Kenya Minute.
Saturday, 25 April 2026
Kenya’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Saturday, 25 April 2026
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Politics

Parliament, cabinet, parties, governance.

Today

  1. ODM officials in Ruto cabinet face scrutiny amid economic crises

    ODM experts who joined President William Ruto's government in 2024 following a political agreement with the late Raila Odinga were expected to stabilize Kenya's economic challenges, but their impact is now under question as crises continue to mount.

    4 hours ago · The Standard

  2. Political zoning push divides Kenyan ruling and opposition camps

    The push for political zoning ahead of the 2027 General Election is threatening unity both within the Broad-Based government arrangement between UDA and ODM, and within the United Opposition formation, with the Opposition facing a test of cohesion ahead of the Ol Kalou by-elections.

    4 hours ago · The Standard

  3. Ruto faces fiscal squeeze as IMF deal stalls, elections loom

    President William Ruto confronts shrinking fiscal options and political pressure as Kenya's economy slows with elections just 16 months away. An IMF deal has stalled, narrowing the government's tax and spending room for maneuver.

    4 hours ago · The Standard

  4. ODM factional battle intensifies as Linda Mwananchi holds Kisumu rally

    The Linda Mwananchi faction of ODM is holding its first rally in Kisumu, competing with the rival Linda Ground faction in a struggle over the late Raila Odinga's political legacy that threatens to fragment the party and divide the Nyanza vote.

    4 hours ago · The Standard

  5. ODM Linda Mwananchi faction backs Orengo to challenge Ruto

    The Linda Mwananchi faction of ODM has declared Siaya Governor James Orengo as Acting ODM Party leader and a possible challenger to President William Ruto in the 2027 presidential election, vowing to produce a candidate to unseat him.

    4 hours ago · The Standard

Friday 24 April

  1. Opposition targets Mombasa in 2027 election challenge

    Opposition leaders are campaigning in Mombasa to break what they claim is ODM's political monopoly in the coastal region, endorsing Nyali MP Mohamed Ali as their unified gubernatorial candidate on a Wiper ticket. The opposition accuses the government of sidelining the Coast and failing to revive the local economy.

    9 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  2. Speaker Wetangula urges Health Ministry to address teachers' SHA challenges

    National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has urged the Ministry of Health to address challenges teachers are facing under the Social Health Authority medical scheme, saying the issues preventing them from accessing quality medical services are valid and need practical solutions. Teachers have expressed frustration with the scheme, citing high out-of-pocket costs, lack of comprehensive cover compared to previous schemes, and calling for removal of co-payments and better access to specialized care.

    10 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  3. Ruto rebuffs Mt. Kenya political gatekeepers during Murang'a tour

    President William Ruto castigated political leaders he said were trying to act as gatekeepers for Central Kenya's political direction, stating he will only humble himself before God and the electorate, not other politicians. During a tour of Murang'a County, he announced Ksh.27 billion in investments for affordable housing, markets, and other infrastructure, and noted improved coffee prices and a trade agreement allowing Kenyan agricultural exports duty-free and quota-free access to China's market.

    12 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  4. Kisumu leaders urge calm ahead of Linda Mwananchi Sunday rally

    Local leaders and residents in Kisumu are calling for peace and issue-focused political engagement ahead of a planned Linda Mwananchi rally on Sunday, with members of Bunge La Mwananchi urging visiting leaders including James Orengo and Edwin Sifuna to avoid inflammatory rhetoric. Economic concerns are also prominent, with artisans and traders warning that political divisions could disrupt livelihoods and emphasizing the importance of maintaining the peace the city has recently experienced.

    13 hours ago · Capital News

  5. Karua calls for political shift, new leadership in Kenya

    People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua rallied supporters in Karatina, calling for a political shift and urging citizens to reject the current regime and any replacement that offers "the same failure in a different form." She emphasised the need for transformative leadership grounded in service and accountability.

    14 hours ago · Capital News

  6. Wetangula rallies Bungoma teachers to strengthen Western support

    National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula held meetings with teachers and union officials in Bungoma County as part of political mobilization efforts to consolidate support for President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to education sector reform and emphasized teachers' influence within communities, following similar outreach to religious leaders and community elders in the region.

