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Sakaja Officially Transfers County Functions to National Government

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Sakaja Officially Transfers County Functions to National Government
Sakaja Officially Transfers County Functions to National Government

President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja are set to oversee the signing of a cooperation agreement this afternoon at State House, a move that signals a renewed working arrangement between the national and county governments in the capital.

State House invited media houses to cover the event, which will see the two levels of government ink a deal to jointly handle development and service delivery projects in Nairobi. The agreement is anchored in Sections 5 and 6 of the Urban Areas and Cities Act and is aimed at improving service delivery in the city.

Concerns Over Devolution

The signing has drawn criticism from Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who warned that any agreement must strictly comply with the Constitution and safeguard the autonomy of county governments.

“The governor of Nairobi assured us he wasn’t transferring any functions to the national government. I’m surprised to see a scheduled signing ceremony at State House this afternoon,” Sifuna said.

“I remind Governor Sakaja to be mindful of the provisions of the constitution and the need for involvement of the electorate and the leadership of Nairobi prior to making such decisions. Any unconstitutional clawback to devolution shall be strenuously resisted,” he added.

His remarks reflect concerns that the new pact could mirror the 2020 arrangement that led to the formation of the now-defunct Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS).

Sakaja Defends the Move

Speaking during his recent State of the County address, Sakaja sought to distinguish the current agreement from the era of former Governor Mike Sonko, when certain county functions were handed over to the national government.

“Members, I honour the mandate given to me by the people of Nairobi. They entrusted me with constitutional powers to transform this city and I will not betray that trust,” Sakaja said.

He maintained that while the national government will support some county projects and functions, this does not amount to a wholesale transfer of authority.

“The functions bestowed upon the county of Nairobi by the constitution shall remain the functions of the county. We shall not transfer any county functions. However, collaboration with the national government will continue,” he said.

Sakaja emphasized Nairobi’s unique position as the country’s capital, noting that structured cooperation with the national government is both inevitable and necessary.

Invoking the words of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Sakaja underscored the importance of protecting devolution even as the two levels of government pursue joint initiatives to enhance infrastructure and service delivery.

Legacy of NMS

During its tenure, NMS oversaw the rehabilitation of major roads, installation of streetlights, refurbishment of health centres and expansion of intensive care capacity during the Covid-19 pandemic. It also upgraded markets and spearheaded decongestion efforts in parts of the city.

Supporters credited the agency with accelerating stalled infrastructure projects and restoring order, while critics argued it undermined the spirit of devolution.

As the agreement is formalised, the focus will shift to its implementation — and whether it strengthens service delivery in Nairobi while remaining within the constitutional framework governing relations between the national and county governments.

Kenya Police Sacco Posts KSh 3.03Bn Profit as Asset Quality and Liquidity Strengthen

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Kenya Police Sacco Posts KSh 3.03Bn Profit as Asset Quality and Liquidity Strengthen
Kenya Police Sacco Posts KSh 3.03Bn Profit as Asset Quality and Liquidity Strengthen

Kenya National Police DT SACCO has reported impressive financial results for the year ending 2025, with profit surging 20.8% to KSh 3.03 billion, up from KSh 2.51 billion in 2024, driven by stronger net interest income and significantly improved credit performance.

The Society’s total comprehensive income grew 23.0% to KSh 3.76 billion, while interest revenue increased 10.2% to KSh 9.76 billion, reflecting sustained business growth and efficient operations.

Credit Quality Shows Marked Improvement

A standout feature of the financial results was the sharp 33.2% decline in expected credit loss (ECL) expense, which fell to KSh 340.57 million. This reduction signals improved credit management and better loan book quality, with the delinquency ratio declining to 2.34% from 2.54% in the previous year.

Net interest income after ECL provisions climbed 16.6% to KSh 5.70 billion, underscoring the Society’s ability to generate strong returns while maintaining prudent risk management.

