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Ruto Postpones Re-opening of Schools Until Further Notice

ruto
President William Ruto delivering a lecture at the Lusophone University in Guinea Bissau on April 6, 2024.
PCS

President William Ruto has announced the postponement of the reopening of all public schools until further notice, a sudden reversal of plans just hours after Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu insisted that schools would open on Monday, May 6.

In an address to the nation on Friday, May 3, President Ruto directed the Ministry of Education to delay the reopening of schools for the second term, citing ongoing severe weather conditions, particularly flooding, across the country.

"The Ministry of Education is directed to postpone the dates of reopening of all schools in the country for the second term until further notice," President Ruto stated.

This decision comes barely five hours after Education CS Machogu instructed schools to reopen with only those severely affected by floods remaining closed until the situation is brought under control.

Machogu insisted that the safety of learners was paramount and that alternative infrastructure must be established before these schools could resume operations.

"In the meantime, the management of these schools should come up with strategies to recover lost time when learning resumes," the Ministry of Education added in a statement.

Education CS Ezekiel Machogu at the Partnership for Science, Engineering and Technology event on April 24, 2024.
Education CS Ezekiel Machogu at the Partnership for Science, Engineering and Technology event on April 24, 2024.
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Education Ministry

Despite queries regarding students who had already returned to school on Sunday, April 28, before the official directive to suspend reopening was issued at 1 am on Monday, President Ruto asserted that the Ministry of Education has received clear directives on how to address this situation.

In his address, the head of state urged Members of Parliament to use the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) to repair damage to school infrastructure.

He stated, “MPs are requested to prioritize the reconstruction of school infrastructure damaged as a result of the floods ravaging the country.”

The decision to postpone school reopening comes amidst a grim reality of severe weather-related casualties.

According to the Interior Ministry, the death toll from the ongoing floods has risen to 210, with 22 fatalities reported in the past 24 hours alone. Additionally, over 165,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes, and 90 others are still missing.

At least 24 schools have been impacted by the floods as of the end of last week, highlighting the extent of the crisis and the challenges faced by the education sector.

President Ruto emphasized that the government will closely monitor the situation and provide further guidance to parents and students in the coming days. 

Global Teacher Prize (Varkey Foundation)  2023
Global Teacher Prize (Varkey Foundation) 2023
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Global Teacher Prize

Kenya Power Announces Nationwide Power Outage, Power Restoration in 2Hrs

Blackout
A section of Nairobi in blackout, December 2023.
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Twitter

Kenya has once again been thrust into darkness as a nationwide blackout struck the country on Thursday, May 2, 5:40pm, compounding the challenges already faced due to heavy downpours.

In a press release, Kenya Power, the national utility company, attributed the blackout to a system disturbance on the grid, leading to disruptions in power supply across most parts of the country.

“We regret any inconvenience caused and urge for patience from our customers as we work towards restoring normal power supply at the earliest opportunity,” stated Kenya Power in the release.

The company has assured Kenyans that it is working to restore power within two hours.

This recent blackout follows a similar incident in December last year, which was attributed by Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir to an overload in the Kisumu-Muhoroni line.

Chirchir noted that the line, designed to carry 80MW, was overloaded with 149MW at the time of the blackout.

Davis Chirchir
Picture of Road and Transport CS Nominee at a meeting in his office, March 22.
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Ministry of Energy

"We have not invested much in the networks. We plan on giving out a number of networks to be built by private firms. This will ease putting pressure," Chirchir commented.

He outlined plans for the construction of a new substation and a 90 km line to alleviate capacity issues on the Muhoroni-Kisumu line, as well as the establishment of a new 33KV line between Narok and Bomet to prevent recurrent power outages.

During a similar blackout in November, it took engineers over 12 hours to restore power across most parts of the country.

However, the most severe outage occurred on Aug. 25, marking the longest disruption in Kenya's history.

The cause of this outage remains a mystery, with Kenya Power blaming a failure at Africa's largest wind farm, while the wind farm attributed the responsibility to the power grid instead.

In the wake of these outages, Kenyans have taken to social media to express their frustrations and demand accountability from Kenya Power.

Some have likened the situation to that in Nigeria and South Africa, where power rationing is common, deriding the agency for its failure to address the recurrent blackouts effectively.

The latest blackout comes at a challenging time for Kenya, as the country grapples with raging floods that have left many estates inhabitable.

