Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has broken the government’s silence following a cybersecurity incident that affected President William Ruto’s official website, assuring Kenyans that there is no evidence sensitive government data was compromised.

In a statement issued on Saturday, July 18, Kabogo confirmed that the government had activated emergency cybersecurity response protocols immediately after detecting the incident and temporarily restricted access to the presidential website to facilitate investigations and restoration.

“The Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy is aware of reports regarding a cybersecurity incident affecting the official website of the President,” Kabogo said.

ICT Authority activated emergency response

Kabogo said the ICT Authority moved swiftly to contain the incident after it was detected.

“Upon detection of the incident, ICT Authority immediately activated established cybersecurity incident response protocols,” the Cabinet Secretary said.

He explained that access to the website was deliberately restricted as part of efforts to contain the attack and allow cybersecurity experts to investigate the incident.

“As a precautionary measure, access to the Presidential website was temporarily restricted to facilitate containment, forensic analysis and restoration efforts,” he added.

According to the ministry, mitigation measures have already been implemented and efforts to restore the website are ongoing.

Government rules out data breach

Kabogo sought to reassure Kenyans that preliminary investigations had not established any unauthorized access to sensitive government information.

“At this time, there is no evidence of unauthorized access to sensitive data, data exfiltration, or loss of information. Government systems and digital services remain secure and operational,” he said.

The statement comes after reports emerged earlier on Saturday indicating that hackers had compromised President Ruto’s official website and allegedly demanded five Bitcoins, valued at approximately KSh41 million, to restore access to the platform.

However, the government’s official statement did not comment on the reported ransom demand.

Forensic investigations underway

The Cabinet Secretary said the government has launched a comprehensive forensic investigation to establish exactly how the incident occurred.

He said the ICT Authority is working together with other government agencies and technical partners to determine the full scope of the attack.

“ICT Authority is working closely with the relevant Government agencies and technical partners to conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” Kabogo said.

Authorities have not indicated whether the attackers gained administrative access to the website or whether the incident was limited to disruption of public access.

Cybersecurity under renewed scrutiny

The latest incident has once again placed Kenya’s cybersecurity preparedness under the spotlight.

Government websites have increasingly become targets of cybercriminals and hacktivist groups over the past few years as Kenya continues to digitize public services.

In late 2025, several government websites—including portals belonging to ministries and state agencies—were temporarily disrupted following a coordinated cyberattack. The government later restored the affected platforms and maintained that no sensitive data had been compromised.

The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has also disclosed that it experienced a ransomware-related cyberattack, although it said airport operations were not disrupted and no sensitive operational information was lost.

Cybersecurity experts have repeatedly warned that governments around the world are facing increasingly sophisticated attacks targeting public institutions, with ransomware attacks becoming one of the fastest-growing threats.

Website restoration continues

While the presidential website remained unavailable for parts of Saturday as restoration efforts continued, the government insisted that the incident had not affected other government digital platforms.

Kabogo reiterated that government systems remain secure and operational, adding that the ongoing forensic investigation will help establish the exact circumstances surrounding the cyber incident.

The government is expected to issue further updates once investigators complete their analysis and the presidential website is fully restored.

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President William Ruto’s official website was reportedly hacked on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in what appears to be the latest cyberattack targeting Kenya’s government digital infrastructure, with the attackers allegedly demanding a ransom of five Bitcoins, equivalent to approximately Ksh41.3 million, to restore access.

According to NTV Kenya, the hackers compromised the presidential website and displayed a ransom demand seeking payment in cryptocurrency before normal access to the site was disrupted. At the time of publication, State House had not issued an official statement confirming the reported ransom demand or the extent of the breach.

The reported attack has sparked fresh concerns over the security of Kenya’s critical government digital infrastructure, coming less than a year after dozens of government websites were hit by a coordinated cyberattack.

Latest reported cyberattack

The official presidential website serves as the primary online platform for State House, publishing presidential speeches, official statements, government announcements and national events.

Reports indicate that cybercriminals demanded five Bitcoins to restore access to the platform after compromising the website.

Bitcoin is a digital cryptocurrency commonly demanded in ransomware attacks because transactions are more difficult to trace than conventional financial transfers.

As of Saturday, government officials had not publicly confirmed whether any sensitive data had been compromised or whether negotiations with the attackers were underway.

Similar attacks have targeted Kenya before

The reported incident follows a major cyberattack in November 2025, when multiple government websites, including the presidency portal, ministries and several state agencies, were simultaneously compromised in a coordinated operation.

During that attack, websites belonging to the ministries responsible for Interior, Health, Education, Labour, Energy and several other government institutions were temporarily rendered inaccessible after hackers defaced their homepages.

The government later confirmed that emergency cyber response procedures had been activated and said the affected platforms were restored after the breach was contained. Authorities also launched investigations under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act.

At the time, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo attributed the attack to a group identifying itself as PCP@Kenya, while ICT authorities maintained that the incident affected website access and that no government or personal data had been lost.

Rising cyber threats

Kenya has experienced an increase in cyberattacks targeting both public institutions and private organisations in recent years.

Just last week, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) confirmed that it had previously suffered a ransomware-related cyber breach, although the agency said there was no significant operational impact and that no sensitive information was compromised. KAA also disclosed that the attackers had demanded a ransom, which the authority declined to pay.

