is poised to launch a Sh1 billion advanced training kitchen at its main campus in Nairobi, as part of extensive reforms aimed at reinstating its status as a leading institution for hospitality and tourism education.   Board chairman David Wamatsi stated that the Individual Training Kitchen (ITK), anticipated to be completed within two weeks, signifies one of the most significant investments in the college's history and will provide students with contemporary culinary skills sought after in both local and international markets. He mentioned that the kitchen, which will be outfitted with modern amenities, will offer practical training for students, equipping them with the necessary skills to compete effectively with peers from other global institutions. Wamatsi noted that numerous Utalii graduates are already securing positions on cruise ships and in prestigious hotels overseas, indicating that the institution is regaining its strength. During the Kisumu Touri...

The proceedings began at the cybercrime court located in Bamako, the capital, on Monday.   Mara faces charges that include undermining the state's credibility, opposing legitimate authority, and inciting public disorder. These charges stem from comments he made on social media in July after visiting opposition figures who are currently detained. In a post on X, he expressed his solidarity with these individuals, referring to them as "prisoners of conscience." He stated that his visits aimed to ensure that "the flame of hope never fades in them." "As long as the night lasts, the sun will inevitably rise. We will fight by all means to make that happen, and as soon as possible," he further remarked. Mara held the position of prime minister for nine months a decade ago and has recently emerged as a vocal critic of the military government. The junta, under the leadership of General Assimi Goita, seized power following two coups in 2020 and 2021. In 20...

A non-governmental organization, Childline Kenya, has successfully rescued 60 children from exploitative domestic labor in Kakamega County since the initiation of the Not Invisible Anymore (NIA) project in 2024, which seeks to eradicate exploitative Child Domestic Work (CDW).   In an interview with KNA in Kakamega town on Friday, Childline Kenya Projects officer, Erickson Ngetich, stated that exploitative Child Domestic Work (CDW) subjects children to hazardous conditions for extended periods. He noted that prolonged exposure and abuse deny children the chance to engage with their peers, thus hindering their self-development and growth. This rescue operation is part of the organization’s three-year initiative, ‘Not Invisible Anymore (NIA),’ funded by the Freedom Fund, which is dedicated to combating slavery and human trafficking. Ngetich mentioned that research conducted by the Freedom Fund’s Kenyan Hotspot Program revealed that a significant number of children in Kakamega are s...

  A ruling has been made in favor of Batrice Kathomi Kinyua in a case where Tharaka Nithi Governor Nuthomi Njuki was accused of unjustly terminating her contract. Kinyua was appointed by Governor Njuki as the County Executive Member (CECM) for a term of five years. However, on 13th January 2025, she received a letter from the governor dismissing her from her position due to gross misconduct. The legal team representing the governor submitted a response to the petition, acknowledging both Kinyua's appointment as a CECM and her subsequent dismissal. They contended that the termination was based on legitimate grounds and that a fair procedure was followed; however, Kinyua failed to take advantage of this opportunity by not responding to the show cause letters dated 6th June 2024 and 4th December 2024. Additionally, the respondents submitted a Replying Affidavit, which was sworn by County Attorney Franklin Mwendani on 11th March 2025. On March 17, 2025, the court issued an inte...