    14 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  7. Wetang'ula calls on Health Ministry to address SHA problems for teachers

    National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has called on the Ministry of Health to urgently address challenges affecting teachers under the Social Health Authority medical scheme, acknowledging concerns around high out-of-pocket expenses, limited access to specialised treatment, and reduced coverage benefits. Legislators have vowed to push for reforms in Parliament to ensure the scheme works effectively for educators.

    14 hours ago · Capital News

  8. Matiang'i urges leaders to stop pressuring police ahead of elections

    Jubilee presidential candidate Fred Matiang'i called for political leaders to cease interference with security agencies, urging them to allow the Inspector General and DCI to operate independently. He warned against inflammatory rhetoric and confrontational mobilisation, emphasising that Kenya's progress depends on stability and peace as the country approaches the 2027 general election.

    14 hours ago · Capital News

  9. United Opposition grants direct ticket to Nyali MP for Mombasa governor race

    Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka announced that Nyali MP Mohamed Ali will receive a direct United Opposition ticket to contest the Mombasa gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election. Kalonzo said the coalition decision reflects a unified opposition strategy aimed at strengthening chances in key counties and avoiding internal competition.

    14 hours ago · Capital News

  10. Kalonzo awards direct Wiper ticket to Moha Jicho Pevu for Mombasa

    Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka announced that Nyali MP Mohamed Ali (Jicho Pevu) will receive a direct ticket from the United Opposition to contest the Mombasa gubernatorial seat in 2027, citing his anti-corruption track record.

    15 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  11. Sifuna blames Ruto and Murkomen for rising insecurity

    ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna told a Linda Mwananchi rally in Vihiga that the country's insecurity stems from decisions at the highest levels of government, not from frontline police officers. He accused Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen of misusing police resources while state security is deployed for political interests.

    15 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  12. Gachagua claims Ruto must pay people to attend Mt. Kenya meetings

    Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleged during a press conference in Mombasa that President William Ruto cannot hold organic political meetings in the Mt. Kenya region and must pay attendees to show up, citing an example from a recent burial event where he claimed the President brought 8,000 people and paid them 2,000 shillings each.

    17 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  13. Ruto insists Mt Kenya region will choose 2027 presidential candidate

    President Ruto says no one will decide for the Mt Kenya region on its presidential choice in 2027, emphasizing residents will assess his record. The remarks come as his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached, has claimed the region was duped into supporting Ruto and subsequently neglected.

    17 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  14. Senators challenge governors to prove corruption allegations

    The Senators' Liaison Committee challenged governors to provide evidence supporting claims of extortion and corruption within the Senate, accusing some county chiefs of using diversionary tactics. Senators warned that governors ignoring summons to the Senate Public Accounts Committee over audit queries face potential arrest and prosecution, and maintained they are executing their Constitutional oversight duties.

    17 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  15. Opposition leaders campaign in Mombasa ahead of next elections

    Opposition leaders aligned with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have campaigned in Mombasa County, urging residents to vote out incumbent officials and address issues including economic hardship, youth unemployment, and development disparities. Political analysts view the tour as early groundwork for coalition building and voter mobilization.

    18 hours ago · Capital News

  16. Ruto dismisses Gachagua pressure in Mt Kenya campaign push

    During a development tour of Murang'a County, President William Ruto dismissed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's claims that he must seek approval from regional political figures to secure Mt. Kenya support, stating "I will not kneel" and emphasizing that leadership should be judged on performance rather than political influence.

    18 hours ago · Capital News

  17. Ichung'wah claims Gachagua gave him Sh5 million in cash

    National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah claims he received Sh5 million in cash from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, allegedly delivered by an aide called "Ngotho" at a petrol station, which Gachagua later said was meant to help with constituency obligations and fundraiser pressures.

    18 hours ago · Capital News

  18. Linda Mwananchi faction holds political rally in Vihiga

    The Linda Mwananchi faction held a political rally in Vihiga.

    19 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  19. Controller warns tax exemptions bill risks revenue losses

    Kenya's Controller of Budget cautioned that the proposed Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2026—which would exempt certain internal property transfers from Capital Gains Tax—could expose the country to significant tax losses without stronger safeguards. The office recommended requiring companies to remain tax-resident in Kenya for three years after restructuring, a mandatory review of the exemption's impact after three years, and advance approval from the Kenya Revenue Authority for large transactions exceeding Ksh.500 million.

