Summary Of The Standard Newspaper -Aug 17,2025
Page 1: Reports that Auditor General Nancy Gathungu has revealed that Sh4.1 billion in NG-CDF bursary funds cannot be accounted for, with over 125 constituencies failing to provide records and billions flagged for irregular spending. This audit intensifies the ongoing conflict among MPs, governors, and the courts over control of the fund and its future existence
Page 2: Reports describe a scene of profound grief in Katombo village, Nyakach, as the community held a mass burial for 22 victims of a tragic school bus accident that left families shattered and children orphaned. The emotional toll was palpable, with survivors and leaders urging improved safety measures to prevent future tragedies. The incident, which occurred on August 8, 2025, has left the close-knit village grappling with loss and an enduring sense of emptiness.
Page 3: Reports highlight Kenya Music Festival winners preparing to represent the country at the East African Music Dance and Drama Festival in Kampala, following a showcase of national talent at Sagana State Lodge. President Ruto pledged to boost the arts and digital economy, announcing initiatives like online access to festival performances via e-Citizen and plans for a Kenyan “Netflix.” He also revealed ongoing negotiations with Meta and Google to integrate M-Pesa for easier payments and ad purchases, aiming to empower creatives and grow the sector.
Page 5: Reports reveal that Nakuru activist Laban Omusundi has petitioned the court to compel the IEBC to establish a framework for recalling underperforming MPs and Senators, citing constitutional rights to accountability. He argues that the electoral body’s inaction undermines democratic oversight and perpetuates poor governance, urging judicial intervention to enforce the recall mechanism under Article 104.
Page 6: Reports indicate that Auditor General Nancy Gathungu flagged Sh4.1 billion in unaccounted NG-CDF bursary funds, sparking backlash from MPs who accuse her office of producing biased audits. The controversy reignites debates over the fund’s management, with lawmakers defending delays in documentation while critics demand stricter accountability for the Sh57 billion disbursed to constituencies.
Page 7: Reports reveal that Nairobi Governor Sakaja’s ‘Dishi na County’ school feeding program, allocated Sh2.8 billion over two years, faces audit queries over unclear procurement processes and lack of accountability for donor funds. Auditor General Nancy Gathungu flagged irregularities, including unsigned evaluation reports for kitchen construction contracts and missing agreements with the implementing partner, Food4Education, raising concerns about transparency in the Sh25-per-meal subsidy scheme.
Page 8: Reports highlight a growing trend under President Ruto’s administration where nine high-profile appointees have rejected nominations, exposing flaws in vetting and diminishing the prestige of presidential appointments. The pattern contrasts sharply with past norms, where such roles were seen as career-defining honors, and reflects a shift in public perception as procedural lapses and legal challenges erode confidence in the process.
Page 10: Reports critique President Ruto’s delayed and limited response to corruption, noting his recent condemnation of lawmakers seeking bribes while remaining silent on scandals like the Sh9 billion e-Citizen heist. The article highlights how graft cases against his allies collapsed after his election, raising questions about his administration’s commitment to tackling systemic corruption despite his “prayer-driven” public image.
Page 11: Reports indicate that Kericho Governor Eric Mutai faces a second impeachment, with 33 out of 47 MCAs voting for his removal amid allegations of abuse of office and internal political rivalries. The crisis stems from fallout with his deputy, Fred Kirui, who exposed corruption in county procurement, while allies-turned-foes and Assembly Speaker Patrick Mutai are accused of orchestrating the ouster bid.
Page 20: Reports reveal that Bernard Okoth Ambasa lost a lucrative Equity Bank position paying Sh950,000 monthly after his past employers raised whistleblower concerns and he omitted key business details in his application. The Employment and Labour Relations Court dismissed his compensation claim, upholding the bank’s decision to terminate his contract over the undisclosed information.
Page 24: Reports highlight Kenyan 10,000m champion Janeth Chepng’etich’s pursuit of her first World Championships medal in Tokyo, where she’ll team up with record-holder Beatrice Chebet and Agnes Ngetich. Before the global event, she aims to fine-tune her form at the Brussels Diamond League on August 22, building on her recent African gold and personal best performances.
Page 27: Reports indicate Harambee Stars defender Mike Kibwage is focused on securing a top Group A finish in the African Nations Championship as Kenya faces Zambia in a crucial match at Kasarani Stadium. A victory would ensure a home quarterfinal, while a loss could force an away clash against Tanzania, with the team motivated by President Ruto’s promise of Sh2.5 million per player and houses for advancing.
Page 28: Reports highlight Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy urging Harambee Stars to cap off their group stage campaign strongly against Zambia, despite already securing a quarterfinal spot with seven points. Meanwhile, DR Congo and Morocco prepare for a high-stakes clash at Nyayo Stadium, where the winner will advance in the tightly contested Group A.