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Tuju wants the judiciary to reprimand Supreme Court Judges who opened a public debate on his case with a financial institution

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By Reporter

While the Judiciary has asked the former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju, to stop making public statements regarding an ongoing court case involving a company linked to him and a financial institution, Tuju has responded by demanding that the Judiciary should also reprimand two Supreme Court judges who started public debate on the matter..  

On Thursday, Judiciary spokesperson Paul Ndemo in a press release warned Tuju that the matter is before the courts and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and as such, the sub judice rule applies.

He said the legal battle between Dari Limited and the East African Development Bank (EADB) was before competent courts and the Judicial Service Commission.

“In accordance with the sub judice rule, which upholds the rule of law and the due administration of justice, these matters should be left for judicial determination and resolution by the JSC,” the statement read in part.  

We urge all parties to refrain from litigating their cases through the media or on social media platforms,” Ndemo added.  

But Tuju in his response said should he prosecuted for sub judice  then the Judges who also spoke on the matter in public should also be prosecuted.

He also demanded to be furnished with  specifics of what he said  which are  subjudice  and are not from  already  filed information in the  court   public records.

“If I  am to be put  on the dock for violating the rule of sub judice , I would  be glad to be in  the same  dock  with  the Supreme  court  judges  who  violated  the sub judice rules  in the first place .On my part I have been silent  from April last year  when  I filed  the case  against the SCoK judges at the JSC.  It is only  after they talked  it in public  that I exercised  my right of reply,” he said.

“We urge all parties to refrain from litigating their cases through the media or on social media platforms. We also call on the media to verify facts before reporting on such matters to avoid contributing to misinformation or disinformation,” Ndemo wrote in his statement.

Tuju also in his statement wrote back “ I don’t think you will succeed in gagging  the press  on matters  that  are  already filed  in court. And forget about intimidating me.  EADB has  been beneficiaries  of  favorable  reports  from  the media  on this matter  since 2019.”

These developments come as the Judiciary faces heightened scrutiny following a contentious Supreme Court ruling in favour of a senior bank manager, only for subsequent investigations to reveal that the manager had falsified evidence.

The dispute stems from a 2019 UK court ruling that ordered Dari Limited and its guarantors to repay a loan obtained from EADB, which now seeks to The High Court ratified the judgment, and the Court of Appeal upheld the decision, effectively greenlighting the foreign court’s ruling.  

However, Dari Limited’s appeal at the Supreme Court has stalled following a quorum hitch after judges recused themselves from the case. 

This came after Tuju accused them of bias in a formal complaint lodged with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).  

“In light of the seriousness of the allegations, the bench of the Supreme Court recused itself from the appeal. As a result, the judgment of the Court of Appeal remains in force,” the Judiciary noted.  

Last week, Tuju penned an open letter to Chief Justice Martha Koome, and called for formation of a tribunal for two leading counsels..

He maintains that his grievances are genuine, claiming they reflect the lived experiences of ordinary Kenyans seeking justice in the courts, firmly denying any political motivation.

Mahmoud hard test as Africa boils

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Junior Secondary Schools


By Billy Mijungu

Africa is on fire. From Sudan to Chad, from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Ethiopia and Eritrea, the continent is a battlefield of conflicts that threaten to consume entire nations.

Sudan is engulfed in war, Chad is on the verge of collapse, the DRC is spiraling into chaos, and Ethiopia is preparing for a confrontation with Eritrea over the Assab port. Eritrea, in turn, is ready to carve Tigray out of Ethiopia, a move they are fully capable of executing.

In Nigeria, terrorism has found a home. Armed groups operate with impunity, crossing into Cameroon and the broader region to unleash terror before returning to their safe havens.

South Sudan is boiling with instability, and the entire region is a ticking time bomb. The danger is real, the suffering is immense, and the threats are growing by the day.

Yet in the midst of this turmoil, the African Union Commission stands still. The very institution that should be leading the charge for peace, stability, and security has become a shadow of itself.

The new chairperson, Mahmoud Youssouf, has failed to rise to the occasion. While regional blocs like the Southern African Development Community and the East African Community attempt to mediate in Congo, the AU remains silent, its structures ignored, its presence reduced to irrelevance.

Instead of leading peace efforts, instead of rallying Africa’s diplomatic weight, the chairperson is focused on mundane administrative affairs in Addis Ababa opening Cafeterias and concentrating nepotism.

He has made the AU dysfunctional. His leadership lacks authority, his influence is absent, and his failure is evident.

Africa cannot afford an idle chief diplomat. The AU chairperson is not a ceremonial figure but the driver of the continent’s peace and security agenda. He must be at the forefront, engaging warring factions, negotiating ceasefires, mobilizing regional leaders, and pressing for solutions.

