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KMPDU Condemns Violent Raid on Naivasha Hospital

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has strongly condemned a violent security breach at Naivasha County Referral Hospital, calling for immediate deployment of security personnel to protect health workers and ensure uninterrupted emergency medical services.

In a statement released on 19th May, KMPDU reported that a rowdy crowd stormed the facility, disrupting hospital operations and forcibly taking away the body of a deceased patient from hospital custody.

The Union described the incident as a serious escalation of violence against healthcare institutions, warning that such acts undermine the safety of both patients and medical professionals.

Risk to Healthcare Workers and Hospital Safety
According to the SG Davji Atellah, the attack endangered doctors, nurses, and other frontline healthcare workers who were on duty at the time.

Atellah noted that hospitals must remain neutral and protected spaces, even during moments of civil unrest, emphasizing that the disruption of medical services places lives at risk and weakens the country’s emergency response system.

KMPDU further expressed concern over growing incidents of ambulance obstruction, stating that interference with emergency vehicles constitutes a direct threat to human life.

The Union called on members of the public to grant unconditional passage to ambulances and medical teams, stressing that delays in emergency response can be fatal for patients in critical condition.

KMPDU Condemns Violent Raid on Naivasha Hospital
KMPDU Condemns Violent Raid on Naivasha Hospital

“The public must exercise maximum restraint and ensure healthcare facilities remain safe zones,” said the SG, underscoring the need for cooperation between citizens and health providers during emergencies.

KMPDU questioned how medical personnel are expected to save lives when their own safety is constantly compromised within their workplaces.

Government Action Requested
The Union has urged both the National Government and County Governments to take swift action by deploying adequate security personnel to Naivasha County Referral Hospital and other health facilities across the country.

It further called for strengthened protection mechanisms to safeguard medical workers and ensure continuity of care.

KMPDU reaffirms its commitment to defending the rights and safety of healthcare professionals, insisting that a secure working environment is essential for an effective and functional health system.

 

KNCHR Raises Alarm Over Violence During Nationwide Fuel Strike

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights(KNCHR) has raised concern over widespread violence, deaths, and destruction witnessed during yesterday’s Transport Sector Fuel Strike, warning that the unrest has resulted in serious human rights violations across the country.

KNCHR said it had received reports of at least four fatalities, multiple injuries, arrests, incidents of looting, arson attacks, and destruction of property of unknown value in several regions.

The protests also led to widespread school closures, disrupting learning for many children and vulnerable groups.

Escalation of the Strike Into Violence
According to KNCHR, the strike initially began peacefully in the early hours of the morning before escalating into violent demonstrations marked by road barricades, burning tyres, bonfires, and attacks on motorists and members of the public by criminal gangs.

The Commission noted that such actions undermine public order and infringe on the rights of other citizens, including the rights to security, dignity, property, and freedom of movement.

KNCHR Raises Alarm Over Violence During Nationwide Fuel Strike
KNCHR Raises Alarm Over Violence During Nationwide Fuel Strike
Police Response and Allegations of Excessive Force
At the same time, KNCHR acknowledged efforts by the police to restore calm in affected areas.

However, it expressed concern over allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers, including the reported use of lethal force that allegedly resulted in deaths and gunshot injuries.

The Commission reminded security agencies that any use of force must comply with constitutional principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, accountability, and respect for human dignity and the right to life.

KNCHR further emphasized that the rights to strike, protest, and demonstrate are protected under Articles 37 and 41 of the Constitution of Kenya, but stressed that such freedoms must be exercised peacefully and responsibly.

“Legitimate industrial action or public demonstrations should not be used as a platform for violence, criminality, looting, or attacks against innocent civilians,” the statement read.

Calls for Investigations and Accountability
The Commission has now called for immediate investigations into all reported cases of violence and destruction witnessed during the protests.

It urged authorities to arrest and prosecute individuals responsible for attacks, looting, and violations of the rights of others.

Additionally, the National Police Service was urged to exercise maximum restraint and ensure that any use of force remains lawful and proportionate, with lethal force used only as a last resort under both national and international human rights standards.

KNCHR also conveyed condolences to families who lost loved ones during the unrest and wished those injured a quick recovery.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and promoting human rights while calling on all stakeholders to uphold peace, dialogue, accountability, and the rule of law.

