[Part 4] Kenya Protests Live Megathread: Gen Z Protests in Kenya 2024

The youth of Kenya have proclaimed that they must be heard, resorting to widespread national anti-government protests dubbed the ‘Gen Z Protests’. Over a month now, Kenyan youth have taken to the streets, up in arms against a government that doesn’t seem to listen or even understand where they are coming from. Here’s part 4 of the Kenya Protests Live Megathread: Gen Z Protests in Kenya 2024.

We continue our daily-updated thread on the ongoing Gen Z Protests in Kenya. We update this thread daily, with the latest news, events, and announcements regarding the protests. We start with the latest updates and flow down to the earliest in the thread, all dated with their day of occurrence.

We have covered the Gen Z Protests in Kenya 2024 since day one, on the three posts below. Each post contains over 10,000 words of in-depth reporting on the Gen Z Protests.

[Part 3] Kenya Protests Live Megathread : Killer Police, Protest Decoy, and a Night of Terror in Bloody Tuesday 23rd July Gen Z Protests

Killer Police, Protest Decoy, and a Night of Terror in Bloody Tuesday 23rd July Gen Z Protests

Mania AfricaDavid Mania

[Part 2] Kenya Protests Live Megathread: Gen Z Protests in Kenya 2024

Part 2 of the Kenya Protests Live Megathread covering the Gen Z protests in Kenya 2024

Mania AfricaDavid Mania

LIVE MEGATHREAD : Gen Z Protests in Kenya 2024

Live reporting on the 2024 Gen Z Protests in Kenya

Mania AfricaDavid Mania

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August 3, 2024: Toi Market Burned to the Ashes Killing Four in Morning Inferno

Toi Market in Nairobi was burned to ashes this morning killing four people in the morning inferno. The cause of the fire is unknown and traders say they were alerted that the market was on fire early in the morning. They rushed there and tried calling Nairobi County fire engines but the only one that arrived arrived 3 hours later and was only half-full of water. The four people who died were traders who were burnt beyond recognition as they tried to rescue their wares.

Toi market fire tragedy

Four people killed in a fire incident at Toi market
Fire razed down the market affecting over 2,000 traders

Governor Sakaja rescued by police from irate youth
Youth attacked Sakaja as he visited the burnt market#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/9zjLzbUl8S

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 3, 2024

Stones Pelted at Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja in Toi Market

When Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja arrived at the scene of the fire at Toi Market, the traders did not even want to see him. They had been let down by the county yet again. Only a year ago the market had again been similarly burnt to ashes. Consequently, they chased Sakaja off the market, pelting stones at him. Sakaja was protected by his bodyguards and whisked to safety.

The revolution will be televised. Kama mbaya, mbaya. Looters like ⁦Sakaya must respect Kenyans. Thieves must be removed from power and punished severely. Viva! #RutoMustGo #NaneNaneMarch pic.twitter.com/kj7YBXAkOo

— Dr. Miguna Miguna (@MigunaMiguna) August 3, 2024

It is often the case that markets go up in flames in Nairobi with the traders losing millions of their investments. Last year’s fire at Toi market was accompanied by reports that the inferno was arson, as part of a land-grabbing ploy. Something similar is also happening to a soccer field in Woodley Estate in Nairobi that the county government has neglected amid reports that this neglect is to set the stage for grabbing.

On Tuesday this week, youth protested at the sorry state of Woodley Stadium in Nairobi.

Smooth-talking fraudster @SakajaJohnson is deliberately neglecting it, setting the stage for its grabbing.

This useless piece of shit ametuzoea. Asalimiwe. Anyone with details about his… pic.twitter.com/hxevaDRmiW

— Francis Gaitho (@FGaitho237) August 3, 2024

One year and a month later, the same traders who had to start from scratch back then now have to do it again.

Owners of Rogue Matutus Revealed as the Matatus Continue Their Impunity

The owners of two rogue matatus ploying Ngong Road in Nairobi have been revealed. This comes as the matatus were today seen to continue their impunity, breaking traffic rules as the police watched by, despite Citizen TV reporting on the matter yesterday.

Matatus of impunity

Two rogue matatu vehicles continue with business
Matatu operators accuse police of failing to take action

NTSA distances itself saying police have failed to take action
Omari: We’ve received complaints about the two matatus#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/G0UguMULIg

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 3, 2024

As per reports, the two matatus belong to the president’s son, George Ruto. This is why the matatus are ploying the route with such impunity and even backing up at the Railways Roundabout to drop and pick up passengers carelessly. The matatus can’t even wait like the rest of the PSVs, for their turn to pick up passengers.

Rogue Matatus’ Crew Issue Stern Warning

The driver and conductors of one of the matatus issued a stern warning on social media. The crew said that if someone thinks they are “man enough”, they should try and go after the matatu. They also said that it belongs to the “man himself” and anyone taking action against it will be abducted and killed. One of the men, in a balaclava, even illustrated as he showed a beheading gesture.

The driver & kamagera to money fest aka GK-1 has a message for y’all. pic.twitter.com/EF2JSHnWi7

— George T. Diano (@georgediano) August 3, 2024

This is the kind of impunity the Ruto administration is perpetrating even on the business front. A whole president’s son is competing on the roads with common businessmen and exercising his closeness to power to engage in impunity.

We have a First Family that’s competing with the common mwananchi in doing business. Starting with Ruto: He killed maize farming in Kenya. He plants over 500 thousand acres in Congo and Zambia, then imports the maize back to compete with local farmers in the market who depend on… pic.twitter.com/5UqSt3VJPn

— George T. Diano (@georgediano) August 3, 2024

Similar allegations have been leveled against one of the government’s fixers.

There is another Matatu operating along Ngong Road called “Ambulance” Owned by Faruk Kibet. Together with George Ruto’s fleets, these matatus have sent many traffic officers home & some transferred to rural areas. An OCS from one of the station in Nairobi sent me this yesterday. pic.twitter.com/ueCkuEUtSq

— George T. Diano (@georgediano) August 3, 2024

Reports indicate that police officers who dare to take action against the matatus are often transferred, intimidating other officers to the point they cannot do anything about the matatus’ flouting of traffic rules.

Citizen TV has been INSTRUCTED to delete this or their Business License will be cancelled. Who the hell does WILLIAM RUTO & his son think they are? SHAME ON YOU!#NaneNaneMarch pic.twitter.com/WSeyST7tvc

— Hon. Katiwa  (@katiwa_) August 2, 2024

Matatu operators ploying the route have threatened to go into protests against the matatus. Others have suggested the so-called ‘gari za serikali’ (government matatus) should have GK number plates and do government business.

Kama gari ni ya serikali, si iwekwe GK basi ifanye kazi ya serikali.

pic.twitter.com/AnhJEGobxh

— Fafa Mukuru (@osoroKE) August 2, 2024

Hii gari itabidii wameiweka tu Statehouse Charlene aitumie kama storage unit ya hizo wigs zake mbaya. pic.twitter.com/ICMj8sAhzz

— Gitz  (@Gitz__) August 3, 2024

Former ODM Chairman John Mbadi Vetted for CS Job

Former ODM Chairman John Mbadi was today vetted for the Treasury CS job that President Ruto appointed him. Mbadi, who seems to have had a change of heart, said that the Finance Bill 2024 had some “good provisions” that were “not contentious”.

Mbadi suitability test

Parliament vets John Mbadi, CS nominee for Treasury
Mbadi promises to device ways of filling the revenue gap

Mbadi: We’re losing money through counterfeit goods
Mbadi: My net worth is 380 Million Shillings#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/jGrPadycFn

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 3, 2024

This is the same Mbadi that 6 weeks ago was in vehement opposition to the bill and voted it down in parliament. Mbadi was also tasked with explaining how he’ll marry his ODM affiliation with working with the government.

Other CS nominees were also vetted today including former ODM minority leader Opiyo Wandayi (Energy), Rebecca Miano (Tourism), and Salim Mvurya (Trade).

Wandayi, Miano, Mvurya vetted

Trade, industrialization CSnominee Salim Mvurya vetted
Mvurya’s net worth grew by Ksh38M in two years

Tourism CS nominee Rebecca Miano vetted
MPs also vetted Opiyo Wandayi, CS nominee for energy#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/bJHAQLP2yx

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 3, 2024

Former Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen Vetted

Today’s vetting also included Kipchumba Murkomen who’s slated for a comeback to the cabinet as CS Youth and Sports. Murkomen, ‘the poster child of everything wrong with Ruto’s government, as we have referred to him in the past, was at pains to clarify the planned leasing of JKIA to Adani Airport Holdings Ltd.

Murkomen: I’ve not sold JKIA!

Murkomen denies alleged privatization of JKIA
Murkomen: I’ve no capacity to sell JKIA

President Ruto nominated Murkomen CS Sports
Murkomen among nominees vetted by Parliament
#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/qNkHTCvQt6

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 3, 2024

Murkomen said that he had not sold the country’s leading national airport and he “did not have the capacity” to do that. Murkomen was the CS Transport and was seen to be very opulent, often bragging about how he wore $90,000 watches. His reappointment two weeks after being fired is believed to be out of his closeness to the president. Murkomen is seen to be one of Ruto’s loyalists and as a result, the CS position is his ‘reward’.

Me trying to understand why someone worth KSH 790 Billion, would be interested in a Cabinet job paying KSH1 M per month, unless it’s to steal. pic.twitter.com/A5GD7nap2T

— Wamutahi (@Son_of_Laikipia) August 1, 2024

Chair of the CSs Vetting committee Hon @HonWetangula and his Committee members like Hon @JunetMohamed aren’t asking one vital question to the CSs who were reappointed a second time by President Ruto. All had previously declared their net worth in 2022. For example X was worth 250…

— Ahmednasir Abdullahi SC (@ahmednasirlaw) August 1, 2024

Most of the CS vetted so far are dollar millionaires, prompting questions on their millions of dollars ‘earned’ since getting into office.

Ruto’s CSs grew their wealth by 30% in just 18 months, meaning if they used the same method to grow our economy, we would be lending IMF & china money as of January. So they only know how to invest at a personal level but helping the country to grow is where they draw the line? pic.twitter.com/OjMIW8S515

— George T. Diano (@georgediano) August 2, 2024

Rigathi Impeachment Discussion

Listen to part of a panel discussion Citizen TV held talking about the constant frustration of VPs by their bosses in Kenya.