Cybersecurity experts have consistently warned that ransomware attacks on governments are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with attackers often encrypting or disrupting systems before demanding payment in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

Awaiting official response

By the time of publication, neither State House nor the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy had issued an official statement addressing the reported hacking of the presidential website.

It also remains unclear whether government cybersecurity teams have regained control of the platform, whether any public services were affected, or whether any sensitive information was accessed during the reported breach.

The incident is expected to intensify scrutiny of cybersecurity measures protecting Kenya’s critical digital infrastructure, particularly government websites that provide official communication and essential public services.

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Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has formally announced that he has left President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), declaring that he and his supporters had long abandoned the ruling party after concluding that it had failed to deliver on its promises to Kenyans.

Speaking during a public address in Murang’a on Saturday, July 4, 2026, Nyoro said the debate over whether to remain in the ruling party had already been settled and that his focus was now on consulting widely before unveiling his next political direction.

“Huko serikalini, wako na nafasi lakini wameangusha Wakenya. And that is the reason all of us moved away from the governing party,” Nyoro said.

“Na hapa kwetu wote tumeondoka. There is no more person on top of a wheelbarrow or taking a wheelbarrow anywhere here in our place. Even in the entire Kenya, watu wote tumeondokea wheelbarrow na hakuna tashwishi hapo.”

The “wheelbarrow” is the symbol of UDA, the party that swept to power in the 2022 General Election under President Ruto.

Nyoro said the real question was no longer whether he would support UDA but what political vehicle or coalition would best serve Kenyans going forward.

“So the decision we are making is not whether to support the wheelbarrow or not. That decision we made it long time ago.”

Although he confirmed his departure from UDA, Nyoro stopped short of announcing his next political home, insisting he would only make that decision after extensive consultations.

The MP said he would not allow himself to be pressured into making a political choice merely to satisfy public curiosity.

“A leader must never make such an important decision because they are being pushed. Kenyans must be at the centre of every political decision we make,” he said.

Nyoro added that he intends to work with like-minded leaders across the political divide in pursuit of what he described as a better future for the country, while maintaining that the Kenya Kwanza administration had fallen short of the expectations it created during the 2022 campaigns.

Months of growing distance

Nyoro’s announcement formalises a political drift that has been evident for months.

Once regarded as one of President Ruto’s closest allies and among the most influential figures within Kenya Kwanza, the Kiharu legislator has increasingly criticised the government’s performance while avoiding major UDA political events.

His relationship with the ruling coalition visibly cooled after he was removed as chairperson of the National Assembly’s Budget and Appropriations Committee earlier this year, with political observers viewing the move as a sign of diminishing influence within the ruling camp.

In recent months, Nyoro has repeatedly argued that leaders must honour the promises they made to Kenyans in 2022, saying the country deserves accountable leadership rather than political rhetoric.

Kang’ata’s exit adds pressure

Nyoro’s departure comes just weeks after Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata also quit UDA before formally joining the opposition-aligned Linda Mwananchi movement.

Kang’ata announced his decision in June, saying he wanted to work with leaders focused on improving governance while maintaining that his move was not directed against the people of Murang’a or President Ruto personally. Days later, he appeared alongside Linda Mwananchi leaders, giving the movement a significant foothold in Murang’a County.

His entry into Linda Mwananchi was viewed as one of the biggest political defections from the ruling party in the Mt Kenya region this year.

Speculation over Nyoro’s next destination

Nyoro’s refusal to immediately declare his next political home has fuelled speculation over where he could land.

Political observers have linked him to several possibilities, including forming his own political outfit, joining an existing party, or aligning himself with the growing opposition movement that has brought together figures such as Edwin Sifuna, Babu Owino, James Orengo and other leaders under the Linda Mwananchi banner.

The speculation has intensified following Kang’ata’s move, with some supporters urging Nyoro to follow suit. However, the MP has insisted he will only announce after concluding consultations with constituents and other leaders.

Blow to UDA in Mt Kenya

Nyoro’s exit represents another setback for UDA as the party seeks to retain its dominance in Mt Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The region overwhelmingly backed President Ruto in the 2022 elections. Still, the political landscape has shifted dramatically following the fallout between the President and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached in 2024.

Since then, several leaders from the region have distanced themselves from the ruling party, while opposition formations have intensified efforts to consolidate support in what remains one of Kenya’s most influential voting blocs.

With Nyoro now confirming that he has walked away from UDA, attention is likely to shift to his next political move and whether it will further reshape the balance of power in Mt Kenya as the race to 2027 gathers momentum.

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President William Ruto has moved swiftly to consolidate support in Emurua Dikirr following a hotly contested United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nomination that was conducted on Friday, March 27, 2026.

The move signals a broader strategy aimed at unity, grassroots mobilisation, and securing a decisive by-election victory.

Taking to his official X account on Saturday, March 28, 2026, Ruto congratulated businessman David Keter, popularly known as Dollarline, on clinching the party ticket.

Keter won the Emurua Dikirr UDA parliamentary party ticket after a nomination process in 96 polling stations.

He was declared the winner last night, after he garnered 13,759 votes.