Blackout at JKIA
JKIA suffers a blackout on Sunday, December 10, 2023
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MPs Approve Motion to Impeach Agriculture CS Linturi

Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi during a meeting at Kilimo House on Tuesday April 25, 2023
Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi during a meeting at Kilimo House on Tuesday, April 25, 2023
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Mithika Linturi

Members of Parliament have approved the proposed dismissal of troubled Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi.

In the vote at the National Assembly on Thursday, May 2, 149 MPs voted to proceed with the impeachment process for CS Linturi.  Parliament is in a rush to debate and conclude the impeachment motion before its upcoming recess in June.

The motion required support from at least one-third of the assembly's 349 members to proceed, and it surpassed the threshold with ease.

Of the 188 legislators who cast their votes, 149 supported the motion, while 36 opposed it. Only three abstained from the proceedings.

The National Assembly is now poised to appoint a select committee to delve into the accusations against CS Linturi.

The composition of the select committee reflects a balance of parliamentary representation, with 6 slots allocated to the Kenya Kwanza Coalition, 4 to the Azimio la Umoja Coalition, and 1 to the Jubilee Party.

In his communication, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula stated, ”In nominating the members, parties are to ensure the nominees to the committee reflect the diversity of the house including regional and gender considerations.”

Linturi
Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi during a visit to KEL Chemicals, April 12.
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Ministry of Agriculture

The select committee faces a tight deadline of ten days to present its findings to the Assembly, determining the veracity of the accusations levelled against Linturi. If the allegations are substantiated, the Assembly will proceed to vote on his dismissal.

Linturi finds himself in the crosshairs of public scrutiny alongside Health CS Susan Nakhumicha, as both face mounting pressure to resign from their respective positions.

The mover of the motion, Bumula MP Jack Wamboka called for bipartisanship in the voting process. He stated, "This is not a political issue, this is a moral issue. The CS is genuinely and criminally involved in this particular issue of denying Kenyans the opportunity to ensure that we have food security in the country."  

Reflecting on the gravity of the situation, Kathiani MP Robert Mbui urged his colleagues to vote conscientiously, mindful of the plight of Kenyan farmers affected by the scandal. "Let's vote with our conscience," Mbui implored.

Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, a vocal proponent of the motion, affirmed his stance during the heated debate, citing Linturi's responsibility as the head of the ministry. "Should the CS take responsibility for the motion and the issue at hand? The answer is YES," Amollo declared, pointing to evidence implicating Linturi in the scandal.

However, Linturi found support from members of the Kenya Kwanza coalition, including Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who cautioned against hastily resorting to impeachment based on unsubstantiated claims. Ichung’wah urged the Assembly to allow the Committee on Agriculture to conduct a thorough inquiry before making any definitive decisions.

He stated, “We cannot use the basis of newspaper reports to impeach anybody. Allow me to plead with this house to defeat this motion because it will derail the fight against corruption. If we derail the fight against corruption, by using such motions to speak to the gallery, to speak to our voters, to speak about corruption but never acting over corruption.” 

Similarly, nominated MP Sabina Chege called for a measured approach, advocating for the naming and shaming of individuals responsible for exploiting innocent farmers. "These people should be jailed for taking advantage of innocent farmers," Chege asserted, highlighting the need for decisive action against wrongdoers.

The grounds for Linturi's impeachment, as outlined by Wamboka, encompass gross violations of the constitution, including breaches of good governance, accountability, and criminal negligence.

The allegations centre around the distribution of fake fertilizer through the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), tarnishing Linturi's reputation and credibility.

Parliament
National Assembly proceedings on February 21, 2024.
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National Assembly of Kenya

Ruto Appoints General Charles Muriu Kahariri as New CDF

General Charles Muriu Kahariri alongside President William Ruto and former CDF General Francis Ogolla at State House on March 9, 2024.
General Charles Muriu Kahariri alongside President William Ruto and former CDF General Francis Ogolla at State House on March 9, 2024.
PCS

President William Ruto on Thursday, May 2, appointed General Charles Muriu Kahariri as the new Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).

Kahariri was serving as Lieutenant General before his promotion to the rank of General. He was also serving as the Vice Chief of Defence Forces prior to his appointment.

However, he served as the CDF in an acting capacity after General Francis Ogolla's death.

General Charles Muriu Kahariri taking oath of office as the Vice CDF on March 9, 2024.
General Charles Muriu Kahariri taking oath of office as the Vice CDF on March 9, 2024.
PCS

"His Excellency Hon Dr William Samoei Ruto, C.G.H, President of the Republic of Kenya, and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, pursuant to section 9 (2) (a) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act, has today promoted Lieutenant General Charles Muriu Kahariri to the rank of General and appointed him the Chief of the Defence Forces," read the statement in part.

