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NGEC Raises Concern Over Remarks by Senator Karen Nyamu During Senate Proceedings

Kipkemboi Collins
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NGEC Raises Concern Over Remarks by Senator Karen Nyamu During Senate Proceedings

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has expressed deep concern over remarks made by Senator Karen Nyamu directed at a young female student participating in the School Voluntary Service Scheme during Senate proceedings.

The Commission strongly condemns any conduct, statements, or actions that undermine the dignity, psychological well-being, safety, and best interests of children within public institutions and leadership spaces.

Children are entitled to dignity, protection, and respect at all times as guaranteed under Article 53 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, the Children Act, 2022, and international human rights instruments ratified by Kenya, which collectively set binding standards for child protection and welfare.

Public institutions, particularly constitutional institutions such as Parliament, have a heightened obligation to uphold these protections and demonstrate leadership grounded in integrity, professionalism, equality, and non-discrimination in all public decision-making and engagement with children.

Public Concern and Leadership Accountability
The Commission observes that Senator Karen Nyamu’s words have sparked widespread public concern and renewed vital national discussions about child safety, ethical leadership, gender-sensitive communication, and public office responsibility.
The language used by leaders conveys institutional power and influence in influencing public perception and institutional culture. Remarks that subject children to shame, embarrassment, objectification, mockery, or psychological harm violate the national values and governance principles stated in Article 10 of the Constitution, as well as public leadership standards.

The Commission emphasizes that the dignity and best interests of the child must remain paramount in every matter affecting children at all times without exception.

Psychological safety is an important aspect of child protection and safeguarding procedures within child protection systems. In public speech, especially from state officials and public leaders, improper innuendo, gendered humiliation, or action that degrades the dignity of girls and young women must never be normalized.

NGEC Raises Concern Over Remarks by Senator Karen Nyamu During Senate Proceedings
NGEC Raises Concern Over Remarks by Senator Karen Nyamu During Senate Proceedings
Institutional Responsibility and Ethical Standards
While the Commission acknowledges the apology issued on the floor of the Senate, it reiterates that safeguarding children requires more than procedural compliance and institutional practice.

Public institutions must strengthen accountability measures, reinforce ethical leadership standards, and cultivate institutional cultures that promote respectful engagement with children and youth and institutional resilience building and procedural adherence across the public sector ecosystem.

The Commission further urges all leaders to exercise responsibility, professionalism, and respect in public communication, recognizing that their words shape societal attitudes and institutional culture.

 

The Africa Feature Network Appoints Mercy Tyra Murengu as Director of Journalism and Editorial Strategy

LifeLately Reporter
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The Africa Feature Network Appoints Mercy Tyra Murengu as Director of Journalism and Editorial Strategy
The Africa Feature Network Appoints Mercy Tyra Murengu as Director of Journalism and Editorial Strategy

The Africa Feature Network has announced the appointment of Mercy Tyra Murengu as Director of Journalism and Editorial Strategy, strengthening the organization’s leadership in impactful and audience-centered storytelling.

Murengu joins the role with more than 11 years of experience in multimedia journalism, radio broadcasting, digital storytelling, and media relations. She is widely recognized for producing journalism that amplifies marginalized voices and drives meaningful social conversations.

Award-Winning Career in Multimedia Journalism

Throughout her career, Murengu has earned more than 16 local and international journalism awards, reflecting her contribution to public-interest reporting and multimedia storytelling.

Among her recognitions is the prestigious Head of State Trailblazer commendation, awarded for journalism that influenced policy discussions and elevated underrepresented communities.

She also holds a Master’s degree in Digital Journalism from Aga Khan University, further strengthening her expertise in modern newsroom leadership and digital media innovation.

The Africa Feature Network Appoints Mercy Tyra Murengu as Director of Journalism and Editorial Strategy
The Africa Feature Network Appoints Mercy Tyra Murengu as Director of Journalism and Editorial Strategy
Driving Editorial Innovation and Storytelling Excellence

In her new role, Murengu will lead editorial strategy and newsroom innovation across the organization’s journalism and digital platforms.