    20 hours ago · Citizen Digital

  20. Linda Mwananchi faction rallies in Vihiga and Kisumu this weekend

    The Linda Mwananchi faction, led by Senators Edwin Sifuna and Godfrey Osotsi, Governor James Orengo, and MP Babu Owino, will hold rallies in Vihiga on Saturday and Kisumu on Sunday. The activities have drawn criticism from some ODM members, with MP Samuel Atandi accusing the faction of disrespecting party leader Oburu Oginga.

    25 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  21. Nigeria swears in court martial for 36 officers in coup plot case

    Nigeria's armed forces inaugurated a military court to try 36 serving officers accused of mutiny and plotting to overthrow the government in a botched coup attempt late last year. The government initially denied the alleged putsch before announcing in January that it had foiled the plan; separately, six civilians including a retired major general were charged in federal court earlier this week.

    25 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  22. Government shifts digital focus to governance and cybersecurity

    Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said Kenya's digital economy has moved beyond adoption and innovation into a phase centred on accountability, system resilience, and trust, as the country confronts unprecedented cyber risks including 4.56 billion cyber events recorded in a single quarter. The government is strengthening digital governance frameworks, reviewing the Kenya Information and Communications Act, and developing new policies on cloud services and artificial intelligence regulation.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  23. Border reopening pledge awaits implementation as April deadline looms

    Communities along the Kenya-Somalia border await President Ruto's April pledge to reopen the crossing after a 15-year closure, announced in February, though little activity has shown the entry and exit points are about to be reactivated.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  24. FKF President denies Sh42 million insurance fund loss claims

    Embattled FKF President Hussein Mohammed has denied any loss of funds in the Sh42 million CHAN insurance affair, claiming CAF procured and secured the insurance cover, not the federation. He also disputed the validity of his suspension by the FKF National Executive Committee on Friday, asserting the meeting did not follow constitutional procedures.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  25. Kakuma residents protest Turkana county government marginalization

    Residents of Kakuma in Turkana west sub-county have protested against the county government, accusing its leadership of marginalization, unfair administration, and mishandling of personnel and resources affecting the region.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  26. Orengo declares himself ODM acting party leader amid factional tensions

    Siaya Governor James Orengo announced he has assumed the responsibilities of ODM deputy leader, stating the move ensures the party remains active and functional while party deputy leader Oburu Oginga is "playing with his work." Orengo also called on Kenyans to pressure President William Ruto over the rising cost of living and governance issues.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  27. Linda Mwananchi leaders rally in Vihiga supporting Osotsi's gubernatorial bid

    Leaders allied to the Linda Mwananchi movement held a rally in Vihiga County on Saturday in support of Senator Godfrey Osotsi's bid for governor, vowing not to be intimidated despite a recent attack on Osotsi in Kisumu. Osotsi and allied leaders, including Edwin Sifuna, condemned the assault and called for improved security.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  28. JM Kariuki family wins 53-year property dispute in court

    The family of late politician Josiah Mwangi Kariuki has won a property dispute against his former alleged dancers after 53 years.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  29. ODM-linked Linda Mwananchi prepares rally in Kisumu

    The ODM-linked Linda Mwananchi faction is preparing to hold a rally in Kisumu on Sunday amid a battle for political influence in the region long associated with the late Raila Odinga, with control of Kisumu viewed as a significant symbolic and strategic win.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  30. Orengo warns Ruto against attempting ODM takeover

    Siaya Governor James Orengo has warned President William Ruto against any attempt to weaken or take over the Orange Democratic Movement, saying the party remains anchored in its founding ideals and leadership. Speaking ahead of planned Linda Wanainchi rallies, Orengo said the movement within ODM is determined to defend the party's identity, legacy and political direction.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  31. Former CJ Maraga urges youth voter registration in Kisumu