Additionally, Ruto appointed Major General John Mugaravai Omenda as the Vice Chief of Defence Forces. Consequently, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General.

"Until his appointment, Lieutenant General John Mugaravai Omenda was the Kenya Air Force Commander. Further, the President has posted Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed to Kenya Air Force and appointed her Commander. 

"Similarly, Major General Paul Owuor Otieno has been posted to the Kenya Navy and appointed Commander," read the statement in part.

Other appointments that have been made include;

Major General Thomas Njoroge Ng'ang'a was posted to the National Defence University and appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Administration and Finance.

On the other hand, Brigadier Peter Nyamu Githinji was promoted to Major General and appointed Senior Directing Staff, Air at National Defence College.

Also promoted to the position of Major General was Brigadier Jattani Kampare Gula. He was also named as the new Managing Director of the Kenya Meat Commission.

Brigadier George Okumu was also promoted to Major General and appointed Managing Director of Kenya Ordnance Factories Corporation and Food Processing Factory.

Meanwhile, Brigadier Samuel Kosgei Kipkorir was appointed as Deputy Commander of Kenya Air Force.

Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale alongside newly appointed KDF officers at the MOD on May 2, 2024.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale alongside newly appointed KDF officers at the MOD on May 2, 2024.
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KDF

EACC Raids Home of Former Treasury CS Ukur Yatani

Former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Ukur Yatani
Former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Ukur Yatani
National Treasury

Update: 1:30pm 

Former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Ukur Yatani is now at the EACC headquarters at Integrity Center, Nairobi, being grilled over the loss of Ksh8.2 billion during his tenure as Governor of Marsabit.

Former Marsabit Governor Ukur Yatani, who served from 2013 to 2017, found himself in the spotlight once again as his residence became a target of police raids.

Concurrently, the homes of Marsabit's current Governor, Mohamud Ali, were also subject to searches. These developments unfolded early Wednesday as EACC continued to probe allegations of corruption within the Marsabit County administration.

Both Yatani and Governor Ali, alongside several high-ranking former and current officials of Marsabit County, were apprehended in connection with a suspected multi-billion graft investigation, estimated at Ksh8.2 billion.

Yatani, escorted by his legal team, arrived at the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) headquarters at 12:15 pm, where he is expected to face questioning regarding the allegations.

Notable members of his legal counsel include former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Rarienda MP Otiende Amollo, indicating a high-profile defence strategy in response to the charges.


The Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission (EACC) on the morning of Wednesday, April 24 raided the home of former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Ukur Yatani in Marsabit and arrested him in a suspected graft probe.

Reports indicate that Yatani is currently in the custody of EACC detectives and is anticipated to undergo questioning regarding his alleged involvement in the misappropriation of billions of shillings.

The former CS was slated to present himself at the EACC Integrity Centre Police Station early in the morning.

In a simultaneous operation, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) also conducted a raid on the residence of the current Marsabit Governor, Mohamud Mohamed Ali, along with several other high-ranking county officials.

Governor Ali is anticipated to be transported to the EACC's Isiolo office for formal processing and additional interrogation as part of the extensive multibillion-graft investigation. 

Treasury Cabinet Secretary Ukur Yatani
Former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Ukur Yatani in a past meeting.
Twitter

While the motives behind the EACC's decision to raid Yatani's home remain unclear, the Commission had previously urged the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga to pursue charges against allies of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, implicated in unlawfully navigating the Ksh6 billion Telkom takeover debacle.

Details outlined in the EACC's third quarterly report spanning July to September 2023, and signed by CEO Twalib Mbarak and chairperson David Oginde, shed light on Yatani's predicament. Alongside him, former Treasury Principal Secretary (PS) Julius Muia and Dr. Margret Nyakang'o face scrutiny over the Ksh6 billion Telkom acquisition.

A report recommending charges against these officials was submitted to Ingonga on August 29, 2023, yet action on the EACC's suggestions is pending.

The prospect of facing charges compounds the troubles for Dr. Nyakang'o, who already faces three counts of fraud, operating an unlicensed Sacco, and forgery. A High Court injunction has temporarily halted her prosecution following a petition.