She will also oversee efforts to strengthen storytelling standards, expand audience engagement, and shape content strategies aligned with evolving media consumption trends.

The appointment comes at a time when media organizations increasingly prioritize audience-centered reporting, multimedia storytelling, and digital-first journalism models.

Strengthening Impact-Driven Journalism

By bringing together editorial leadership, multimedia expertise, and strategic communication skills, Murengu is expected to play a key role in advancing the organization’s mission of delivering impactful journalism.

Her appointment further signals growing investment in newsroom innovation and storytelling approaches that connect deeply with audiences while maintaining strong editorial standards.

Ultimately, the move reinforces the organization’s commitment to journalism that not only informs, but also drives conversation, accountability, and social impact across Africa.

KANU Women Congress Raises Concern Over Remarks by Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu

Kipkemboi Collins
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KANU Women Congress Raises Concern Over Remarks by Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu

The KANU Women Congress has expressed deep concern over what it describes as insensitive remarks made by Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu towards a student who was seated at the Senate gallery during proceedings on the floor of the Senate.

The women’s wing Chairperson Anne Karuga said that the remarks were laced with inappropriate undertones and amounted to a degrading display directed at the innocence of childhood.

Karuga termed the incident a dishonorable act coming from a member of the Senate, an institution described as the epitome of the rule of law and a space that must be safeguarded for dignity, order and the protection of children.

The Congress Chairperson said that such conduct is unacceptable within the precincts of a legislative chamber. She reiterated the need to uphold decorum and institutional dignity at all times.


Safeguarding Dignity of Parliamentary Spaces
The statement further emphasized that Parliament, and specifically the Senate, should remain a safe and dignified environment for all members of the public, including children who may interact with or observe its proceedings.

Karuga warned that any conduct that undermines the standard risks eroding public confidence in national institutions. The Chairperson added that public participation in parliamentary spaces must always be protected from any form of disrespect.

KANU Women Congress Raises Concern Over Remarks by Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu
KANU Women Congress Raises Concern Over Remarks by Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu
The statement underscored safeguarding confidence in national institutions.

The Women’s Chairperson also raised concern over Senator Nyamu’s reported hesitation to offer an unqualified and unconditional apology despite what it said was clear direction from the Speaker of the Senate.

Anne Karuga noted that public leaders carry a heightened moral and ethical responsibility and that accountability must begin with those entrusted with public office.

The Congress emphasized that accountability in public office must be demonstrated through clear and decisive action. It reiterated the expectation of ethical conduct from elected and nominated leaders.

Call for Disciplinary Action and Protective Measures
KANU Women Congress called upon the Senate to take appropriate disciplinary action in response to the incident.

It further urged the institution to put in place firm measures that will ensure the dignity and protection of children when they interact with or are present in public institutions such as Parliament.

The statement stressed that such measures are necessary to preserve the integrity of public institutions. It called for consistent protection of children in all interactions with state bodies.

 

 

LSK Seeks Urgent Investigation into Luanda Shooting

Kipkemboi Collins
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LSK Seeks Urgent Investigation into Luanda Shooting

The Law Society of Kenya, through its  President Charles Kanjama, has called for an immediate and comprehensive inquiry into the deadly police shooting of bodaboda riders during protests in Luanda, Vihiga County.

The matter, which is presently being reviewed by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), has been defined as one that requires prompt and thorough intervention in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Kanjama noted that Articles 26, 28, and 29 of the Constitution guarantee the right to life, human dignity, and freedom from harsh, inhumane, or humiliating treatment.

He noted that these protections remain fully applicable even during periods of public unrest and heightened tension, underscoring that state responses to protests must always remain within the bounds of the law.

LSK Calls for Expedited and Independent Investigation
The LSK has urged IPOA to conduct its investigations expeditiously, independently, and without fear or favor.

According to Kanjama, several critical issues must be addressed to establish the truth surrounding the incident.

