by Bukeni AbdullatifHoma Bay Deputy Governor Escapes Assassination Attempt; Governor Wanga Calls for Swift Investigation
Nairobi, May 13, 2025 — Homa Bay Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Sunday night, prompting widespread concern and calls for a thorough investigation.
According to reports, Magwanga was returning to his residence in Kabuor village, East Kamagak ward, Kasipul constituency, around 9:00 PM when he received intelligence that he was being trailed. Acting on this information, he altered his route and arrived home safely. Approximately 30 minutes later, his official vehicle, which was on the original route and carrying his security detail, was ambushed by unknown assailants who opened fire. A gunfight ensued, but no injuries were reported.
Magwanga had previously received threats, both verbal and written, which he had not taken seriously until this incident. He has since recorded a statement with the police, urging for a swift and impartial investigation.
Governor Gladys Wanga condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for peace and unity in the county. She called on security agencies to expedite their investigations and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. The incident comes shortly after the assassination of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, further heightening tensions in the region.
Police have launched investigations into the incident, with preliminary reports suggesting political motives behind the attack. Security around Magwanga has been increased as authorities work to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
Magwanga has urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculation that could hinder the investigation. He emphasized the importance of resolving political differences through dialogue rather than violence.
As the county grapples with these events, leaders and citizens alike are calling for unity and a commitment to peace to prevent further escalation.
Bank AL Habib to Exit Kenyan Market After Four-Year Presence
Nairobi, May 13, 2025 — Pakistan’s Bank AL Habib Limited (BAHL) has announced the closure of its representative office in Kenya, marking the end of its four-year foray into the African market. The decision follows a directive from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), which provided guidance on the voluntary cessation of the bank’s operations in the country.
BAHL established its Nairobi representative office in 2020, aiming to tap into the multibillion-dollar international transaction business and strengthen trade ties between Pakistan and Africa. Operating under the name “BAHL – Representative Office,” the entity focused on research, marketing, and liaison activities, without engaging in commercial banking services.
In a notice dated October 27, 2023, BAHL stated that the last day of its operations in Kenya was June 30, 2024. The bank expressed gratitude to the CBK and its banking partners for their support during its tenure in Kenya.
Despite the closure in Kenya, Bank AL Habib continues to maintain a strong international presence, with operations in Bahrain, the Seychelles, China, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.
The bank’s exit from Kenya underscores the challenges foreign banks may face in establishing a foothold in new markets, even amidst robust trade relations between countries.
Kenyan Shilling Marginally Strengthens Against U.S. Dollar
Nairobi, May 13, 2025 — The Kenyan shilling gained slightly against the U.S. dollar on Tuesday, reflecting a modest improvement in the local currency’s performance in the foreign exchange market. According to data from the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), the shilling traded at 128.80/129.40 to the dollar, compared to Monday’s closing levels of 129.00/129.50.
Analysts attribute the slight appreciation to steady foreign exchange inflows from remittances and export earnings, coupled with cautious demand from importers. The Central Bank of Kenya has also maintained a tight monetary policy stance, which has helped stabilize the currency amid broader economic challenges.
The Kenyan shilling has faced sustained pressure in recent months due to external debt obligations, a widening trade deficit, and a strengthening U.S. dollar. However, recent government efforts to manage fiscal policy and attract investment have contributed to calming investor concerns and stabilizing the currency.
Despite this minor gain, financial experts caution that the shilling remains vulnerable to global market trends, particularly shifts in commodity prices and geopolitical developments that impact investor sentiment.
The Central Bank is expected to continue monitoring currency movements closely to ensure that inflation remains under control while supporting overall economic growth.
Opposition Demands Deputy President Kindiki’s Resignation After Court Ruling
The political temperature in Kenya rose sharply on Monday after opposition leaders called for the resignation of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. The demand follows a Court of Appeal ruling that questioned the legality of the judicial process that led to his swearing-in.
At the center of the controversy is a finding by the appellate court which ruled that Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu acted outside her jurisdiction when she constituted the High Court bench that presided over a petition challenging Kindiki’s eligibility for office. According to the court, the power to empanel such a bench lies solely with the Chief Justice, a role held at the time by Martha Koome.
“The process through which Kindiki was cleared and sworn in was fundamentally flawed,” said Senator Edwin Omondi, a senior opposition figure. “If the very foundation of his assumption of office is unconstitutional, then his continued stay in office undermines the rule of law.”
The ruling has triggered intense debate within legal and political circles, with constitutional experts divided over the implications. Some argue that while the court questioned the procedure, it did not explicitly invalidate Kindiki’s position. Others believe the ruling severely compromises the legitimacy of his office.
Deputy President Kindiki has yet to respond publicly to the court’s findings or the opposition’s calls for his resignation. However, allies within the ruling coalition have dismissed the demands as politically motivated and urged the country to focus on development rather than legal technicalities.
“This is just a desperate attempt to destabilize the government,” said Majority Leader Alice Wahome. “The Deputy President was duly sworn in, and this ruling does not change that.”
