The Online Kenyan

Kenya's Ministry of Interior has directed all NGOs to re-register under the new PBO framework by May 13, 2026, or face deregistration. Passport issuance dropped by 36.7% in 2025 after the 50-page option was removed from the eCitizen platform. Kenya requires white front and yellow rear vehicle plates under NTSA regulations.

The Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association halted all cargo loading for South Sudan due to severe congestion filling the Elegu border point to capacity, disrupting businesses. President William Ruto is actively seeking increased investment from Japanese firms in Kenya, aiming to deepen economic ties by encouraging participation in public-private partnerships for viable projects. His announcement of a 12% wage increase for all workers on May 1 is not yet legally enforceable and will not immediately reflect in pay slips.

The Teachers Service Commission has approached the Supreme Court to halt a ruling that declared the intern teacher programme unconstitutional, telling of a crisis in ending the programme. In Afghanistan, thousands of students in eastern provinces are facing a lack of educational access due to recent conflict with Pakistan, with humanitarian agencies highlighting the urgent need for safe learning spaces. India is increasingly turning to biogas, derived from cow dung and farm waste, as a cooking fuel solution amid widespread liquefied petroleum gas shortages linked to the Iran war, with long queues for LPG cylinders forcing households to seek alternatives.

Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has announced his departure from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, citing lack of convergence on political strategies and alleged pressure to endorse the President's re-election bid. He stated he will not defend his seat on a UDA ticket in the upcoming elections. President William Ruto has returned to Murang'a to continue his campaign, asserting that his government's performance record will secure him a second term in office. This departure signals a significant shift in political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kalonzo Musyoka, Wiper Patriotic Front leader, has indicated that his party is in talks with the Linda Mwananchi faction of ODM and the United Opposition to form a united front for the 2027 General Election, aiming to unseat President William Ruto. A political power struggle within the ODM party between Siaya Governor James Orengo and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga is reawakening historical rivalries in Luo Nyanza. Meanwhile, Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has accused opposition leaders of promoting divisive politics within the country, suggesting these actions are detrimental to national unity.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is increasingly being used as a political target by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) when the party faces challenges, becoming a frequent target for political criticism. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged Kenyatta to emulate Mwai Kibaki and retire from active politics, adopting the role of an elder statesman. Allies of Kenya Kwanza administration have intensified their criticism, accusing Kenyatta of undermining the current government and allegedly funding opposition activities. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended Kenyatta against these criticisms.

Kenya's proposed Finance Bill 2026 is set to end tax relief for Kenya Airways (KQ) and significantly expand the digital tax net. The government has also proposed a new 5 percent tax on imported second-hand clothing, known as mitumba, under the draft Finance Bill 2026. An audit by Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu has revealed that the National Treasury illegally diverted Sh30 billion in Eurobond proceeds to cover domestic debt shortfalls, violating the bond's subscription agreement. These three stories collectively examine government taxation policy and financial management decisions in Kenya.

Gor Mahia has extended their lead at the top of the Kenyan Premier League after securing a victory against Homeboyz, solidifying their position as league leaders. Tusker FC has secured a spot in the FKF Cup semifinals after defeating Ulinzi Stars in a thrilling match. Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohamed has returned to Kenya following his attendance at the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Canada.