Former MP arrested for stealing 2 lorries in Murang’a county

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February 8, 2026

Joy and Tears as Nakuru Man Reunites with Family After 20 Years Away

Chants and melodies filled the air in a small village in Subukia, Nakuru County, as family members, friends and neighbours gathered to welcome Peter Mwangi Maina back home after two decades of absence.

Maina’s return was described by many as nothing short of a miracle. Twenty years ago, he walked out on his wife and children, making good on a chilling promise he had repeatedly made—that he would leave and only return after 20 years.

A Painful Valentine’s Day Exit

Speaking to Inooro TV, Maina’s wife, Miriam Mukami, recalled the pain of the day her husband left. According to her, Maina packed his clothes and disappeared on February 14, 2006, leaving her three months pregnant and with two young children to raise.

“I came back home on Valentine’s Day in 2006 and found him gone with his clothes. It was a very painful moment. I was three months pregnant, and I became very ill,” Mukami said.

From that day, Valentine’s Day became a source of anguish for her, a reminder of the abandonment she endured.

“But I had to step up and raise the children. When he left, my husband only left two bob on the table. I became both the mother and the father of this family. I was so stressed,” she added.

Mukami said she never understood why her husband chose to leave, insisting that they had a good marriage and no serious domestic conflicts that could explain his decision.

A Promise Kept After Two Decades

She, however, remembered that Maina had often threatened to leave and return after 20 years—a promise that, incredibly, came to pass.

In the 20th year after his disappearance, Maina was traced to Kimende in Lari, where he had lived for more than a decade, working as a casual labourer.

His decision to return home was influenced by a televised appeal. While watching Inooro TV, Maina saw his family searching for him and pleading for his return. Moved by their cries, he finally decided to go back home.

His Reason Shocks Many

Maina’s explanation for abandoning his family stunned many Kenyans. He blamed his wife, accusing her of disrespect and involving their landlord in their marital disagreements.

He said the final straw came on the eve of Valentine’s Day in 2006, when he returned home from work to find that his wife had not warmed his bathing water as he had instructed.

“When I left for work that morning, I told my wife to warm my water for bathing. When I came back in the evening, she had not done so and just shrugged me off. She was busy talking to her friends. I felt deeply disrespected,” Maina narrated.

He said the incident made him reflect on what he described as repeated madharau (disrespect) in the marriage.

“I went somewhere to cry. Later, I came back, packed my clothes in a paper bag, hid them under the bed and decided to leave the following day,” he said.

Emotional Reunion and a New Beginning

On a bright January day, Maina finally travelled back to Subukia to reunite with his family. His firstborn daughter, who had tirelessly searched for him over the years, broke down in tears as she welcomed him home.

The homecoming turned into a celebration, with family and neighbours singing, dancing and embracing, as the family chose forgiveness and reconciliation over resentment.

“I am so happy to be here. I am grateful to my wife, who raised the children and made them who they are today. They are all grown now, and I am glad,” an emotional Maina said.

As the village celebrated his return, the family resolved to let bygones be bygones and start a new chapter, turning a painful past into a story of reunion, forgiveness and hope.

Millicent Omanga Dumps UDA, Joins Gachagua’s camp Ahead of 2027 General Election

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February 8, 2026

Millicent Omanga Dumps UDA, Joins Gachagua's camp Ahead of 2027 General Election

Businesswoman and former Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga has officially broken ranks with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and declared her allegiance to the emerging United Opposition as she gears up for a fresh political bid in 2027.

Omanga, who was a long-time UDA loyalist and a vocal supporter of President William Ruto during the 2022 General Election, announced her political realignment but stopped short of revealing the party under which she will contest.

Instead, she openly pledged her support for key opposition figures, including Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, Jubilee Party heavyweight Fred Matiang’i, and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

Eyes Set on Nairobi Woman Rep Seat

Omanga confirmed that she will once again vie for the Nairobi County Woman Representative seat in the 2027 General Election, a position she narrowly lost in 2022.