 

Government Raises Alarm Over Rising Femicide and Child Abuse Cases

The Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services has raised concern over the increasing cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), femicide, and abuse against children across the country.

In a statement released on May 18, Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot said the Government remains committed to strengthening child protection systems and safeguarding vulnerable persons from violence, exploitation, and neglect.

Recent Cases Spark Concern
The Ministry cited several recent incidents that have sparked public outrage. Among them is the case of Rachael Wandeto, who was reportedly doused with petrol and set ablaze over alleged political differences.
The statement also referenced the Kilimani incident where a 25-year-old woman was stabbed to death while seeking refuge at a pharmacy, as well as the Nyamira case involving a Form Three student allegedly stabbed by her boyfriend before he later died by suicide.

According to CS Wendot, the incidents are not isolated cases but signs of deeper societal problems that require coordinated action from both government institutions and the public.

“The Government of Kenya remains firmly committed to protecting all children and all persons from every form of violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, emotional harm, and indignity,” said Wendot.

Government Raises Alarm Over Rising Femicide and Child Abuse Cases
Government Raises Alarm Over Rising Femicide and Child Abuse Cases
Government Response and Policy Measures
CS Hanna Wendot emphasized that protecting children is both a constitutional obligation and a collective national responsibility involving families, schools, communities, leaders, and institutions.

To address the crisis, the government is implementing a multi-sectoral strategy focused on four key areas.

These include strengthening legal and justice systems through faster prosecutions and stricter penalties for perpetrators, expanding survivor support infrastructure, increasing public awareness campaigns against harmful social norms and improving coordination among institutions handling GBV and child protection matters.

The Gender CS also announced plans to strengthen mandatory reporting protocols for teachers, health workers, pharmacists, media practitioners, and community leaders.

Members of the public are urged to report cases of abuse, violence, trafficking, or exploitation through the National Child Helpline 116, the GBV toll-free line 1195, police stations, or local children’s offices.

CS Wendot further cautioned the public against spreading unverified information online, warning that such actions may compromise investigations and expose victims to further harm.

At the same time, the Ministry called on the Judiciary, county governments, the private sector, media practitioners, and citizens to play a more active role in combating GBV and protecting children.

“The fight against Gender-Based Violence and child abuse is a collective national duty,” added CS Wendot.

 

DCI Warns Protesters Against Criminal Acts as Hundreds Arrested Nationwide

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a strong warning to members of the public against engaging in criminal activities during demonstrations, following a wave of protests that led to hundreds of arrests across the country.

In a statement released after yesterday’s demonstrations, the DCI stressed that while Kenyans have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression, acts of violence and destruction remain punishable under the law.

DCI said incidents such as looting, arson, road blockades, attacks on motorists and police officers, destruction of property, and any actions that put lives at risk would be treated as serious criminal offences.

Nationwide Arrests as Investigations Continue
Investigations into the protests are ongoing, with security agencies already making significant arrests in several regions.

According to the DCI, Nairobi recorded the highest number of arrests at 189 suspects. Rift Valley followed closely with 259 arrests, while Eastern region accounted for 103 suspects. Central region registered 142 arrests, Coast region seven, and Western region 10.

The DCI noted that many of the suspects had already been arraigned in court and charged with various offences linked to the demonstrations.

The agency maintained that law enforcement would continue pursuing all individuals connected to criminal acts during the protests.

“No one is above the law,” the DCI stated, adding that organisers, financiers, inciters, and participants involved in unlawful activities would face the full force of the law.

DCI Warns Protesters Against Criminal Acts as Hundreds Arrested Nationwide
DCI Warns Protesters Against Criminal Acts as Hundreds Arrested Nationwide
Balancing Constitutional Rights and Public Safety
The statement comes amid growing concern over the escalation of violence during public protests in different parts of the country.

While civil demonstrations remain protected under the Constitution, authorities argue that some groups have exploited the gatherings to engage in vandalism and attacks that disrupt businesses, transport, and public order.

The DCI urged citizens to remain calm and respect the rights of others during demonstrations.

It also called on the public to cooperate with police and other security agencies to help maintain peace and stability.

The latest arrests signal a tougher enforcement approach by authorities as investigations continue into the nationwide unrest.