Kenya National Police DT SACCO CEO Mr. Solomon Atsiaya poses at the SACCO headquarters in Nairobi with the Award. PHOTO/COURTESY
Kenya National Police DT SACCO CEO Mr. Solomon Atsiaya poses at the SACCO headquarters in Nairobi with the Award. PHOTO/COURTESY

Balance Sheet Expansion and Asset Reallocation

The Sacco’s balance sheet grew 11.0% to KSh 66.40 billion, with loans to members increasing 10.1% to KSh 55.38 billion, demonstrating sustained lending activity to its 76,000-member base.

Cash and cash equivalents rose 22.6% to KSh 2.65 billion, contributing to an improved liquidity ratio of 33.0%, up from 30.0% the previous year. However, investments in government securities declined 17.4% to KSh 1.51 billion, suggesting a strategic reallocation of assets toward more productive uses.

Strong Deposit Growth and Capital Position

Member deposits showed robust growth, with withdrawable deposits increasing 15.3% to KSh 3.90 billion and non-withdrawable deposits growing 8.0% to KSh 33.61 billion. Total equity strengthened 14.7% to KSh 24.51 billion, reflecting solid capital accumulation.

Members will receive dividends totaling KSh 624.37 million, broadly in line with the prior year’s payout, demonstrating the Society’s commitment to returning value to its members.

Competitive Product Offering Drives Growth

The Society attributes its strong performance to a competitive suite of loan products featuring interest rates as low as 1%, fast loan processing, and instant mobile loan facilities. With share capital exceeding KSh 3.69 billion, Kenya Police DT SACCO members are among the best-compensated in the cooperative movement.

Award-Winning Performance

The impressive financial results come on the heels of a stellar year in 2024, when Kenya Police SACCO won four prestigious awards in the Employer-Based DT SACCOs category:

  • Second Best Performing DT SACCO
  • Best DT SACCO in Capitalization (2nd position)
  • Best DT SACCO in Deposits Management (2nd position)
  • Best DT SACCO in Credit Management (2nd position)

The awards were presented by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, alongside Cooperatives CS Wycliffe Oparanya and other senior government officials.

“This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, outstanding member service, and the cooperative spirit that drives our success,” the Society stated on its social media platforms.

Historical Growth Trajectory

Founded on November 20, 1972, and registered as CS/2092, Kenya National Police DT SACCO has grown from a modest membership of 690 to 76,000 members today. The Society is governed by 12 elected officials: nine Board of Directors members and three Supervisory Committee members.

Analyst Perspective

Financial analysts attribute the Sacco’s double-digit profit growth to stronger net interest income generation and significantly lower credit losses. The balance sheet expansion remains healthy, liquidity has improved substantially, and asset quality indicators are trending positively.

“Overall, FY2025 reflects operational resilience, disciplined credit management, and steady capital build-up,” analysts noted, highlighting the Society’s strong positioning within the cooperative sector.

The results demonstrate that Kenya Police SACCO continues to serve as a vital financial services provider for law enforcement personnel, offering competitive products while maintaining sound financial management and regulatory compliance.

Moi University Sacco Granted Second Chance as Government Lifts Liquidation Order

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Moi University Sacco Granted Second Chance as Government Lifts Liquidation Order
Moi University Sacco Granted Second Chance as Government Lifts Liquidation Order

In a major relief to over 3,000 members, the troubled Moi University Sacco Society Limited (MUSCCO) has been saved from liquidation following intervention by Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya.

CS Oparanya announced the lifting of the liquidation order and reinstatement of the Sacco’s certificate of registration, describing it as “a critical step in restoring trust, protecting members’ savings and reaffirming the values of Kenya’s cooperative movement.”

The decision follows extensive consultations with MUSCCO members, recommendations from the Senate, and findings from a ministerial taskforce that has been reviewing the Sacco’s situation since December 2023.

Interim Leadership Appointed

An interim board of five members has been appointed to oversee MUSCCO operations pending elections for a substantive Board and Supervisory Committee within prescribed timelines.

However, CS Oparanya cautioned that the reinstatement should not be viewed as an endorsement of past failures. “This is a second chance anchored on strict expectations around governance, compliance and ethical leadership. Where culpability is established, accountability will be enforced without hesitation,” he warned.