These include determining the justification for the use of live ammunition against civilians, assessing whether adequate de-escalation measures and non-lethal alternatives were used, and investigating the circumstances that led to police officer injuries as well as the overall handling of the public disturbance.

The Society also demands transparent accountability for any police proven to have acted unlawfully.

Kanjama also called on the National Police Service to fully cooperate with the IPOA throughout the investigation.

LSK Seeks Urgent Investigation into Luanda Shooting
LSK Seeks Urgent Investigation into Luanda Shooting

He stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of witnesses and affected families, warning that impunity in cases involving alleged extrajudicial killings erodes public confidence in law enforcement institutions and fuels cycles of unrest.

He reiterated that the rule of law requires every life lost in such incidents to be accounted for through transparent and credible processes.


LSK Commitment to Justice and Accountability
The LSK President also reaffirmed the Society’s commitment to the matter, stating that it stands ready to support affected families, IPOA, and any legal processes aimed at uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability.

He added that the Law Society will continue to monitor the situation closely as part of its constitutional mandate to defend rights and promote lawful policing across the country.

 

Faith Odhiambo Raises Concerns Over Finance Bill 2026 Tax Measures

Kipkemboi Collins
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Faith Odhiambo Raises Concerns Over Finance Bill 2026 Tax Measures

Former LSK President Faith Odhiambo has raised concerns over provisions in the Finance Bill, 2026, warning that several of its tax measures could significantly increase the burden on households, traders and businesses if passed in its current form.

The Finance Bill, 2026 was published on 30th April and is now before Parliament. It outlines the government’s plan to raise Ksh3.63 trillion in revenue for the 2026/27 financial year, alongside a widened budget deficit of 5.3% of GDP, up from 4.7% in 2025/26.

Odhiambo noted that while these fiscal targets are not unreasonable, the distribution of the tax burden raises serious equity concerns.

Compressed Tax Filing Timelines Raise Compliance Concerns
A key issue is the proposed change in tax filing timelines, which moves the income tax return deadline to April 30 from June 30, while compressing nil return filing to January 31.

She argues this reduces compliance time for audit preparation and cash flow planning, particularly affecting small businesses and individual traders who already face high administrative pressure.

On informal trade, the Bill introduces a new Section 12H under the Income Tax Act, requiring mitumba traders to pay tax upfront at 5% of customs value before goods are released by KRA.

Odhiambo warned that this effectively forces traders importing goods worth Ksh1 million to pay Ksh50,000 regardless of profit or loss, questioning its fairness and equity.

Faith Odhiambo Raises Concerns Over Finance Bill 2026 Tax Measures
Faith Odhiambo Raises Concerns Over Finance Bill 2026 Tax Measures
Rental Income and Digital Services Face Higher Costs
The bill also proposes raising the residential rental income tax from 7.5% to 10%, which she believes will exacerbate noncompliance unless enforcement procedures are strengthened beforehand.

In the digital economy, the elimination of VAT exemptions on money transfers and payment processing may boost the cost of financial inclusion tools popular with Kenyans.

Additional concerns include the inclusion of interchange and merchant service fees in the withholding tax on management or professional fees, which is projected to raise compliance costs for businesses and consumers.

The Bill also empowers KRA to deem at least 60% of undistributed corporate income as dividends for taxation, which Odhiambo argues ignores legitimate reinvestment decisions.

A proposed 25% excise duty on mobile phones has also been flagged as problematic, given the central role of phones in banking, communication and access to public services.


Missing PAYE Relief Sparks Questions
Notably, expected PAYE relief and restructuring of tax bands is absent from the Bill, a gap Odhiambo says requires explanation to salaried workers.

However, she acknowledged positive provisions, including the reduction of corporate tax for non-resident firms from 37.5% to 30%, extension of tax amnesty to December 2025, and VAT exemptions on electric mobility, healthcare and infrastructure inputs.

Faith Odhiambo has urged Parliament to scrutinise the Bill thoroughly, warning against repeating past legislative controversies.

