Page 1: Reports indicate that ODM rebels and Gachaqua allies plan to boycott Monday’s meeting between Kenya Kwanza and ODM legislators, which aims to set parliamentary priorities, resolve issues in their 10-point agreement, and solidify a political pact ahead of the 2027 elections. The discussions, involving President Ruto and Raila Odinga, could shape future collaboration between the rival factions.
Page 2: Thousands of Kenyan university students face financial hurdles as institutions reopen, with many unable to afford fees or essentials despite Helb loans. Delays in disbursements under the new need-based funding model have left students like Elvis Odhiambo stranded, highlighting broader challenges in higher education accessibility.
Page 3: The 97th Kenya National Music Festival concluded with President Ruto hosting winners after 12 days of performances dominated by female participants. Event chair Prof. Frederick Ngala called for greater male involvement as winning institutions prepared for the State Concert, showcasing cultural acts like Kibabii University’s Bukusu dance.
Page 4: UDA and ODM lawmakers will hold a historic joint Parliamentary Group meeting to discuss legislative priorities and political collaboration for the 2027 elections. The closed-door session at KCB Leadership Centre will focus on implementing their 10-point agreement and addressing issues like compensation for political violence victims.
Page 5: Reports that Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen announced reforms for chiefs, including promotions, salary hikes, and specialized training in security and paralegal skills. Chiefs from high-risk areas will receive paramilitary training, aiming to enhance governance and address long-standing welfare gaps.
Page 6: Reports that the Supreme Court dismissed a petition to move Kenya’s next election to 2026, ruling it lacked jurisdiction over pre-election disputes. Chief Justice Koome stated such matters fall under the High Court, upholding the IEBC’s 2027 schedule.
Page 7: Devolved governments face criticism for corruption and mismanagement of Sh14 trillion over 12 years, with county officials accused of embezzlement. At the Devolution Conference, leaders like Mudavadi and Ruto condemned graft, urging counties to prioritize public service delivery.
Page 8: Nairobi’s ride-hailing drivers endure harsh conditions, working long hours across platforms like Uber and Bolt to meet earnings targets amid high commissions. The sector’s growth has not alleviated drivers’ struggles with low incomes and unsustainable pressures.
Page 11: Reports that Detectives investigating the Kwa Binzaro cult deaths are probing secret Malindi cells linked to fugitive preacher Paul Mackenzie, where victims were allegedly radicalized and forced into deadly fasts. The cells echo the 2023 Shakahola tragedy, with Mackenzie’s loyalists suspected of continuing the rituals.
Page 12: Reports that Hamida Adam escaped a human trafficking syndicate after being lured from Kenya to Somalia via TikTok job promises. Her family tracked her down with authorities, exposing the dangers of online recruitment in North Eastern Kenya.
Page 24: Reports that a dispute erupted over former Zambian president Edgar Lungu’s burial, as his family opposes a state funeral involving current President Hichilema, citing political tensions. The Pretoria court’s ruling in favor of the state has divided public opinion in Zambia.
Page 25: Reports that an audit revealed Sh955.8 million collected from 19 county hospitals was never deposited, with Bungoma and Naivasha hospitals accounting for the largest unremitted sums. The findings highlight systemic financial mismanagement in devolved units.
Page 26: Notes that the High Court halted the government’s plan to sell part of its Kenya Pipeline Company stake after Cofek challenged the move over transparency concerns. Justice Mwamuye blocked the sale pending resolution of the case.
Page 30: Notes that Kenya’s Harambee Stars will earn at least $450,000 for reaching the Chan quarter-finals, with potential for more if they advance. CAF increased the total prize pool to $10.4 million, with winners taking $3.5 million.