Curses of vices & deputies

Office holders have never enjoyed smooth sailing stint
Since independence most VP/DP have never enjoyed peace

Moi, Jaramogi served as VP in Mzee Kenyatta’s regime
Late George Saitoti served as VP in Late Moi’s regime#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/eiDJIwkxv6

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 3, 2024

The discussion was triggered by reports indicating VP Rigathi Gachagua’s planned impeachment.

Prof David Monda, Political Scientist: During the 1968 period, there were 3 dynamics going on. There was ideological competition between Jaramogi and Kenyatta, personality conflict and the ethnic component#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/YHoivow8eM

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 3, 2024

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August 2, 2024: UDA Kicks Out Cleophas Malala from Sec-Gen Post

The ruling party, UDA has kicked out Cleophas Malala from his secretary general post. Malala was kicked out following days of wrangles within the party. He will be replaced by Hassan Omar who took over as Sec-Gen, in what the party calls a “fresh start”.

UDA kicks out Malala

UDA party ousts Cleophas Malala as Secretary General
Malala kicked out and his position taken by Hassan Omar

Omar accused Malala of sowing seeds of discord in UDA
Omar: The level of toxicity in this party was unbearable#FridayNight @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/PkNtiFBPra

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 2, 2024

Malala was kicked out after reports indicated that when a section of the party started planning a Gachagua impeachment, Malala sided with the Vice President. Reports of the plot to impeach the VP have been confirmed by MPs allied to him. They made it clear that they would not “sign” the motion, defending the VP as ‘the Mountain’s’ leader.

Gachagua impeachment row

MPs allied to Gachagua oppose alleged impeachment plans
MPs vow to use all means possible to thwart the plot

Muriu: We know you are going to overcome this storm
Chege: Bringing an impeachment motion is being insensitive #FridayNight @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/y1F5GQWNeJ

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 2, 2024

Could the person referred to in the tweet below be Malala?

Who is this former government official? pic.twitter.com/EoiozbWcsH

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) August 2, 2024

Aden Duale Defends Move to Deploy the Military to Quell Gen Z Protests

Former CS Defence, Aden Duale defended his move to deploy Kenya Defence Forces, KDF military officers to the streets to quell protests. Duale said that it was the mandate of the military to restore peace and order when the police are overwhelmed.

Duale, Mwihia, Muriithi vetted

Ruto nominated Duale as CS Ministry of Environment
Duale promises to firmly deal with forest encroachers

MPs also vetted CS nominee for Agriculture Dr. Mwihia
Wetangula team also vetted CS nominee for Water Muriithi#FridayNight @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/6rT5qMZkWw

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 2, 2024

Duale said this as he was vetted for the Forestry CS post, to which President Ruto nominated him, shortly after nominating him for his former Defence post. President Ruto then changed his stance and nominated Duale to the Forestry Ministry. Gen Zs have alleged that Duale’s appointment in the Ministry of Defence was rescinded because the military did not want him back as the CS for Defence.

Several other CS nominees were also vetted today, including Davis Chirchir (Transport) and Margaret Ndung’u (ICT).

Chirchir, Nyambura vetted

Chirchir promises to ensure Kenyans get value for their money
Chirchir: I want to see cost per Kilometer go down

Ruto nominated Davis Chirchir as Roads and Transport CS
MPs also vetted CS nominee for ICT Dr. Margret Ndung’u#FridayNight @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/OfPnUAj4lL

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 2, 2024

The Oparanya Debacle: EACC Maintains Hard Stance that Wycliffe Oparanya is Not Fit to be a Cabinet Secretary

In one of the rare instances where two of the government’s top prosecutorial offices go head-to-head, the EACC has maintained its hard stance that Wycliffe Oparanya is not fit to be a Cabinet Secretary.

Oparanya nomination battle

MPs reject EACC attempts to block Oparanya’s nomination
Shollei: EACC has no authority whatsoever to clear anyone

EACC opposes clearance of Oparanya as CS co-operatives
EACC: Oparanya received Ksh 56.7M in irregular benefits#FridayNight @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/PIfnBTC48k

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 2, 2024

Essentially, EACC told parliament that Oparanya was not fit for the CS post as he had taken kickbacks. Additionally, that he was involved in clear cases of conflict of interest back when he served as Kakamega governor. The DPP then sent EACC a letter withdrawing its earlier calls for Oparanya to be prosecuted saying the monies he received were ‘loans’.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, however, maintained its hard stance that Oparanya is corrupt and that he should not be appointed as a minister. EACC even went ahead to show a money trail. It also called out the Office of the DPP, saying that it only sent the letter to rescind its recommendation that Oparanya be prosecuted only after he was nominated to be a CS by the president.

Funny enough, the DPP had dated that letter 8th of July, while the EACC received it on the 25th of July, conveniently after Ruto nominated Oparanya. So Oparanya seized being corrupt when the president appointed him or? You can read more about this story below, in the daily updates from the past few days.

Impunity: Two Local Matatus Flout Traffic Rules Carelessly as they are ‘Untouchable’

Two local public service minibusses, commonly referred to as matatus, plying Ngong Road in Nairobi were reported to be carelessly flouting traffic rules with the police looking on doing nothing. The matatus are reportedly owned by the son of a prominent politician. Reports say that even the police are afraid of arresting the drivers or impounding the matatus, as they fear repercussions. Matatu operators have threatened to go on strike to protest the issue.

Matatu impunity uproar

Matatu operators protest impunity by some operators
Owners of 2 matatus accused of breaking traffic rules

Vehicles operate along the Nairobi-Ngong route
Bosire: These vehicles do not belong to any Sacco#FridayNight @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/Za3Lqn9T3z

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 2, 2024

The matatus are said to operate the route with a lot of impunity, often skipping queues in the busy Railways bus stage i.e., backing up to position themselves in front of the queue when they arrive, skipping all other matatus. The matatus also break traffic rules in the busy Nairobi CBD, often impeding other vehicles. They were seen to even drop passengers on a roundabout, something no other motorist would dare do.

The Matatu Crew Welfare Association has voiced strong concerns over alleged discrimination in the administration of justice within the business.

The association claims that two specific matatu vehicles operating on the Ngong – Nairobi route are notorious for flagrantly… pic.twitter.com/y7Zkatv3h3

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) August 2, 2024

To add salt to injury, research by Citizen TV found that the vehicles have not been inspected by the NTSA. The two matatus also do not have a license to operate as PSVs and are not registered to any Sacco. These are clear violations of the law and just go to show the kind of impunity and corruption in this government.

Corruption in Kenya: How You the Corrupt Damage Society

Corruption in Kenya is more rampant today than it has ever been. If Kenya were a sea, then it would be impassable due to the huge icebergs of corruption and corrupt government officials floating by.

Mania AfricaDavid Mania

‘Mtukufu Lies’: Mai Mahiu Flood Victims Still Not Compensated 3 Months Later

Mai Mahiu flood victims are yet to be compensated 3 months after the dam disaster that claimed 60 lives and displaced dozens of families. The residents who were affected had been promised relocation by the President.

Forgotten flood victims

Survivors of the Mai Mahiu floods face eviction
Govt had promised to resettle the survivors

Govt offered to release Ksh350M for resettlement #FridayNight @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/2yTRsabBpl

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 2, 2024

The government had also promised to pay their rent before their relocation, but many of them are now facing eviction from their rental houses. The Gen Zs say that this is another case of ‘Mtukufu Lies’ which means ‘the revered one lies’.

Mai Mahiu dam tragedy survivors in Naivasha are on the brink of eviction from their rented accommodations after gov’t failed to honour its promise of rent payments and resettlement. pic.twitter.com/Np8Oy4smvm

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) August 2, 2024

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August 1, 2024: First Batch of Cabinet Secretary Nominees Vetted by Parliament

Parliament has begun its vetting of the Cabinet Secretaries nominated by President Ruto. Today saw Kithure Kindiki (Interior), Soipan Tuya (Defence), Alice Muthoni Wahome (Water), Julius Ogambo (Education), and Dr. Debra Barasa (Health) vetted by Parliament.

Barasa’s Vetting:

Barasa’s Suitability Test:

Dr. Debra Barasa says she is up to the task at Health Ministry

Dr. Barasa says she will employ technology to disband cartels

Dr. Barasa is a nominee for the health docket

Dr. Barasa is an internal and infectious disease doctor#CitizenTonight… pic.twitter.com/GmFSkSBLvx

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

Ogambo’s:

Eye On The Education Docket:

Looming teachers’ strike, uni. funding model dominate interview

Ogambo says he’ll work with stakeholders to prevent strike

CS nominee pledges to ensure smooth transition to grade 9

Ogambo is a lawyer with 30 years of experience#CitizenTonight… pic.twitter.com/dChUu8YAj8

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

Soipan Tuya’s and Alice Wahome’s:

Tuya, Wahome Vetted:

Soipan Tuya is being vetted for Defence CS docket

Soipan pledges to work with military, stick to policy formulation

Alice Wahome defends her performance at the Lands Ministry

Wahome pledges not to interfere with NLC’s independence

Alice Wahome is being… pic.twitter.com/ef9SJGxzxY

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

The various nominees each had to reveal their net worth and they are all very wealthy, each having a couple hundred million Kenya shillings. Kindiki’s wealth, for instance, grew by a whopping 150 million Kenya Shillings since he was appointed the CS for Interior back in late 2022.

Protests Ghost Haunts Kindiki:

Interior CS put to task over deaths during anti-govt protests

Kindiki: Individual police officers should take responsibility

Kindiki enumerates success in combating terror, banditry

Kindiki is CS nominee for Interior and National Administration… pic.twitter.com/vK3il72geq

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

He is the same person who oversaw the killings of over 60 Gen Z protestors as Interior Minister, now set to be reappointed.

At the same time, prison officers are decrying unfulfilled promises by President Ruto.

Prison Warders Disquiet:

Uproar over delays in salary increment for prison warders

Officers accuse government of ignoring their plight

Government pledges to effect salary increment in August pay

Increment to be backdated to July 1st, 2024#CitizenTonight @SamGituku pic.twitter.com/GeNgs2Dn2h

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

DPP Defends Wycliffe Oparanya, Rescinding Earlier Calls for His Prosecution

The Director of Public Prosecutions has defended CS nominee Wycliffe Oparanya after the EACC revealed to parliament that he had pending corruption cases. The EACC had sent a letter to parliament advising them not to appoint Oparanya as he had pending corruption cases of conflict of interest and taking kickbacks worth 2 billion Kenya shillings.