He also praised his main challenger, Bernard Kipkoerch Ng’eno alias Buluu, for mounting a strong campaign.

Bernard Kipkoech Ng’eno, the former MP’s personal assistant, got 13,394 votes in the elections, which were marred with accusations of bribery, repeat voting and voting by proxy in some of the polling stations.

“Congratulations David Keter aka Dollarline on your victory in yesterday’s UDA party nominations in Emurua Dikirr Constituency. You have our unqualified support as you carry the party’s flag into the by-election,” Ruto stated.

“We commend Bernard Ng’eno aka Buluu for running a strong campaign, cementing our party’s democracy at the grassroots.”

Ruto’s message struck a deliberate tone of reconciliation, urging supporters to close ranks after the bruising nomination battle.

“Now, we move forward as one solid team, united behind our candidate and our agenda,” the President said.

Ruto’s remarks seem to be an attempt to prevent post-primary fallout, a common challenge in Kenyan party politics.

By acknowledging Ng’eno’s role in strengthening grassroots democracy, Ruto signaled inclusivity, a move aimed at retaining the support base that backed rival camps during the nominations.

The President’s swift and unequivocal endorsement of Keter underscores the importance UDA is placing on the upcoming Emurua Dikirr by-election.

The endorsement effectively transforms Keter from a primary winner into the face of UDA’s campaign in the constituency.

Ruto’s statement also highlights a key pillar of his political playbook, grassroots mobilisation.

By praising the competitive nature of the primaries, the President reinforced UDA’s narrative as a party anchored in bottom-up democracy, a message that has been central to his political brand since the 2022 general election.

In Emurua Dikirr, this strategy is expected to translate into intensive local campaigning led by party structures, engagement with community leaders and opinion shapers, and consolidation of voter blocs that participated in the nominations.

The Emurua Dikirr parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of Johana Ng’eno in a helicopter crash in Nandi County.

The upcoming by-election is seen as a critical test for UDA’s influence at the constituency level and its ability to maintain political dominance between general elections.

With the primaries concluded, attention now shifts to the campaign trail, where Keter is expected to leverage both his local support and the backing of the national party leadership.

Ruto’s early intervention suggests that UDA is keen to avoid the pitfalls of internal wrangles and instead project a united front ahead of the vote.

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Former Cabinet Secretary and National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi has made explosive claims about an alleged private meeting between President William Ruto and senior officials of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission ahead of the 2022 General Election.

Speaking during an interview on Radio Generation on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Muturi claimed that Ruto met privately with former IEBC chair Wafula Chebukati and commissioners Abdi Guliye and Boya Molu at his Karen residence in May 2022.

Muturi recounts Karen encounter

According to Muturi, the meeting occurred shortly before Ruto named Rigathi Gachagua as his running mate for the 2022 presidential election.

Muturi said he had been in Mombasa at the time when Ruto called and asked him to meet at his Karen residence upon returning to Nairobi.

“In May 2022, while I was in Mombasa, William Ruto called me and asked me to come meet him in Karen when I returned,” Muturi said.

He explained that when he arrived at the residence, the President was not immediately available.

“I waited for some time and eventually sent him a message saying I was leaving,” Muturi recalled.

Ruto later called him back and explained he was meeting several people, Muturi claimed.

“He told me he was meeting some three gentlemen. I asked which ones, and he told me himself: Wafula Chebukati, Abdi Guliye and Boya Molu,” Muturi said.

Meeting allegedly held at Ruto’s Karen residence

Muturi further claimed the meeting took place at Ruto’s private residence in Karen rather than at the IEBC offices.

“They were meeting at the main house in Karen, not at the IEBC offices,” he said.

He added that he was not aware of what was discussed during the meeting.

“I don’t know what was discussed, but what I do know is that from that meeting, William Ruto was very confident he would win the 2022 elections,” Muturi said.

Political questions

Muturi’s remarks are likely to spark debate given the sensitive role of the electoral commission during the 2022 presidential contest, as the country heads into the upcoming 2027 polls.

The IEBC, led by Chebukati at the time, was responsible for conducting the election that eventually declared Ruto the winner.

The results of the presidential election were contested by opposition leader Raila Odinga but were later upheld by the Supreme Court of Kenya.

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A new security brief delivered to President William Ruto has exposed a chilling reality: Kenya is facing an unprecedented surge in gang activity, with Nairobi alone hosting more than 130 active criminal groups, making it the country’s biggest breeding ground for organised crime.

The explosive Jukwaa la Usalama Report, compiled by security experts and intelligence analysts, paints a grim picture of a country where gangs, some barely known to the public, are tightening their grip on neighbourhoods, youth, politics, and even land ownership.

Nairobi: Kenya’s Gang Capital

According to the report, Nairobi is now the epicentre of the crisis, with over 130 gangs involved in everything from petty extortion to political violence, kidnappings, murder, and election-related mercenary work.

“Some of the gangs are structured and highly organised, while others are amorphous groups that regroup only when hired for assignments,” the report states.

Among those listed are:

• Jeshi Jinga
• 42 Brothers
• M23
• Kapenguria Six
• Usiku Sacco

These gangs operate across estates such as Kibera, Dandora, Mathare, Kayole, and Mukuru, often controlling entire zones through fear and brutality.