 

Public Invited to Submit Views on Referendum Bill, 2026

Kipkemboi Collins
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Public Invited to Submit Views on Referendum Bill, 2026

The Senate of Kenya has invited members of the public to submit memoranda on the Referendum Bill, 2026 (Senate Bills No. 3 of 2026), following its First Reading in the Senate on Tuesday, 5 May 2026.

The Bill has been committed to the Standing Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and
Human Rights for consideration in line with Standing Order 145(5), which requires committees to facilitate public participation and consider public views before reporting to the Senate.

The Bill provides a legal framework for the conduct of referenda in Kenya, setting out processes for initiation, organisation, conduct, and legal challenge.

It also defines procedures for implementation after results are declared. The legislation applies to constitutional amendment referenda, county referenda, and other public issue referenda as specified in the Bill.

Submission of Memoranda by the Public
Pursuant to Article 118 of the Constitution and Standing Order 145(5) of the Senate Standing Orders, the Standing Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights has invited members of the public to submit written memoranda on the Bill.

The Committee is required to take into account public views and recommendations when preparing its report to the Senate.

Members of the public may submit their representations in writing to the Clerk of the Senate, P.O. Box 41842-00100, Nairobi, hand-delivered to the Office of the Clerk of the Senate at the Main Parliament Buildings, Nairobi.

All submissions must be received on or before Friday, 29 May 2026 at 5.00 p.m.

Public Invited to Submit Views on Referendum Bill, 2026
Public Invited to Submit Views on Referendum Bill, 2026
Importance of Public Participation in Law-Making
Parliament has emphasized that the public participation process is central to the legislative process and ensures that citizens’ views are incorporated into national law-making.

The Referendum Bill, 2026 is a key piece of legislation as it establishes the legal framework for how referenda will be initiated, conducted, and concluded in Kenya, including processes for legal challenges and post-referendum implementation.

The Standing Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights will review all submissions received within the stipulated timeline before preparing its report to the Senate.

Members of the public are therefore urged to actively participate in the process by sending their memoranda through the appropriate channels before the deadline of Friday, 29 May 2026 at 5.00 p.m., as required by the constitution and Senate Standing Orders.

This method aims to promote democratic governance by allowing for broad involvement in lawmaking and increasing transparency in constitutional and public decision-making processes throughout the country.

It increases people’ roles in making national policy and fosters accountability within the legislative framework through organized consultation and review processes developed in accordance with parliamentary procedures in Kenya.

 

Sakaja Faces Senate Committee Over Old Ngara Evictions

Kipkemboi Collins
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Sakaja Faces Senate Committee Over Old Ngara Evictions

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja appeared before the Senate Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights Committee on Thursday to respond to concerns surrounding the controversial evictions at Old Ngara Estate.

The appearance came months after the Governor failed to honour two written invitations and a final summons issued by the committee, which had warned of possible arrest if he did not appear.

The session, held on May 7, chaired by Nominated Senator Veronica Maina, said that residents deserved clear answers regarding the evictions and the handling of tenant accounts.

“Governor, this committee is glad you are finally here. The residents of Old Ngara deserve answers on the evictions, on the accounts, and on how the county intends to treat its most vulnerable tenants going forward,” Maina said.

Sakaja Defends Absence and County Position
Sakaja, who appeared before the committee with written submissions, denied disrespecting the Senate committee and attributed his earlier absence to miscommunication.

“I did not disrespect this honorable committee. My administration cannot and will not carry out inhumane evictions,” he said.

At the same time, the Governor defended the county’s position on rent collection, arguing that failure by tenants to meet their obligations had significantly affected county revenue.

“Tenants must meet their obligations. Impunity in rent payment has denied the county billions in revenue, a persistent audit query my administration cannot condone,” Sakaja stated.