The controversy surrounding the acquisition of a 60 per cent stake in Telkom Kenya at Ksh6 billion during the tenure of retired President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration looms large. The deal, executed ahead of the 2022 general election, has stirred public outcry and legal scrutiny.

The EACC's report explicitly names various individuals, including former Telkom executives and government officials, slated for potential prosecution in connection with the Telkom deal.

The genesis of the inquiry traces back to a complaint lodged by the Clerk of the National Assembly, Samuel Njoroge on March 6, 2023, prompting the EACC to initiate investigations into the purported irregular acquisition of Telkom Kenya shares by the government from Helios Investors LLP for Ksh6 billion.

Investigations unveiled that the quest for potential investors ceased following a letter dated March 29, 2022, authored by Yatani, signalling the government's acceptance of Jamhuri Holdings Limited's decision to divest from Telkom.

Documents presented before Parliament indicate grievances expressed by the Government of Kenya, leading to Helios Investors LLP/JHL's exit from Telkom Kenya between April and September 2022.

A photo of the EACC headquarters, at Integrity House in Nairobi.
A photo of the EACC headquarters, at Integrity House in Nairobi.
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EACC

General Francis Ogolla is Dead, Ruto Confirms

KDF Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla during his swearing-in at State House in Nairobi on April 28, 2023
KDF Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla during his swearing-in at State House in Nairobi on April 28, 2023
PCS

President William Ruto on Thursday, April 18, confirmed the death of Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla who died in a grisly military helicopter accident in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The Head of State while issuing a State of the Nation address at State House in Nairobi, noted that the chopper crashed with 11 passengers on board 9 of whom died alongside CDF Ogolla.

“Today at 2.20 pm our nation suffered a tragic air accident Sindar area, Keben location in Elgeyo Marakwet county. I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla,” Ruto announced.

Ruto mourned the deceased and termed him a distinguished four-star general who was committed to his work.

Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla (left) alongside President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi on April 28, 2024
Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla (left) alongside President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi on April 28, 2023
PCS

According to Ruto, Ogolla onboard the Kenya Air Force Huey Helicopter, had left Nairobi on Thursday morning, to visit troops deployed in the North Rift under Operation Maliza Uhalifu and to inspect renovation works on five schools.

Ogolla then proceeded to the Kainuk Forward Operating Base in Turkana County, where he addressed troops, commending them for their resilience and operational successes. 

He later departed Chesegon for the Recruits Training School in Uasin Gishu County, where he was scheduled to inspect construction facilities at the institution. Unfortunately, the aircraft crashed shortly after take-off.

"This is a moment of great sadness for myself, as the Commander in Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, the Kenya Defence Forces fraternity and the nation at large," Ruto stated.

"The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me, and certainly, the sorrow we all feel about his passing is shared by all the people of Kenya, and especially the KDF fraternity," he added.

According to Ruto, a team had already been established to investigate the root cause of the accident. 

The head of state further directed a three-day mourning where the flags including the Kenyan flag, the East African flag and that of the military would flow at half-mast beginning Friday, April 19. 

Military officials who died alongside General Ogolla include Brigadier Swale Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keittany, Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu and Captain Sora Mohamed.

Others were Captain Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Mureithi, Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi, and Sergeant Rose Nyawira.

The announcement came moments after President Ruto convened a National Security Council meeting at State House in Nairobi.

Among the high-ranking govt delegates who attended the security meeting alongside Ruto included Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Interior CS Kithure Kindiki.

Others who attended the closed-door meeting included Attorney General Justin Muturi, Defence CS Aden Dwale, the head of National Intelligence Service Noordin Haji, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome and National Security Advisor Monica Juma.

President William Ruto greets CDF Francis Ogolla at State House.
President William Ruto greets CDF Francis Ogolla at State House.
PCS

EPRA Announces Fuel Prices for April

A man fueling a car at a petrol station
A man fueling a car at a petrol station
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New Vision

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) on Sunday, April 14 released the fuel prices for April to May 14.

In a statement, EPRA announced that the pump prices of Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene had been reduced by Ksh5.31 per litre, Ksh10.00 per litre and Ksh18.68 per litre respectively.

"The prices are inclusive of the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020," read part of the statement.

With the new prices, Nairobi motorists will pay Ksh193.84 for a litre of petrol, Ksh180.38 for a litre of diesel and Ksh170.06 for a litre of kerosene.

Fueling at a petrol station in Kenya.
Fueling at a petrol station in Kenya.
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Kenyans.co.ke

Motorists in Mombasa will part with Ksh190.66, Ksh177.21 and Ksh166.99 for Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene respectively.