A Decade of Turbulence

Founded in 1985, MUSCCO serves members from Moi University, University of Eldoret, Maasai Mara University, University of Kabianga, and Bomet University College, among other institutions. The Sacco was licensed as a deposit-taking institution by the Sacco Society Regulatory Authority (SASRA) in 2014.

The Sacco’s troubles began after it invested in MUSCO Towers, a landmark property on a 0.114-acre leasehold plot in Eldoret Municipality valued at Ksh 650 million as of 2017. The project was partially financed with a Ksh 200 million loan from the Co-operative Bank of Kenya.

However, severe liquidity problems emerged soon after completion of the towers, compounded by Moi University’s failure to remit member deductions from June 2015 onwards.

Controversial License Revocation

Despite showing signs of recovery by 2017, SASRA issued a notice in March 2018 indicating its intention to revoke MUSCCO’s license. In response, the Sacco submitted a detailed recovery plan that included the proposed sale of MUSCO Towers via public tender scheduled for June 28, 2018.

Controversially, SASRA proceeded to revoke the license on June 27, 2018—just one day before the planned sale. The then Commissioner for Co-operative Development, Mary Mungai, cancelled MUSCCO’s registration and appointed liquidators to take custody of the Society.

Legal Battles and Blocked Interventions

MUSCCO’s attempts to challenge the liquidation through judicial review were dismissed on procedural grounds, with the Sacco being advised to exhaust administrative channels first. Appeals to the Cabinet Secretary went unanswered, and mediation attempts through the Inter-Governmental Technical Relations Committee yielded no concrete results.

The Sacco alleged that liquidators withheld key financial documents, preventing the County Government from assessing or offering financial support. MUSCCO further filed court applications to block the auction of MUSCO Towers, scheduled for January 31, 2020, though auctioneers issued another sale notice in March 2020.

Taskforce Paves Way for Revival

The breakthrough came when CS Oparanya appointed a 13-member taskforce in December 2023, chaired by Joshua Choge. The taskforce was mandated to conduct a comprehensive review of MUSCCO’s status, including membership, financial position, asset valuations, and the circumstances leading to liquidation.

The taskforce’s work included assessing the performance of the Society’s loan book, determining the status of MUSCO Towers, evaluating the impact of continued liquidation on members, and drawing up a revival plan aligned with the government’s Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

A New Beginning

The lifting of the liquidation order marks a turning point for MUSCCO members who have endured years of uncertainty about their savings and investments. However, the road ahead requires strict adherence to governance standards and regulatory compliance to prevent a recurrence of past problems.

The case highlights the delicate balance between regulatory oversight and the preservation of cooperative institutions that serve thousands of Kenyans, particularly in the education sector where MUSCCO has traditionally played a vital role in providing financial services to university staff.

Businessman Khalif Kairo’s Mother Dies After Long Illness

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Businessman Khalif Kairo's Mother Dies After Long Illness
Businessman Khalif Kairo's Mother Dies After Long Illness

Businessman Khalif Kairo is mourning the loss of his mother, who passed away after a long and bravely fought battle with illness.

Kairo shared the heartbreaking news through a message on his social media platforms, expressing deep sorrow while also reflecting on gratitude for the time they shared as a family.

“We lost our mum earlier today after a long and bravely fought battle with illness. Our hearts are heavy, but we are grateful to God for the time, love, memories, and lessons she gave us. She fought with strength and grace, and we thank God for every moment we shared with her,” he wrote.

Businessman Khalif Kairo's Mother Dies After Long Illness
Businessman Khalif Kairo’s Mother Dies After Long Illness

In his tribute, Kairo described his mother as a source of strength and guidance, noting that her resilience throughout her illness left a lasting impact on the family.

The loss comes at a time when Kairo has been navigating a series of personal and professional challenges. In recent months, the businessman has faced intense public scrutiny and business-related hurdles, including controversies surrounding his ventures and legal battles that have drawn widespread attention online. Despite these challenges, he has remained vocal about perseverance and faith — values he has often credited to his upbringing.

Supporters, friends, and fellow entrepreneurs have since flooded his social media pages with messages of condolence, offering prayers and words of encouragement as he and his family grieve.