Sakaja Faces Senate Committee Over Old Ngara Evictions
Sakaja Faces Senate Committee Over Old Ngara Evictions
Allegations of Staff Misconduct and Illegal Reallocation
The committee also raised concerns that some Nairobi County officials could have personal interests in the contested properties and may have been harassing tenants to pave the way for illegal reallocations.

Senator Daniel Maanzo directly challenged the Governor to investigate county staff linked to the matter.

“We need you to investigate your own staff. There is credible concern that some officers have vested interests in these properties. That would explain why tenants with proof of payment are still being evicted. This committee wants accountability,” Maanzo said.

In response, Sakaja agreed to conduct a full reconciliation of tenant accounts. He also announced plans to establish a dedicated reporting desk at City Hall and within estate offices to handle tenant disputes.

Senate Demands Accountability and Restitution
The committee insisted that any unlawful evictions must be addressed and affected tenants compensated.

Senator Maina concluded the session by demanding accountability and restitution for tenants who may have been unfairly removed from their homes.

“Governor (Sakaja), we expect full reconciliation of these accounts. And where tenants were evicted illegally, restitution must follow. No one should lose their home unlawfully and walk away without remedy,” she said.

 

National Police Service Condemns Harassment of Traffic Officer in Nakuru

Kipkemboi Collins
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National Police Service Condemns Harassment of Traffic Officer in Nakuru

The National Police Service (NPS) has strongly condemned the harassment of a female traffic police officer captured in a video circulating on social media while she was performing her duties in Nakuru County.

According to a press statement issued by the NPS Spokesperson, preliminary findings suggest that the event happened on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. The male motorist in the video who verbally abused and intimidated the officer has been identified as a police officer stationed in the same county.

NPS said that the conduct displayed in the video undermined the lawful authority of the officer and went against the standards expected within the Service.

NPS Condemns Conduct, Launches Disciplinary Action
The National Police Service described the behaviour as unlawful and said it directly contradicts the core values of professionalism, discipline, respect, and integrity that guide the institution.

“The National Police Service condemns this behaviour in the strongest possible terms,” the statement read.

NPS further stated that no officer, regardless of gender or rank, should be subjected to harassment while carrying out public duties and upholding the law.

The Service clarified that the actions of the male officer do not represent the ethos, training, or code of conduct of the National Police Service. It added that the institution is built on honour, courage, and mutual respect among officers and the public they serve.

Following the incident, the National Police Service confirmed that disciplinary and corrective measures had already been initiated against the officer involved.

National Police Service Condemns Harassment of Traffic Officer in Nakuru
National Police Service Condemns Harassment of Traffic Officer in Nakuru
Female Officer Praised for Professionalism
The statement also commended the female traffic officer for maintaining composure, bravery, and professionalism despite the provocation during the incident.

NPS said her conduct reflected the standards expected of every police officer in Kenya.

At the same time, all officers within the Service were reminded to execute their duties professionally and serve the public with the appropriate attitude, discipline, and decorum.

The National Police Service also reassured members of the public of its continued commitment to eradicating indiscipline, harassment, and misconduct within its ranks.

Members of the public have been encouraged to report such incidents through the nearest police station or law enforcement officer.

11 Arrested in Eldama Ravine NG-CDF Probe

Kipkemboi Collins
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11 Arrested in Eldama Ravine NG-CDF Probe

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested 11 individuals for allegedly embezzling KSh 85 million from the Eldama Ravine National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).

The suspects, picked from the NG-CDF Committee and sub-county offices, are accused of misappropriating and stealing public funds intended for constituency development projects.

According to the EACC, investigations began after complaints were filed regarding a loss of roughly KSh 85 million over the 2018/2019 and 2020/2021 fiscal years. The claimed loss apparently resulted in the inability to carry out many projected development projects in Eldama Ravine Constituency.

Investigations Reveal Irregular Cash Withdrawals
Investigations established that during the three financial years, the constituency received a total allocation of KSh 369,052,479 from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund Board.

However, although KSh 11,506,173 had been budgeted for Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) activities over the period, investigators found that KSh 85,002,440 was irregularly withdrawn in cash from the NG-CDF account under the guise of M&E expenditure.