Crisis Spreads Beyond the Capital

The report warns that gang activity has become a national problem, with the highest concentrations outside Nairobi found in:

• Kakamega
• Busia
• Bungoma
• Vihiga
• Kisii
• Kisumu
• Homa Bay
• Tana River
• Trans Nzoia
• Mombasa
• Murang’a
• Machakos

These gangs, often formed in response to political rivalry, unemployment, and weak social institutions, now influence everything from local elections to land ownership.

In Nakuru, the notorious Confirm and Watizeti gangs remain entrenched in Kivumbini, Bondeni, and Rhonda.

At the Coast, once-infamous groups like Panga Boys have weakened — thanks to rehabilitation and police crackdowns — but newer outfits continue to emerge, especially in Kilifi and Mombasa.

Land Invasion Gangs Rising Fast

One of the most alarming findings is the reemergence of violent land invasion groups.

• In Machakos, gangs linked to Gaza and remnants of Mungiki are reportedly being used to invade private land and seize mining sites.
• In Kilifi and Mombasa, groups like Team Mashamba and Mawoza have become the go-to foot soldiers for well-connected land grabbers.

These invasions have left homeowners terrified, businesses displaced, and government institutions unable to access their own land.

Political Gangs Ramping Up Violence

The report warns that with political temperatures rising ahead of future elections, gangs are being courted as tools for:

• Violent disruptions of rallies
• Intimidation of communities
• Enforcement of political loyalty
• Targeted attacks on rivals

Security analysts note that many of these groups “hibernate” until election periods, when they are reactivated for hire.

Arrests Not Enough — Criminals Keep Returning

Despite frequent arrests, the report paints a worrying trend of recidivism, where gang members return to crime shortly after being released — helped by weak community support systems and lucrative criminal enterprises.

However, intensified intelligence operations have disrupted some networks, and rehabilitation programs at the Coast have shown promise.

A National Crisis Demanding Urgent Action

The report calls for the government to urgently scale up multi-agency crackdowns, community policing, rehabilitative programs, and political accountability, noting that criminal gangs pose a direct threat to:

• National security
• Social stability
• Economic growth
• The integrity of elections

Security experts are urging the public to remain alert, noting that many gangs are now recruiting minors and using digital platforms to coordinate operations.

As the spotlight turns to Nairobi and the affected counties, Kenya confronts a stark reality: criminal networks are evolving faster than the systems designed to stop them.

And unless swift, coordinated action is taken, these gangs — from Jeshi Jinga and 42 Brothers to Team Mashamba and Gaza — may soon wield influence rivaling that of legitimate institutions.

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Two United Democratic Alliance (UDA) aspirants from Malava Constituency who lost in the party primaries have been appointed to diplomatic positions in Uganda and South Africa, in a move that comes days ahead of the Malava by-election.

The appointments, announced on Monday by Prime Cabinet Secretary Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, were for Simon Kangwana, who will serve as Education Attachee at the Kenyan Mission in Uganda, and Rhyan Injendi Malulu, named Trade Attachee at the Kenyan Embassy in South Africa.

The two were among three aspirants promised government positions by President William Ruto in exchange for backing David Ndakwa, the ruling party’s candidate in the by-election.

The by-election was triggered by the death of Malava MP Malulu Injendi. Ndakwa is set to contest the Malava seat on Thursday under the UDA banner. Another aspirant, Leonard Shimaka, was last month appointed a Commissioner at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for a three-year term.

During the announcement, Mudavadi called Kangwana and Malulu to the podium to read their appointment letters from his phone, prompting loud cheers and a standing ovation from the crowd, who waved the party’s two-finger salute and chanted the famous two-terms campaign slogan.

Mudavadi urged voters to honour their part of the agreement by electing the UDA candidate, saying President Ruto had fulfilled his promises to the aspirants and to ongoing development projects in Malava.

“The president has kept his word on the UDA aspirants and the development projects currently ongoing in Malava. I ask you to be honourable like you have always been and vote for the UDA candidate,” Mudavadi said, addressing supporters at Malava Primary School on the final day of campaigning.

He emphasized that electing a ruling party MP would enable the constituency to access government services more easily.

“An MP from the ruling party easily accesses government services because of proximity to the President and the government functionaries. The late MP Malulu Injendi left you in government; ensure that you stay inside,” Mudavadi said.

Mudavadi highlighted what he described as the contrast between the UDA candidate and his opposition rival.

“The difference between the UDA candidate and that from the opposition is like night and day. Our candidate has sold his manifesto peacefully and with decorum, while his opponent has been abusive and chaotic,” he said.

The rally also followed a dramatic last-minute development in the Malava race. Joab Burudi Manyasi, the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) candidate, officially withdrew from the race on Sunday and declared his support for UDA’s Ndakwa.

Manyasi’s exit, received personally by Mudavadi in Kakamega, has analysts calling it a strategic move that could reshape voter dynamics in the final stretch of the contest.

“This decision is not a sign of weakness from our brother Manyasi, but a sign of strength that demonstrates unity of purpose from a leader who is pragmatic and who has always put the interests of the people of Malava first,” Mudavadi said.

Mudavadi said Manyasi’s support has given the UDA candidate renewed momentum heading into Thursday’s polls.