The absence of decisive leadership at the AU is not just a bureaucratic failure. It is a betrayal of the millions suffering under conflict. If Mahmoud Youssouf cannot step up and take control of the crisis, then he must step down. The African Union cannot be held hostage by weak leadership.

The continent needs a chairperson who commands respect, who takes action, and who refuses to watch Africa burn from the comfort of an office in Addis. If he cannot deliver, then he must go.

How 380,000 acres of land in Western Kenya  can transform the country’s rice economy for both Domestic and Export

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By Anderson Ojwang                   

The rice schemes in Western Kenya are capable of meeting the country’s annual demand of one million metric tons and to allow the country to export the product to international markets.

The rice schemes include Lower Nzoia, Lower Sio, East Kano, West Kano, Ahero and Kuja, which have benefited from ultra-modern irrigation infrastructure from the World Bank’s multi-billion financial support.

The Government had envisaged that by 2032, the country would stop the importation of rice once the various infrastructures become operational for rice production.

This can only be achieved if the government put into productive agricultural use of 380,000 acres in the region to produce one million metric tons.

Kenya’s annual rice consumption is estimated to be over one million metric tons, while local production is around 230,000 metric tons, resulting in a significant import dependency.

Former Alego MP and Entrepreneur Mr. Sammy Weya said studies have shown that Nyanza and Western have enough land to produce the annual rice production demand in the country and this would spur economic growth in the country.

He said through the World Bank-supported rice infrastructural irrigation facilities under the National Irrigation Board (NIB), the region has what it takes to maximize on the rice production in the region.

“World Bank has supported with Sh. 100 B for the construction of rice irrigation infrastructure. With this kind of facility, Western Kenya is capable of revolutionizing its economy from just one crop, the rice,” he said.

Currently, the country imports I million metric ton of rice from India and Pakistan at a value of USD .483 million, which is enough to change the economy of Western Kenya.

“ I am concerned about the quality of rice imported into the country because it comes from the food strategic reserves of these countries and may have stayed longer and be fit for human consumption.

If the government invested in rice farming in Kenya and especially in Western Kenya, it would be able to address the issue of poverty and save money inform of foreign exchange.

If we can tap into the rice sector and ensure the country doesn’t spend billions in rice imports but use that money for local production, we shall have opened the Western Kenya economy,” he said.

He said Kenya has the capacity to export rice to the international market if the existing economic opportunities are explored and exploited.

Komboka’ rice variety, introduced in both Mwea and Bura rice irrigation schemes a while back, is one of the varieties that is showing promise for farmers and has seen them harvesting between 38 to 50 bags per acre compared to the old Basmati rice, which a farmer gets about 25 kgs per acre.

For instance, on one acre of a rice farm, the framer would spend an input of Sh  72,500 to produce 3 tons, of puddy rice which is equivalent to 1,140,000 tonnes of rice one season per year. If we plant twice ,we will double and export. A kilogram of rice is sold at Sh 52, and the farmer would make a profit of Sh 82,500 per first harvest and make the same in the second harvest and earn Sh 183,000 in a year on an acre under rice plantation.

Weya said that to make it more profitable and economically viable, the fingerlings can be introduced in the rice farms as it is practiced in Indonesia and Malaysia.

“This will make Western Kenya to have a huge potential to make animal feeds from the by-products the rice bran, sunflower seed cake, soya seed cake and cotton seed cake, which are the main ingredients for animal feeds.

Currently, Kenya imports animal feeds from Uganda and Tanzania, making it expensive for local farmers, yet these can be produced locally to spur various economic activities,” he said.

He said the flooding of the local market by cheap imported rice was hurting the local production. Imported  50 kg of rice retails at Sh  4,500 while the locally produced one is costing Sh 6,000, which translates to Sh 120 per Kg

“Our locally produced rice may appear expensive, but it is the best quality and has never overstayed in the stores like the imported ones. If they were to import the freshly produced rice from these countries, the prices would be supersonic high,” he argued.

He said the government must protect local rice farmers and investors from unhealthy competition by instituting policies that encourage investment in the sector.

“The government should protect the farmers and investors as opposed to supporting foreign farmers.

The government should support private investors with revolving funds to pay farmers, which should be managed by a private investor and not the government.

If the government would inject Sh 2 B into the kitty  for payment of rice deliveries, within  three years, the country will be able and sustain rice production and  be able to export rice,” he said

Weya said the government should train farmers, give grants to rice farmers, aggregate farms into blocs of 500 hectares and use new technology to enhance production.

“The government must adopt modern farming equipment and methods, which include planters, drones for spraying organic fertilizers, land levelling machines, and combine harvesters to fully mechanise rice farming.

The equipment should be available for hire by farmers through a management service at a subsidized rate.

