The treason trial of former Democratic Republic of Congo president Joseph Kabila has commenced in a military court in Kinshasa. He faces charges including treason and murder, linked to his alleged support for M23 rebels.

• Kabila did not appear at the Kinshasa hearing and denies all charges.
• President Félix Tshisekedi has accused Kabila of orchestrating rebel activities.
• Kabila's immunity as senator for life was lifted in May to allow prosecution.

Senior Counsel Martha Karua has clarified her withdrawal from the case of blogger Ndiang’ui Kinyagia, stating she was acting jointly with the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). Her withdrawal came after the LSK recused themselves due to inconsistencies in Kinyagia’s narrative following his alleged self-abduction.

• Martha Karua withdrew because the LSK, with whom she had joint representation, recused themselves from the case.
• The LSK withdrew after investigations revealed Ndiang’ui Kinyagia had intentionally gone into hiding, undermining their initial habeas corpus petition.
• Kinyagia appeared before the Milimani Law Courts on Thursday, July 24, and currently has two lawyers: Kibe Mungai and Wahome Thuku.

Lawyer Morara Kebaso has announced he will refund all Kenyans who donated money to his campaign fundraising efforts, citing a desire to clarify that contributions were not intended as a political endorsement. He requested donors reply to his social media post with the transaction record for verification.

• Morara Kebaso is offering refunds to clear his reputation after feeling "traumatized" by accusations of "conning citizens" and being called a "beggar."
• Donors need to provide a copy of their M-Pesa message or the M-Pesa reference code for verification.
• In September 2024, Kebaso appealed for Ksh 1.2 million to purchase campaign necessities, with his mobile money account reaching an overwhelming limit of Ksh 500,000.

On Friday, July 25, Chief Justice Martha Koome instructed Inspector General Douglas Kanja and Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga to strictly adhere to the law when handling terrorism charges. This directive follows a debate regarding the use of terrorism charges against individuals arrested during recent protests, leading to accusations that the Office of the DPP is stifling dissent.

• CJ Koome emphasized the need for police investigations and the DPP's independent assessment to ensure charges meet legal standards.
• The DPP, Renson Ingonga, denied executive influence, stating prosecutions are based purely on evidence.
• The Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012 (POTA) defines a terrorist act as involving prohibited activity with specific intent, such as violence, property damage, or threatening national security.