Addressing supporters, she expressed gratitude to the Mt Kenya community for their backing in the last polls, noting that their support had motivated her to make another attempt.

“I am so impressed with the community from Mt Kenya because you gave me 600,000 votes in Nairobi in 2022. I want to say thank you. I just fell short by a small number, but this time around, in 2027, I will still be contesting for the seat,” Omanga said.

Banking on Opposition Unity

Omanga voiced confidence that the growing unity within the opposition would significantly boost her chances, citing what she described as increasing political and ethnic cohesion among major voting blocs.

“And this time all cousins will be together. It will not be just 600,000, we will have other cousins on board. You have seen Fred Matiang’i bringing the Gusii community together. He is coming to unite with his cousins from Mt Kenya. And from Eastern, Kalonzo Musyoka has united his people also,” she stated.

Swipe at the Political Establishment

The former senator also took a swipe at the current political leadership, urging voters to accept handouts but remain politically independent.

“Those who want to give you money, take it. That is your money they are giving you, your taxes. You have heard your MPs have camped at State House where they get handouts. And I speak from a point of knowledge,” Omanga said.

Remarks Made at Gatundu Ceremony

Omanga made the remarks on February 7, 2026, in Gatundu South, where she was introduced by Rigathi Gachagua during a traditional dowry payment ceremony for Ann and Aloise Kinyanjui.

A day earlier, on February 6, she had publicly confirmed her intention to contest the Nairobi Woman Representative seat following consultations with her supporters.

“Many people have been asking what my plan is for 2027. I will be on the ballot for the Nairobi Women Representative position. I will be with my people. I hear you, and we are together in this,” she said.

Crowded 2027 Race Looms

Omanga now joins a crowded field of aspirants eyeing the Nairobi Woman Representative seat. Incumbent Esther Passaris has already announced that she will not seek re-election in 2027.

Other potential contenders include Nominated Senators Karen Nyamu, Tabitha Mutinda and Crystal Asige, activist Hanifa Adan, and social media personality Maverick Aoko, setting the stage for a highly competitive race in the capital.

Why EACC Is Going After NGAAF CEO Roy Sasaka

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February 7, 2026

Why EACC Is Going After NGAAF CEO Roy Sasaka

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has intensified its pursuit of National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) Chief Executive Officer Roy Sasaka Telewa following a court ruling that cleared the way for his arrest and prosecution over alleged corruption.

On February 5, 2026, the Constitutional and Human Rights Court dismissed Telewa’s petition challenging the EACC’s investigations, effectively lifting the temporary protection that had shielded him from arrest, detention and prosecution.

Court Clears Way for Arrest and Prosecution

In his ruling, Justice Bahati Mwamuye struck out Telewa’s case, terming it an abuse of the court process arising from forum shopping. The judge ruled that Telewa had improperly sought similar relief in different courts after failing to secure favourable orders in an earlier case.

The dismissal means that all interim orders preventing the EACC from taking coercive action against him have lapsed, giving investigators the greenlight to proceed in line with the law.

Allegations Under Investigation

The EACC is probing Telewa over alleged corruption, procurement irregularities and unexplained wealth covering a five-year period between January 2021 and January 2026.

During this time, Telewa held several influential public positions, including:

Chief Executive Officer of NGAAF
Former CEO of the National Youth Council
Head of Procurement at the Kenya Deposit Insurance Corporation
Deputy Head of Procurement at the Competition Authority of Kenya

Investigators say his long tenure in senior public roles makes him subject to scrutiny over suspected economic crimes.

Telewa’s Legal Challenge

Telewa filed a constitutional petition on January 13, 2026, accusing the anti-graft agency of violating his fundamental rights. He claimed the investigations were being conducted in bad faith, were malicious and oppressive, and were aimed at forcing him out of office through the criminal justice system.