The government should work with KALRO  to get improved rice seedlings and enforce strict  rules on the quality of rice imported into the country,” he said.

Weya said that regarding marketing, the government should make a deliberate directive that all school feeding programs consume locally produced rice.

“Let all health and education institutions in the country consume our locally produced rice. This is the best way to open the local market for our rice and reduce high capital flight on rice importation,” he said.

Ogande Girls Aims to Be Crowned Winners at National Drama and Film Festivals

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By Robert Omolo

Nyanza’s representative, Ogande Girls from Homa Bay, have set their sights on winning this year’s culture and creative dance category in the National Drama and Film Festivals.

This follows their victory as champions in the Nyanza Regional Drama Festivals, where they won a trophy at Orero Boys High School in Homa Bay County.

The school will now represent the region in the national festival, which will be held in Nakuru County from 6th to 13th April 2025.

The school’s principal, Jane Odhiambo, said they are now putting in more effort to secure the national trophy at the festivals.

She stated that their regional-level win has given them motivation, and they will continue training hard in co-curricular activities ahead of the competition.

“The Ogande Girls team is focused on becoming the national champion in cultural dance this year. We’re working hard towards achieving this goal,” she said.

Speaking during the presentation of the trophy at the school compound in Homa Bay Town Constituency, Odhiambo said the win has boosted the morale of many teachers in their preparation to implement Kenya’s new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

The school head dedicated their victory to the support of teachers, parents, and non-teaching staff.

Ogande Girls also represented the county in hockey at the regional secondary schools’ sports games held at St Joseph’s Rapogi in Migori County.

Odhiambo said they are encouraging their learners to discover and nurture their talents, adding that such festivals provide a platform for students to showcase their abilities.

She called for more support to enable the girls’ team to enhance their training ahead of the competition.

Apart from engaging in co-curricular activities, more than 700 candidates attained a mean grade of C+ (plus) and above in last year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams, qualifying for direct entry into university.

“It was a collective effort that enabled Ogande Girls to emerge as the winners at the regional level. Our girls have also shown a lot of commitment because they want to explore their talents,” she said.

The Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) in Homa Bay and Orero Boys High School Chief Principal, Dickens Bula, commended Ogande Girls for their excellent performance, as well as all the schools from the Nyanza region that participated in the festivals.

He called for support for the winning teams.

“We are appealing to well-wishers to come forward and support the winning teams from the region to enable them to perform effectively in the festivals,” Bula said.

The economy is finally looking up after a turbulent start: Mudavadi

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By OPCS Press Service

Kenya’s economic projections are looking up, with growth improvement rising from 4.8 percent in 2022 to 5.2 per cent in 2023, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has said. Similarly, projections have pointed to an even greater growth in the 2024 review.

Mudavadi said inflation significantly dropped from 9.2 percent in September 2022, to 3.5 percent in February 2025. According to him, statistics show a positive growth in the overall Gross Domestic Product indicators.

“This has markedly reduced the cost of living and improved household incomes. Furthermore, the exchange rate has stabilized and interest rates fallen, improving credit access to the private sector,” said Mudavadi.

The Prime CS said the current figures come against the backdrop of the Government’s Mid-term Review and calls for the government to re-look at its score card report for the past two and a half years and assess its performance in scaling up strategies to improve service delivery to citizens.

Mudavadi noted that the “New World Order” as a result of the changing geopolitical landscape coupled with the effects of climate change and global conflicts is a wake-up call for Kenya to rethink how to reduce its vulnerability to external assistance and develop innovative ways of financing internal budgetary requirements.

He emphasized that prudent management of resources becomes even more urgent within government.

“During the ninth review of our programme with the International Monetary Fund recently, Kenya terminated the multi-year programme, forgoing over Sh110 billion ($853.5 million) in budget and balance of payments support. To bridge this gap, we have to tighten our belts, as we follow up on our formal request for a new IMF programme,” noted the Prime CS.

“The critical lesson we have learnt from this is the urgent need for us to grow our own internal resources, to reduce dependency on foreign aid. We must deal firmly with corruption, which is the greatest existential threat to our country’s economic growth and social transformation. That is why we have invited the IMF to undertake a Governance Diagnostic Assessment, to identify weaknesses and corruption vulnerabilities in core state functions that are critical to macroeconomic stability and growth,” added Mudavadi.

Mudavadi has revealed that the IMF team has finalized a scoping mission that will lead to the detailed governance assessment in early June 2025.

This he said will help in developing and implementing a robust governance reform plan for the next few years.

“I call upon all Kenyans and the relevant leadership and institutions to fully support this initiative and avail the necessary data and information, especially the respective ministries when called upon to do so,” urged Mudavadi.