 

Kindiki Details Government Action on Rising Fuel Prices

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has outlined a series of government interventions aimed at cushioning Kenyans from an unprecedented spike in global fuel prices triggered by escalating geopolitical tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

The disruption has significantly affected global oil supply chains, with the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz forcing shipping routes to extend, while insurance premiums on maritime cargo have surged to record highs.

Global Supply Shock and Rising Fuel Costs
According to Kindiki, these global shocks have placed upward pressure on domestic fuel prices, threatening transport costs and broader economic stability. Without intervention, fuel prices were projected to rise as high as KSh 300 per litre.

To stabilize the situation, the government has already reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel from 16% to 8%, a fiscal adjustment aimed at immediately easing pump prices for consumers and businesses.

In addition, KSh 12 billion from the fuel stabilization fund has been deployed to cushion price increases and prevent further escalation in the short term.

Kindiki Details Government Action on Rising Fuel Prices
Kindiki Details Government Action on Rising Fuel Prices
Inter-Ministerial Coordination on Energy Crisis
DP Kindiki emphasized that these measures are part of a coordinated national response led by President Ruto, who has directed an inter-ministerial engagement involving the National Treasury, Energy, Transport, and Interior ministries.

The discussions are expected to identify additional policy and operational interventions to restore stability in the transport sector and ensure continuity in economic activity.

The DP has also urged calm among citizens, acknowledging the right to peaceful demonstration while strongly condemning acts of violence and destruction.

Authorities warned that criminal activities such as arson, obstruction of traffic, looting, and attacks on motorists will not be tolerated and will be met with firm legal consequences.

Kindiki reiterated that the current fuel crisis is driven largely by external geopolitical forces beyond Kenya’s control.

 

Kenya Met: Showers to Persist Across Multiple Regions from 19th to 25th May

Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast continued rainfall between 19th and 25th May 2026 across several regions in the country.

Kenya Met stated that a mixed weather pattern characterised by sunny intervals, afternoon showers, and occasional thunderstorms to be witnessed depending on the region.

Nights are generally expected to be partly cloudy with isolated showers in some areas.

In the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and surrounding Rift Valley regions, mornings will feature sunny intervals, though isolated morning showers may occur in a few places.

Afternoons are expected to experience showers and thunderstorms over scattered areas, occasionally spreading to several locations.

Nights will remain partly cloudy, with light showers persisting in some places. Similar conditions are expected in parts of the South Rift Valley, where rainfall activity is likely to remain intermittent but locally intense.

Kenya Met: Showers to Persist Across Multiple Regions from 19th to 25th May
Kenya Met: Showers to Persist Across Multiple Regions from 19th to 25th May
North-western, Highlands East and North-eastern Kenya Conditions
North-western Kenya is expected to experience generally sunny intervals during the day, with partly cloudy conditions at night.

However, occasional morning rains may still occur in isolated areas. The Highlands East of the Rift Valley will begin with cloudy mornings that gradually give way to sunny intervals, followed by afternoon showers in selected locations.

Nights in these regions are expected to remain partly cloudy, with light rainfall possible. In North-eastern Kenya, similar daytime sunny intervals are forecast, with partly cloudy nights and occasional morning showers in a few places.

The South-eastern Lowlands are expected to experience sunny intervals during the day and partly cloudy nights, with afternoon showers likely in isolated areas.

Along the Coast, conditions will remain largely warm and sunny during the day, though morning and night showers may occur in a few places, reflecting the influence of coastal humidity and prevailing seasonal winds.

Overall, the week is expected to bring mixed rainfall patterns.

 

KEWOPA Demands Justice After Wandeto Attack

The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has strongly condemned the violent attack and death of Rachel Wandeto in Kasarani, Nairobi, describing the incident as a grave violation of constitutional rights and a troubling indicator of rising insecurity faced by women in the country.

In a statement, KEWOPA said it joins the family, friends, and the nation in mourning Wandeto, whose death follows what authorities have described as a violent attack.

The association emphasized that the incident represents a direct breach of fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, including the right to life, equality, human dignity, and security of the person.

Call for Protection of Women and Rule of Law
KEWOPA stated that no woman should live in fear of violence, adding that no family should be subjected to the trauma of losing a loved one under such circumstances.