A day later, the court issued temporary orders barring the EACC from arresting or charging him, although investigators were still allowed to continue with their inquiries.

However, the EACC strongly denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that it was acting within its constitutional and statutory mandate to investigate corruption involving public officers.

Forum Shopping Claim

The commission later moved to have the petition struck out, arguing that Telewa had already filed a similar case at the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes (ACEC) Division seeking the same relief.

Court records showed that after the ACEC Division declined to grant him protective orders on January 13, 2026, Telewa filed a fresh case at the Constitutional and Human Rights Division the same day, where he obtained temporary relief. He later withdrew the ACEC case.

Justice Mwamuye faulted Telewa for failing to disclose the earlier proceedings, noting that the two cases were nearly identical. The judge ruled that this amounted to forum shopping and misuse of the judicial process.

With the petition dismissed and interim orders lifted, the EACC is now free to arrest, charge and prosecute Telewa if the investigations yield sufficient evidence.

The case underscores the commission’s renewed push to hold senior public officials accountable and sends a strong signal that courts will not shield suspects accused of economic crimes through procedural manoeuvres.

As investigations continue, all eyes will be on the EACC’s next steps and whether the NGAAF CEO will be formally charged in court.

Arsenal Cruise Past Sunderland to Extend Premier League Lead

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February 7, 2026

Arsenal Cruise Past Sunderland to Extend Premier League Lead

Arsenal delivered a dominant performance to secure a convincing 3–0 victory over Sunderland in their Premier League clash at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

The Gunners were in control for large spells of the match and were rewarded with goals from Martin Zubimendi and a brace from in-form striker Viktor Gyökeres, sealing a comfortable win in front of the home fans.

Zubimendi opened the scoring to set the tone for the evening before Gyökeres struck twice to put the result beyond doubt, as Arsenal showcased their attacking depth and tactical discipline.

The victory saw Arsenal extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to nine points, further strengthening their title credentials as the season enters a crucial phase.

However, Mikel Arteta’s side have played one game more than closest challengers Manchester City, who are set to face a tough test away at Anfield against Liverpool in their next fixture.

With momentum firmly on their side, Arsenal will be keen to maintain their consistency as the title race intensifies, while Sunderland were left to reflect on a difficult outing against the league leaders.

Silas Abungana’s Brother Arrested Over Kakamega Homeboyz Player’s Death

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February 7, 2026

Silas Abungana’s Brother Arrested Over Kakamega Homeboyz Player’s Death

Police have arrested the younger brother of Kakamega Homeboyz FC defender Silas Abungana following the footballer’s death, which reportedly arose from a family dispute.

Abungana, a beloved player at the Kenyan Premier League club, passed away on February 4 after sustaining severe head injuries during an altercation at his family home. The suspect, identified as Denmark Muchiti, is alleged to have attacked his elder brother with a club, striking him on the head.

According to family members, the incident was triggered by what was initially a minor disagreement.

Abungana’s father, while recounting his son’s final moments, said he never imagined that a simple family misunderstanding would escalate into a fatal confrontation.

Reports indicate that the dispute began when Abungana’s girlfriend went to Muchiti’s house to borrow a jiko (charcoal stove) but was turned away. After returning home and narrating the incident to Abungana, the footballer reportedly reacted angrily and cut off electricity supply to his younger brother’s house.

In retaliation, the 21-year-old brother allegedly picked up a club and struck Abungana on the head, causing serious injuries. Realising the gravity of his actions, the suspect fled the scene, prompting police to launch a manhunt.

Abungana was rushed to Kakamega County Teaching and Referral Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

On Tuesday, Kevin Teya shared a photo of the suspect in handcuffs, confirming his arrest. “Denmark Muchiti, the main suspect in the murder of Kakamega Homeboyz FC defender Silas Abungana, has been arrested after being on the run. Police confirmed that Muchiti, who is the younger brother of the deceased, had fled following the incident but has now been taken into custody as investigations continue,” Teya wrote.

