Summary Of The Standard Newspaper -Aug 25,2025
Page 1: Reports indicate that President William Ruto is accused of orchestrating parliamentary misdeeds to serve his own agenda, contradicting his recent public criticism of the institution. He is alleged to have used his influence to pass unpopular legislation, including the Finance Bill 2024, and to remove the former Deputy President. This manipulation is characterized as subverting the will of the people for the President’s political benefit.
Page 2: Reports show the Ministry of Health is under scrutiny as private hospitals allege the Social Health Authority (SHA) is engaged in corrupt and irregular payment practices. The association claims powerful individuals hand-pick which hospitals get paid, leaving approximately 600 facilities with billions in unpaid claims, some dating back to November 2023. This process is suggested to be politically motivated rather than fair or transparent.
Page 3: Reports detail that a spike in road accidents prompted the NTSA to introduce a mandatory retest for certain drivers in June 2023. The initiative faced stiff opposition from stakeholders, primarily over the high booking fee, leading to its suspension just one month later. The policy was never successfully reinstated despite the suspension being intended to allow a multi-agency team to address the concerns.
Page 4: Reports describe the Kenyan Parliament as a tightly controlled system where legislators are compelled to support the President’s agenda. Internal communications are cited as evidence of President Ruto’s direct involvement in parliamentary affairs, such as orchestrating the removal of his former deputy. This system is said to frustrate independent thought, entrench executive power, and ensure only legislation aligned with the President’s priorities proceeds.
Page 5: Reports state that public universities have been directed to update their portals to reflect a revised, lower fee structure for degree programs. The government has disbursed Sh41 billion in loans and instructed institutions to set up help desks for student applications. This directive comes despite calls from student leaders to disband the new financing model and revert to the old system.
Page 6: Reports suggest Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is being politically sidelined as ODM leader Raila Odinga’s influence grows within the administration ahead of the 2027 election. Kindiki has been occupied with nationwide tours, while remarks from senior allies have cast doubt on his suitability to remain as President Ruto’s running mate. This pattern of sidelining deputy presidents is noted as a historical trend.
Page 7: Reports confirm that Kenyan schools are reopening for a short, intense nine-week term packed with national examinations. The term operates under strict regulations with suspended non-academic activities but is strained by financial challenges due to delayed government capitation. Principals are opening schools with empty coffers, prompting urgent calls for the timely release of funds to ensure a smooth exam period.
Page 8: Reports confirm the conclusion of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (Ticad 9) with the adoption of the Yokohama Declaration. Japan agreed to expand investments and enhance cooperation with Africa, in part to counter China’s growing influence on the continent. The conference, attended by 35 African leaders, resulted in the signing of over 300 agreements.
Page 9: Reports indicate a new political formation called “Kenya Moja/Kenya Mpya” is being established by a group of youthful MPs to challenge both the government and traditional opposition. The group, claiming 70 legislators, aims to combat corruption and bad leadership, accusing President Ruto of attempting to undervalue a state company. They are positioning themselves as a fresh, independent political force and are calling on other opposition leaders to join.
Page 10: Reports describe a stalemate over ownership that has led to the closure of Nakuru’s War Memorial Hospital, resulting in patient deaths. The county government erected a perimeter wall while the private management resists, clinging to court orders to maintain control. A Court of Appeal order has called for the facility to be jointly managed by a committee from the hospital, county, and national government.
Page 11: Reports reveal that several Kenyan counties are imposing various levies on national highways, effectively turning them into toll points. Transporters argue these exorbitant fees increase costs, undermine regional trade, and potentially divert business to Tanzania. The practice has been criticized for defying logic and potentially violating constitutional provisions that prohibit counties from introducing such charges.
Page 16: Reports detail a standoff between the Taita Taveta county government and a national agency over the management of a Sh750 million donor-funded water project. Governor Andrew Mwadime insists the county has the right to oversee the project, accusing the national government of frustrating devolution. The impasse has stalled the project, leaving residents suffering from water shortages.
Page 18: Reports show that major commercial banks are facing scrutiny for their slow response to the Central Bank’s recent cut to its benchmark interest rate. This highlights a trend where lenders are quick to raise borrowing costs but hesitant to lower them, despite efforts to stimulate economic activity. The regulator has criticized the banks for keeping lending rates elevated amidst a stable inflation rate and a monetary easing cycle.
Page 20: Reports state that the United Nations has officially declared a famine in Gaza, blaming “systematic obstruction” by Israel for the severe food crisis. Desperate Palestinians are now fighting for survival, scrambling for food at charity kitchens amidst chaotic and heartbreaking scenes. The situation defines daily life in Gaza’s shattered streets, highlighting a profound humanitarian catastrophe with aid being insufficient.
Page 27: Reports confirm that veteran golfer James Karanja claimed the top prize at the 11th leg of the Tee-Off with Crown series at Kiambu Golf Club. His victory, scored with 41 stableford points, was significant as it marked a successful return to the sport after an illness. In his speech, the retired engineer emphasized the importance of perseverance and passion for the game.
Page 32: Reports confirm that the Uganda Cranes were eliminated from the 2024 African Nations Championship by defending champions Senegal. The competition has been defined by small margins, with controversial decisions and missed chances leading to the exit of East African teams. Despite the disappointment, many players felt they performed beyond expectations in a tournament that severely punishes mistakes.