Oparanya Suitability Row:

EACC, ODPP clash over Oparanya’s suitability as CS

ODPP writes to withdraw consent to prosecute Oparanya

EACC rejects withdrawal, says order given after nomination

ODPP said to have backdated withdrawal letter to July 8th

EACC vows to push on with… pic.twitter.com/xtNxIMzvLH

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

Curiously, however, the DPP wrote a letter to EACC that they dated 8th July 2024 rescinding their earlier call for Oparanya’s prosecution. The move is seen as the government’s attempt to cover up Oparanya’s corrupt dealings and push him through into the cabinet position.

Ruto’s Laws Throttled by Judiciary

Since President Ruto came into power, the courts in Kenya have been very steadfast in halting his laws. Ruto’s Social Health Fund, Housing Levy, Finance Bill 2023, and CAS positions are some of the laws that the courts have nullified, giving Ruto sleepless nights as his agendas are cut short.

Finance Act 2023 Rejection: What Next?

Government mulling whether or not to appeal

Nat’l Assembly reviewing court ruling to make a decision

Appeal Court declared Finance Act 2023 unconstitutional

EPRA confused on whether to adjust VAT on fuel#CitizenTonight @SamGituku pic.twitter.com/CiKjMlYGhp

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

All these laws were halted following the government’s lack of following procedure in enacting the laws.

Trail Of Ruto’s Legal Setback:

K.Kwanza govt has suffered several legal setbacks

Government accused of failing to follow procedure

Government leadership accuse Judiciary of over-reaching

Ichungwa: Judiciary should join politics and enact laws#CitizenTonight @SamGituku pic.twitter.com/yNLkQOrEkm

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

Gen Zs applaud the judiciary for being steadfast and doing its job, even as the government is now seen to be openly attacking judges saying that they are engaging in judicial activism and dictatorship. Gen Zs say that Ruto must follow the proper procedures including public participation, when coming up with his laws and not force them down the people’s throats.

Kalonzo, Wamalwa, Kioni, and Munya Call Out Raila for Divvying Up Vacant Minority Leadership Positions

Azimio-One Kenya leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-K), Jeremiah Kioni (Jubilee), and Munya (PNU) have called out Raila and ODM for dividing up vacant minority leadership positions in Parliament. The leaders called for the ODM party to leave their coalition as it cannot be in both government and opposition.

Azimio Affiliates: ODM Is Greedy

Row erupts over Azimio leadership in the National Assembly

Wiper accuses ODM of grabbing positions for its members

Junet Mohammed was appointed minority leader in N.A

Kalonzo: There has to be concurrence over any appointment#CitizenTonight… pic.twitter.com/mXvQvZilQu

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) August 1, 2024

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July 31, 2024: Kenyan Court of Appeal Declares 2023 Finance Bill Unconstitutional

The Kenyan Court of Appeal has declared the 2023 Finance Bill unconstitutional. The court said that the bill was not enacted through the right channels as some of its provisions were added after public participation and fresh public participation was not done for them.

Finance Act 2023 unconstitutional

Blow to govt as Court of Appeal declares Act flawed
Court: Several sections introduced post public participation

Court: MPs did not give reasons for rejecting public proposals #JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/6FS2szsU6t

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

The 2023 bill – which the government defaulted to following pressure from Gen Zs that caused President Ruto to not assent to the Finance Bill 2024 – included provisions to increase VAT on Fuel to 16% from a previous 8%.

I advised President William Ruto in 2023 during a prayer service in Busia that I was going to court to reject the Finance Bill 2023 and the Housing Levy.

1 year later after the Bill turned into the Finance Act 2023, the court of appeal has today declared it unconstitutional.… pic.twitter.com/LqgpKyb0wS

— Okiya Omtatah Okoiti (@OkiyaOmtatah) July 31, 2024

It also had provisions that introduced E-TIMS, an electronic ticketing system for tax payments, and the housing levy.

COMFIRMED: Ruto is very angry and breathing fire because of the annulment of the Finance Act 2023. People are avoiding him this evening. He has issued threats etc etc. Interesting scenes.

Class, does the pressure increase or decrease.

— SokoAnalyst (@SokoAnalyst) July 31, 2024

EACC Declares Wycliffe Oparanya Unfit for Ministerial Position

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, EACC has declared former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya unfit for the ministerial position Ruto had appointed him. EACC says that Oparanya is implicated in cases of money laundering, conflict of interest, and abuse of office. The EACC shared its recommendation in a reply to parliament as one of the pre-requisites of CS vetting.

EACC: Oparanya unfit

EACC asks Natl’ Assembly not to approve Wycliffe Oparanya
EACC says Oparanya unfit, has pending corruption case

EACC: Oparanya committed alleged crime as governor
Oparanya is Cabinet Nominee for Co-Operatives & MSMEs#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/GRiARsHgNZ

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

As per the letter, EACC says that Oparanya is accused of taking kickbacks worth Kenya Shillings 2 billion from companies that were awarded 60 tenders in Kakamega County where he was the governor. Additionally, EACC says Oparanya leased his land to the county and was paid upwards of 56 million Kenyan shillings, a clear case of conflict of interest. That is the person President Ruto appointed to head the MSME development ministry.

You can’t put ruto and truth in the same sentence buana. #NaneNaneMarch #NaneNane pic.twitter.com/fuMwssugoy

— James (@MrJamesKe) July 31, 2024

EACC approved all the other 21 Cabinet Secretary nominees, as vetting for these would-be ministers is slated to start on Thursday.

Cabinet suitability test

Approval hearings of Cabinet picks begins Thursday
Interior nominee Kithure Kindiki first to appear before ctte

Dr Debra Mlongo, Health nominee to be vetted on Thursday
Julius Ogamba, Soipan Tuya (Defence), to be vetted Thursday#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/WaUXB41Na1

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

UDA Sec-Gen Wrangles: Oh Joe, Khalende Kaende

Self-declared UDA Secretary General Joe Khalende was clobbered today, as he went to occupy the Sec-Gen’s office at the UDA Party Headquarters in Ngong Road, Nairobi. Khalende had declared himself the new secretary general of the ruling party, saying that current Sec-Gen Cleophas Malala, had abdicated his role and was against Ruto’s proposed ‘broad-based government.

Trouble in UDA

Chaos as goons who support Malala attack Joe Khalende
UDA party reinstates Malala, terms coup illegal

Party NEC to meet Friday to resolve leadership dispute#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/hua5jvIova

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

Sources close to the matter say that Malala was being fought for siding with Vice President Rigathi Gachagua after some of the party’s bigwigs sought to have him impeached. There is talk that after the CSs are nominated, impeachment proceedings against Rigathi will commence.

Githeri media are trying to project @rigathi’s infractions as if they reflect on widespread stress and consternation amongst the population especially Mount Kenya.

Hoiyo! If they impeach him aende akiendanga.

When he used to yap about shareholding and shit, by then he thought… pic.twitter.com/U1iGtR0E2k

— Francis Gaitho (@FGaitho237) July 31, 2024

Gen Zs, on the other hand, say that the wrangles at UDA are only meant to be a distraction, to take the attention of the people away from their planned ‘mother of all protests’ on August 8.

Bunge la Wananchi wanasema #NaneNane wanakutana mapema pic.twitter.com/ksM0zPd6W7

— Victor Sang (@itsvictorsang) July 31, 2024

Two Gachagua-Alled MPs Interrogated by the DCI Over Claims that They Funded Goons to Disrupt Gen Z Protests

Two sitting members of parliament allied to Vice President Rigathi Gachagua were today interrogated by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, DCI over allegations that they funded goons to disrupt Gen Z protests and cause property damage.

Gachagua allies questioned

More DP Gachagua allies questioned by DCI detectives
Legislators Gakuya, Mejjadonk questioned by DCI detectives

Gachagua allies accused of financing anti-govt protests#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/NCqFkYd6E0

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

The two, Embakasi North and Embakasi Central MPs are close allies and staunch defenders of the VP. Their interrogation comes days after allegations of a plan to impeach the VP.

IPOA: We are Probing the Deaths of Gen Z Protestors and Justice Will Be Served

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority, IPOA today recorded statements from the families of slain Gen Z protestors, assuring them that they are probing the killings and that justice will be served.

Police shooting probe

IPOA says it’s probing 41 deaths, 199 injuries from protest
IPOA: Challenge is accessing witnesses as they fear for their lives

More than 10 families recorded statements to seek justice#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/VYimMTlyMY

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

IPOA said that it is investigating 41 Gen Z protestors’ deaths and 199 injuries inflicted by the police during the protests. As per KHRC, over 60 Gen Z protestors were killed by police with 66 others missing and most likely abducted or forcibly disappeared. The human rights commission also said that hundreds of protestors were injured during the protests, most of them by police bullets.

Changes in ODM Leadership Following Appointment of 4 Party Leaders in Ruto’s Cabinet

The Orange Democratic Movement, ODM party is making leadership changes after two party leaders, the minority whip, and the party’s chairman resigned following their appointment into Ruto’s cabinet.

ODM leadership changes

Four cabinet nominees resign from ODM party positions
Junet Mohammed picked as new Minority leader

Milly Odhiambo is the new Minority Chief Whip
Caleb Amisi will chair Public Accounts committee#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/TV6i360ChE

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

Junet Mohamed will replace Opiyo Wandayi as the minority leader in parliament while Millie Odhiambo will be the new minority whip. Sabaot MP Caleb Amisi will take on the role of the chair of the Public Accounts Committee, PAC from former ODM Chairman John Mbadi.

New Rules for Religious Organizations

The government is set to enact a new law to regulate religious organizations and churches in the country. The law comes after President Ruto received recommendations from the presidential task force probing the Shakahola killings. Over 400 people died in Shakahola after their pastor told them to starve themselves to death as a way to go to heaven.

Nailing rogue Clergy

Govt. moves to enact law to regulate all religious activities
Bill proposes hefty fines, jail terms for those abusing religion

Proposed Bill seeks to end cultism, devil worship#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/CnRjARgfCN

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

Bodies Still Being Retrieved at the Kware Dumpsite

In another case of mass casualties, sadly bodies are still being retrieved at the Kware dumpsite. Mukuru Justice Centre has asked Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to provide them with a crane to help the retrieval process.