Mudavadi said the government is cognizant of the higher expectations of Kenyans more than ever before since citizens are yearning for more from the Government and its leaders especially in delivering on the main pillars of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, BETA.

He explained that the new broad-based government provides an opportunity for government to demonstrate greater responsiveness to the needs of the citizens and validates the resolve to reach out to all Kenyans across board without discrimination in addressing the differences between the Government and the people on the BETA priorities.

“One of the BETA pillars, Universal Health Coverage, is frequently in the news. Over 20.6 million Kenyans have registered for the healthcare program, marking a significant step in the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund to the Social Health Authority. 7. While the new healthcare financing model improves the citizens’ access to quality and affordable healthcare, we must address the fundamental issues emerging from the people who interact with the system. These include the eligibility of SHA members, which is determined by a means testing criterion that just over four million Kenyans have completed. This implies that 80 percent of the registered members cannot fully enjoy the envisaged benefits. The therapy is to scale up public communication and stakeholder engagement, to fully onboard all Kenyans on the SHA platform,” he explained.

Mudavadi also noted that government is deepening dialogue with the private healthcare providers on the Government’s commitment to settle historical NHIF debts, accumulated to an estimated Sh33 billion in the past decade.

He stated that government has already paid Sh8.6 billion and President Ruto has assured that all verified debts will be settled, starting with Sh10 million and below owed to small hospitals that constitute 91 percent of the creditors.

“Our endeavour is to restore services throughout the healthcare value chain, while rethinking strategies for ensuring long-term stability of the healthcare system. These include engaging members of parliament and county governments to build and equip more public health facilities and hire additional healthcare workers,” he said.

Mudavadi also gave the government’s assurance that issues emerging around the affordable housing agenda are being addressed, noting that key milestones have already been achieved, including launching the construction of 95,737 affordable, social and institutional housing units across the country.

He added that the initiative has up to date triggered at least 200,000 direct and indirect jobs and further, created business opportunities worth Sh 4.4 billion for Jua Kali and other micro, small and medium enterprises.

“The key message is about creating sustainable opportunities for jobs, incomes and shared prosperity. The Government is stepping up its promise to build 250,000 houses a year, and Kenyans will see how much affordable housing stimulates economic growth and promotes equity and inclusivity in the distribution of resources,” he explained.

Mudavadi who was speaking at the Kenya School of Government, Wednesday, when he chaired the 1st National Development Implementation Committee (NDIC) meeting of 2025, that brought together top government officials amongst them representatives from the office of the Head of the Public Service who is the vice chairperson of the NDIC and Principal Secretaries drawn from all State Departments.

“Kenyans are constantly reminding us of our responsibility as leaders to deliver on the social compact they signed when they elected the Kenya Kwanza Administration. There is need for us to engage more constructively with the people, to persuade them to give us another term to realize our dream of building an industrialized and prosperous Kenya for all,” noted Mudavadi.

Oburu to the Mountain: You betrayed Raila, We don’t regret to be in broad-Based Government 

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Raila Odinga

By Anderson Ojwang

In his uncharacteristic manner, Siaya Senator  Dr Oburu Odinga opened and poured out his heart on the betrayal of the Lake by the Mountain in the last Presidential election.

Speaking in Meru County at a burial, before his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Oburu did not mince his word when he talked about the betrayal by Mountain in the last presidential election and why he doesn’t regret being in the broad based government with President William Ruto.

Oburu said Raila made huge sacrifices to then President Uhuru Kenyatta in the hope that Mt Kenya would reciprocate by supporting his presidential ambition, but that went nought.

“ As things stand, we are in this government called a broad-based government. I am a member of a broad-based government. Martha Karua has told me she is very far from a broad-based government. It is ok. Because we are friends, that doesn’t spoil the friendship. Because we might be there and there, but tomorrow we are together.

So politics is like that, but I want to say that our country must remain united. Raila is very big-hearted. You know, for five years, Raila supported Uhuru Kenyatta without asking Uhuru to give him ministers, to give him anything, because he wanted to bring the Mountain closer to us.

The government you supported, Raila, gave you unconditional support. And we were expecting that when Raila now stands for presidential candidate, the Mountain was going to come and give Raila a reciprocal treatment.

But as things stood out and as fate had it, that did not happen. And, Uhuru Kenyatta warned you people and told you that you would cry.

Now, when you are crying, you want Raila to come and rescue you. How does he do it?  So we are in a broad-based government and we don’t regret.

What we want to do is to have our country united and peaceful. Let us continue. Elections will come and go. When those elections come, people will decide who to lead, but for now, we must be stable and we must stabilize the government of the day.