Meanwhile, in Nakuru, drivers will pay Ksh192.90 for petrol, Ksh179.82 for diesel and Ksh169.56 for Kerosene. Those in Eldoret will pay Ksh193.67, Ksh180.59 and Ksh170.32 for petrol, diesel and kerosene respectively.

On the other hand, motorists in cities such as Kisumu will now be charged Ksh193.66 for petrol, Ksh180.59 for diesel and Ksh170.31 for kerosene.

After this review, a few areas will be charged over Ksh200 for a litre of petrol. These are Nakalale (Ksh201.06), Lokichogio (Ksh201.14), Lokitaung (Ksh202.07), Korr (Ksh200.27), Turbi (Ksh202.26), Loyangalani (Ksh202.46), Kalacha (Ksh202.40), Maikona (Ksh201.81) and North Horr (Ksh203.30).

Others are; Hadado (Ksh201), Bute (Ksh202.51), Eldas (Ksh205,69), Mandera (Ksh207.84), Modogashe (Ksh201.84), Wajir (Ksh203.78), Elwak (Ksh205.34), Tarbaj (Ksh203.62), Habaswein (Ksh201.21), Sololo (Ksh202.95), Moyale (Ksh203.97), Liboi (Ksh201.29) and Marsabit (Ksh202.27).

"The average landed cost for imported Super Petrol increased by 4.86% from USD703.49 per cubic metre in February 2024 USD737.69 per cubic metre in March 2024, Diesel increased by 0.003% from USD722.49 per cubic metre to USD722.51 per cubic metre while Kerosene decreased by 0.69% from USD730.35 per cubic metre to USD725.31 per cubic metre," read the statement from EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo.

Kiptoo assured Kenyans that EPRA was committed to observing fair competition and protection of their interests alongside those of investors in the energy and petroleum sectors.

The announcement came hours after President William Ruto announced that fuel prices would decrease by Ksh10 in this review

Earlier, the Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura revealed that the fuel prices would be reduced from the previous Ksh199.15, Ksh190.38 and Ksh188.74 for petrol, diesel and kerosene respectively.

President William Ruto at a meeting with Italian government officials at State House Nairobi on March 19, 2024.
President William Ruto at a meeting with Italian government officials at State House Nairobi on March 19, 2024.
PCS

Kindiki Declares Wednesday, April 10, as Public Holiday

Kindiki
Interior CS nominee Kithure Kindiki speaking during the First National Border Management Conference on April 2, 2024.
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Kithure Kindiki

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared Wednesday, April 10 as a national holiday.

In a special Gazette Notice dated Tuesday, April 9, the CS noted that the nation will take the time to mark the Idd-ul-Fitr.

Muslims across the country are set to mark the Idd celebration to mark the end of Ramadhan.

"It is notified for the general information of the public that, in the exercise of the powers conferred by section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Wednesday, the 10th April 2024 shall be a Public Holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr," read the notice in part.

President William Ruto addressing Muslim leaders during an Iftar Dinner at State House on April 9, 2024.
President William Ruto addressing Muslim leaders during an Iftar Dinner at State House on April 9, 2024.
PCS

Following the gazettement, all govt offices, schools and other institutions such as banks are expected to be closed to mark the religious festivities.

Muslims have been observing the holy month of Ramadhan since March 11, 2024.

During this period, Muslims used the time to pray, fast and offer service to their communities.

The announcement comes a day after President William Ruto hosted Muslim leaders across the country for an Iftar Dinner at State House on April 9.

During the event, the religious leaders raised various concerns that were affecting a section of Kenyans in the country including challenges in the acquisition of National Identity cards (IDs).

Consequently, the Head of State announced that there will no longer be vetting of any Kenyan during the application of an ID.

"We have now completed the policy document and from the beginning of May this year, there will no longer be vetting for people who want to get IDs," Ruto stated.

The President also noted that the government would consider repackaging the Hustler Fund to be Shariah-compliant.

Currently, Muslims opt out of the financial inclusion programme owing to the interests charged.

Ruto
President William Ruto during a meeting with Stefano Gatti, Director General for Development Cooperation in Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on March 19, 2024.
PCS

Kisii Deputy Governor Robert Monda Impeached

A photo of the Deputy Governor Kisii County Robert Monda.
A photo of the Deputy Governor Kisii County Robert Monda.
Photo

Kisii County Deputy Governor Robert Monda has been impeached by the Senate.

