The Online Kenyan

The Kibera High Court has barred the media from virtually attending the ongoing Utumishi Girls murder case, where eight suspects are held in police custody. Plea-taking has been deferred for the eight Utumishi Girls Academy students charged with the murder of sixteen schoolmates in a dormitory fire on May 28. The High Court in Kibera ordered mental and age assessments before they can stand trial. Additionally, the court ordered that the media be excluded from proceedings during a virtual hearing on Friday.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua explained his boycott of the June 25 anniversary of the Gen Z protests as a strategic move to prevent violence in the Mt Kenya region, stating "It was a trap." A split emerged within Kenya's United Opposition as some leaders participated in street protests marking the second anniversary of the Gen Z revolution on June 25, 2026, despite Gachagua's calls for citizens to stay away. The article criticizes Kenyan leaders for their dismissive response to the demands of Gen Z protesters, suggesting a political strategy focused on upcoming elections rather than addressing the youth's concerns. Human rights activist and presidential aspirant Boniface Mwangi separately warned that the grievances fueling the Gen Z protests from two years ago, including the high cost of living and poor governance, remain unaddressed.

The Court of Appeal has cleared the way for the Kenyan government's planned sale of a 15 percent stake in Safaricom to South Africa's Vodacom, lifting previous conservatory orders that had suspended the transaction. RUPSA Sacco has separately asked the High Court to place KUSCCO under insolvency proceedings, citing the cooperative's substantial liabilities of Sh17.7 billion and audit findings. The Policyholders Compensation Fund has disbursed Sh390.8 million in insurance claims to policyholders and claimants affected by the collapse of several insurance companies, representing efforts to address financial sector failures.

Comedian Eric Omondi explained his absence from the June 25, 2026, Gen Z memorial demonstrations, stating recent legal troubles kept him off the streets despite his past support for youth-led protests. Separately, Kenyan comedian Mulamwah clarified his decision to block media personality Oga Obinna, stating it stems from differing values rather than a personal conflict. Meanwhile, Kenyan automotive reviewer 2Mbili publicly called for the release of livestreamer Vindee, who was arrested by police during Gen Z memorial demonstrations in Nairobi's Central Business District on June 25, 2026.

A total of 355 individuals were apprehended during peaceful demonstrations commemorating the June 25 anniversary of anti-government protests, marking two years since youths were killed in the 2024 demonstrations. In Nairobi's Central Business District, approximately 74 protesters arrested during the commemorations were set to appear in court on June 26, 2026, after spending the night in police cells. Heavy security was deployed at Parliament as the nation marked this solemn anniversary. Kenyans are increasingly advocating for June 25 to be declared a public holiday to commemorate victims of the anti-government protests. The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) is urging the government to ensure justice is served alongside compensation for victims of the Gen Z protests.

Families of Gen Z protest victims are still seeking justice and truth two years after the demonstrations. In Mombasa, residents held a peaceful demonstration that began with a prayer service remembering victims of protest-related violence. Two women were arrested last night in Mwea during a candlelight vigil for Gen Z victims killed in protests. Controversial Pastor Victor Kanyari has paid tribute to Gen Z protesters who died during the June 2024 anti-government demonstrations, while also announcing his bid for the Kasarani parliamentary seat.

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann described his team's 2-1 loss to Ecuador in the World Cup as 'tactical suicide' after Ecuador came from behind to secure a crucial win. In a separate match, Turkey secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over a heavily rotated United States side with a last-gasp winner from Kaan Ayhan, exiting the World Cup with heads held high. Tunisia finished bottom of their group and were eliminated, with French head coach Herve Renard stating he has 'no regrets' about taking the emergency role.

Ivory Coast made history by reaching the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup for the first time after a 2-0 victory over Curacao, surpassing previous generations of Ivorian football. The team declared there are 'no limits' to their achievement. Additionally, Japan secured their place as runners-up in Group F after a nervy 1-1 draw with Sweden, and will face Brazil in the World Cup knockouts. Meanwhile, the Netherlands secured top spot in World Cup Group F with a 3-1 victory over Tunisia, advancing to the knockout stages as group winners and avoiding a match against Brazil.