.@SakajaJohnson can we get a crane from Nairobi city to help us retrieve bodies at kware. The @DCI_Kenya are saying they don’t have the capacity to provide the crane and necessary machinery. #MukuruDarkestHour pic.twitter.com/wjWY02CNby

— Mukuru Community Justice Centre (@mukuru_cjc) July 31, 2024

Families of Garissa University Terrorism Victims to be Compensated

A court ruled today that the government shall compensate the families of the victims of the 2015 terror attack on Garissa University. The families, who have been seeking justice since the attack, today got a reprieve with the court setting out that they shall each be compensated 3 million Kenya shillings. The court also compensated individuals injured in the attack, giving them varied amounts on a case-by-case basis.

Terror victims compensation

Court awards 147 families of Garissa Uni attack victims Sh441M
Each of the victims’ family to receive Sh3M

Those living with injuries will receive between Sh3M and Sh7M#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/XWZ2lf1mYL

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

Kenya Aviation Workers Union Set to Go On Strike in Opposition to Proposed JKIA Leasing Plan

The Kenya Aviation Workers Union has hinted at plans to start a civil action against the government’s plan to lease Jomo Kenyatta Airport, JKIA to Adani Airport Holdings Limited.

The Kenya Aviation Workers Union will, on this coming Saturday,

— hold members’ meeting to endorse and resolve the Aviation Workers’ Strike in opposition to the scandalous and nefarious ADANI-JKIA heist.

“True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of… pic.twitter.com/YxRl1g7Ggd

— Eric (@amerix) July 31, 2024

The union called for a meeting of all employees of KAA. Reports indicate that it is opposed to the JKIA leasing plan and that it will likely go on strike to protest.

The company set to lease the airport is said to be conducting plans to have airport workers come in from India with their families. There are also reports that it is likely to cut jobs at the airport.

Court Rejects Proposed Retirement Scheme for Governors and Deputy Governors

In a case where the Council of Governors had sued the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, SRC to have a defined pension scheme, the courts today rejected the case, saying that it would encourage other civil servants to want the same and strain the country’s finances.

No pension for Governors

Blow to governors, deputies after losing case on pension
Court rules retired Governors will be ineligible for pension

CoG had moved to court after SRC decided against pension#JKLive @KoinangeJeff pic.twitter.com/JzxEqaZ9As

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 31, 2024

The courts also said that those funds that the governors want set aside for their retirement are money that should go to development. It said that if their request is granted, it would strain development budgets and also cause issues for sitting governors as they would have to budget for that scheme.

The governors and their deputies were planning to line their pockets with over 700,000 Kenya shillings of retirement salaries. They also wanted a lump sum paid to a governor or deputy governor once their 10-year tenure ends, equivalent to one year’s salary. As if that’s not enough, they were also asking for a housing allowance and a “3000cc 4-wheel drive car”. Shame on them.

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July 30, 2024: Gen Zs Call for “The Mother of All Protests” on August 8 Dubbed “Nane Nane”

Gen Zs have called for “the mother of all protests” on August 8. The protests are dubbed “Nane Nane” which is Swahili for 8/8. The name is significant because it is the date of the planned protests and also because it is in the spirit of ‘Saba Saba’ (7/7).

This is it: #NaneNaneMarch – August 8, 2024 – #RutoMustGo pic.twitter.com/4SlVgxpiG1

— Dr. Miguna Miguna (@MigunaMiguna) July 28, 2024

Saba Saba was a youth-led protest movement back in 1990 where on 7th July, youths marched to protests against the then single-party government. The protests were successful and forced then president late Daniel Moi to allow multi-partyism.

#NaneNane Why we must finish the revolution @itskipronoh @C_NyaKundiH @MigunaMiguna @FGaitho237 pic.twitter.com/fpg3nRFGUE

— Victor Sang (@itsvictorsang) July 28, 2024

One of President Ruto’s newest critics, Morara, has been out to mimic his behavior at political rallies.

August 8, 2024 – make it HUGE. #NaneNaneMatch

pic.twitter.com/F39SUo52NU

— Dr. Miguna Miguna (@MigunaMiguna) July 28, 2024

He also went on to encourage Gen Zs to turn up on the 8th.

I will be there on 8th of August. I will milk a lion while seated on a porcupine. #NaneNane #NaneNaneMatch #RutoMustGo pic.twitter.com/d9hLQdOxtP

— Morara Kebaso Snr (@MoraraKebasoSnr) July 30, 2024

Gen Zs have been mobilizing citizens to attend.

Matatu driver forced to switch off music watu wasikize kuhusu #NaneNaneMatch Mercy Mwangangi City Mortuary Hanifa Aoko #RutoMustBeStopped pic.twitter.com/8Z1YbNQo8c

— Udaku girl (@kanyaa_diana) July 30, 2024

They also urged the media to stop calling their movement an anti-government movement and instead refer to it as pro-good governance.

Githeri media journalists/editors should desist from labeling Maandamano as anti-government protests. These are pro-good governance protests you stupid idiots. #RutoMustGo #NaneNaneMarch pic.twitter.com/BFzpSzZl5E

— Francis Gaitho (@FGaitho237) July 29, 2024

Gen Zs have said that President Ruto is not listening to them, especially since he reinstated half of his previously fired cabinet, going against Gen Z’s demands to dissolve it. Instead, Ruto dissolved the cabinet, only to re-appoint half of it two weeks later.

I don’t think Gen Zs are interested in taking over power. They just want to live in a properly governed country with an equitable economy that works for everyone.

— ephraimnjegafan (@ephraimnjegafan) July 30, 2024

Being Tuesday, the day that Gen Z protests happen, there was a heavy police presence in Kitengela.

What’s happening in Kitengela? pic.twitter.com/HQJh2J9iu6

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 30, 2024

Why are @NPSOfficial_KE intimidating Kitengela people with heavy police presence?

Those water canons will run out of water. Those guns will run out of bullets.

But the revolutionary spirit remains unshaken.

It’s just a few of you rogue police following illegal orders. And… pic.twitter.com/q6jpxWyceK

— Francis Gaitho (@FGaitho237) July 30, 2024

There was also tension in Kangemi after a body was found.

One person was found dead and the youth had to carry the body leave it on the road

— Akoto Kevin (@sagarakelvin2) July 30, 2024

Scared but Unbowed: Gen Z Protestors Nursing Gunshot Wounds Vow to Attend ‘Nane Nane’ Protests

Gen Z protestors who were shot by the police during the protests are nursing injuries with the national human rights body saying that there are hundreds of protestors nursing gunshot wounds and other injuries from the protests.

Scars of protests

Orandi and Njoroge nurse police gunshot wounds Orandi was shot five times during anti-govt protests

Orandi: I was rushed to hospital by good samaritans
Njoroge: I saw the police officer who shot me#CitizenExplainer@YvonneOkwara pic.twitter.com/8AIwR3ZtTa

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 30, 2024

The protestors have, however, vowed to attend planned 8th August protests saying they might be scared but remain unbowed.

On 8th we mourn our fallen heroes in state house pic.twitter.com/E9XfMc9qwu

— KOT Sonko™ (@sonko_254) July 30, 2024

Masked police death squads were carrying even explosives as they went to the streets to quell Gen Z protests.

IPOA criticizes police for covering their faces, hiding their names and badges during protests. pic.twitter.com/OBeRpkCRHj

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 30, 2024

Kenyan Youth Frustrated with Government’s Refusal to Issue Identification Cards

Kenyan youth are suffering after the government refused to issue identity cards. This comes after the government’s push to roll out chipped cards dubbed ‘Maisha Number’ was halted by the courts. The proposed new ‘3rd generation’ cards were set to expire after 10 years. The courts halted their roll out after citizens moved to court questioning the security of the personally-identifiable data collected.

Frustration over ID cards

Thousands of applicants miss out on new ID cards
High Court halts printing of 3rd generation ID cards

University students most affected by the crisis
Mwenda: I’m frustrated, I don’t know if I’ll get HELB loan#CitizenExplainer@YvonneOkwara pic.twitter.com/1oR47o397A

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 30, 2024

The youth are disappointed as most of them require ID cards to get jobs and others require the cards to access higher education loans.

Kenyan Moves to Court Seeking a Halt to JKIA Leasing Plans

A Kenyan named Guyo has moved to court today to seek orders to have the planned leasing of the country’s biggest airport, JKIA to Adani Airport Holdings Limited halted. The government plans to lease the airport for 30 years in what they call a privately-initiated plan, PIP.

JKIA Leasing Tussle:

Kenyan moves to court seeking to stop leasing of JKIA

Guyo wants court to nullify proceedings and agreements

Guyo opposes JKIA take over by Adan Airport Holdings Ltd

Guyo: JKIA lease marked by severe constitution breaches#CitizenExplainer @YvonneOkwara pic.twitter.com/TbEhr8gwZq

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 30, 2024

Kenyans were largely unaware of the planned leasing but got informed thanks to a whistleblower who received the heads up from a person working abroad who was privy to the deal. Controversial Indian billionaire, Gautam Adani owns the company proposing to lease the airport.

Adani will:

– Fire Kenya airport employees

– Bring its own employees at will

– Collect Kenya airport fees in USD, whether in Kenya or outside Kenya.

A government that accepts this Adani deal is just an insensitive clusterfuck. pic.twitter.com/7SYt4Vwztg

— Eric (@amerix) July 29, 2024

Gen Zs say that they see the deal as yet another way government officials plan to use national resources to advance their corrupt dealings.

Former KNTC CEO Pamela Mutua and Head of Procurement Amos Juma Sikuku arrested over Ksh 16 billion edible oils scandal. pic.twitter.com/dlOYQssSh7

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 30, 2024

According to them, corrupt government officials will make any deal to acquire kickbacks.

Hii dunia iko na wenyewe mangai pic.twitter.com/2OCRB9nsUV

— JISAS KRAIST (@Jisaskraist) July 30, 2024

Woodley Grounds in Kibera which Nairobi County allocated Ksh 100 million for renovations is now overrun with shrubs and bushes. pic.twitter.com/vLUMhfgssa

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 30, 2024

IEBC Selection Committee Row

Augustus Muli, who had been selected as one of Azimio-One Kenya’s nominees to the IEBC selection committee, has come out to condemn the party’s leaders. Muli’s name was taken off the nominee list and replaced by Dr. Koki Muli’s.