Details of funeral arrangements had not been announced at the time of publication.

Kairo’s tribute paints the picture of a son deeply grateful for a mother whose love, lessons, and strength shaped his journey — both in business and in life.

U.S. Suspends Ksh200 Billion Health Deal With Kenya Ahead of Court Ruling

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U.S. Suspends Ksh200 Billion Health Deal With Kenya Ahead of Court Ruling
U.S. Suspends Ksh200 Billion Health Deal With Kenya Ahead of Court Ruling

The United States government has said it will only proceed with the Ksh200 Billion Health Deal With Kenya with Kenya once the High Court makes a full determination on the matter.

Speaking during a press briefing in Nyeri on Thursday, December 12, the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Susan Burns, stated that President Donald Trump’s administration cannot move forward with implementation of the agreement until the Kenyan courts give direction.

“It is up to Kenya to decide how they want this funding and how they want it implemented. These are discussions that we need to have with the government, but at the moment, the matter is for the court to decide,” Burns said.

She emphasised that while the deal is currently suspended, engagement between Washington and Nairobi remains ongoing to prepare for possible rollout once legal hurdles are cleared.

“We have a lot of work to do in the implementation, and we will continue to have this conversation with the government, of course, respecting any decision that comes from the court. There is a chance to relearn how to do things and scale them up,” she added.

Deal Signed in December

The multi-billion-shilling agreement was signed on December 4, 2025, by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with President William Ruto witnessing the ceremony at State House.

The framework was designed to strengthen Kenya’s healthcare system by enhancing digitisation of health infrastructure, improving emergency preparedness, and boosting the healthcare workforce and supply chain systems. The funds were to be disbursed directly through government institutions in phases over five years.

However, just a week after the signing, the High Court issued conservatory orders suspending implementation of the agreement.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye halted the deal, citing concerns over provisions relating to the transfer and sharing of medical and personal health data, which had sparked public debate and concern among Kenyans.

“A conservatory order is hereby issued suspending, staying, and restraining the respondents, whether by themselves, their agents, or assigns, from implementing or giving effect to the Health Cooperation Framework executed between the Government of Kenya and the Government of the United States of America,” Justice Mwamuye ordered.

“This suspension applies insofar as the agreement provides for or facilitates the transfer, sharing, or dissemination of medical, epidemiological, or sensitive personal health data.”

Alternative Support to Continue

Despite the suspension, Burns assured that the U.S. government will continue supporting Kenya’s healthcare sector through other established channels, including the U.S. Embassy’s Office of Foreign Assistance and the Centers for Disease Control.

The court’s final determination is now expected to shape the future of one of the largest bilateral health cooperation deals between Kenya and the United States, particularly in areas touching on digital health systems and data governance.

High Court Declares ‘Creating a Disturbance’ Law Unconstitutional

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High Court Declares ‘Creating a Disturbance’ Law Unconstitutional
High Court Declares ‘Creating a Disturbance’ Law Unconstitutional

The High Court has barred law enforcement agencies from enforcing the Penal Code provision on “creating a disturbance in a manner likely to cause a breach of peace,” declaring it unconstitutional in a landmark ruling delivered on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

In the judgment, the court struck down Section 95(1)(b) of the Penal Code, effectively preventing police from arresting and charging Kenyans under the broadly framed offence. The court found the provision to be vague, overly wide, and incapable of precise interpretation.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye ruled that the section failed to meet constitutional standards, noting that it was impossible to clearly define what constitutes “creating a disturbance” likely to cause a breach of peace.

For years, the offence has been classified as a misdemeanour punishable by up to six months’ imprisonment.

Challenge by LSK

The petition challenging the provision was filed by the Law Society of Kenya, which argued that Section 95(1)(b) infringed on fundamental rights protected under Article 33 of the 2010 Constitution — particularly the right to freedom of expression.

The court agreed that the vague wording of the law left room for abuse and arbitrary arrests, undermining constitutional protections.

Morara Kebaso’s Arrest

The ruling comes months after activist Morara Kebaso was arrested on October 8, 2025, and detained at Langata Police Station. Kebaso had been monitoring government projects when he was charged with creating a disturbance likely to cause a breach of peace.