 For instance, in Kirinyaga county, the home turf of Raila’s running mate Martha Karu, Ruto got  84 percent of the votes, accounting for 220,752 votes, while Raila got a paltry 14 percent, accounting for 37,978 of votes

In Kiambu county, the home ground of President Uhuru, Ruto managed 72.9 percent of the votes, amounting  to 606,105 votes, while Raila only managed 25 percent, accounting for 210,495

Again in Nyeri county, Raith’s village, Ruto received 82.79 percent of the votes, amounting to 272,577 of the votes, while Raila got 15.3 percent, accounting for 52,043 votes.

Finally, in Muranga, Ruto got 81 percent of the votes, accounting for 343,421, while Raila got a paltry 17 percent that accounting for 73,539 votes.

Raila’s running mate Martha Karua acknowledged hostility to the candidature in the Mountain but added that it later thawed down.

People sometimes converge and also disagree, and when you agree to disagree, it is ok. Last season, I campaigned with Baba, and I helped enter the mountain amidst great hostility.

 But after five days of braving that hostility, it calmed down, and we were able to campaign in the region. Because politics is not for the faint-hearted.

I want to agree also, it is the right of those who feel that broad-based is the way to go. It is also our right to be in the opposition, and that is why I firmly remain in the opposition and with the people,” she said.

Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, once a critic of Raila ahead of the 2022 election, said it was time to slay the dragon of tribalism and unite the nation.

“ I want to say this specifically to my friend,  former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, a lot has been said about his stand on contemporary politics of this country. When I became a minister, way before the broad-based government. I sensed something was wrong with this country, and the center can no longer hold, and we can no longer continue with the politics of division, balkanization, and antagonism.

Let me correct you a bit, my senior, Youth leader, you have talked about the people of the Mountain. Let me tell you something, Raila did not come to a broad-based government to save the people from this region, but to save this country. And that is a whole difference.

When we had problems with  Gen Z and you know what happened, He had two options and it was his right to choose any. He would have burnt the country but opted to save the country.

I want to assure you personally, wherever you go, I will go with you to unite the country.

You know what, Senator Oburu, previously, I was a champion of tribalism. I got saved. Every angel has a past, and every sinner has a future. That is why I want to wonder and ask, I have listened to my Sister Martha Karua,  they will condemn the ills of the government, but let us not return the country to tribal divisions.

When I see Karua with those other leaders championing tribalism in Kenya, I say every sinner has a future,” he said.

Rarieda MP Otiende Amolo said in politics there is convergence and divergence, and this should not result in violence but peaceful co-existence.

“When we converge, understand us. When we diverge in understanding, we will also understand you. All that we ask is for the church to pray for us that in our convergence and divergence, let it not result in violence,” he said.

President Ruto nominates the sponsor of anti demo bill to the cabinet

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By Anderson Ojwang

President William Ruto has nominated a political hardliner and opponent of public demonstrations to the cabinet.

Similarly, the tallest politician in Mt Kenya and Mbeere North MP, Geoffrey Ruku, was appointed to replace his constituent, the sacked Public Service Cabinet Secretary, Justin Muturi.

Before the announcement of his appointment this afternoon, Ruku had hosted Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki in his backyard for the launch of development projects.

Ruku had, last year, sponsored the controversial Assembly and Demonstration Bill 2024, which sought to impose stricter regulations on public protests by granting the police greater control.

Muturi, a former Speaker of the National Assembly, was once a close ally of Ruto and played a key role in his 2022 presidential campaign but recently found himself increasingly sidelined in key cabinet decisions.

The rift became more evident when Muturi publicly contradicted some of the administration’s positions in his role as Public Service Cabinet Secretary.

Kindiki had posted on his Facebook page:

“Revitalising agriculture for better productivity and higher returns to farmers requires a steep increase in land under irrigation across the country.

Impromptu inspection of progress on the Sh258 million Kanyaumbora Irrigation Project in Mbeere North Constituency, Embu County.

Area MP Geoffrey Ruku, officials of the National Irrigation Authority, and the project’s beneficiaries were present.“

Ruku is the only MP elected under the Democratic Party of Kenya, for which Muturi was the presidential candidate before entering into a political coalition with President Ruto to join the Kenya Kwanza Coalition.

The Democratic Party recently wrote to the Registrar of Political Parties, giving notice of its intention to leave the coalition, citing the changing political climate in Mt Kenya and the country.

Muturi, the former party leader, had earlier confirmed the move, saying it was within the party’s democratic right to sever links with President Ruto’s coalition.

Recently, the National Assembly and Demonstration Bill 2024 came under heavy criticism, with the police, human rights organisations, civil society groups, and police watchdog bodies calling for its immediate withdrawal.

Critics have branded the bill as retrogressive and unconstitutional, arguing that it infringes on fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.