The arrest comes amid widespread shock and grief within the football community, as Abungana had featured for Kakamega Homeboyz just days before his death, playing a full match for the club.

Police have said investigations are ongoing as they prepare to arraign the suspect in court. Meanwhile, fans, teammates and Kenyans continue to mourn the tragic loss of a promising footballer whose life was cut short under tragic circumstances.

Police Authorise Use of Firearms Against Notorious Panga Boys Gang at the Coast

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February 7, 2026

Police Authorise Use of Firearms Against Notorious Panga Boys Gang at the Coast

Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno has authorised police officers to use firearms against the notorious Panga Boys gang, which has been terrorising residents and businesses through violent robberies across the region.

Speaking to the press, Nuno issued a stern warning to those involved in criminal activities, saying they have only two options: abandon crime or leave the Coast region altogether. He emphasised that police officers will not hesitate to use their firearms when legally justified.

“All those men and ladies involved in crime for one reason or another, your days are numbered. Crime doesn’t pay. You have two options: desist and accept salvation or move out of the entire Coast region. Where we are justified to use our firearms, we will not hesitate,” Nuno said.

The regional commander noted that decisive and firm action was necessary to curb the rising cases of violent crime that have left residents living in fear, particularly in Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale counties.

He warned criminals found armed with pangas that police would respond with lethal force if lives are threatened.

“Nikikupata na panga ukiumiza mtu, nakupiga risasi, hatutacheka na mtu. These are lethal weapons capable of killing. Nimepeana amri ya kutosha, maafisa watumie silaha yao na hao vijana waangushwe,” Nuno stated.

His remarks come amid growing public concern over a surge in violent robberies along the Coast, where criminal gangs have been targeting shops, pedestrians and homes. Several CCTV clips circulating on social media show attackers armed with pangas and firearms storming businesses in areas such as Mtwapa and Bondo, leaving victims injured and traumatised.

In a recent incident in Kwale County, police arrested four suspected members of the Panga Boys gang following a violent robbery in Mbuwani Village on January 22, 2026. The suspects are alleged to have attacked a man using pangas, stealing his mobile phone and inflicting deep cuts on his head and hand.

During the arrest, officers recovered four pangas and six mobile phones believed to have been stolen from various victims.

Following the attacks, the National Police Service assured residents that security operations have been intensified across the Coast to dismantle organised criminal gangs and restore safety in affected areas.

Police have urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement by sharing information that can help in identifying and arresting criminals, as authorities move to contain the wave of violent crime in the region.

Bien to Drive Tusker’s New Talent‑Elevating B2B Platform

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February 6, 2026

Bien to Drive Tusker’s New Talent‑Elevating B2B Platform

Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its flagship Tusker brand, has partnered with Kenyan music star Bien to launch Base to Billboardz (B2B), a bold new career accelerator platform designed to support fast-rising Kenyan artists and help propel them to the next level of their musical journey.

The platform is intentionally structured as a career accelerator for home grown artists who already demonstrate clear momentum which will be elaborated through their released bodies of work such as an album or EP, live performance experience, at least One Million career streams, and a growing online audience of over 8,000, but need the right support system and structure to break into stardom.

FROM LEFT- Simon Maina, Head of Talent, ACE, Mark Mugisha, Director Marketing and Innovation at Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), Bien, Base to Billboardz campaign lead, Chiki Kuruka, Dance and Choreography Coach and Marek Fuchs, CEO and Co- Founder, ACE.

B2B is not a music competition or a raw talent from the grassroots search, nor does it offer a winner-takes-all cash prize.

Speaking at the launch, Christine Kariuki, Head of Mainstream Beer, noted,

“Our goal is to grow homegrown talent from local stages to global platforms, reflecting Tusker’s spirit of unity, celebration, and cultural pride. By bringing artists together, we strengthen Tusker’s iconic legacy and champion the rise of Kenya’s next music stars,”she said.