His case, which was before Justice Mwamuye on February 12, 2026, is now expected to be the last prosecution under the invalidated provision.

Curbing Over-Policing

The decision arrives amid heightened public scrutiny of police conduct. In recent weeks, viral videos circulated online showing officers allegedly assaulting peaceful citizens who were playing pool before arresting them.

By nullifying Section 95(1)(b), the High Court has significantly curtailed the scope for what critics described as “over-policing” — where individuals could be arrested in the absence of a clearly defined offence.

Legal analysts say the ruling reinforces constitutional safeguards and sets a precedent against broadly worded criminal provisions that may be used to suppress lawful expression.

The judgment marks a notable victory for civil liberties advocates and could reshape how public order offences are interpreted and enforced going forward.

Man Who Rushed Towards President Ruto in Wajir Speaks Out

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Man Who Rushed Towards President Ruto in Wajir Speaks Out
Man Who Rushed Towards President Ruto in Wajir Speaks Out

A man who ran towards President William Ruto in Wajir while he was delivering a speech has broken his silence, saying he had no ill intentions and only wanted to speak to the Head of State about his political ambitions.

In a video seen by The Star, the man explained that he was seeking an opportunity to introduce himself to the President and share his plans to vie for a Member of County Assembly (MCA) seat in his area.

“Mimi nilitaka kuongea na Rais kwa sababu nasimama kiti ya MCA huko kwetu,” he said.

He added that the moment came as the President was concluding his speech, and he simply wanted to greet him.

“That was the time the president was summarising his speech, and I just wanted to greet him, and I didn’t know that my actions would cause trouble. I am hopeful that I will see him,” he said.

According to his account, he tripped and fell on the carpet near the stage before security officers quickly moved in and carried him away.

The incident occurred as President Ruto was addressing beneficiaries of the Nyota Fund in Mandera when the unidentified man suddenly emerged from the crowd and rushed toward the stage. Security personnel swiftly restrained him, briefly interrupting the President’s remarks.

However, President Ruto intervened and urged his security team to remain calm.

“Eei, so sorry, leave him alone, let him relax there. He should sit down somewhere there, and I will see him later,” the President said, signalling for a measured response.

The event proceeded without further disruption.

Similar Incident in Mombasa

The Wajir incident came just days after a similar security scare on February 6 in Mombasa, where another unidentified man ran towards President Ruto during an event at the Jomo Kenyatta Showground.

At the time, the President was presiding over the disbursement of Sh147 million in Nyota youth empowerment funds to 5,880 young entrepreneurs from Mombasa, Kwale and Taita-Taveta counties.

As he engaged the audience and casually asked, “Wapi mtu wa mwisho hapa?” a man suddenly broke from the crowd and ran toward the dais, catching security officers off guard.

Security aides quickly moved to restrain him, but President Ruto once again intervened.

“Habari yako boss, wachana naye,” he told one of the officers, allowing the man to speak briefly.

In a light-hearted exchange that drew laughter from the audience, the President asked for his name.

“Unaitwa nani?” he posed.

“Naitwa Jeremiah,” the man replied.

“Very good, Jeremiah,” the President responded, jokingly remarking, “Naona umeweka box,” in reference to his hairstyle.

The President also asked about his missing shoes.

“Viatu imepotea wapi?”

“Nimeziwacha,” Jeremiah answered, prompting laughter from both the President and the crowd.

When asked where he had come from, the man said he had travelled from Nairobi and had followed the President to several towns.

“Mimi nimetoka Nairobi. Nimekuwa nawe Kisumu, nimekuwa nawe Nakuru,” he said.

Upon learning that Jeremiah was not a beneficiary of the Nyota programme, the President asked him to wait.

“Sasa wewe utangoja kidogo, wacha nimalizane na hawa, tutashughulika na wewe,” he said, before a security aide calmly escorted the man away.

Both incidents have sparked conversations online about public enthusiasm at presidential events and the challenges faced by security teams in managing large crowds, even as the President has opted for a composed and measured response in such situations.