The association stressed that acts of violence undermine the country’s constitutional order, which is founded on justice, human rights, and the rule of law.

The association has called on the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to urgently pursue a comprehensive, credible, and transparent investigation into the killing.

KEWOPA further demanded that all individuals involved whether directly or indirectly, be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law without delay.

KEWOPA Demands Justice After Wandeto Attack
KEWOPA Demands Justice After Wandeto Attack
Warning Against Normalising Violence
At the same time, KEWOPA urged restraint among public actors and cautioned against narratives that normalize or justify violence against citizens.

It reiterated that Kenya’s democratic framework is anchored on peaceful coexistence and the protection of fundamental rights, warning that inflammatory rhetoric risks worsening tensions.

The association also expressed concern over what it termed an emerging pattern of targeted violence and increasing intolerance in public life.

According to KEWOPA, this trend threatens democratic participation and weakens public trust in state protection mechanisms. It called for decisive enforcement of the law and accountability for perpetrators to restore public confidence.

Strengthening Protection Mechanisms
Beyond the immediate case, KEWOPA highlighted the need for stronger protection systems for women and young people, particularly those exposed to risks linked to public expression or perceived political alignment.

It urged state agencies to strengthen preventive mechanisms and ensure timely response to threats of violence.

KEWOPA extended its condolences to Wandeto’s family and called on Kenyans to stand in solidarity in demanding justice and accountability.

The association reaffirmed that violence against any citizen constitutes an attack on democracy itself and must be confronted through firm legal action and sustained institutional responsibility.

 

NCIC Condemns Ethnic Incitement Over Meru Administrative Postings, Warns Political Leaders

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has strongly condemned utterances made by a section of political leaders regarding the routine posting of County Commissioners to Meru County.

The Commission noted that County Commissioners, National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), and other civil servants are deployable to any part of the republic as part of normal public service operations.

It warned that the statements, which have been widely circulated on social media, have triggered public alarm and risk fueling ethnic tension among Kenyans of diverse communities.

NCIC described the remarks as divisive, unlawful, and incompatible with the principles of a constitutional democracy founded on national unity and cohesion.

Legal Framework on Hate Speech
The Commission further cited Section 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act, which prohibits the use of words intended to incite feelings of contempt, hatred, hostility, or violence against any person, group, or community on the basis of ethnicity or race.

It emphasized that any person found guilty of such utterances is liable to criminal prosecution. NCIC confirmed that it is currently investigating the matter, reiterating that hate speech laws exist to safeguard peaceful coexistence and prevent the escalation of ethnic mistrust and conflict within the country.

NCIC also underscored that every Kenyan has a constitutional right to live and work anywhere within the Republic without interference, restriction, or approval from political leaders.

It stressed that deployment of public officers is guided strictly by law, institutional procedures, and national interest rather than ethnic or political considerations.

The Commission warned that attempts to territorialize public service positions along ethnic lines undermine constitutional values, national unity, and the integrity of public administration.

NCIC Condemns Ethnic Incitement Over Meru Administrative Postings, Warns Political Leaders
NCIC Condemns Ethnic Incitement Over Meru Administrative Postings, Warns Political Leaders
Call for Responsible Leadership and Public Vigilance
NCIC called on political leaders to exercise restraint, responsibility, and professionalism in their public communication. It cautioned that inflammatory rhetoric can destabilize communities and erode trust in governance structures.

The commission further urged members of the public to reject ethnic contempt in all forms and report incidents of hate speech and incitement through official channels for action.

It reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the public informed upon conclusion of ongoing investigations.

The statement reinforces the NCIC’s mandate to promote national harmony and prevent ethnic polarization amid heightened political discourse around public service deployment.

It also signals increased scrutiny of political messaging that may inflame ethnic sensitivities and threaten social cohesion in the country.

 

KWS Deploys Drone Technology to Boost Wildlife Conservation Efforts

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The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is increasing the use of technology in wildlife conservation by using drones to improve surveillance, animal monitoring, and operational efficiency within protected areas.

The project was presented at a practical demonstration at the Kenya Wildlife Service Law Enforcement Academy in Manyani.

The experiment was observed by the KWS senior management team, led by Director General Erustus Kanga, and carried out by KWS Airwing drone pilots.