The Judiciary has not indicated whether further action will be taken following the court’s pronouncement. Meanwhile, political observers say the issue could become a major flashpoint in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
🌧️ Nairobi Flooded After Heavy Rains
A heavy downpour on Sunday evening left several streets in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) inundated, disrupting transport and prompting emergency responses across the city. Motorists and pedestrians alike were caught off guard by the sudden deluge, with multiple vehicles reported stalled or swept away by the fast-moving floodwaters, particularly along Mama Ngina Street.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as drivers abandoned vehicles and commuters waded through knee-deep water. Businesses in low-lying areas were forced to close early, and public transport services were delayed or rerouted due to impassable roads.
“It was like a river flowing through the middle of town,” said James Mwangi, a matatu driver who operates in the CBD. “I’ve seen floods before, but this was different. Even our vehicle was almost carried away.”
In response to the flash flooding, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja announced that the county government will begin forceful evictions in flood-prone informal settlements and riparian areas. The move is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the recurring impacts of seasonal rains on the capital’s infrastructure and vulnerable populations.
“We cannot continue losing lives and property every time it rains,” Governor Sakaja stated during a press briefing on Monday morning. “Evictions will target areas where construction has taken place on waterways and drainage paths. We will act decisively.”
The governor’s announcement is expected to spark debate, as previous eviction efforts have drawn criticism from human rights organizations and local residents for lacking adequate resettlement plans.
Experts say the flooding is exacerbated by unregulated urban development and poor drainage infrastructure. Environmentalists have also raised concerns about Nairobi’s diminishing green spaces, which historically helped absorb rainwater and reduce runoff.
As cleanup operations begin, city officials are urging residents to stay vigilant and avoid flood-prone zones during heavy rains. The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast continued rainfall in the coming days.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Visit Kenya to Strengthen Diplomatic Ties
Nairobi, May 8, 2025 —
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed plans to visit Kenya in the coming weeks, signaling renewed efforts to bolster diplomatic relations and strategic cooperation between the two countries. The visit follows a previously postponed trip due to scheduling conflicts.
According to a statement from the U.S. Department of State, Secretary Rubio’s visit will focus on enhancing bilateral relations in areas such as regional security, trade, democratic governance, and climate resilience.
“Kenya remains a vital partner in East Africa. This visit will reaffirm our shared commitments and explore new avenues for cooperation in security, economic development, and global challenges,” said Secretary Rubio.
The planned trip is expected to include meetings with President William Ruto, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua, and key business and civil society leaders. Discussions will likely cover ongoing U.S. support for Kenya’s counterterrorism efforts, regional peace initiatives in the Horn of Africa, and progress under the U.S.-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP).
Kenya is considered one of Washington’s most stable allies in Africa, with longstanding ties dating back to independence. In recent years, the two nations have deepened their engagement through joint military operations, health partnerships, and collaborative infrastructure projects.
Secretary Rubio’s visit is seen as part of a broader U.S. diplomatic effort to reinforce alliances on the continent amid growing global competition for influence in Africa.
More details about the itinerary and key agreements are expected to be released closer to the date of the visit.
Court Fines Four for Attempted Smuggling of 5,000 Queen Ants at JKIA
Nairobi, May 8, 2025 —
In a rare and unusual case of wildlife trafficking, a Nairobi court has fined four individuals Ksh1 million each for attempting to smuggle more than 5,000 queen ants out of Kenya. The suspects—two Belgian and two Vietnamese nationals—were intercepted by customs officials at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) while attempting to board a flight to Southeast Asia.
Authorities said the suspects had concealed the ants in custom-made plastic containers and intended to export them illegally, violating Kenya’s Wildlife Conservation and Management Act. The insects, believed to be destined for underground ant-trading markets, were identified as highly valuable for use in exotic farming and as collectible species among insect enthusiasts abroad.
“The suspects failed to provide documentation for the insects and could not explain their intended purpose,” said a senior Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officer. “This highlights a growing trend in trafficking lesser-known species, not just the big game.”
The case has sparked conversation among conservationists about the increasing exploitation of invertebrate species in global illegal wildlife trade. Traditionally, enforcement in Kenya has focused on elephants, rhinos, and other high-profile species, but experts now warn that insects and other small fauna are also at risk of unsustainable exploitation.
Magistrate Beatrice Okwiri, who presided over the case, emphasized the seriousness of the offense. “The illegal removal of even the smallest creatures from our ecosystem can cause major disruptions to biodiversity. This court must send a message that all forms of wildlife trafficking will be punished.”
The queen ants were confiscated and handed over to the National Museums of Kenya for identification and possible reintroduction to their natural habitat.
IMF Revises Kenya’s 2025 Growth Forecast Amid Economic Unrest
IMF Revises Kenya’s 2025 Growth Forecast Amid Economic Unrest
Nairobi, May 8, 2025 —
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised Kenya’s projected economic growth for 2025, lowering it from 5.3% to 5.0%. The downward adjustment comes amid growing concerns over domestic fiscal pressures and widespread anti-tax demonstrations that have disrupted economic activity across the country.