Their concerns were raised as the police proposed amendments to the Public Order Act to regulate noise pollution during protests.

The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) and the National Police Service (NPS) suggested incorporating these changes into the existing law to ensure demonstrations remain peaceful and do not disrupt public order.

The commission’s Director of Legal Affairs, James Nduna, acknowledged that while Kenyans have the right to protest, demonstrations should be conducted in a moderate manner.

“We must have a clear provision on how to regulate noise so that it is controlled – just like in the US, where protests occur with minimal noise,“ said Nduna.

He further emphasised that demonstrations should not turn into entertainment events.

“There must be a way of separating noise from protests. We cannot have a situation where people hire a DJ to entertain crowds in the middle of town,“ Nduna stated.

NPS Director of Training, Wycliffe Opiyo, pointed out that the current Public Order Act lacks specific provisions on noise pollution, making it necessary to include regulations addressing this issue.

The debate around the bill intensified as the NPSC, NPS, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) highlighted that amendments to the Public Order Act are already underway under the supervision of the Attorney General.

They argued that passing a separate bill would result in the duplication of laws.

The bill, sponsored by Ruku, sought to provide a legal framework for regulating public assemblies and demonstrations, as outlined in Article 37 of the Constitution.

However, the NPSC insists that the existing Public Order Act already offers a sufficient framework for managing protests while maintaining public order.

“The best approach is to amend the Public Order Act to align with international standards rather than creating a separate bill,” Nduna explained.

IPOA Chief Executive Elema Halake strongly opposed the bill, warning that it rolls back fundamental rights, particularly the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and petition.

“The bill introduces unnecessary restrictions, including pre-approval requirements by authorities and punitive measures on conveners,” they said.

Despite their opposition to the bill, the NPS has proposed amendments that they believe should be considered if the bill proceeds.

These include reducing the threshold for public gatherings from 100 people (as stated in the bill) to 10 people and introducing a new section to criminalise obstruction during demonstrations and regulate how protests impact traffic flow.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), represented by Commissioner Marion Mutugi, criticised the bill for its biased approach to spontaneous protests.

She pointed out that the bill only protects organised demonstrations while penalising unplanned or spontaneous protests through the mandatory notification process.

She also questioned Clause 12 (1) of the bill, which severely limits freedom of assembly, and argued that:

“Organisers cannot be held accountable for the actions of every individual in a protest. If rogue individuals cause damage, it is the duty of the police to maintain law and order.“

Ruto sacks Muturi and replaces him with his Mp

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Raila

By Remmy Butia

In a Cabinet reshuffle announced today, President William Ruto has dismissed the immediate Public Service CS and Justin Muturi and reassigned key ministers in a bid to revitalize his administration. The changes come amid growing public pressure for accountability and improved service delivery.

Key Changes in the Cabinet

Justin Muturi Dismissed

Former Attorney General and Public Service CS Justin Muturi has been relieved of his duties, marking a significant shift in the leadership of Kenya’s political realignments. Muturi, previously served as the Speaker of the National Assembly. His dismissal signals a new direction in President Ruto’s political strategy.

Aden Duale Moved to Health Ministry

Former Defence and Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has been reassigned to the Ministry of Health, taking over from Debora Mlongo. Duale, a seasoned politician and former Majority Leader in the National Assembly, will now oversee Kenya’s healthcare system at a time when the country is pushing for universal health coverage (UHC) and addressing challenges in public hospitals.

Deborah Mlongo is the new Environment CS

Health CS Deborah Mlongo, has been reassigned as the new Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry. She takes over from Duale, as the government seeks to strengthen its climate action policies ahead of major global environmental summits.

Geoffrey Ruku Nominated for Public Service Ministry

Hon. Geoffrey Ruku, the Member of Parliament for Mbeere North, has been nominated as the new Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes. If approved by Parliament, he will replace outgoing CS Justin Muturi. Ruku’s nomination is seen as a strategic move to to silence Justin Muturi who has been fighting the government from within.

Hanna Wendot Cheptumo Nominated for Gender Ministry

Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, a women’s rights advocate, has been nominated as the new Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, The Arts, and Heritage. She will be tasked with promoting gender equality, preserving Kenya’s cultural heritage, and supporting the creative arts industry.

Political Implications

This reshuffle comes at a time when President Ruto is under pressure to address economic challenges and improve governance.

The reassignment of Aden Duale to Health suggests the government is prioritizing strong leadership in the sector, while the nomination of Geoffrey Ruku and Hanna Cheptumo reflects an emphasis on grassroots representation and gender inclusivity.

The nominated CSs will undergo vetting by the National Assembly’s Appointments Committee before assuming office. If approved, the new team is expected to drive President Ruto’s agenda in the remaining years of his administration.