The DG was impeached following a vote taken by Senators at 12 am on Friday, March 15. The majority of the senators, in their vote, upheld the decision by the Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) of Kisii County to have him removed from office.

The Deputy Governor was accused of abuse of office, gross violation of the Constitution, gross misconduct and crime under national law. 

Witness breaks down in Senate at impeachment hearing on Wednesday March 13
Witness breaks down in Senate at impeachment hearing on Wednesday March 13
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Senate of Kenya

Here is how 43 Senators voted on the 4 charges;

1.Gross Violation of the Constitution: Ayes - 39, Nays - 3, Abstentions - 1.  

2. Abuse of Office: Ayes - 39, Nays - 3, Abstentions - 1.

3. Gross Misconduct:  Ayes - 35, Nays - 7, Abstentions -1.

4. Crimes Under National Law: Ayes -32, Nays - 10, Abstentions - 1. 

Main Accusation

At the centre of the impeachment was the accusation that the DG received a Ksh800,000 bribe to secure a job for Dennis Mokaya.

During the hearings, Mokaya revealed to the senators that the bribe was meant to facilitate the securing of a job at the Gusii Water and Sanitation Company Limited (GWASCO).

The middle-aged man added that the DG failed to secure the job for him, a move that affected his family.

“My wife did not take it easy. At that time, she was expectant after twelve years of trying and she ended up suffering a miscarriage,” he stated.

The DG was also accused of using his office to intimidate his brother.

What Next

Following the impeachment of Monda, Kisii Governor Simba Arati will be required to nominate a new deputy within the next 14 days.

The nominee will then be considered by the County Assembly within 60 days.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati speaking during a ground breaking ceremony for the construction  of the Kisii  County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP), at Tongeri in Bomachoge Borabu constituency on September 20, 2023
Kisii Governor Simba Arati speaking during a ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of the Kisii County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP), at Tongeri in Bomachoge Borabu constituency on September 20, 2023
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Simba Arati

EPRA Announces March 2024 Fuel Prices

A photo of Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Director General Daniel Kiptoo speaking at a conference in Nairobi on April 13, 2023, and an attendant holding a fuel pump.
A photo of Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Director General Daniel Kiptoo speaking at a conference in Nairobi on April 13, 2023, and an attendant holding a fuel pump.
Photo
EPRA

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced fuel prices that will take effect for the next one month.

In the latest review announced on Thursday, March 14, EPRA reduced Super Petrol prices by Ksh7.21. Diesel was reduced by Ksh5.09 and Kerosene by Ksh4.49.

In Nairobi, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene will now retail at Ksh199.15, Ksh190.38 and Ksh188.74 effective midnight.

Motorists at a petrol station in Kinoo along Waiyaki Way on January 7, 2023.
Motorists at a petrol station in Kinoo along Waiyaki Way on January 7, 2023.
Kenyans.co.ke

"In the period under review, the maximum allowed petroleum pump price for Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene decreases by Ksh7.21 per litre, Ksh5.09 per litre and Ksh4.49 per litre respectively.

"The prices are inclusive of the 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020," read the statement in part.

EPRA credited the recent drop to several factors including the drop in the value of the dollar. The applied exchange rate used in the latest review was Ksh148, in comparison with Ksh164.42 which was used last month.

"The trade of petroleum products in the international markets is denominated in United States Dollars (USD), and an exchange rate is applied to convert the USD to Ksh during the computation of local pump prices," EPRA noted.

In Mombasa, a litre of Petrol will retail at Ksh195.97 while Kerosene will retail at Ksh187.21. Mombasa residents will purchase a litre of Kerosene for the next one month at Ksh185.58.

On the other hand, in Kisumu, motorists will purchase Super Petrol at Ksh198.97 and Diesel at Ksh190.59. EPRA capped the price of Kerosene at Ksh188.96.

Meanwhile, in Nakuru and Eldoret, motorists will purchase a litre of Super Petrol at Ksh198.21 and Ksh198.98 respectively. Diesel in the two urban centres will be purchased at Ksh189.82 (Nakuru) and Ksh190.59 (Eldoret).

Notably, the price drop was announced hours after President William Ruto hinted at the lowering of pump prices this month.

While addressing residents of Kericho during a development tour, Ruto credited the drop to strategies that had been applied by his administration.

President William Ruto celebrates the International Women's Day at Moi Stadium in Embu.
President William Ruto celebrates the International Women's Day at Moi Stadium in Embu.
PCS