Government Seeks Sh258 Billion Strategic Investor to Revive Kenya Airways

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Government Seeks Sh258 Billion Strategic Investor to Revive Kenya Airways
Government Seeks Sh258 Billion Strategic Investor to Revive Kenya Airways

The government has launched a global search for a strategic investor to inject up to $2 billion (Sh258 billion) into Kenya Airways (KQ), marking what officials describe as the most significant restructuring effort in the airline’s history.

National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi termed the planned overhaul “the most consequential shift in the airline’s trajectory in decades,” underscoring the state’s determination to steer the national carrier toward financial sustainability and reduce its long-standing reliance on public funds.

Major Operational Overhaul

The proposed restructuring will see a comprehensive review of Kenya Airways’ route network, fleet composition, and workforce structure. The aim is to align operations with the airline’s ambition of becoming a competitive and self-sufficient African carrier.

“The main highlights of the strategy include the preparation and accumulation of a comprehensive financial and capital structure that includes new strategic investors to position the company for success,” Mbadi said.

At the heart of the turnaround plan is the introduction of a strategic partner who brings not only capital but also global expertise in airline management.

“This is not about a partner who merely injects money, but one who can run a successful airline,” Mbadi emphasised.

Labour and Financial Reforms

Labour reforms are also expected to play a central role in the recovery plan. The Treasury has signalled plans to renegotiate collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) to meet industry productivity benchmarks.

“Remember, we have the contentious CBA process too, which needs to be negotiated,” Mbadi noted, highlighting the importance of aligning staff costs with global aviation standards.

On the financial front, the government has already assumed Sh63.1 billion of Kenya Airways’ debt, which it is currently servicing. The Treasury plans to convert this debt into equity once a strategic partner is secured, effectively cleaning up the airline’s balance sheet and making it more attractive to investors.

Reduced State Bailouts

The investor search comes amid a broader policy shift to scale back state bailouts for struggling firms. Government support to state-linked companies fell by 16.9 per cent last year to Sh83.24 billion.

According to the Draft Medium-Term Debt Management Strategy for 2026–2027 to 2028–2029, the Treasury has been reducing guarantees extended to entities such as Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), and Kenya Airways.

The Treasury has indicated that an international expression of interest (EOI) will be issued soon, formally inviting potential investors to participate in the restructuring process.

Safeguarding National Interests

Despite the planned changes, the government has assured that Kenya Airways will retain its status as the national carrier. The airline’s strategic hub advantage at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) will be preserved, alongside the protection of the KQ brand.

The ultimate goal, according to Treasury, is to build a rejuvenated airline capable of forging stronger partnerships across Africa and contributing long-term economic value to the country.

Investor sentiment appears to have already responded positively to reports of the restructuring, with Kenya Airways’ shares surging 69.7 per cent in just eight trading days in January amid speculation over ongoing talks.

If successful, the planned investment could mark a turning point for the once-troubled carrier, positioning it for renewed growth in an increasingly competitive global aviation market.

Sifuna Rejects Removal as ODM Secretary General, Vows Court Battle

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Sifuna Rejects Removal as ODM Secretary General, Vows Court Battle
Sifuna Rejects Removal as ODM Secretary General, Vows Court Battle

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has rejected his removal as Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), terming the decision illegal, unconstitutional and a violation of due process.

Speaking on Thursday, a day after he was replaced by Catherine Omanyo, Sifuna said he would challenge his ouster through legal channels and in the court of public opinion.

“We shall fight for this great institution until the very end, and we will challenge every illegality in the courts of law and in the court of public opinion. Surrender is not an option for us. I urge our members to remain calm, steadfast and committed to the ideals that brought us together. ODM is bigger than any individual, and it must remain anchored in justice, transparency and respect for its own constitution,” Sifuna said.

The party formally announced Sifuna’s removal on Wednesday, stating that the National Executive Committee (NEC), during a meeting held in Mombasa on February 11, 2026, had resolved to remove him from office with immediate effect. The statement cited rising levels of indiscipline within the party, particularly among senior leadership, as a key concern.