In a statement released Wednesday, the IMF highlighted that persistent protests and uncertainties surrounding the government’s revenue collection strategies have contributed to a cooling investment climate and slowed productivity.
“The combination of fiscal tightening, subdued investor confidence, and social unrest has led us to reassess our earlier projections,” the IMF noted.
The Kenyan government is currently under pressure to balance its ambitious development agenda with growing public resistance to tax hikes and spending cuts. Economists warn that unless stability is restored and confidence rebuilt, further economic downgrades could follow.
Despite the revised forecast, the IMF maintained that Kenya’s economy remains resilient and could recover strongly in the latter half of the year—provided structural reforms are implemented and social tensions de-escalate.
Outrage as Viral Video Shows Police Officer Stepping on Civilian’s Neck
May 7, 2025 | Nairobi, Kenya
A disturbing video depicting a police officer stepping on a civilian’s neck has resurfaced online, sparking outrage across Kenya and renewing calls for greater accountability within the National Police Service (NPS).
The footage, which has gone viral on social media platforms, shows a uniformed officer kicking a man lying on the ground and forcefully stepping on his neck. The officer is seen wielding a baton and a firearm, while a small group of bystanders watch from a distance, visibly alarmed.
Police Respond to Viral Video
In response to public outcry, the National Police Service issued a statement confirming that the video is from a 2018 incident in Nairobi. According to the NPS, the officer involved was identified at the time, and disciplinary action was taken.
“This video, while deeply troubling, is not recent,” the statement read. “The officer in question was subjected to internal disciplinary processes, and appropriate measures were taken to ensure accountability.”
Despite the clarification, the incident has reignited public debate about police brutality, with many Kenyans questioning whether disciplinary actions taken in private are enough to deter future misconduct.
Public Demands Transparency and Justice
Human rights advocates and ordinary citizens alike have expressed frustration over what they describe as a pattern of impunity among law enforcement. Hashtags such as #EndPoliceBrutality and #JusticeForVictims have trended on Kenyan Twitter, as users called for the reopening of investigations and a public release of the disciplinary outcomes.
“We cannot continue to excuse violent behavior under the pretext of past action,” said Mary Atieno, a Nairobi-based human rights lawyer. “The public deserves full transparency and assurance that such acts will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
Ongoing Concerns About Police Conduct
This is not the first time Kenyan police have come under fire for excessive use of force. In recent months, reports of unlawful killings, harassment, and intimidation have surfaced in various parts of the country. A recent case in Narok County, where police officers allegedly killed five civilians during a land dispute protest, has further heightened concerns.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has called for a broader investigation into patterns of abuse and systemic issues within the police force.
“We must go beyond case-by-case responses and address the root causes of these recurring incidents,” said IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori. “That includes training, oversight, and a culture of respect for human rights.”
The Way Forward
While the NPS insists it is committed to upholding professionalism and respecting the rights of all Kenyans, critics argue that internal disciplinary systems lack credibility without public oversight.
Calls for reform include the creation of a civilian review board, mandatory body cameras for officers, and legislative action to enhance accountability mechanisms.
As Kenyans continue to demand justice and reform, the pressure is now on the government and security agencies to prove that accountability is more than just a promise—it is a practice.
Mudavadi in Washington: Strengthening Kenya-U.S. Relations Amid Global Shifts
May 7, 2025 | Washington, D.C.
Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister, Musalia Mudavadi, is currently in Washington, D.C., engaging in high-level discussions aimed at reinforcing Kenya-U.S. relations. His agenda includes meetings with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior officials to address key areas such as trade, security, and regional stability.
Advancing Trade and Investment
A central focus of Mudavadi’s visit is the acceleration of the Kenya-U.S. Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP). This initiative seeks to enhance bilateral trade and investment, promoting sustainable economic growth by unlocking existing opportunities. The STIP is anticipated to provide Kenya with expanded access to the U.S. market, building upon the foundation laid by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which is set to expire in 2025.
Addressing Regional Security
In addition to economic discussions, Mudavadi and Secretary Rubio are expected to deliberate on regional security concerns. Topics include Kenya’s leadership role in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti and efforts to stabilize conflict-affected areas in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. These discussions underscore the shared commitment of Kenya and the United States to promoting peace and security in the region.
Navigating Global Geopolitical Changes
Mudavadi’s visit occurs against the backdrop of significant shifts in the global geopolitical landscape. He has emphasized the need for Kenya to adapt its foreign policy to remain relevant and effective in promoting national interests. This includes fostering international cooperation to address emerging challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic volatility.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The visit follows President William Ruto’s state visit to the United States in May 2024, which marked 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. During that visit, discussions centered on enhancing economic cooperation, with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation committing to significant investments in Kenya’s green energy and health sectors.
Mudavadi’s engagements in Washington are expected to further solidify the strategic partnership between Kenya and the United States, fostering collaboration in areas critical to both nations’ interests.