IEBC selection committee row

NLP nominee Augustus Muli threatens to move to court
Muli alleges he was illegally replaced by Dr. Koki Muli

Muli: I will take legal action against Azimio coalition#CitizenExplainer@YvonneOkwara pic.twitter.com/32mJOzolvL

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 30, 2024

He has now threatened to move to court to challenge the decision.

Kimani Ichungwa is reason why we should not hesitate to recall mps once the IEBC is reconstituted#NaneNane#RutoMustBeStopped pic.twitter.com/Sjt0Ltgyqb

— The Government Critic (@magwaz3) July 29, 2024

Trouble in Paradise?: Civil Coup in UDA After a Section of the Party Affirms It Has Kicked Out Its Secretary General Cleophas Malala

There was what is seen as a civil coup in the ruling party, UDA after a section of the party affirmed that it had kicked out its Secretary General, Cleophas Malala. Lawyer Joe Khalende minced no words about what he felt of Malala, before declaring himself the new UDA Secretary General.

Malala ‘ousted’ from UDA

Section of UDA members oust UDA SG Cleophas Malala
Lawyer Joe Khalende says he is the new UDA Secretary General

Khalende: Malala is no longer Secretary General UDA
#CitizenExplainer@YvonneOkwara pic.twitter.com/2ogeq5x2lY

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 30, 2024

The move comes after Malala was seen to associate with ODM Secretary General Sifuna and the leader of the ‘Tawe’ party Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya. The section accused Malala of abdication, saying that he had abandoned his role in the party and was opposed to President Ruto’s proposed ‘broad-based government’.

The takeover mirrors that of ODM Sec-Gen Edwin Sifuna who orchestrated a similar civil coup in ODM 8 years ago. Sifuna has since been the party’s Secretary General.

Vice President Rigathi Gachagua’s Aides Questioned by the DCI Over Allegations of Hiring Goons to Disrupt Gen Z Protests

Three of Vice President Rigathi Gachagua’s aides were today interrogated by the DCI following allegations of their involvement in the hiring of goons to disrupt Gen Z protests. Also implicated in the matter were 2 sitting members of parliament and a former governor, all unnamed.

Protests: Gachagua under probe

Senior govt officials attached to Gachagua’s office grilled
Officials questioned over alleged financing of anti-govt protests

Detectives have also summoned two MPs from Nairobi county
Suspected hired goons looted, destroyed property in Nairobi… pic.twitter.com/yMQZzlbNRx

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 30, 2024

The questioning comes days after there were reports that there was a ploy underway to have the Vice President impeached.

State affiliated media The Star reports that three aides to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua were Tuesday grilled over an ongoing probe seeking to establish those who could have financed the anti-government protests as government insists the protests are not organic. pic.twitter.com/rkMxIbS7nJ

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 30, 2024

Today also saw chaos in the Wajir County Assembly, after MCAs tried to take the sergeant-at-arm’s mace in a dispute over the allocation of KES12 billion.

Chaos in Wajir County Assembly as MCAs physically wrestle Serjeants-at-Arms in an attempt to grab the mace.

The move comes after funds were allocated for the county First Lady’s office and residences for the governor, deputy governor and speaker.

MCAs allege the governor is… pic.twitter.com/e5veNPXRN9

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 30, 2024

Ruto Cabinet Appointments: Senior Counsel Dorcas Oduor as the New Attorney General & Beatrice Moe as the New CS for the EAC

Senior Counsel Dorcas Oduor has been appointed the new Attorney General by President Ruto. Ruto also appointed Beatrice Askul Moe as the new Cabinet Secretary for the East Africa Community, EAC.

Dorcas Oduor for AG

Ruto nominates Senior Counsel Dorcas Agik Oduor as AG
Oduor currently serves as Secretary of Public Prosecutions

Oduor likely to become Kenya’s first female Attorney General
President Ruto also nominated Beatrice Askul Moe as EAC CS#CitizenExplainer… pic.twitter.com/5Xbt342hJ2

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 30, 2024

Oduor is a seasoned legal practitioner, with over twenty years of experience. She has been the Secretary of Public Prosecutions at the Director of Public Prosecutions Office, ODPP.

Beatrice Moe, on the other hand, is a trained sociologist and consultant who was part of the ODM campaign team. The names of the two have been forwarded to Parliament for vetting, slated to start on Thursday this week.

If Ruto doesn’t make you angry, are you even okay?

— Muthoni Njakwe (@muthoni_njakwe) July 29, 2024

President Ruto has been accused of wastage of public resources with today’s dailies saying that the amount has reached KES54 billion.

Ksh 54 Billion pic.twitter.com/AQSqNbsENr

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 30, 2024

Shakahola Taskforce Delivers Report to President Ruto

The cabinet appointments by President Ruto came on the same day he received the long-awaited report from the Shakahola Taskforce. The task force was constituted after more than 400 people died in Shakahola after their pastor instructed them to go hungry as a way to go to heaven.

Shakahola taskforce report

Taskforce hands over recommendations to President Ruto
Team proposes formation of Religious Affairs Commission

Taskforce formed following Shakahola massacre discovery
More than 400 followers of Pastor Paul Mackenzie died#CitizenExplainer… pic.twitter.com/EF4MLjCH7L

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 30, 2024

The task force made several recommendations aiming to regulate religious organizations and churches in the country and combat cultism.

The Truth About Cults: How They Work, Why People Join, and How to Avoid Falling Victim

Cults are often described as groups that have a charismatic leader who uses their power to control and manipulate their followers.

Mania AfricaDavid Mania

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July 29, 2024: Several Gen Z Protestors Still Missing with Families Calling for Their Release

Several Gen Z protestors are still missing with their families calling for their release. The protestors, who were either arrested or abducted by the police during the protests, are still missing with their whereabouts unknown. One such case is in Kitengela where Maurice Wambua and Ramadhan Mohammed are missing after being arrested by police during the protests.

Maurice was arrested when he went to Kitengela Police Station to visit his friend Mohammed and the two have since disappeared. Mohammed had been arrested while taking part in the Gen Z protests. The family indicates that Maurice was then transferred to Isinya Police Station and then to several other police stations with recent information indicating that he is being held over 200 kilometers away.

Missing Kitengela Protesters:

Kitengela families seek info on their missing young men

Maurice Wafula & Ramadhan Mohammed missing

The two were arrested on Friday over protests

Families say they have been shifted in police stations#CitizenMondayReport @TrevorOmbija pic.twitter.com/GDp9lvCONV

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 29, 2024

The families of Maurice and Ramadhan have asked for their loved ones to be presented in court or released. They say that even after President Ruto gave a directive for Gen Z protestors to be released, their kin are being held illegally and not being produced in court.

IEBC Selection Panel Names Forwarded to Parliament

Nine names of the IEBC selection panel nominees have been forwarded to Parliament. The 9 nominees are sourced as follows. Two were from the Parliamentary Service Commission, PSC, two were from the Inter-Religious Council, one was from ICPAK, one was from the Law Society of Kenya, LSK, and three were from the Political Parties.

The selection panel will be tasked with recruiting IEBC Commissioners, who will be responsible for overseeing the next election. The selection panel will provide administrative services to the electoral body, as a second layer allowing the commissioners to concentrate on delivering a free, fair, and credible election.

IEBC Selection Panel:

Names of 9 nominees forwarded to Parliament

Selection panel has 90 days to finalize recruitment#CitizenMondayReport @TrevorOmbija pic.twitter.com/G3lj4pBIXb

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 29, 2024

Concerns have been raised, however, that the political parties have too much sway in the appointment of the panel as they get 5 votes: two from the PSC and three for the political parties. In the PSC, the two nominees are decided by the majority and minority leaders.

The Number of Unidentified Bodies at City Mortuary Surpasses 50

There are currently over 50 unidentified bodies at the Nairobi Funeral Home, formerly City Mortuary. The number has risen over the last two weeks following Gen Z protests where police allegedly killed innocent protestors.

Families with missing kin have been visiting the morgue, only to be denied the chance to view the unidentified bodies. The families are in deep pain, as they need to view the bodies and see whether their loved ones are among those who’ve lost their lives following the protests.

Puzzle Of Unidentified Bodies:

50 unidentified bodies lying at City Mortuary

More families report missing kin after protests

Families claim missing kin were abducted by police

Francis Otieno went missing from Mlolongo on July 2

President Ruto vowed action on police excesses… pic.twitter.com/eQD6NlRJDr

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 29, 2024

Raila Odinga Submits Papers for His AU Chairmanship Bid

ODM Leader Raila Odinga has submitted his papers for his African Union chairmanship bid. Raila, who is very keen to become the next AU Chairman today submitted his documents as required by the AU. The AU chairmanship bid, reports indicate, is one of the reasons why Raila was seen to enter President Ruto’s ‘broad-based government’ or coalition of national unity.

Raila is very keen to get the job, and he reportedly needed the help of President Ruto to improve his chances of being selected. Consequently, Raila’s papers were submitted by the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’oei among others.

Raila Submits AU Bid:

Former Prime Minister submits documents for AU bid

PS Sing’oei led team presenting papers in Addis Ababa

Odinga outlined his AUC vision in application

Raila CV presented in 6 languages as prescribed

AUC election to be held in February 2025… pic.twitter.com/ibQXXyzop9

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 29, 2024

Ruto: Plan to Lease JKIA Airport to Adani Good for the Country

President Ruto confirmed that, indeed, there were plans to lease the national airport, JKIA to Adani Airport Holdings Limited. Speaking during his town hall in Mombasa yesterday, Ruto defended the project saying that it would bring private money and coalesce it with public resources for the modernization of the airport.

Ruto also said that the rejection of the Finance Bill 2024 forced the government to instigate budget cuts, and therefore, the government does not have money to modernize the airport themselves.

JKIA Leasing Deal:

Questions over proposal to lease JKIA to an Indian firm

Adani Airport Holding Limited sent proposal to KAA

Firm expected to modernize airport, construct terminal

Details of investment proposal yet to be made public

President Ruto said the airport was not… pic.twitter.com/nACa2qr0Bl

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 29, 2024

Adani Airport Holdings Limited is a company owned by corrupt Indian billionaire Adani, who’s been embroiled in numerous scandals involving fraud.

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July 28, 2024: President Ruto Holds a Town Hall in Mombasa

President Ruto held a town hall meeting in Mombasa today. The president has been on a 4-day tour of the coastal region to consolidate his base and defend the appointment of his ‘new’ cabinet.