“Having deliberated on matters relating to the conduct of the Secretary General, Senator Edwin Sifuna, the NEC resolved to remove him from office with immediate effect, in accordance with party constitution and applicable laws, effective immediately,” the party said.

Sifuna Rejects Removal as ODM Secretary General, Vows Court Battle
Sifuna Rejects Removal as ODM Secretary General, Vows Court Battle

Omanyo, who has been serving as one of the Deputy Secretary Generals, was appointed to act as Secretary General pending the election of a substantive office holder.

However, Sifuna dismissed the NEC’s decision as irregular and contrary to the ODM Constitution and the principles of natural justice. He said he was neither informed of any allegations against him nor given an opportunity to respond.

“At no time have I been informed of any allegations against me… Neither have I been invited to respond to any complaints in and out of the party on any matter that would constitute grounds for removal of a Secretary General,” he stated.

The senator further accused a faction of the party leadership of taking instructions from State House, insisting that he remains the legitimately elected Secretary General of ODM.

Sifuna has been at the forefront of a faction opposed to ongoing talks between ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), a stance that has deepened divisions within the 20-year-old party. He noted that his opposition to engagement with President William Ruto predates the death of the party’s longtime leader, Raila Odinga, arguing that Raila had accommodated differing views within the party.

“Regardless of what political deals Raila struck with different regimes, he would never have allowed his beloved party to be turned into a mere appendage of State House,” Sifuna claimed.

He also criticised recent procedural actions within the party, including a February 3 Gazette notice that he said sought to legitimise leadership changes after deadlines had lapsed. According to Sifuna, such moves reflected “bad manners that progressive institutions and individuals pick up as soon as they get cosy with William Ruto.”

Despite the escalating standoff, Sifuna maintained that he remains committed to ODM and its founding ideals.

“I remain a loyal member and the duly elected secretary general of the ODM party. I remain committed to the struggle, to the struggle for a fair, just and democratic Kenya,” he said.

The unfolding dispute is expected to test internal party structures and could have broader political implications as alignments shift ahead of the next electoral cycle.

“Napenda wanawake” – Ronald Karauri Dismisses Viral Video Claims

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Ronald Karauri Dismisses Viral Video Claims
Ronald Karauri Dismisses Viral Video Claims

Kasarani Member of Parliament Ronald Karauri has firmly rejected online allegations linking him to a controversial video, describing the claims as fabricated and politically driven.

The legislator spoke out amid growing social media speculation, directly addressing a prominent blogger who has been associated with the circulating claims. Karauri challenged the blogger to produce the alleged footage, maintaining that no such material exists and insisting he has nothing to hide.

“I usually don’t address such topics, but I must speak on this. I am extremely straight; I’m the straightest person you will ever meet. If I’m going to have any issues, it is going to be with women. Women are the root of all problems in my life,” Karauri said.

He suggested that the timing of the allegations was not coincidental, pointing to the country’s increasingly charged political atmosphere as the election season approaches.

“It is political season, and maybe people have an agenda they want to push. Don’t be scared, if it is about politics, we shall meet in the ring. The story is totally fabricated; I don’t know what agenda the blogger wants to push,” he added.

Karauri dismissed suggestions that he was anxious about the potential release of compromising footage, reiterating that the alleged video does not exist. In a bold move, he issued a public financial challenge tied to the claims.

“I will give you money to share the videos. I’m giving you up to today, 5 pm. I have Sh5 million for you. I know that video does not exist,” he said.

He further outlined a broader pledge involving Sh10 million. According to the MP, if the alleged video is not produced by the stated deadline, Sh8 million will be directed to his foundation to support children, while Sh2 million will fund an upcoming boxing match.

Of the Sh2 million set aside for the sporting event, Sh1 million will go toward facilitating attendance for Kasarani residents, and Sh1 million will be offered as prize money.

The remarks have since sparked debate online, with supporters praising the MP’s defiance and critics questioning the necessity of engaging publicly with the claims. As the deadline approaches, attention remains fixed on whether any evidence will be presented or whether the controversy will further underscore the increasingly combative tone of the political season.