“Victory is indeed coming. The people of Malava Constituency have resolved not to gamble with their votes and know where to place their bet on Thursday, November 27,” he said.

The appointments and political developments signal a last-minute consolidation of UDA support in Malava, with the party appearing poised to secure the seat in the upcoming by-election.

The post Ruto, Mudavadi Appoint Malava UDA Aspirants to Diplomatic Jobs appeared first on Daily Trends.

President William Ruto has signed into law four key parliamentary bills in a ceremony at State House.

The signing event on Friday morning was witnessed by several leaders, including Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina, Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja, and MP Millie Odhiambo.

These new laws, among them the Capital Markets Amendment Bill 2025, the County Governments Additional Allocation Bill, and the Government-Owned Enterprises Bill 2025, mark a significant push in Ruto’s reform agenda.

The Capital Markets Amendment Bill 2025 is designed to modernise Kenya’s capital markets and attract more investment.

The County Governments Additional Allocation Bill aims to boost funding for county governments through both conditional and unconditional transfers from national government revenue and development partners. 

The Government-Owned Enterprises Bill 2025 overhauls the regulation, governance, and performance of state-owned entities.

It mandates that these entities operate as companies under the Companies Act, introduces independent directors, and requires public service obligations to be clearly defined, costed, and audited.

 The law also enforces financial reporting and performance contracts to align state enterprise activities with national development goals.

The move comes a month after President Ruto assented to nine key bills on October 15, 2025.

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President William Ruto has announced that the long-awaited dualling of the 170-kilometre Rironi–Naivasha–Mau Summit highway will officially begin on November 28, 2025, marking a historic breakthrough for one of the country’s busiest and most congested transport corridors.

In a statement issued from State House, Nairobi, on Monday, November 17, the President said the upgrade will transform the Northern Corridor route linking Nairobi to Western Kenya and the wider East African region. For decades, motorists have endured crippling traffic, delays, and numerous accidents along the stretch.

“The dualling of the 170km Rironi-Naivasha-Mau Summit road begins on November 28, 2025. This will herald a major milestone for this critical part of the Northern Corridor between Nairobi and Western Kenya, facilitating movement and boosting trade and, at the same time, bringing an end to decades of agonising traffic gridlock, congestion, delays, and disastrous accidents,” Ruto wrote on X.

On the same day, the government will also break ground for the dualling of the 58-kilometre Rironi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha highway, a major link serving the southern region and opening new commercial and industrial frontiers.

China Roads and Bridges Corporation to Lead Construction

The Head of State revealed the details after meeting China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) President Zhang Bingman at the State House. CCCC’s subsidiary, China Roads and Bridges Corporation (CRBC), has been selected to construct the dual highways.

Ruto praised Kenya’s longstanding infrastructure partnership with China, saying it has paved the way for some of the country’s most transformative projects.

“On the same day, we will also break ground for the 58km dualling of the Rironi-Maai Mahiu-Naivasha road, opening new frontiers on a highway that serves the southern part of our country. Met China Communications Construction Company President Zhang Bingman, State House, Nairobi, whose subsidiary, China Roads and Bridges Corporation (CRBC) will be building the road. Infrastructure development in our country has made a huge leap forward courtesy of the strong and deep relations between Kenya and China, and Chinese companies,” he said.

China’s Footprint in Kenya’s Development

President Ruto highlighted several flagship developments delivered under Chinese firms, including:

• The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR)
• The Nairobi Expressway
• Numerous national and regional roads

He added that ongoing Chinese-backed projects continue to reshape the country’s landscape, such as:

• Talanta Sports City
• 21 new sports stadia
• The Bomas Convention Centre
• The Lamu–Ijara–Garissa Road

More Mega Projects in Pipeline

The President said additional major infrastructure plans have already advanced to the pipeline stage, among them:

• Extension of the SGR from Naivasha to Kisumu and onward to Malaba
• Construction of Galana Dam in Tana River County

Ruto said the new highways will significantly enhance trade, improve mobility, and strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional logistics hub.

The transformative works are expected to ease pressure on the country’s transport network while spurring economic growth along the corridor.

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Parliament will hold a special joint sitting on Thursday, November 20, 2025, for President William Samoei Ruto to deliver his annual address to the nation, in accordance with the Constitution.

In a joint notice issued on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi confirmed that the sitting will take place in the National Assembly Chamber, Main Parliament Buildings, starting at 2:30 p.m.

The sitting has been convened pursuant to Article 132(1)(b) of the Constitution, which requires the President to address a special sitting of Parliament once every year to report on the measures taken and progress achieved in the realization of national values, governance, and public policy priorities.

“Members of Parliament and the general public are hereby notified that a Special Sitting of Parliament shall be held in the National Assembly Chamber, Main Parliament Building, Nairobi, on Thursday, 20th November 2025 at 2.30 p.m.,” the joint statement read.

The upcoming address will mark President Ruto’s third official address to the 13th Parliament, and comes amid heightened public interest in the government’s economic performance, governance record, and ongoing national reforms.

During such sittings, the Head of State traditionally outlines the government’s key achievements over the past year, legislative agenda, and future priorities, while reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to constitutional values and national unity.