President William Ruto: We did not form a coalition government so that nobody should tell us that we are trying to compromise the coalition. I am not keen on who takes the credit, I am keen on the transformation of Kenya pic.twitter.com/2Aq5rc24Kr

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 28, 2024

The cabinet comprises 10 ministers he had fired two weeks earlier following pressure from Gen Z protests.

President William Ruto: I have seen many people ask me, why did you dismiss the whole cabinet and then you hired some back. It was necessary to have a fresh start so that even those I have given another opportunity to serve in cabinet, they must now know that this is new, the… pic.twitter.com/rw5iTSx2CT

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 28, 2024

The audience asked Ruto tough questions on matters such as the economy, unemployment, and what he has been doing to deliver on the promises he made during his presidential campaigns.

Ruto’s new cabinet will be vetted starting next week, in a seemingly rushed process ending on Sunday.

Vetting The Cabinet:

Committee on appointments to vet nominees next week

Archbishop Anyolo calls on MPs to do thorough vetting

Anyolo: Give us competent servants

Public to submit memoranda on nominees by Wednesday
#CitizenSundayLive @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/CuSvX4rjOb

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 28, 2024

The president’s comments on abductions and extra-judicial killings:

President William Ruto: If there is any Kenyan who has disappeared, I want people to step forward and say Kenyan so and so has disappeared. I will be very happy to deal with it. Under my administration I have said there will be no disappearance of Kenyans again, there will be no… pic.twitter.com/lIatLvHOST

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 28, 2024

On the alleged Githurai Massacre:

President William Ruto: When the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights stepped forward with fake news and said 200 Kenyans had been massacred in Githurai, it was a flat lie. Surely, a whole institution that is supposed to be self-respecting, paid for by the government of… pic.twitter.com/tg2MdlmLzb

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 28, 2024

Congratulating himself for not switching off TVs and the internet during Gen Z Protests:

President William Ruto: I am a great believer in the Constitution. Many countries have gone through what Kenya has gone through, Bangladesh for example they switched off the internet and TVs. Kenya is running full steam, the internet is available every day. I have the machinery… pic.twitter.com/zstZNyuqCc

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 28, 2024

On the “broad-based government”:

President William Ruto: Because of the challenges and the issues that came up in the last couple of weeks, I committed to the country that I am going to form a broad-based government. Many people are asking me to explain what is this broad-based government. It is broad-based… pic.twitter.com/zXOmBGUzyz

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 28, 2024

A Family Seeks Justice Following the Killing of their 19-Year-Old Son by a Police Officer

A family is seeking justice, after their 19-year-old son, Victor Kipng’eno was murdered by the police during a raid on Tuesday. According to the family, the boy had been sent to the nearby Masese shopping center to buy some sugar but never returned. It was only later that when one of his brothers went to the scene, he found people screaming that a plain-clothed police officer had shot someone. It was his brother.

Killed By Police In Bomet:

Family seeks justice for 19 yr old shot dead by police

Victor Kipng’eno was shot by police in Bomet

He was shot during a crackdown on illicit liquor

2 other people nursing gunshot injuries#CitizenSundayLive @OBurrows pic.twitter.com/Yp0PAa9NXv

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 28, 2024

The family is in deep pain and is seeking justice for their son. They have expressed disappointment in the brutality the police have been applying in the execution of their duties. The group of officers injured several others who are now nursing gunshot wounds.

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July 27, 2024: Bereaved Families of Slain Gen Z Protestors Denied Justice

The families bereaved following the killings of their loved ones during Gen Z protests are decrying that they are being denied justice following a government slow-down on following up the cases. The police, who are accused of killing the protestors during the Gen Z protests, have been unwilling to help as has the DPP.

Police killings: Justice delayed

Two families demand justice for kin killed by police
Evans Kiratu, Ibrahim Kamau among protestors killed

Families raise concerns over slow pace of probe #CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/dYLydcBcpD

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 27, 2024

The DPP had come out to say that the cases of the killed protestors had insufficient evidence as no witnesses had availed themselves to make statements. The bereaved families, however, deny this saying that they do have witnesses and that their witnesses have recorded statements with all relevant state bodies.

Man Abducted in Circumstances Mirroring the Abductions of Gen Z Protestors

A man was abducted today in circumstances similar to those of Gen Z protestors who were kidnapped. The man was taken by unknown individuals who forced him into a double-cabin pickup and drove off. CCTV footage shows the man resisting the abduction but he was overpowered as the abductors came in two double-cabin pickups.

Where is Daniel Kabusho?

Family says Kabusho was abducted one month ago
Kabusho was kidnapped at a club in Juja, Kiambu county

Wanjiru: We’re worried because we don’t know where he is
Wekesa: He was abducted and forced into a car by 4 men#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/yDlhzX9kyx

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 27, 2024

Onlookers were left in awe and too scared to help as the Gen Z abductions have kept everyone on edge. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations, DCI has been alleged to use similar methods. A case in point was the abduction of veteran journalist Macharia Gaitho. He was later released, and the authorities issued an apology saying it was a case of mistaken identity and that they were out to ‘arrest’ another Gaitho.

Raila Denies Joining the Proposed ‘Broad-Based Government’

ODM Chief Raila Odinga has denied joining the proposed ‘broad-based government’ or government of national unity. Raila said that after the demands of the Gen Zs are met, there will be a need for a ‘national convention’ to bring the country together. He also hinted at his wanting to have the 2010 constitution amended, saying that it has ‘gaps’.

Raila: We’ve no deal with Ruto

Raila maintains there is no deal between ODM and govt
Raila: There is no coalition between ODM & Ruto’s govt

Raila: ODM is still in the opposition and in Azimio
Raila urges Ruto to address issues raised by the youth#CitizenWeekend@OBurrows pic.twitter.com/6R0Z76fMsw

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 27, 2024

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July 26th, 2024: Family of Slain Hero Rex Kanyike Decries Witness Intimidation by Government

The family of slain Gen Z hero Rex Kanyike Masai has decried witness intimidation by the government in the case seeking justice for him. His mother, Jillian Munyao shared that witnesses to Rex’s murder by a masked police officer are afraid of giving testimony as they are intimidated and victimized by the government. A key witness in the case withdrew fearing for their life.

Police shooting cover-up?

Family of late Rex Masai accuses police of covering up
Family says witnesses have refused to record statement

DPP says probe on police shootings by IPOA not conclusive#CitizenFridayNight@lillian_muli pic.twitter.com/ZSohIi1W7B

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 26, 2024

She also shared that after Rex died, police tampered with evidence, taking away a bullet that was still lodged in Rex’s leg, as his body lay in the morgue.

Protestors Arrested Yesterday in March to Honour Gen Z Fallen Heroes Released on Bail

A group of protestors, including Sema Ukweli’s Boniface Mwangi, were today released on KES 20,000 cash bail. They had been arraigned in a Nairobi court after being arrested yesterday while in a march to honor the Gen Z fallen heroes who were killed by police during the June 25th protests.

Court frees Boniface Mwangi

Boniface Mwangi, 4 others released on Sh20,000 cash bail
Court rejects DCI application to hold protesters for 21 days

Activists face incitement to violence charges#CitizenFridayNight@lillian_muli pic.twitter.com/NKU2Q9CVCd

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 26, 2024

The government had asked that they be detained for an additional 21 days, to gather evidence on its allegations of wrong use of computer, incitement, and causing havoc. The judge, however, declined and released them on bail.

2027 Early Campaign: Ruto Consolidates Power Using His Recent Cabinet Nominations

President Ruto has quickly begun campaigning for the 2027 general elections in a trip to Mombasa where he is consolidating his power using his recent cabinet nominations. Ruto nominated 4 ODM party officials to his ‘new’ cabinet, much to the ire of Gen Zs who’ve been protesting against his regime.

Ruto begins Coast tour

President kicks off 4-day working tour of the Coast
Ruto started his tour in Mombasa and Kilifi counties

Ruto pledges to work with all leaders in the region
Ruto receives warm welcome from Coast leaders#CitizenFridayNight@lillian_muli pic.twitter.com/wti5NOrNdI

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 26, 2024

Despite first sacking his entire cabinet, Ruto reinstated half of it only this time including the opposition, in what is seen as the realization of his proposed ‘coalition of national unity’.

U.S. Secretary of State Urges Ruto to Respect Freedom of Expression

In a call to President Ruto regarding the Gen Z protests, the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Ruto to respect freedom of expression. Blinken further “emphasized the vital role played by youth and civil society organizations in healthy democracies..”

Protests: US message for Ruto

Blinken calls President Ruto over anti-govt protests
Blinken urges govt to respect freedom of expression

Blinken: Protect the voices of youth, civil society and media#CitizenFridayNight@lillian_muli pic.twitter.com/Wf3rruNTmT

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 26, 2024

The call comes after 60 protestors were killed by police, 66 more abducted or missing, and hundreds injured during the protests. An example is an X user ‘Propesa’ who went missing after he called on the government to issue ID cards to ensure that the youth can vote come the next election.

Kazi Safi Propesa. pic.twitter.com/LZrjM2PeIt

— Rodgers Kipembe Mpuru (@RodgersKipembe) July 26, 2024

Propesa has resurfaced after 3-days today.

Propesa resurfaces after three days, continues campaign for speedy production of national IDs. https://t.co/N2zexthvt6

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 27, 2024

Kalonzo Declares Himself the New Leader of Opposition

Following Ruto’s appointment of the four ODM officials to the cabinet, Azimio co-head Kalonzo Musyoka has come out to declare himself as the new ‘leader of the opposition’. Backed by Jubilee’s Jeremiah Kioni and DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa, Kalonzo said that since Raila has now become part of the government, he will be the new opposition head.

Fall out in Azimio

Kioni declares Kalonzo Musyioka is now the Azimio leader
Kioni: We’ve decided to allow Raila to leave Azimio

Kalonzo: I will face and floor Ruto in 2027
Karua’s party has issued notice to exit Azimio#CitizenFridayNight@lillian_muli pic.twitter.com/GYWC5RZJJ6

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 26, 2024

Kalonzo also reiterated that he will not join Ruto’s ‘broad-based government’ saying “Zakayo, tutaanguka naye”. This echoes Gen Zs calls for Ruto to resign. Zakayo is Swahili for Zaccheus, a nickname the president has acquired for his excesses in taxation while ‘anguka nayo’ is a slogan that means ‘go down with it’ which the Gen Zs have used to call for the end to Ruto’s time in power.