The first stage of the initiative will involve 30 artists from across the country who will be identified and shortlisted by Bien with input from industry experts representing diverse musical backgrounds, after which public participation and further expert review will narrow the field to six artists, who will form the inaugural Base to Billboardz.

The six selected artists will undertake an intensive six-month development journey from February to July 2026, guided by Bien alongside three other coaches. The artists will receive firsthand mentorship through weekly workshops focused on vocals, songwriting, and dance and movement which will be complemented by monthly masterclasses covering key aspects of the music business.

At the end of the programme, the six individual artists will come together and form a collective, marking a key outcome of the Base to Billboardz journey. In addition, they will release a joint album, unveiled through a high-profile album launch event.

As the project lead, Bien explained:

“Having walked the music journey myself, Base to Billboardz is deeply personal. It represents the opportunities I wished for when starting out. Many of these artists are already established, but what they need is that next level of recognition. This platform allows me to give back, share my lessons, and help nurture the next generation to reach heights they once only dreamed of.”

B2B launches against a backdrop of growing appetite for homegrown Kenyan music, rooted in local culture and experience, as seen across digital platforms and live stages. However, many semi-established artists struggle to sustain a career due to a lack of mentorship, industry structure, and commercial support.

The programme seeks to bridge this gap by equipping artists with the guidance, skills, and exposure they need to build self-sustaining careers while contributing to the growth of Kenya’s creative economy.

Tusker has consistently championed Kenyan music through platforms such as Tusker Project Fame, Nexters, and Oktoberfest, and Base to Billboardz builds on this legacy by shifting focus from short-term wins to long-term artist development.

Safaricom Declares Sh0.85 Interim Dividend for FY2025/26

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February 5, 2026

Safaricom Declares Sh0.85 Interim Dividend for FY2025/26

Safaricom PLC has declared an interim dividend of Sh0.85 per ordinary share for the financial year ending March 31, 2026, signaling strong financial performance and continued commitment to shareholder returns.

In a public announcement, the telecommunications firm said its board approved the dividend during a meeting held on February 4, 2026.

“The Board of Safaricom PLC is pleased to announce that at its meeting held on February 4, 2026, it was resolved to approve the payment of an interim dividend of Sh0.85 per ordinary share for the year ending March 31, 2026,” the company said.

The dividend will be payable to shareholders registered in the company’s Register of Members as at the close of business on February 25, 2026. Payments are expected to be made on or about March 31, 2026.

The notice was issued under the approval of the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) in accordance with the Capital Markets (Securities) (Public Offers, Listing and Disclosures) Regulations, 2023. Safaricom noted that as a listed company, it operates under CMA regulation.

Company Secretary Linda Wambani, who signed the announcement on February 5, 2026, said the approval followed standard board procedures and complied with all statutory requirements.

The interim dividend represents a 54.5 per cent year-on-year increase, reflecting a strong half-year performance by the telco.

In November 2025, Safaricom released its financial results for the six months ended September 30, 2025, reporting solid growth across its core business segments. Service revenue rose by 11.1 per cent to Sh200 billion, driven largely by continued expansion in mobile money and data services.

Net income for the period climbed 52.1 per cent compared to the same period last year, supported by tighter cost controls and increased customer usage.

The dividend announcement boosted investor confidence, with Safaricom’s share price crossing the Sh30 mark on Wednesday to close at Sh30.60, a two per cent gain from the previous trading session.

Safaricom started the year trading at Sh28.35 and has since gained 7.94 per cent, ranking 16th on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) in terms of year-to-date performance.

Analysts say shareholders have reason for optimism, noting that the stock has gained five per cent over the past four weeks, making it the 19th best-performing counter on the NSE over that period.

“Very Creative People” – Ruto Praises ‘Mulot Boys’ as Bomet University Receives Charter

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February 5, 2026