Both Houses — the National Assembly and the Senate — will sit jointly for the event, which is expected to draw national attention and provide a comprehensive overview of the country’s direction as the fourth session of the 13th Parliament gets underway.

Security around Parliament Buildings is expected to be heightened ahead of the special sitting, with the public advised to follow proceedings live through national broadcasters and online platforms.

The post President Ruto Set to Address The Nation appeared first on Daily Trends.

President William Ruto has declared seven days of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Addressing the Nation at State House, Nairobi, Ruto said that the national flag will fly at half-mast for the said period.

The head of state also revealed that Raila will be accorded a state funeral.

Ruto also announced that a team of Kenyan delegation, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, will leave immediately for India to go and make arrangements for the repatriation of Raila’s body.

The repatriation, Ruto says, will be facilitated by the government of India.

According to reports, the former prime minister died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in India, during a morning walk. Reports further indicate that Raila died from a heart attack.

According to http://mathrubhumi.com, an Indian outlet, Raila collapsed during a morning walk on Wednesday at 8:30 am, within the premises of the Ayurvedic facility.

It was reported that CPR was administered by the medical team on-site. He was rushed to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was pronounced dead around 9.52 am Indian Time.

The news on the passing of Raila comes days after his elder brother Oburu Odinga confirmed that he was indeed sick and that he had been admitted for treatment in India.

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President William Ruto has announced a new wave of high-level appointments to strategic state institutions, signaling a renewed focus on governance, financial stability, and service delivery.

Through a series of gazette notices dated August 29, 2025, the Head of State made changes affecting the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), the Clinical Officers Council, and the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests.

Among the most notable picks, Ruto appointed Pius Ang’asa as a member of the CBK Board of Directors for a four-year term. The CBK board plays a pivotal role in steering monetary policy and ensuring financial stability.

“IN EXERCISE of the powers conferred by section 11 (2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, appoint PIUS ANG’ASA to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Central Bank of Kenya, for a period of four (4) years,” the notice read.

At KUTRRH, Ruto appointed James Kibugu Wambu as the new non-executive chairperson of the board for a term of three years. His appointment follows the revocation of former Murang’a Senator Kembi Gitura’s appointment, after Gitura recently resigned.

In the health sector, the President appointed Dr Joseph Choge as the non-executive chairperson of the Clinical Officers Council, also for a three-year term. The council regulates clinical officers across the country, making it central to Kenya’s health workforce.

Ruto also expanded the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests, bringing on board John Maina, Churchill Suba, and Daki Guyo.

Guyo has been designated as joint secretary of the panel, which was established to address grievances and oversee justice for those affected during public protests.

“It is notified for the general information of the public that, further to the appointment of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests as published vide Gazette Notice No. 12002 of 2025, the additional persons have been appointed to the membership of the Panel as stated,” read the notice.

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President William Ruto has signed into law a Bill that will see the minimum amount one is required to place on a online bet raised.

The head of state on Thursday, August 7, 2025, assented to the Gambling Control Bill 2023, which will see enhanced regulation of the gambling sector in the country.

The bill will introduce more modernised oversight strategies in the gambling sector, including raising the minimum amount an individual can bet on an online site, to Ksh20.

Any gambling operator who is found allowing gambling activities for an amount less than Ksh20 shall be liable to a fine of not less than Ksh5 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years.

A gambler will also now be required to be a registered player on an online gambling site and hold an account with the site.

The operator will be required to engineer new mechanisms that ensure no child is registered as a gambler on their sites.

 “A player in an online gambling activity shall not bet an amount of less than twenty shillings in a competition. The minimum amount set under subsection (1) shall be inclusive of such saving component for the player as shall be determined by the Authority in consultation with the Cabinet Secretary,” the bill states.

 “An operator shall put in place mechanisms to ensure that a child is not registered for an online game, lottery, or bet for which they are licensed to operate. An operator shall require proof of age of majority prior to the registration of every player,” it adds.

Furthermore, if a player wins in an online gambling, the company will be required to transfer the monetary prize to the player’s account within two days, while non-monetary prizes will be required to be delivered to the player within seven days.

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Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has hailed President William Ruto as Kenya’s most influential and effective ambassador in promoting the country’s tourism industry, crediting his leadership with revitalizing a sector that plays a vital role in the nation’s economy.

Speaking during an interview with a local TV station, Miano said the President has been intentional in elevating Kenya’s tourism through strategic policies and high-level international engagement.

“President Ruto has become Kenya’s greatest tourism ambassador,” Miano declared. “His strategic leadership, international engagements, and unwavering support for local tourism development have placed Kenya firmly on the global tourism map.”

According to Miano, the President has utilized every international forum to market Kenya as a premier travel destination.

“He has powerfully positioned the Kenyan brand—highlighting our identity as the cradle of humankind, among other unique attributes. We have seen great support from the government under our able President,” she added.

Miano pointed out that numerous reforms have been achieved under President Ruto’s leadership through close inter-ministerial collaboration. She noted that the Ministry of Transport is working to upgrade airports to world-class standards, while the Ministry of Tourism continues to strengthen the sector through initiatives like the well-established Tourist Police Unit.

Miano also praised the President’s attention to county-level tourism, particularly in Nyandarua. Speaking at a county tourism forum earlier this year, she described the region—home to the Aberdare Ranges, scenic landscapes, and colonial heritage sites—as “Kenya’s California.”