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July 25th, 2024: Protestors Arrested in Nairobi CBD March to Honour the Fallen Heroes of the Gen Z Protests

A group of protestors were arrested in Nairobi’s Central Business District today, as they marched to honor the fallen heroes who were killed by police during the June 25th #OccupyParliament protest. The group, led by Sema Ukweli’s Boniface Mwangi and VOCAL Africa’s Hussein Khalid, were marching peacefully carrying a coffin and wearing t-shirts condemning the police killings during the protests. They also carried crosses with the names of the martyred.

Protesters confront plainclothes, masked police after one of them had their mask removed.

Video by @Nyakerario_O. pic.twitter.com/8r7pnDidkF

— Africa Uncensored (@AfUncensored) July 25, 2024

Tensions flare in Nairobi CBD as police clash with peaceful Kenyans who had gathered to pay respects to those killed during ongoing protests. pic.twitter.com/vYvxYPW4Jn

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

This was earlier before police deployed tear gas. https://t.co/HT3Kwdnnrt pic.twitter.com/y5JmBgS58x

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

Arresting the Berieved: Police Arrest Family Member of a Protestor They Killed

Among the protests were family members of the late Evans Kiratu, a Gen Z killed during the protests. A woman, probably his mother or aunt, was arrested as she carried his portrait. She then went on to cry in anguish telling the police “You killed my child, and now you arrest me!”

Ann Wanjiru, the visibly distraught mother of 21-year-old Evans Kiratu who was killed by a flying tear gas canister during a protest on June 20, breaks down in Nairobi CBD crying out ‘Mliua Mtoto Wangu Na Mnanishika’ as she is arrested and thrown into a police vehicle. pic.twitter.com/gT7OCcPxEy

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

Several protesters, including the mother of one of the protests’ victims, have been arrested while marching in Nairobi’s CBD. The march is part of a one-month memorial for the #OccupyParliament protests, during which several protesters were killed outside parliament and in other… pic.twitter.com/G81F5rxgII

— Africa Uncensored (@AfUncensored) July 25, 2024

Sema Ukweli head Boniface Mwangi was arrested, among a few other participants of the protest as Hussein Khalid managed to escape.

Human rights activist and executive director of VOCAL Africa evades arrest @husskhalid as police engage with protestors near City Market.

Video by @Nyakerario_O. pic.twitter.com/TRRSiKcDSb

— Africa Uncensored (@AfUncensored) July 25, 2024

The group of about 20 was marching to the President’s Office to demand that justice be served for the families of the young Kenyans whose lives were extinguished by rogue police officers. Our sincerest condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and we pray that God may comfort them.

A confrontation erupted between police and protesters as police arrested activist @bonifacemwangi and other demonstrators in Nairobi’s CBD during the first-month memorial march for the victims killed during the June 25th #OccupyParliament protests.

Video by @Nyakerario_O. pic.twitter.com/phzu1wRc8S

— Africa Uncensored (@AfUncensored) July 25, 2024

Activist and journalist @njerikan confirms that the police have arrested @bonifacemwangi and the mothers of victims who were shot during previous protests.

Video by @Nyakerario_O. pic.twitter.com/PpYfPq8yvB

— Africa Uncensored (@AfUncensored) July 25, 2024

Civil rights groups have called for those arrested to be released.

Release the protestors #CitizenTonight @SamGituku pic.twitter.com/be26eysdqX

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 25, 2024

The government can kill a person, but never the idea. What the Gen Z protests have brought into this country will change the face of Kenya forever, and future generations will look back and know the Gen Z fallen heroes paid the ultimate price for their freedom. Viva!

Here’s what the mother of David Chege, the first protestor to be killed said. Chege was shot outside parliament across the street and his body lay there with blood flowing on the street, following a headshot by a sniper on parliament buildings.

Mother: Stop mocking us! #CitizenTonight @SamGituku pic.twitter.com/XRtXQPFa8z

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 25, 2024

The Occupation of the Kenyan Parliament, A Month On

Today marks exactly one month since Gen Z Protestors broke into and occupied the Kenyan parliament.

‘We reached parliament’ #CitizenTonight @SamGituku pic.twitter.com/83OdscSHh8

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 25, 2024

Since then, over 60 Gen Z protestors have been killed by the police, with 66 more disappearing, as per the Kenya Human Rights Commission, KHRC.

KNCHR says 60 people dead, 66 missing amid anti-Gov’t protests https://t.co/idUrxbdWHi

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 25, 2024

There have also been hundreds who have been injured during the protests, a tell-tale of the police brutality the government has inflicted on peaceful protestors.

Occupy Parliament anniversary #CitizenTonight @SamGituku pic.twitter.com/9HI9UJ2Iy6

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 25, 2024

Ruto Brandishes His ODM Ministerial Appointments as ‘Inclusivity’

After appointing 4 ODM party leaders in key ministerial positions, President William Ruto was keen to brandish the appointments as ‘inclusivity’ in his government.

Kasmuel McOure: If the President was interested in finding clean candidates, he would have found technocrats. In the same way they can find us in our homes, they can find qualified technocrats. #K24Siasa pic.twitter.com/23iEyGBATd

— K24 TV (@K24Tv) July 25, 2024

The president held no breath and visited Tharaka Nithi County where he was keen to point out that the former (and now reappointed) Interior CS had done a good job.

Ruto ‘Cabinet of peace’ #CitizenTonight @SamGituku pic.twitter.com/gXuve4tGE9

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 25, 2024

This is the same CS that oversaw rampant police killings and stood aside as the former Defence CS deployed the Kenyan military onto the streets ‘to quell the protests’.

Nominated CS Kithure Kindiki speaks alongside President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Tharaka Nithi. pic.twitter.com/Ax3fkKvM1v

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

The former Defence CS Aden Duale, who had been reappointed to the post, was then reshuffled and will now go to the Ministry of Environment. Some X users have an idea why.

Duale was responsible for the Battle of El Adde. Hakuna msee wa military anamdai at all.#RutoMustGo

— Kimuzi (@Kimuzi_) July 23, 2024

The president then went on to Mombasa County where he celebrated his ODM appointments saying that his ‘broad-based government’ is more ‘inclusive’. The thing is, though, that the only thing the president is using his proposed coalition for, is to broaden his political base.

More ODM legislators including MPs Caleb Hamisi and Nabii Nabwera have come out to disown members nominated to President Ruto’s Cabinet, contending the appointments were individualistic actions without party approval – as previously argued by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna who… pic.twitter.com/3WyKVjkYx5

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

A petition has been filed to impeach the president.

*Mambo bado!* pic.twitter.com/cBFkdbHrwC

— Gitobu Imanyara (@GitobuImanyara) July 25, 2024

The Gen Zs, on their part, have called a ‘small meeting with the president’ on the 8th of August.

Looks like all Gen Zs from all over Kenya are planning a small meeting with President Ruto on the 8th of August as per numerous social media posts #NaneNane pic.twitter.com/PhzQ4j6iVg

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

Ruto’s ‘new’ cabinet will be vetted beginning next week.

❗Vetting of Ruto’s Cabinet Secretary nominees to begin next week on Thursday, 1st August 2024.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Nominee Prof. Kithure Kindiki will be the first to be vetted.

Meanwhile, submit memoranda contesting the suitability of the 10 nominees to the cabinet to… pic.twitter.com/z1IchvHXqR

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula names Committee to vet the newly nominated Cabinet Secretaries chaired by himself with Gladys Shollei as deputy.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah joins is part of the team alongside MPs Anthony Kimani, Owen Baya,… pic.twitter.com/PqktE8B1Sc

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

NARC Kenya Initiates Divorce with Azimio-One Kenya Coalition

Martha Karua’s NARC Kenya has initiated a split from the Azimio-One Kenya coalition, following the president’s appointment of 4 ODM leaders to his cabinet. The party, previously part of the alliance with ODM and others, has cited the move to join the proposed ‘broad-based government’ as having made their position in the coalition ‘untenable’.

Narc Kenya Leader Martha Karua declares the imminent collapse of the Azimio La Umoja Coalition after four ODM members were nominated to President William Ruto’s cabinet, citing internal divisions since NADCO talks.

Karua says she is now ready to stand with Kenyans as their… pic.twitter.com/3GUS6XSBbX

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

Fellow Azimio co-principals Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and Jeremiah Kioni have also denounced the coalition. Their parties: Wiper, DAP-K, and Jubilee respectively, have maintained that the coalition will hold but have made it clear they do not wish to join Ruto’s government, unlike Raila Odinga and ODM.

Raila has given the rats a lifeline. They are now coming out of their hiding holes https://t.co/2blsQ85JST

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

ODM officials and Raila are still denying that they are in bed with the government.

❗ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna insists that the party had not joined government.

“As the Secretary General of ODM, I am the spokesperson. There was no decision that 0DM decided to join the government. Ruto can nominate anyone to the party. If Ruto has been having… pic.twitter.com/MOck9GuN0q

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

Gagging the Press: Government Leverages its Advertising to Buy Press Silence

Reports indicate that senior media officials met with the government and were asked not to cover the ongoing protests in exchange for the state resuming government advertising on their stations. There have been no government ads on mainstream media as the previous government had taken its advertising off mainstream media and channeled it to a state-affiliated newspaper.

There are reports that senior media executives met with State House officials and agreed to halt live broadcasting of protests.

Instead, they will cover them only in news segments, filter images, and reduce coverage of Gen Z protests. This information was leaked to me by an…

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 25, 2024

The call to halt live broadcasting of protests is the government’s way to censor mainstream media in Kenya and ensure that the cameras look away as police continue to maim and kill Gen Z protestors. Any government that is unwelcome to media scrutiny is not only illegitimate but lacks the interest and welfare of its people at heart.

Censorship in the 21st Century and how Authoritarian Governments are Propagating It

Censorship has become increasingly weaponized as a way that authoritarian governments use to muzzle opponents and critics.

Mania AfricaDavid Mania

The attempt to gag the press comes after journalists took to the streets to demand that the police stop attacking them as they do their job covering the protests. It seems the government gives the carrot with one hand and uses the stick with the other.

Journalists nationwide are staging peaceful protests to oppose the surge in violence against them, a troubling trend seen since the onset of anti-government demonstrations in Kenya last month.

