Summary of The Standard Newspaper -July 24,2025
Page 1 : Reports that rogue matatus in Nairobi operate illegally without number plates or adherence to traffic laws, backed by political connections and shell companies. These vehicles, often modified with DJ booths, flout regulations while authorities ignore their misconduct.
Page 2 : Notes that Steve Munyakho was freed from Saudi Arabia after 14 years on death row after his family paid Sh150 million in “blood money.” His mother, Dorothy Kweyu, endured years of distress before diplomatic efforts secured his release, exposing challenges Kenyans face under Saudi Arabia’s legal system.
Page 3 : Reports that Susan Njoki Kamengere, a medic, was forcibly admitted to a Nairobi hospital and later found strangled, with a postmortem confirming homicide. Her family demands justice, citing her claims of forced sedation before death, raising concerns over patient safety in hospitals.
Page 4 : Notes that powerful politicians and individuals own rogue matatus that violate traffic laws, operating without proper registration while featuring illegal modifications. These vehicles endanger public safety, shielded by political influence and shell companies, highlighting systemic corruption.
Page 6 : Reports that young Kenyan leaders are uniting as a “third force” to challenge ethnic-based politics and advocate for Gen Z interests ahead of the 2027 elections. They plan to form a new party and mobilize youth support against both President Ruto and opposition figures.
Page 7 : Notes that Kenyan legislators support a motion requiring public officers to use public healthcare facilities to improve services, aligning with Universal Health Coverage goals. However, Health Committee Chair James Nyikal opposes enforcement, urging leaders to lead by example voluntarily.
Page 8 : Reports that strikes and arson attacks have disrupted over 10 secondary schools ahead of exams, with students protesting underfunding and exam anxiety. Education officials blame delayed government capitation for leaving schools unable to meet basic needs.
Page 9 : Notes that ODM leader Raila Odinga faces internal rebellion over his alliance with President Ruto, with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna warning it risks alienating the party’s base. Sifuna threatens to resign if ODM endorses Ruto’s reelection.
Page 10: Reports that a UK activist’s bid to suspend DIG Eliud Lagat over a murder case stalled after the AG argued the High Court lacks jurisdiction, directing the matter to the Employment and Labour Relations Court.
Page 11 : Notes that Kenya Railway Corporation loses millions annually due to 529 illegally allocated land parcels, with private developers and counties occupying prime properties without consent. Auditor General Nancy Gathungu highlights weak recovery efforts despite court interventions.
Page 12 : Reports that a National Treasury employee was ordered to forfeit Sh75 million after mixing legitimate earnings with illicit taskforce allowances. Justice Benjamin Musyoki ruled that commingling funds risks total forfeiture, though property sales were blocked due to ownership disputes.
Page 13 : Notes that Kenya Red Cross has intensified HIV prevention efforts, including mentor mothers, to curb rising mother-to-child transmission rates. Early antenatal visits and community outreach aim to address diagnosis delays in high-risk counties.
Page 18 : Reports that President Ruto announced a new disclosure framework for state-owned enterprises, requiring them to list at least 20% of shares. Kenya Pipeline Company’s IPO is set for Cabinet approval by end-July, with a public offering expected in September.
Page 22 : Notes that over 100 aid organizations warn of “mass starvation” in Gaza amid extreme shortages and violence, despite Israel’s eased blockade. Israel blames Hamas for diverting aid, as international calls for a ceasefire grow.
Page 37 : Reports that Kenya Rugby Union will select national sevens teams exclusively from the upcoming SportPesa National Sevens Circuit, aiming to reclaim Kenya’s World Rugby spot. A Sh15 million sponsorship supports the six-leg tournament starting in Mombasa.
Page 40 : Notes that Harambee Stars withdrew from the CECAFA Four Nations tournament in Tanzania, citing unsafe training conditions and injury risks. Coach Benni McCarthy prioritized player safety as Kenya prepares to host CHAN in August.