“The President’s focus on uplifting regions like Nyandarua has elevated local tourism and created new economic opportunities for our communities,” she said. “None of this progress would be possible without his leadership.”

This regional push aligns with the Ministry’s broader strategy of community-based tourism, where local residents are empowered to manage and benefit from the tourism value chain.

Beyond symbolic appearances, Ruto’s administration has significantly increased budgetary allocations to tourism infrastructure, launched robust digital marketing campaigns targeting global audiences, and incentivized private sector investment in tourism.

Under his leadership, Kenya recorded a historic KSh 450 billion in tourism revenue in 2024, with an ambitious target of attracting 5 million international visitors by 2027. Miano attributes these milestones to the President’s “visible, vocal, and visionary” role in driving the sector’s growth.

“From championing Kenya’s presence at global tourism expos to personally welcoming visitors, President Ruto has set a new benchmark for leadership in tourism,” she noted.

As Kenya advances toward becoming a tourism powerhouse, Miano emphasized that a combination of strong political will and community-driven engagement will be key to growing the sector.

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Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has resigned as a senior advisor in the president William Ruto’s council of economic advisors based at State House.

Kuria, in a statement shared via social media on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, said that Ruto had accepted his resignation.

“This evening I have met my boss and my friend President William Ruto. The President has graciously accepted my decision to resign from government. I thank President Ruto for having given me an opportunity to serve as Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry for 11 months, Public Service, Delivery and Performance Management for 9 months and Senior Evomomic Advisor for the last 10 months,”Kuria stated.

“As I move on to pursue personal interests I am proud of the work the President and I did to implement the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda which I designed together with the President as our 2022 Electoral Platform. Long Live Kenya.”

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Another political party has yet again cut its ties with the President William Ruto-led Kenya Kwanza Alliance.

The Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), popularly known as Mbus, which is associated with former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, has cited exclusion from key government processes and neglect of the ordinary Kenyans’ needs as the reason for ditching Kenya Kwanza.

The party’s top leadership in a press briefing said it would now shift focus to building its grassroots base ahead of the Mbeere North by-election after the parliamentary seat fell vacant following Geoffrey Ruku’s appointment as Public Service Cabinet Secretary.

Kiraitu Murungi distanced the party from any formal agreement with Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza.

“The Mbus party is independent. We are not in any formal coalition political party. In a coalition, there must be agreements filed with the Registrar of Political Parties. We have no such agreement with UDA,” Murungi said.

Blow to Ruto

This comes days after the Farmers Party, which recently named former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu as its party leader, succeeding Irungu Nyakera, wrote to Kenya Kwanza to issue a 30-day notice of intention to exit.

Nyakera, who was recently fired by Ruto as the KICC board chairman, cited a consistent pattern of dishonesty, political infidelity, and outright disregard for both the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and the spirit of their coalition agreement by their major coalition partner, UDA, as the reason for their exit.

Nyakera said the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Farmers Party met on April 7, 2025, and unanimously resolved to exit the Kenya Kwanza Coalition.

“While the Farmers Party in good faith entered into a Coalition Agreement with like-minded parties under the Kenya Kwanza Coalition on 23rd March 2022, it is with deep regret that we note a consistent pattern of dishonesty, political infidelity, and outright disregard for both the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and the spirit of our Coalition Agreement by our major coalition partner. Accordingly, the National Executive Committee of the Farmers Party met on 7th April 2025 and unanimously resolved to exit the Kenya Kwanza Coalition,” Nyakera wrote on X.

Prior to the Farmers party’s exit from Kenya Kwanza, Justin Muturi’s Democratic Party had also quit.

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President William Ruto has suffered another blow after another political party announced its exit from the Kenya Kwanza Alliance just weeks after Justin Muturi’s party, the Democratic Party, quit the ruling coalition.

The Farmers Party, which recently named former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu as its party leader, succeeding Irungu Nyakera, has written to Kenya Kwanza to issue a 30-day notice of intention to exit.

Nyakera, who was recently fired by Ruto as the KICC board chairman, has cited a consistent pattern of dishonesty, political infidelity, and outright disregard for both the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and the spirit of their coalition agreement by their major coalition partner, UDA, as the reason for their exit.

Nyakera says the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Farmers Party met on April 7, 2025, and unanimously resolved to exit the Kenya Kwanza Coalition.

“While the Farmers Party in good faith entered into a Coalition Agreement with like-minded parties under the Kenya Kwanza Coalition on 23rd March 2022, it is with deep regret that we note a consistent pattern of dishonesty, political infidelity, and outright disregard for both the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and the spirit of our Coalition Agreement by our major coalition partner. Accordingly, the National Executive Committee of the Farmers Party met on 7th April 2025 and unanimously resolved to exit the Kenya Kwanza Coalition,” Nyakera wrote on X.

Kenya Kwanza divorce

A letter from the party dated April 8, 2025, that has been seen by Daily Trends also termed the recent unilateral signing of a Broad-Based Government Agreement between the Kenya Kwanza Coalition and the ODM Party without consultation or involvement of the Kenya Kwanza constituent parties as political conmanship.

