The Online Kenyan

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has confirmed all preparations are on track for the by-elections scheduled for Thursday, May 14, 2026, to fill vacant positions in Emurua Dikirr Constituency, Porro Ward, and Endo Ward. The IEBC has also issued a stern warning against electoral law violations during by-elections in these three areas, vowing strict action against offenders. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has stated that no additional funds will be allocated for the payment of officials contracted for the 2025 KCSE and KCPE examinations, clarifying that the treasury has already disbursed the full allocated budget to the Ministry of Education.

Kenya Airways (KQ) has resumed daily flights to and from Dubai after a two-month suspension due to regional geopolitical tensions. Kenya has also signed two technical assistance agreements with France's development agency, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), totaling Ksh227 million, to boost water infrastructure and clean energy development. Meanwhile, Kenya has refuted claims that France is establishing a military base in the country following recent defence and economic pacts, with Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei clarifying that the agreements are for military cooperation, not a military base.

The Kenyan government is proposing to introduce a monthly stipend of Sh3,000 for approximately 110,000 village elders across the country, a move that would formalize their long-standing role in local governance and community security. At the same time, several government bodies under the Departmental Committee on Labour have urged Parliament to increase funding for the 2026/27 financial year, citing insufficient current allocations that threaten critical public service and labour programmes. Principal Secretary Charles Hinga is also appealing to Kenyan MPs for an additional Ksh150 billion to fund the government's affordable housing programme, citing a significant funding shortfall.

The Emurua Dikirr Constituency parliamentary by-election is a hotly contested race, pitting President William Ruto's UDA party against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's DCP party. Parliament has defended the impeachment process that led to Gachagua's removal in October 2024, asserting it met all constitutional thresholds and included extensive public participation. Following his ousting as Deputy President, Gachagua is employing strategies reminiscent of former ODM leader Raila Odinga. A High Court hearing challenging the impeachment was marked by laughter and sharp exchanges as Dr. Daniel Gikonyo testified that Gachagua was genuinely ill and not evading the Senate.

French shipping giant CMA CGM will invest $820 million (Sh105 billion) to upgrade and expand two terminals at the Port of Mombasa, representing a major infrastructure boost for Kenya's largest port. Staff at the Kenya Ports Authority are expressing anxiety regarding job security following the release of new leasing and labour contracts, raising concerns about how the modernization will affect the workforce. Meanwhile, Members of Parliament are raising alarms over the proposed 2026/27 budget that allocates zero funds to critical tourism agencies, potentially hindering Kenya's tourism growth. These developments come as Kenya seeks to position Mombasa as a regional hub, though questions remain about whether the benefits will reach local communities.

Eleven protesters arrested during demonstrations linked to the Africa Forward Summit have been released after the prosecution withdrew the case. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has stated that critics of the Africa Forward Summit require education on the principles of diplomacy. Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi has urged leaders to refrain from inciting Marsabit and Wajir counties against each other regarding the proposed Basir multi-agency command centre. The impeachment case against Gachagua has taken a new turn following the presentation of new evidence by a doctor, with the doctor's testimony expected to significantly influence the proceedings.

A family in Kwale is demanding justice after a relative was allegedly killed with arrows during a land dispute in Mwereni, Lunga Lunga Constituency. The autopsy on the body of Racheal Opiyo, also known as Mama Fua, has been completed in Mombasa, with results expected to shed light on circumstances surrounding her death. The family of Dr. Obwaka has implicated an officer from State House in alleged torture and mistreatment prior to his death, seeking justice and accountability. The requiem mass for Dr. Job Obwaka in Nairobi touched upon the hardships he faced in the months leading up to his death.

Kenyans are reportedly spending billions of shillings out-of-pocket to access essential healthcare services, indicating a significant financial burden on citizens for medical needs. Questions are being raised about promised funds for cancer patients in Kenya, highlighting concerns regarding the allocation and accessibility of financial aid intended for those battling the disease. Respiratory diseases have emerged as the leading ailment among patients covered by the State Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), according to a recent report. The Kenyan health sector is grappling with numerous significant challenges that are impacting its effectiveness and service delivery across the nation. This article highlights the current state of healthcare in Kenya, as discussed on KTN News Kenya.