Video by @SamMunia pic.twitter.com/paNPxmaqfG

— Africa Uncensored (@AfUncensored) July 24, 2024

Heads Up: I attended an X Space hosted on the K24 TV X account, and you can listen to my contribution below.

Had a good #OpenMic with K24’s #OpenMic: State of the Nation Space.. Very informative and glad for the chance to speak https://t.co/zB6gpLoZN8

— David Mania (@daviemaniaa) July 25, 2024

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July 24th, 2024: President Ruto Reinstates 4 More Cabinet Secretaries He Sacked Two Weeks Ago

Defiant as ever, Kenyan President William Ruto reinstated 4 more cabinet secretaries he had fired two weeks ago, making the total number of reinstated CSs 10. The president, again evoking “extensive consultations” may have just signed his ticket home.

New cabinet list by Ruto on July 24

John Mbadi….Treasury

Salim Mvurya…. Investment

Rebecca Miano- Tourism

Opiyo Wandayi- Energy

Kipchumba- Sports

Joho- Mining

Alfred Mutua- Labour

Oparanya- Cooperatives

JB Muturi- Public Service

Stella Soi Langat- Gender

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 24, 2024

Ruto also appointed former Attorney General Justin Muturi and his would-be successor, Rebecca Miano to his ‘new’ cabinet.

Kipchumba Murkomen: The Man, The Opulence, The CS?

Of the four CSs he appointed, one is Kipchumba Murkomen, former Transport CS, who’s been at the forefront of Gen Z’s calls for removal. Murkomen is the poster child of everything wrong with Ruto’s regime, marked by his excesses of opulence and the endless tirade about how expensive his watches and belts are.

Honoured and grateful to have been nominated by H.E. the President @WilliamsRuto as the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports.

Thank you, Mr. President, for this incredible opportunity to serve our great nation, Kenya.

The last two…

— KIPCHUMBA MURKOMEN, E.G.H (@kipmurkomen) July 24, 2024

President Ruto appointed Murkomen to head the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creator Economy, and Sports as if showing an ironical middle finger to the Gen Zs.

Making Murkoken CS for sports is a big fuck you to the youths.

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 24, 2024

“Raila Enters Government through the Back Door”, Again: 4 ODM Party Leaders Nominated in President Ruto’s ‘New’ Cabinet

In what is a movie we’ve already seen, ODM leader Raila Odinga found a way to “enter the government through the back door” as was clear in the appointment of four ODM leaders and his close allies to Ruto’s ‘new’ (recycled more like) cabinet. President Ruto appointed ODM Chairman John Mbadi, ODM deputy party leaders Ali Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, and ODM minority whip Opiyo Wandayi in key positions in his new ministry. Most of these ODM leaders are now swallowing their words.

If Kenya Kwanza Alliance is the only option for me, I will rather resign from politics and go home to be a farmer than joining them.

— Dr Wycliffe A. Oparanya (@GovWOparanya) February 11, 2022

pic.twitter.com/xqZl8UeGhs

— Gitobu Imanyara (@GitobuImanyara) July 24, 2024

The move is seen to be Raila’s entry into the government and his concurrence in joining Ruto’s proposed ‘broad-based government’ or ‘coalition of national unity’. This is despite vehement condemnation from his fellow Azimio-One Kenya party leaders, his close friend and ally Senator James Orengo, and the Gen Z who want Ruto out.

Principle is indivisible; it is either wholly kept or wholly sacrificed.

— James Orengo (@orengo_james) July 24, 2024

What’s in it For Raila?

For Raila Odinga himself, perhaps what he treasures most is not only being part of the government – regardless of whether it is through the back door- but also President Ruto’s support in his vying for the AU Chairman seat. Raila, as per sources close to him, wants to be the AU Chair as much as he has wanted anything and not even the deaths of over 50 Gen Z protestors, it seems, will stop him. Ruto, following pressure from Gen Zs, is also now swallowing his words.

A polite reminder pic.twitter.com/GmZCKXT2Ky

— Gitobu Imanyara (@GitobuImanyara) July 24, 2024

A Tainted Legacy

What Raila has done, is to taint his legacy by agreeing to a ‘handshake’ or joining of hands with Ruto’s regime. Ruto, according to Senator Orengo, is “a passing cloud” and is perhaps Kenya’s most unpopular president since the late Daniel Moi. His regime has been plagued by numerous corruption scandals and is characterized by embezzlement of public funds by officials.

The moment Sirende Ward MCA Alfred Weswa was forced to walk on mud by his constituents for failing to fix it pic.twitter.com/UwLQ6vdCSz

— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 24, 2024

The embezzlement is so rampant that former ministers such as Kipchumba Murkomen, now reappointed, can afford watches worth $90,000 or 900,000 Kenya Shillings. As if that’s not enough, Ruto’s poor leadership and insistence to raise taxes kickstarted the Gen Z Protest movement with the youth in the country vowing to unseat him from power.

We cannot continue to watch our mothers our young brothers sisters being killed when they are a sleep at night …the walk has began….the time is now #Zimmerman #Kahawawest #Mirema ….. pic.twitter.com/4Q8jDbDbxL

— NyatiNation (@NyatiNation) July 24, 2024

Therefore, of all the governments Raila would have chosen to enter a coalition with, Ruto’s will taint his legacy forever. What Ruto does from now on will also be what Raila has done and going by the past 2 years of the ‘Ruto era’ Raila may have just made a deal with the devil. Despite being a true pan-African, Raila’s legacy will be drenched in the blood of each and every protestor who died in the Gen Z protests, forever dragging his name through the mud, as Ruto’s is dragged.

They killed him pic.twitter.com/TzYV2tFZ1l

— Owichezzz (@PiocheBrio) July 24, 2024

Raila reposted the following post on X trying to absolve himself.

Rt Hon @RailaOdinga Warns @TheODMparty Members Against Joining Ruto Regime. pic.twitter.com/odjW5coAKR

— Azimio TV (@AzimioTv) July 23, 2024

Uproar Over Raila’s Coalition with Ruto

On the announcement of the second roster of nominated cabinet secretaries, there was uproar online and even on the political stage as many youths felt that Raila betrayed them and their cause, hijacking it for his selfish gains.

Raila Odinga’s ODM party has, by accepting to join Ruto’s collapsing regime, betrayed everything that the Gen Z revolution stands for.
ODM Deputy Party leaders Hassan Ali Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya and
ODM National Chairman
John Mbadi together with their National Assembly Minority…

— Gitobu Imanyara (@GitobuImanyara) July 24, 2024

Baba (Swahili for father), as he’s commonly known, they say, is not their ‘baba’ anymore. He has gone against the will of the people and despite whatever benefits he thinks he will gain from joining Ruto’s regime, what he will lose in terms of his legacy will definitely not be worth it. It is sad that after his long struggle to liberate this country, he’s chosen to join its oppressors, just at the tail end of his political career.

Mania Politics – Mania Africa

All our articles touching on Politics and Governance. We analyze how those in power approach governance, report on their actions or inactions, and hold them accountable.

Mania AfricaDavid Mania

Journalists Hold Protests Demanding An End to the Government’s Onslaught Against the Media

Journalists from all walks of life today held protests across the country, demanding an end to the government’s onslaught against the media. Several journalists have been attacked and injured during the Gen Z protests, with the freedom of the press also curtailed.

Hawa ni Wagani Tena @C_NyaKundiH ,Wanasema ati wanataka Tear-gas.
This country we can’t even rest???#OccupyCBDThursday #rigathionassignment #KTNGenocideMedia #WeaponizedMedia pic.twitter.com/fMAcInI0ku

— Hon David Mwangi (@Hon_DavidMwangi) July 24, 2024

Ruto’s regime has been seen to clamp down on journalists on and off the streets, even going as far as to threaten media houses with the revocation of their licenses and repudiation of their broadcasting frequencies.

It’s our turn. We are on the streets today!

Stop threats against journalists, online and off-line.

Stop harassment, censorship and physical attacks.

Journalists are being attacked while covering protests by both security forces and protesters.

Stop it! #WeAreNotCriminals. pic.twitter.com/HRlAiAdjmf

— Kennedy Wandera (@KennedyWandera_) July 24, 2024

Essentially, the regime has been curtailing the freedom of the press, to prevent it from reporting on the atrocities meted on Kenyans by killer police.

pic.twitter.com/VYznT9b5kI

— Mashirima Kapombe (@MKapombe) July 24, 2024

Two Activists File a Case in Court Seeking Ruto’s Impeachment and Rigathi Ouster

Two Activists filed a case in court yesterday, seeking a referendum to have President Ruto impeached, along with his VP Rigathi. The two have cited eight reasons the president is unfit for office, including corruption.

Corruption in Kenya: How You the Corrupt Damage Society

Corruption in Kenya is more rampant today than it has ever been. If Kenya were a sea, then it would be impassable due to the huge icebergs of corruption and corrupt government officials floating by.

Mania AfricaDavid Mania

The case will be heard in court and no matter how far it goes, it stands as a symbolic gesture that Kenyans of all walks of life are fed up with the Ruto regime.

Two activists file case seeking to have a referendum to remove President William Ruto, DP Rigathi Gachagua from office; they are seeking eight prayers including finding that the duo has failed to serve Kenyans diligently. pic.twitter.com/mzJj9Zkfrf

— The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) July 24, 2024

Gen Z Protestors Hint at 8th August (8/8) Protests Dubbed “Nane/Nane”

Gen Z protestors have initiated plans for 8th August (8/8) protests dubbed “nane/nane” which is Swahili for eight/eight. The protests, Gen Zs say, will serve as a reminder of the mistake the country made electing Ruto on 8th August 2022.

#NaneNane after Demo ya 25th kuna ya #NaneNane to remind us we made a blunder in August/8/2024

— Mr. Third Liberation (@mkiage) July 24, 2024

The protests are based on the “Saba Saba” (7/7) spirit. Saba Saba commemorates the 7th July 1990 protests that led up to multipartyism in Kenya.

“Nane Nane Nayo Nayo” 8/8/2024. 5V Million Gen Zs, Millenials and other Kenyans meet in Nairobi CBD for #ZakayoFarewellParty #NaneNane. We only leave when he falls. Mobilization starts now! I have given the idea, make posters. Let us end this nonsense for once pic.twitter.com/mw8KRsHwiV

— Mjomba Smith (@mjombasmith) July 24, 2024