The Online Kenyan

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has launched an enhanced continuous voter registration exercise starting Monday, aiming to register 2.5 million new voters ahead of the 2027 General Election. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured of unwavering security for the Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration exercise commencing nationwide. The National Liberal Party is intensifying its campaign in the Ukambani region through grassroots town hall meetings, signaling a significant push ahead of the 2027 General Elections. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has stressed that maintaining peace is crucial for unlocking Kenya's economic potential, warning that instability threatens development gains.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has arrested two individuals for impersonating anti-corruption officers and extorting money from the public, after a complaint was lodged on March 29, 2026. Survivors and families affected by the 1998 Nairobi U.S. Embassy bombing have escalated their pursuit of compensation by filing an appeal at the Court of Appeal after their High Court case was dismissed. Human rights groups in Nakuru are demanding urgent government action on a report addressing Gender Based Violence and Feminicide, arguing that despite recommendations for stricter measures and a national crisis declaration, insufficient action has been taken.

The Ministry of Lands has announced a 12-month waiver on interest and penalties for outstanding loans issued under Kenya's Land Settlement Fund. President William Ruto has pledged to intervene and restore properties allegedly fraudulently disinherited from the late former Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua's family, after the family sent a letter to the President seeking his assistance. The Telposta Pension Scheme will sell part of its extensive property assets to improve cash flow and ensure timely pension payments to its members, aiming to comply with the Retirement Benefits Authority guidelines and address liquidity issues caused by significant property investments.

An ODM faction known as 'Linda Mwananchi' held a significant rally in Mombasa on March 29, 2026, suggesting potential evolution into a political party for the 2027 General Election. Leaders from the Linda Mwananchi brigade staged a show of force in Mombasa, sparking speculation about the potential formation of a new political party. Leaders from the outfit have indicated their readiness to form their own political party. The Orange Democratic Movement party is experiencing internal conflict as the Linda Mwananchi faction announces its separation from a rival group. ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir has called on leaders from the Linda Mwananchi wing to cease their verbal attacks on ODM party leader Oburu Odinga.

Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo has openly criticized Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's leadership within the ODM party, escalating internal disputes. A faction of the ODM Party, led by its new Party Leader Oburu Oginga, has announced plans for negotiation talks with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 polls, with party officials and MPs reportedly beginning campaigning for Ruto's re-election. The Orange Democratic Movement is in the process of replacing its former co-deputy party leader Godfrey Osotsi, following his ouster, with Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and Busia Governor Paul Otuoma being the leading contenders. The party's National Executive Committee is set to meet to nominate a successor.

The death of Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho has created a political vacuum that is expected to ignite a significant battle for influence in Mt Kenya between President William Ruto and his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua. Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga has publicly explained her departure from President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza camp, citing broken promises and a perceived erosion of principles. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has attributed leadership failures to the current government, stating that the government's actions have led to a decline in the country's economic standing.

President William Ruto has vowed to intervene in a Sh2 billion estate succession dispute involving the family of the late Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua and his brother, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Ruto made this vow after receiving a letter from Gachagua's family members. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of attempting to interfere in his family matters, claiming Ruto is using his brother's widow to settle political scores. President Ruto has publicly responded to remarks made by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, signaling an escalation in their political differences. Rigathi Gachagua has refuted claims made by President Ruto that the opposition is deliberately damaging the country's image.

Consolidated Bank, fully owned by the Kenyan Government, has reported a significant turnaround, returning to profitability with a 261 percent growth in profit after tax to Sh217.5 million for the year ending December 31, 2025. This marks a substantial improvement from a loss of Sh135 million in 2024. Family Bank has announced a significant increase in its profit after tax, reporting a 55.4 percent jump to Sh5.38 billion for the full year ending December 2025. At the same time, Equity Group Holdings is planning to enter the Mozambique market, according to CEO and Managing Director James Mwangi. These developments highlight the strong performance of Kenya's banking sector and its regional expansion ambitions.

MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company is increasing shipping costs for cargo to and from Kenya and other East African countries starting April 1, 2026, due to a new Emergency Fuel Surcharge (EFS). Further, global trade route disruptions, particularly in the Red Sea, highlight Africa's strategic importance and the crucial role of its entrepreneurs in driving continental growth, according to Abdirashid Duale, CEO of Dahabshiil. Additionally, the United States Coast Guard has permitted a Russian-owned oil tanker, carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of oil, to proceed to Cuba after months of U.S. oil blockade against the island nation. These stories reflect the interconnected nature of global shipping costs and trade routes affecting East Africa.