Following the completion of investigations, the EACC forwarded the case file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who approved charges against 13 suspects linked to the alleged scheme.

11 Arrested in Eldama Ravine NG-CDF Probe
11 Arrested in Eldama Ravine NG-CDF Probe
Suspects Face Multiple Corruption Charges
The suspects face a number of charges, including abuse of office, conspiracy to commit an economic crime, fraudulent acquisition of public property, willful failure to comply with laws governing the management of public funds, false accounting by a public officer, and negligence of official duty.

According to the Commission, 11 of the 13 suspects were detained and transported to the EACC South Rift Regional Office in Nakuru for processing before being arraigned in court.

EACC noted that the suspects allegedly utilized the Monitoring and Evaluation budget line to allow improper cash withdrawals from the constituency account throughout the three fiscal years under investigation.

EACC Calls on Remaining Suspects to Surrender
The anti-graft agency noted that the investigations revealed a pattern of withdrawals that far exceeded the approved M&E allocations, raising concerns over the management and accountability of public funds within the constituency office.

The Commission further maintained that the alleged embezzlement deprived residents of Eldama Ravine of key development projects that had been planned and budgeted for during the affected financial years.

Meanwhile, EACC has called on the two remaining suspects who are yet to be arrested to surrender themselves at any EACC office.

The Commission reiterated its commitment to pursuing accountability in the management of public resources and warned public officials against engaging in corruption and economic crimes.

The case adds to ongoing efforts by the anti-corruption agency to investigate and prosecute misuse of public funds within government institutions and devolved development programmes across the country.

 

Nairobi Expressway Announces Temporary Toll-Free Diversion Arrangement

Kipkemboi Collins
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Nairobi Expressway Announces Temporary Toll-Free Diversion Arrangement

Motorists using the Nairobi Expressway will benefit from a temporary toll-free arrangement as construction continues along Waiyaki Way between GTC and ICEA Lion Group.

According to a public notice issued by MOJA Expressway Company and Nairobi Expressway management, the temporary arrangement implemented from Thursday, 7th May from 2100 hrs to 0600 hrs and again on Friday, 8th May from 2100 hrs to 0600 hrs.

The measure is intended to facilitate ongoing road construction works in the affected section of Waiyaki Way while helping maintain traffic flow during the night hours.


Diversion Route and Toll-Free Access
During the stated hours, motorists have been advised to access the Nairobi Expressway through Haile Selassie Entrance A at the Bunyala roundabout.

Drivers entering through the designated entry point will receive an entry ticket and will be allowed to exit free of charge at the Nairobi Westlands Exit.

The management clarified that the temporary toll-free arrangement only applies to vehicles entering from the specified stations.

“All other toll stations and routes will continue to operate under the normal tolling rules,” the notice stated.

The arrangement is therefore limited to the designated diversion route and does not affect regular toll operations across the rest of the expressway network.

Nairobi Expressway Announces Temporary Toll-Free Diversion Arrangement
Nairobi Expressway Announces Temporary Toll-Free Diversion Arrangement
Traffic Management Measures Put in Place
Motorists have also been urged to follow traffic signage and cooperate with traffic marshals deployed along the diversion route.

The notice indicates that traffic guidance teams will be stationed on-site to assist road users and help manage movement during the construction period.

The temporary changes are expected to ease movement around the construction zone while ensuring safety for both motorists and road workers.

Construction Along Waiyaki Way Continues
The ongoing works along Waiyaki Way form part of continued infrastructure activity in the area between GTC and ICEA Lion Group.

To support the works, the expressway operator opted for a temporary toll-free diversion arrangement targeting motorists travelling through the affected corridor during the specified night hours.

The company further thanked road users for their cooperation and understanding during the temporary changes.

“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation,” the notice concluded.

The Nairobi Expressway remains operational during the period, with only the specified entry and exit points covered under the temporary toll-free arrangement.

 

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