President Ruto’s latest Cabinet reshuffle signals a fresh approach to governance, with a focus on efficiency, accountability, and service delivery. The dismissal of Justin Muturi and the introduction of new faces mark a significant shift in Kenya’s political landscape.

Serve Our People with Integrity, Excellence, and Accountability – Wanga to Newly Appointed CECM and COs

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By Habil Onyango

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has urged the newly appointed County Executive Committee Member and two Chief Officers to serve the county diligently and ensure they deliver on their promises to the people.

Wanga said the appointments reflect a moment of renewal and commitment, reaffirming her administration’s resolve to provide efficient and people-centred services to the great people of Homa Bay.

She emphasised that the officers must be guided by the values of hard work, transparency, and service to humanity.

“The journey ahead requires teamwork, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the people and our collective vision of a prosperous county,” said Wanga.

According to Wanga, the appointees bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and passion that will be instrumental in driving their agenda forward.

“The individuals we are swearing in today bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and passion that will be instrumental in driving our agenda forward,” she said.

Engineer Elijah Ogodo Munga was sworn in as the County Executive Committee Member for Youth, Sports, Talent Development, Gender, Inclusivity, Cultural Heritage, and Social Services, while Elly Nyiero will now serve as the Chief Officer in the same department.

Stephen Okeyo Othira has been appointed as the Chief Officer for Education, Human Capital Development, and Vocational Training.

“To our newly sworn-in leaders, today marks the beginning of a journey of service,” said Wanga.

“The people of Homa Bay have placed their trust in you, and they expect nothing less than excellence, accountability, and integrity,” she added.

“Your roles are not just about policies and programmes; they are about changing lives, building a brighter future, and leaving a legacy that future generations will be proud of,” said the Governor.

Wanga, however, urged the appointees to work closely with the people, listen to their concerns, and be proactive in finding solutions.

“Your success will be measured by the impact you make in the lives of the people you serve,” she said.

Empowering the Youth and Developing Talent

According to the Governor, young people are the cornerstone of the county’s future, and with the leadership of Ogodo and Nyiero, she expects bold and innovative policies to nurture sports and talent, enhance gender inclusivity, and preserve the county’s rich cultural heritage.

She stated that the county would continue investing in sports infrastructure, talent academies, and social development programmes to provide young people with the best opportunities to excel.

“Through structured mentorship programmes, skills development, and a strong focus on inclusivity, we will ensure that every young person in Homa Bay finds a platform to grow and thrive,” said Wanga.

“Our administration is keen on strengthening partnerships to support talent development, provide funding for creative industries, and promote social empowerment initiatives that uplift the most vulnerable in our society,” she added.

The Governor further affirmed her administration’s commitment to transforming education and skills development across the county.

She noted that the future of Homa Bay County is shaped by the investments they make in education today.

“With the appointment of Othira as the Chief Officer for Education, we are reinforcing our commitment to improving access to quality education and skills training,” she said.

“We are making significant progress in constructing modern Early Years Education (EYE) classrooms, expanding vocational training institutions, and strengthening our bursary and scholarship programmes, including the Fins to Swim and Fundi Mang’ula initiatives,” said Wanga.

“I charge you, Mr Othira, to take up the challenge of ensuring our children and youth receive quality education and the skills needed to compete in a fast-changing world,” Wanga directed.

The event was also attended by Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga, County Assembly Speaker Polycap Okombo, Majority Leader in the County Assembly Richard Ogindo, and other senior county and assembly officials.

Magwanga stressed that the officers must observe the code of conduct to ensure they diligently and effectively serve the people of Homa Bay.

He urged them to work tirelessly to create more job opportunities for unemployed residents.

“Any office you serve in has a code of conduct that is key to your service to the people,” he said.

“Your past, present, and future behaviour are all critical, and you must strive to serve our people diligently,” he advised.

“You are joining a team that already has a system in place, so you must ask yourself whether you are going to contribute positively or negatively to what has already been established,” he said.

Bare Knuckle: President Ruto and CS Muturi face off over Competence Tiff

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By Anderson Ojwang                                  

The political tiff between President William Ruto and his Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has reached a melting and irreparable point.

This time, the spat is about the allegation of incompetence on one side and the justification of competence on the other side.

The dice is cast, and the two leaders have reached a fever pitch and a point of no return in the falling out between the coalition partners.

And it is just a matter of time before President Ruto cracks the whip on his once ally turned ardent critic and who has vowed not to resign from the cabinet.

Muturi has, in recent times, snubbed some of the key functions and meetings by President Ruto, indicating that all is not well in the Kenya Kwanza government.

Yesterday, President Ruto took a swipe at Muturi, saying he proved incompetent as Attorney General and accused him of delaying the rollout of the Muslim endowment fund.

