The Online Kenyan

The Kenyan Parliament has passed the Kenya Roads (Amendment) Bill, 2024, mandating dedicated infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians on designated roads across the country. This legislation aims to improve road safety and promote alternative modes of transportation. The government has also announced a comprehensive security strategy to ensure a peaceful and stable 2027 General Election, with the Ministry of Interior outlining elaborate security measures.

Three Pakistani nationals have been arrested by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) after allegedly kidnapping two Indian nationals shortly after their arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is enhancing its capacity to track illicit funds moving across borders, collaborating with Saudi Arabia through specialised training to investigate officials hiding illicit wealth abroad. Meanwhile, a Kenyan national has been arrested in Zambia in connection with an alleged plot to interfere with the country's electoral system ahead of the August 13 General Election.

ODM Nairobi County has announced its backing for President William Ruto's 2027 presidential bid as part of a broad-based government arrangement, with the party aiming to strengthen its grassroots presence and increase elected seats within the capital. A 10-member joint committee was formed following a Government Naivasha retreat to begin coalition talks and develop a common manifesto for the 2027 elections. However, reports indicate that Kindiki and Mudavadi have been sidelined in this Ruto manifesto team. Siaya Governor James Orengo has accused President Ruto of killing the ODM, stating the party's likely failure to field a presidential candidate in 2027 signifies its collapse. Nairobi ODM leaders have publicly refuted claims suggesting the party is in disarray.

President William Ruto has accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of secretly financing the opposition and mobilizing against his administration in the 2027 General Election, citing Kenyatta's alleged failure in office. The Jubilee Party has fired back at Ruto, criticizing his repeated attacks on Kenyatta and accusing his administration of using Kenyatta as a scapegoat instead of addressing governance issues. At the same time, several Kenyan political figures are defecting from Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, signaling potential challenges to his re-election campaign just a year before the General Election. This comes as politicians switch sides and new alliances emerge ahead of 2027.

The Senate is challenging a High Court ruling that found its members violated former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's fair-hearing rights during his impeachment trial, resulting in a Sh50 million damages award. The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) has criticized the government's response, arguing officials focus excessively on Gachagua himself rather than addressing substantive issues he raised. Meanwhile, Gachagua has alleged that PS Raymond and Wanga planned attacks on a Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay. In a separate development, MP Fred Kapondi has denied knowing Nathan Wasama, who was murdered, and rejected any connection to the killing amid Gachagua's claims linking him to the incident.

Police in Isiolo have arrested a suspect linked to murders in Isiolo and Meru counties, with ongoing investigations into these violent crimes. Meanwhile, communities and clans have united in calling for stronger community action against crime, highlighting grassroots mobilization. A client died after allegedly being beaten at a Kabete bar, with police now searching for the bar owner. Four people died and three others were injured in a tragic road accident at Kaura Mijii along the Embu-Meru highway, underscoring persistent safety challenges.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to 22 individuals and three companies to refund Ksh1.5 billion related to the controversial Ruaraka land saga. Gold mining activities in the River Yala have been halted following a seven-day ultimatum issued by Senator Boni Khalwale. Despite the suspension, mining machinery remains in the river, and the individuals responsible are reportedly absent. Separately, KTDA directors are demanding investigation into disputed payments of Sh322 million involving the tea agency, with calls for financial transparency and accountability.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused the Governor of Nakuru of being a traitor to the people of Nakuru. Nairobi ODM leaders have publicly refuted claims made by Gachagua suggesting the ODM party is in disarray. MP Fred Kapondi has hit back at Gachagua over the Wasama murder claims, denying knowing the victim. Gachagua has also alleged that PS Raymond and Wanga have planned attacks on the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay, adding to the political tensions. These incidents show coordinated resistance against Gachagua's political narrative from multiple ODM leaders and affiliates.