馃嚢馃嚜KenyaEast Africa
Kenya newspapers review: Chaos at Kalonzo's Matuu rally as goons attack group Ruto's supporters
via Tuko5 min read
Local newspapers on Saturday, April 11, highlighted rising political intolerance, with hired goons increasingly involved in confrontations, as seen in the recent attack on Vihiga senator Godfrey Osotsi, indicating growing tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election. The Saturday Standard reported a unanimous push to elevate Thika to Kenya鈥檚 sixth city, with stakeholders supporting the industrial hub鈥檚 readiness for this change. Kiambu governor Kimani Wamatangi presented the case, citing improved infrastructure, healthcare, water systems, and revenue growth as proof the town meets legal thresholds. The Saturday Nation reported Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka鈥檚 emergence as a strong opposition figure during a political tour of Machakos county, with allies backing his potential 2027 presidential bid. However, chaos erupted at Matuu Township when masked goons attacked sections of the crowd linked to Robert Basil, a former Musyoka ally. The Weekend Star reported security experts raising alarms over shifting tactics by extremist groups linked to al-Shabaab, warning of more complex threats. Expert Ibrahim Yanaya stated that militant groups are evolving faster than security responses, increasingly targeting urban centers and economic hubs, and attempting to forge links with political actors. Taifa Leo reported that Kenya鈥檚 courts are redefining divorce, shifting focus from rigid legal fault-finding to the realities of human relationships. High Court Judge Reuben Nyakundi declared a sect
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Must ReadDefence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has called on Kenyans to pray for the nation, stating that her role exposes her to realities not witnessed by most citizens. Speaking at a church service in Narok, Tuya emphasized that Kenya's peace and stability should not be taken for granted, drawing comparisons to politically and economically unstable neighboring countries. She highlighted Kenya's relative peace despite ongoing security challenges, urging the clergy and public to remain steadfast in prayer. Tuya noted that her position provides access to information and situations that ordinary Kenyans do not see, reinforcing her appeal for continued prayers for the country.
Must ReadPolice in Kisumu county arrested two individuals after discovering a large consignment of government relief food at a homestead in Muhoroni sub-county. Officers from Masogo Police Station, acting on intelligence, raided the home of the late Johana Nyasuna, father of Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, on Sunday, July 12, 2026. They found 300 bags of rice, 250 bags of beans, and 20 bags of uji mix, all weighing 50 kilograms each, offloaded and concealed inside a house. The food was intended for distribution to residents in the Chemelil area via the deputy county commissioner's office in Muhoroni sub-county. A Mercedes-Benz trailer, registration number KCG 240F, registered to Pontypridd Holdings, was also found at the scene. The truck driver, Charles Gichoki, and a storekeeper were arrested and are assisting DCI Muhoroni with investigations. The incident, recorded under OB Number 06/12/07/2026, has sparked public outrage over the diversion of relief food.
Must ReadAn Infotrak survey released on Monday, July 13, indicates President William Ruto leads the 2027 presidential race with 32% support. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka is second with 13%, followed by former Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna and former Interior Cabinet secretary Fred Matiang'i, both at 12%. Other contenders include former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua at 4%, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino at 3%, and former chief justice David Maraga at 2%. Ruto's support is strongest in the North Rift 89%, Mt. Kenya North 54%, and South Rift 46%. Kalonzo Musyoka has significant backing in Lower Eastern 66%. Gachagua leads in Mt Kenya East 68% and Mt Kenya West 62%, while Matiang'i's strongest showing is in South Nyanza 41%. The survey, conducted between June 22 and 26, 2026, interviewed 3,000 adults, with 18% of respondents remaining undecided. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.79 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.