“ I had a problem with the Attorney General who was there before, he was fairly incompetent. But now, I have a very competent lady in the position, and I  can assure you that the issues of Waqf will be sorted out within months,” he said during an Iftar session at State House.

Hardly 12 hours after Ruto’s comment, Muturi made a rebuttal saying “ Under the Waqf Act no 8 of 2022, there is no provision for a:” Muslim Endowment  Fund”. It must be understood that a waqf is a religious, charitable or benevolent endowment by a person who professes  Muslim faith and is managed by the Waqf Commission”.

Muturi went further to share his performance indicators in his Exit scorecard report while he was the Attorney General, listing his achievements.

Muturi wrote in his Exit score card report that the achievements of the office were based on the mandate of the  Office as provided under section 5(1) of the Act. The office played a key role in facilitating the Kenya Kwanza Government to achieve its transformational agenda by advising MDAs and Constitutional Commissions on all matters. 

He wrote, “ In accordance with its mandate, the Office is to represent the national government in court or in any other legal proceedings to which the national government (ministries, departments and state corporations) is a party. These include legal proceedings filed in international, regional or municipal courts, international and domestic arbitral tribunals and other statutory tribunals and other Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) fora such as mediation, adjudication and negotiation, amongst others. 

For the period under review, the office has concluded 1,588 out of which 1,503 were successfully defended and saved the country Sh. 17.5 billion

An analysis of some of the concluded cases demonstrates savings to the Government in excess of Sh. 17.5 billion

Some key highlights of cases that the Office successfully defended and consequently saved the government money include:

  • Nairobi Civil Appeal No. 638 of 2019 Attorney General vs Kabuito Contractors Limited, where the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal, thereby saving the government in excess of Sh.5,200,637,048.53 upon factoring the award of interest.
  • Nairobi Supreme Court Petition No. E006 of 2022, Torino Enterprises Ltd vs Attorney General, where the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal, thus saving the Government in Sh. 3,771,429,041.10.
  • Eldoret ELC No. 649 of 2012: Stephen K. Cheruiyot -v- Attorney General & others, the court dismissed a third-party claim against the Attorney General for the sum of Sh.100 million being an indemnity for wrongful allocation of the land

The Government’s interest was safeguarded during negotiations to sign international agreements and instruments. 

708 legal advisories on bilateral, regional and international law matters issued to Ministries within six days of receiving the requests. 

The Office issued 225 advisories in matters on International Judicial Cooperation in criminal matters within 6 working days. 

The Office represented the Government in five (5) ongoing International Arbitration matters seeking to defend the Government against liabilities in excess of Sh. 632Billion.

The Office issued a total of 511 advisories, being part of the delegations that negotiated 167 loan and grant agreements and attended 104 meetings with Ministries, Departments, Agencies and County Governments. 

The advisories issued were with regard to providing guidance to ensure that development projects and initiatives are implemented in accordance with the existing laws and regulations, reviewing existing and new policies required for the implementation of the BETA, supporting the legal aspects of setting up social enterprises that align with the bottom-up agenda, including structuring,  compliance.

The Office facilitated the formal drafting of 36 pieces of legislation to support the BETA including the Affordable Housing Bill, 2023, Gambling Control Bill, 2023, the National Lottery Bill, 2023, and 11 Legal Notices for the establishment of Special Economic Zones and Export Processing Zones (in Kiambu County, Mombasa County, Nairobi County, Trans Nzoia County, Murang’a County and Uasin Gishu County). 

Through the Advocates’ Complaints Commission, the Office has received a total of 1,052 complaints against advocates. 

The Government operationalized the registration of Civil, Christian, Hindu, Customary and Muslim marriages in all the 47 counties. In the period under review, the Government facilitated and registered 60,175 marriages, resulting in a revenue collection of Sh. 116,826,739.

 In the period under review, the Government facilitated and registered 60,175 marriages, resulting in a revenue collection of Sh 116,826,739

The Office  operationalized the registration of Civil, Christian, Hindu, Customary and Muslim marriages in all the 47 counties

The government rolled out registration of marriages via oag.ecitizen.go.ke. 13 services were onboarded with the Nairobi Office as the pilot project, with immediate plans to roll out to regional offices. Under the E-citizen platform, 26,044 services were offered, resulting in a revenue collection of Sh. 69,942,000. 

For the period under review, the Public Trustee finalized the administration of 4055 estates of deceased persons and trusts and has disbursed approximately Shs. 3.1 billion to widows, widowers, orphans and other beneficiaries. 

The Office offered legal aid to 122,221 indigents, marginalized and the vulnerable members of the society in Criminal, civil and children’s matters. The services were offered in the Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nyeri, Makueni, Marsabit, Garissa and Tana River Counties.

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