The presentation underlined drones’ growing importance in conservation management, notably in the battle against poaching and illicit wildlife trading.

 

Strengthening Surveillance and Anti-Poaching Operations
According to KWS, the drone system is enhancing efforts to deter poaching and curb the bushmeat trade by improving aerial surveillance capabilities in remote and hard-to-access areas.

The technology allows rangers and conservation officers to monitor wildlife movement in real time while also tracking suspicious activities within protected ecosystems. This is expected to strengthen law enforcement responses and improve the safety of wildlife populations.

The drones are also being used to monitor key species such as elephants, which remain vulnerable to poaching and habitat-related threats.

By providing aerial intelligence, KWS can better coordinate ranger deployments and respond more quickly to emerging threats in national parks and reserves.

KWS Deploys Drone Technology to Boost Wildlife Conservation Efforts
KWS Deploys Drone Technology to Boost Wildlife Conservation Efforts
Improving Human-Wildlife Conflict Response
Beyond anti-poaching operations, KWS says the technology will play a critical role in addressing human-wildlife conflict, which continues to affect communities living near conservation areas.

Drones can help monitor animal movement near settlements, allowing officers to intervene early and reduce incidents involving elephants, predators, and other wildlife species.

The system is also expected to support evidence collection during wildlife crime investigations and prosecutions.

High-resolution aerial imagery and surveillance footage can provide critical evidence for law enforcement agencies handling environmental and wildlife-related crimes.

Cost Reduction and Operational Efficiency
KWS noted that the deployment of drones will help lower operational costs associated with aircraft operations and extensive ground patrols.

Compared to traditional aerial surveillance methods, drones offer a more flexible and cost-effective alternative while covering large conservation areas within a shorter time.

The agency says this will allow more strategic deployment of rangers and resources, improving overall efficiency in conservation operations.

The adoption of drones reflects a broader shift toward technology-driven conservation as agencies seek faster, smarter, and more sustainable ways to protect wildlife and ecosystems.

 

Koome Calls for Efficient Court Management in Meru Forum

Chief Justice Martha Koome has called for enhanced leadership, accountability, and efficiency across Kenya’s Judiciary as she officially opened the 2026 Annual Heads of Station Forum in Meru under the theme Enhancing Judicial Excellence Through Effective Court Station Management.

The Forum brings together Judicial Officers tasked with managing court stations across the country, with a focus on improving service delivery, reducing case backlog, and strengthening public trust in the justice system.

Koome emphasized that court stations remain the primary point of contact between the Judiciary and the public, making their efficiency central to the credibility of the justice system.

She noted that judicial excellence depends not only on legal expertise but also on strong leadership, ethical conduct, and effective administrative systems at the station level.

Emphasis on Digital Transformation and Case Backlog Reduction
She further stressed the need for deliberate investment in performance management, digital transformation, registry efficiency, and active case tracking systems.

According to Koome, delayed justice continues to undermine public confidence, making backlog reduction and data-driven case management key priorities for all stations.

During the Forum, she highlighted the recent swearing-in of 98 Resident Magistrates and Adjudicators by the Judicial Service Commission as a step toward strengthening institutional capacity.

However, she noted that staffing alone is insufficient without improved accountability and efficient station management structures.

Koome Calls for Efficient Court Management in Meru Forum
Koome Calls for Efficient Court Management in Meru Forum
Call for Integrity and Efficient Service Delivery
The Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Winfridah Boyani Mokaya, also addressed the Forum, urging Heads of Station to uphold integrity, efficiency, and responsiveness in their daily operations.

She reinforced the Judiciary’s commitment to enhancing service delivery through improved administrative systems and stronger performance oversight.

The event, hosted by Meru County Governor Isaac Mutuma, commended ongoing judicial reforms, including digitization, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and efforts to reduce case backlog.

He underscored the Judiciary’s role in promoting constitutionalism, accountability, and national cohesion.

Koome reiterated that effective court station management is critical not only for access to justice but also for broader socio-economic stability.

She observed that efficient and trusted justice systems strengthen investor confidence, promote peace, and support sustainable development.

As deliberations continue, the Judiciary reaffirmed its commitment to institutional strengthening, improved access to justice, and delivering people-centred justice services to all Kenyans through enhanced leadership and operational excellence at every court station.