    Former Chief Justice David Maraga has called on young people to urgently register as voters, cautioning that low turnout in the ongoing registration exercise could shape the country's future if not reversed. He also condemned the exploitation of unemployed youth by politicians and flagged concerns over uncollected national identity cards and a proposed directive allowing MPs to distribute them.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  32. Opposition challenges Ruto administration over ID cards issuance

    President William Ruto's administration faces scrutiny over its handling of national identity card issuance ahead of next year's General Election, amid opposition allegations of manipulation.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  33. FKF president declares suspension unlawful and unconstitutional

    Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed has dismissed his suspension by the National Executive Committee, saying the meeting that suspended him was not convened in accordance with the FKF Constitution and therefore any decisions arising from it are null and void. Mohammed was suspended over a Sh42 million insurance scandal linked to CHAN Pamoja tournament preparations, with his deputy McDonald Mariga recommended to take over in an acting capacity.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

  34. Cash handouts resurge as politicians court voters ahead of 2027

    Politicians are returning to distributing cash handouts to communities as early election fever grips Kenya, raising concerns among residents and governance experts about campaign integrity ahead of the 2027 General Election.

    25 April 2026 · The Standard

Yesterday

  1. Macron says he will quit politics after 2027 term ends

    With one year left in his second five-year term, French President Emmanuel Macron has said he will leave politics in 2027, though observers speculate he may pursue roles in intergovernmental bodies or return to politics at a future presidential election. He is focusing on his international profile and legacy while potential successors distance themselves from his historically unpopular leadership.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  2. Ruto outlines infrastructure and agriculture drive for first-world status

    Speaking at LUISS School of Government in Rome, President William Ruto unveiled an ambitious roadmap anchored on infrastructure expansion, agricultural transformation, and increased energy capacity to transform Kenya into a first-world economy within a generation. The plan includes doubling the paved road network, constructing at least 50 mega dams to irrigate over 2.5 million acres, tripling electricity capacity within seven years, and delivering more than 240,000 affordable homes.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  3. Opposition demands Ksh.10M minimum compensation for protest victims

    The United Opposition is pushing President Ruto to increase compensation packages for victims of protest deaths and injuries, with Wiper's Kalonzo Musyoka calling for a minimum of Ksh.10 million rather than the government's proposed Ksh.3 million. Opposition leaders also criticized the government's handling of the rising cost of living and fuel prices.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  4. ODM leader Oburu dismisses Orengo's challenge to his party leadership

    ODM party leader Dr. Oburu Oginga has rejected Siaya Governor James Orengo's claims that Oburu is unfit to lead and Orengo's declaration that he is the rightful party boss, insisting his election by ODM members is legitimate and binding. Oburu also criticized ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna for defying party structures, as factional tensions within the party escalate.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  5. Orengo claims ODM leadership role via Linda Mwananchi faction

    Siaya Governor James Orengo declared himself the "people's party leader" within ODM on Friday, accusing the current party leadership of damaging Raila Odinga's legacy and allowing the party to be threatened by the ruling UDA. Orengo framed Linda Mwananchi as a corrective movement within ODM aimed at safeguarding its unity, as the faction prepares for rallies in Kisumu and Vihiga over the weekend.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  6. IEBC registers 505,344 voters in final week before deadline

    The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has registered 1,876,274 new voters in just under a month, with 505,344 added in the past week alone as the Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration exercise approaches its April 28 closure. Nairobi County leads registrations with 209,965 new voters, followed by Kiambu and Nakuru.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  7. Matiang'i vows zero tolerance for political goonism if elected president

    Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, a 2027 presidential hopeful, has pledged to eliminate politically-linked violence and goonism, criticizing selective law enforcement that allows individuals connected to powerful figures to operate with impunity. Speaking in Nyamira, he framed his candidacy as a mission to restore order, uphold the rule of law, and rebuild institutions.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  8. Karua links Sudan tea ban to Ruto's alleged RSF ties

    PLP leader Martha Karua blamed President Ruto's foreign policy for straining trade relations with Sudan, which imposed an indefinite ban on Kenyan imports last month. Karua claimed Sudan previously imported more than 10.7 million kilograms of Kenyan tea annually, generating between Ksh.3.88 billion and Ksh.5.17 billion, and said the suspension could result in industry losses of up to Ksh.7 billion.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  9. CS Murkomen warns politicians' hired goons will face crackdown

    Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen warned politicians accused of sponsoring violence and hiring goons that the government will take decisive action against them, while opening a new police field training facility in Meru County to combat emerging security threats including banditry.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  10. Court of Appeal: abortion not a constitutional fundamental right

    Kenya's Court of Appeal ruled that abortion is not a fundamental right under the Constitution, though it is permissible in narrow circumstances including emergency medical treatment where the mother's life or health is in danger or where another written law permits it.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  11. Government commits to investigation into Ishiara protest deaths

    The Public Service Cabinet Secretary has assured families in Mbeere North of justice following the deaths of two young people during demonstrations at Ishiara, pledging that relevant agencies will fast-track investigations and establish responsibility for the shootings.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  12. Ruto defends development record during Murang'a county tour

    President William Ruto said opposition name-calling and propaganda will not undermine his relationship with Central Kenya residents, citing a 20-year bond built on project delivery. During a development tour of Murang'a County, he announced government investments including Ksh.27 billion for 6,800 affordable housing units, Ksh.1.1 billion for electricity connections to 14,000 households, and improvements to coffee farming through reduced fertilizer prices and broker elimination.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  13. Njeri Maina critiques Ksh.89 billion State House spending versus education funding

    Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina questioned the government's commitment to education, noting that State House expenditure reached Ksh.89 billion in three years under President Ruto compared to approximately Ksh.100 billion over a decade under former president Kenyatta, while schools face delayed capitation and infrastructure deficits.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  14. MP Atandi warns Linda Mwananchi ahead of Kisumu rally

    Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi has cautioned the Linda Mwananchi faction against disrespecting ODM party leader Oburu Oginga ahead of their planned Sunday rally in Kisumu. The Inspector General of Police has assured the Linda Mwananchi team that security will be provided for the rally, while urging organisers to comply with the law.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  15. JSC to interview five candidates for Supreme Court judge vacancy

    The Judicial Service Commission has shortlisted five candidates for the Supreme Court judge position vacated by Justice Mohamed Ibrahim's death in December, with interviews scheduled for April 28–29, 2026. The candidates include Court of Appeal Judge Katwa Kigen, former IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori, and Justices Joseph Sergon, Francis Tuiyott, and Mohammed Warsame.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  16. Ruto mocked Nigerian English, triggering African social media backlash

    President Ruto told Kenyans in Italy that Nigerian-accented English was incomprehensible and required a translator, while praising Kenya's English proficiency. His remarks sparked fierce online condemnation from Nigerians and other Africans who accused him of demeaning a fellow African nation and exhibiting colonial conditioning.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  17. Paradise Lost owners claim 1929 title, allege 2024 fraudulent takeover

    Owners of the disputed Paradise Lost land, a 200-acre property, claim decades-old ownership dating to 1929 and allege that unknown individuals perpetrated a fraudulent scheme involving fake title deeds beginning in 2024. They have filed a case scheduled for mention on April 30, accusing government officials and police of failing to assist despite complaints to the Ministry of Lands and the Chief Land Registrar.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  18. Nairobi Southern Bypass section closed after Friday road accident

    KeNHA temporarily closed a section of the Nairobi Southern Bypass between Thogoto and Dagoretti Interchanges following a road traffic accident on Friday morning, April 24, and advised motorists to use alternative routes while clearance operations continue.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  19. Ichung'wah alleges receiving Ksh.5M from Gachagua

    National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah has alleged he received Ksh.5 million from Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua during his tenure as Deputy President, money he now suspects may have been intended to influence him or may have originated from misappropriated public resources.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  20. Gachagua-led opposition team tours Kwale after Ukambani visit

    Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua and other opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka and Justin Muturi, are touring Kwale County with planned stops in Samburu, Kinango, and Likoni Ferry. The tour follows a two-day campaign in Ukambani and is part of the opposition's nationwide strategy to consolidate political support ahead of the 2027 elections.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

  21. Machakos County completes second staff training cohort

    Machakos County has completed a second cohort of staff training to improve public service delivery and address gaps in governance and financial management. The programme has trained over 4,000 employees since 2024, with the county aiming to train all staff within the next year.

    24 April 2026 · Citizen Digital

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