Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's return from the US caused chaos on Mombasa Road as his convoy was blocked by stone-throwing youths who attacked journalists and motorists. This comes after his US tour where he made allegations against the Ruto administration. In a separate development, Nyandarua Senator John Methu warned President Ruto that the Mt Kenya region, which supported his presidency, could also remove him. Meanwhile, Kericho Governor Erick Mutai faces a full Senate impeachment trial next week over alleged gross misconduct and misappropriation of over 85 million shillings.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua returned to Kenya on Thursday, landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after a 42-day tour of the United States. His arrival was met with a heightened security presence, as police deployed water cannons, anti-riot units, and helicopters in anticipation of large crowds. Chaos later erupted on Mombasa Road as Gachagua's convoy was blocked by rival groups engaging in violent stone-throwing clashes, paralyzing traffic. During the events, unruly youths attacked journalists, pedestrians, and motorists near City Cabanas. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja dismissed prior claims that Gachagua would be arrested, stating his arrival was an ordinary event but emphasizing that no citizen is above the law.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has launched a door-to-door crackdown targeting businesses reported to be manufacturing banned polythene bags, which were outlawed in 2017. In a separate enforcement action, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) shut down eight unlicensed courier service companies in Nairobi's Eastleigh area and made several arrests. Additionally, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a comprehensive safety checklist for school administrators. This directive emphasizes strict adherence to safety rules for the transport of children ahead of the third term reopening, following NTSA checks that found numerous compliance issues.
Kericho Governor Erick Mutai is set to face a full impeachment trial before the Senate plenary after a motion to form a special committee to hear his case failed. The impeachment charges brought by the Kericho County Assembly include gross violation of the Constitution, massive misappropriation of public funds, abuse of office, and gross misconduct. In response, Senate Speaker Amason Jeffah Kingi has gazetted three special sittings to conduct the trial. The sittings are scheduled for August 27, 28, and 29. The entire Senate will hear the case against Governor Mutai.
Technology companies across Africa have announced new funding rounds and strategic initiatives to expand digital services. Street Wallet, a fintech startup in Cape Town, raised USD 350,000 to help informal traders go cashless, bringing its valuation to USD 2 million. In Egypt, the online grocery delivery platform Breadfast secured $10 million in Series B2 funding from investors including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to expand its fulfillment network. Meanwhile, Visa has partnered with PEMANDU Associates to help governments in Africa accelerate digitization and financial inclusion. In Kenya, Safaricom launched B-LIVE, a new time-based data option allowing customers to purchase internet access by the hour rather than by volume.
Rigathi Gachagua returned to Kenya after cutting his US tour short, prompting a significant response. Security was heightened at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), with water cannons and a contingent of anti-riot police deployed as his supporters gathered. Leaders aligned with Gachagua claimed there was a plan to arrest him upon his arrival. Interior Cabinet Secretary Murkomen stated that those welcoming Gachagua would receive security, provided they maintained peace. In response to a potential arrest, women in Embu County threatened to hold large-scale demonstrations. Following his return, several individuals, including journalists, were reported injured during an incident involving his motorcade.
Harambee Stars have defied expectations at the 2024 African Nations Championship (Chan) by progressing to the knockout stage on their debut. Initially written off as underdogs, the team's performance under coach Benni McCarthy has stunned competitors. East African nations Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Sudan have all qualified for the quarter-finals. For the Harambee Stars' quarter-final match against Madagascar, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved an 80 per cent stadium capacity at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The match is set for Friday, August 22, and police are warning of significant traffic disruptions on the Thika Superhighway due to roadblocks for the event.
A growing rift has emerged between President William Ruto and Parliament following allegations that some legislators are receiving bribes. The Kenyan Senate challenged President Ruto to provide proof for his claims of extortion and bribery against its members. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi defended senators against allegations that they demand bribes of up to Ksh 150 million to make decisions. In response, some Members of Parliament have accused President Ruto of being the source of corruption within the legislative body. Amid the dispute, some Kenyans are urging the President to follow through on his threats to order the arrest of MPs involved in corruption.
Kenya advances in specialized healthcare with rare heart procedures. The economy focuses on SMEs and exports through new SEZs, while Safaricom launches time-based data. Vehicle financing is eased, and the VASP Bill aims to regulate crypto. CA cracks down on unlicensed couriers.
Samidoh left the police to focus on music. TikToker Gloria Ntazola sparked debate by endorsing the side chick lifestyle, while rapper Toxic Lyrikal soft-launched his girlfriend. Shorn Arwa declared she thrives on fame and controversy.
President Ruto faces impeachment threats over his corruption claims against Parliament, which Speaker Wetangula and MP Babu Owino criticize as hypocritical. Meanwhile, ex-Deputy President Gachagua's return stirs political waves ahead of 2027, though his much-hyped Kamukunji rally failed to materialize. The Senate will decide Kericho Governor Mutai's fate next week and UDA's expulsion of Gloria Orwoba was nullified.
CAF approved Kasarani's 80% capacity for Harambee Stars' quarterfinal. East African nations impressed, all reaching CHAN quarters. Kisii School won the East Africa rugby 15s title, while Muthoni Njuguna teed to victory at the Limuru Ladies Medal tourney.
Zipline urges a national medical supply chain for healthcare. Visa partners to accelerate government digitization, while Africa leads global stablecoin adoption. TECNO offers free phones and power banks. Standard Bank appoints Joshua Oigara as East Africa CEO. Liberty Kenya’s net earnings drop 59% after Tanzania exit.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's return saw chaos on Mombasa Road, with youths attacking journalists and motorists amid stone-throwing clashes, blocking his convoy and escalating security measures. This followed his 42-day US tour where he made allegations against the Ruto administration. Meanwhile, Nyandarua Senator John Methu warned President Ruto, stating the Mt Kenya region, having supported his presidency, could also remove him. Separately, Kericho Governor Erick Mutai faces a full Senate impeachment trial next week over alleged gross misconduct, abuse of office, and misappropriation of over 85 million shillings.