“On 23rd March 2022, Farmers Party entered into a coalition agreement with like-minded parties under the Kenya Kwanza Coalition. We did so in good faith, with a shared vision of empowering our farmers, guaranteeing fair prices for their produce under MGR, and uplifting the living standards of ordinary Kenyans through a principled, people-centered economic transformation,” the letter reads in part.

“The recent unilateral signing of a Broad-Based Government Agreement between the Kenya Kwanza Coalition and the ODM Party without consultation or involvement of the Kenya Kwanza constituent parties, such as ours, is the final confirmation of the political conmanship that has come to define the coalition. This move not only violates the trust upon which our coalition was founded but also undermines the principles of inclusivity, transparency, and mutual respect.”

“Accordingly, the National Executive Committee of the Farmers Party met on 7 April 2025 and unanimously resolved the subject matter. Therefore, the Farmers Party hereby issues a thirty (30)-day notice of intention to exit the Kenya Kwanza Coalition, pursuant to Clause 8 (Termination) of the Coalition Agreement. This notice takes effect from the date of this letter.”

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President William Ruto has opened up on what he will do if he loses the 2027 presidential elections.

Speaking in in Othaya, Nyeri County during his tour of Mt. Kenya region, President Ruto told the residents that he is ready to go home in 2027 if he fails to meet their expectations.

According to Ruto, the 2027 presidential candidates will be subjected to an exam which will be marked by Kenyans based on every individual’s performance.

Ruto on losing elections

Ruto revealed that if it happens that he loses the 2027 elections, he will be more than ready to retreat to his home to do farming.

“Tumekuja kupanga mambo ya watoto wetu; tuwachane na siasa ya kubishana, tufanye kazi. Mambo ya siasa yako na siku. Si mlitupatia kazi? Si kila mtu ako na yake? Si wakati wa mtihani utafika? Mimi nimejenga barabara, nimetengeneza kilimo… ikifika wakati wa kusahihisha mtihani, mimi niko tayari… nikipita mtihani yenu, sawa, nisipopita mtihani yenu, mimi naenda nyumbani kulima,” he said.

Ruto’s Mt. Kenya tour

Ruto is on the final day of his development tour of the Mt. Kenya region, with him traversing Nyeri and Kiambu Counties.

He made several stopovers in the Nyeri County where he inspected ongoing government projects, including the construction of the 468-unit Ruring’u Affordable Housing in Nyeri Town and the Ruring’u Stadium, before proceeding to Othaya.

After Nyeri, he proceeded to Lari in Kiambu County where he visited the section of Mau Mau Road under construction.

From Lari, he will proceed to Githunguri constituency.

Githunguri Member of Parliament (MP) Gathoni Wamuchomba however, says that she has been summoned by the Kiambu County Criminal Investigation Officer (CCIO).

This comes just hours before President Ruto’s planned tour of Githunguri, where he is expected to inspect the ongoing construction of the County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIPS) and visit the modern fresh produce market that is under construction.

Taking to her official social media accounts on Saturday, April 5, 2025, Wamuchomba, a great critic of the Head of State and an ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, linked the summons to Ruto’s tour of her constituency.

According to her, she has been summoned because the people of Githunguri refused to be lured to what she has termed as fake promises and projects that never materialised.

She further stated that the number of arrests against the government critics would not change the fact that the Kenya Kwanza administration has not delivered on most of its promises to Kenyans.

“The CCIO Kiambu has, through a telephone call, summoned me because the great people of Githunguri refused to be lured to fake promises and projects that never materialised. Arrests you can do, but that will not change the facts! No more lies! You promised, deliver!” Wamuchomba wrote on X.

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Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah on Thursday, April 3, 2025, had a hard time while addressing the crowd in Ol Kalou Town, Nyandarua County, during President William Ruto’s tour of the Mt. Kenya region.

Ichung’wah was heckled and jeered in front of Ruto.

The crowd erupted into jeers as soon as Ichung’wah received the microphone, making it difficult for him to convey his message.

He can be heard saying that he was not a coward, but the crowd could hear none of it.

“Mimi siuziwa uoga,” Ichung’wah can be heard saying as the crowd kept on heckling.

Not even shifting to the local Kikuyu dialect could save Ichung’wah from being heckled, a clear indication that the mountain has become more slippery to climb, further dimming his chances of getting re-elected in 2027.

Ichung’wah was among the dignitaries who accompanied the president during the launch of the Last Mile Connectivity at Ol Kalou Town, as Ruto continues to launch state projects in Mt. Kenya.

“Let me tell you. No one can shout me down. I cannot be intimidated,” Ichung’wah can be heard saying after the first round of heckling. 

Despite the noise, Ichung’wah tried to weather the storm through a greeting, which was only met with louder jeers.

“Mr. President, the people of Kware know affordable housing is here, and all the work (placing cabro in affordable housing units) here should be given to the youth,” Ichung’wah added in an apparent attempt to appease the crowd, who shouted down his address in protest.

Ichung’wah, seemingly overwhelmed by the jeers from the mammoth crowd, gave in and passed the microphone back, but not without a parting shot.

Before handing over the microphone, Ichung’wah fired a warning to the crowd, saying, “I want to tell you, President Ruto, that here in Ol Kalou and the whole of Nyandarua, no one can intimidate me.”

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