Summary of The Standard Newspaper -July 17,2025
Page 1: The Standard Newspaper reports that the Integration Commission is accused of selective justice, targeting dissenters while ignoring hate speech from President William Ruto’s allies, fueling ethnic tensions. Critics argue it is negligent or complicit.
Page 2 : Notes Kenya’s plan to introduce an HIV prevention injection next year, offering hope for high-risk groups. The long-acting injectable is praised as a “game changer,” though accessibility challenges remain.
Page 3 : Reports Kenya’s failure to meet hunger reduction goals despite government investments in agriculture. Experts warn of persistent food insecurity due to soil health and implementation gaps.
Page 4: Notes the NCIC’s criticism for inaction on divisive rhetoric, with accusations of selectively targeting minor offenders while ignoring high-profile figures. Critics say it’s failing its unity mandate.
Page 5 : Reports the NCIC facing backlash for perceived bias, as it ignores hate speech from President Ruto’s allies while blaming funding shortages. Critics say this undermines public trust.
Page 6 : Notes politicians exploiting ethnic to counter Gen Z activists, whose mobilization is challenging traditional power structures despite their perceived lack of direction.
Page 7 : Reports court releasing 37 individuals, including allies of Former Deputy President Gachagua, on bail despite serious terrorism-linked charges. Prosecutors’ detention arguments were rejected.
Page 8 : Notes an audit revealing Sh2 billion misuse in the EduAfya Fund, with ineligible students benefiting due to contract breaches and poor oversight. Financial mismanagement concerns are raised.
Page 9 : Reports Thika Town’s bid for city status awaiting Senate approval. Kiambu Governor Wamatangi highlights its infrastructure and economic potential as key qualifications.
Page 10 : Notes Kenya’s heavy fuel taxation, with taxes now at Sh48.33 per litre, worsening economic strain. Experts say it’s an easy revenue source but burdens citizens.
Page 11: Reports MPs summoning Inspector General Kanja amid tensions between police and the NPSC over officer reinstatements, following scrutiny of custody deaths like Albert Ojwang’s.
Page 12 : Notes explosive bribery allegations in Mike Sonko’s Sh20 million graft case, with whistleblowers revealing blackmail attempts and high-level corruption plots.
Page 13 : Reports a court ordering NGEC to pay Sh6.7 million for wrongful termination, citing flawed investigations and unsubstantiated hearsay in the dismissal.
Pages 14-17 : Features an opinion debates on strict measures for absentee public workers, with some advocating for discipline while others stress systemic reforms. Experts urge better revenue systems for counties.
Page 18: Reports Kenya’s new digitization guidelines to standardize government records, building on 22,800 already digitized services for operational efficiency.
Page 20 : Notes Mombasa Port delays due to empty container pile-ups, with shipping lines charging demurrage fees despite their role in congestion.
Pages 20-21 : Reports Kenya’s historic dominance in men’s steeplechase, including podium sweeps and near-total gold medal control from 1991-2015.
Page 37: Notes Kenya’s Harambee Stars in a tough CHAN group with Angola, DR Congo, and Morocco, preparing for their August 3 opener.
Page 39: Reports Coach Benni McCarthy viewing CHAN as a chance for local players to attract scouts and elevate Kenyan football’s profile.