ODM Backs Ruto's 2027 Re-election Bid: The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has announced its decision to support President William Ruto's re-election bid in the 2027 General Election, opting not to field its own presidential candidate. Leaders allied with the Kenya Kwanza administration have intensified their criticism of the Opposition, asserting that the government is prioritizing developmental projects. President William Ruto has offered an outstretched hand to Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, describing this gesture as vital for achieving national salvation. Ruto Sets April 2027 Deadline for Thwake Dam Completion: President William Ruto has set a new deadline of April 2027 for the completion of the Thwake Dam project, citing previous funding challenges that delayed its progress. The Masinde Muliro Ultra-Modern Market in Kitale Town is nearing completion, with Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo confirming it is over 95% done and ready for handover to traders, potentially allowing thousands of traders to move in. The High Court has issued a temporary injunction, halting the Kajiado County Government from taking over the management of Amboseli National Park amid a legal challenge questioning the legality of the transfer. Police Arrest Six Suspects Over Violent Disruptions at Nyahururu Rally: Police have confirmed the arrest of six suspects in connection with violent disruptions at a Linda Mwananchi rally in Nyahururu on Sunday, July 12, but denied reports of a shooting involving Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata's driver. At least one person has been killed and several others injured following separate violent incidents in Kisumu City and Nyahururu Town, prompting 14 arrests. The National Police Service has issued a stern warning to political actors and their supporters against engaging in violence and disrupting lawful gatherings, emphasizing that no one is above the law. Separately, Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o and County Commissioner Mohamed Ramadhan Mwabudzo have pledged to intensify security operations following deadly violence at St. Stephen's Cathedral that resulted in two deaths. Infotrak Poll Shows UDA Leads Party Popularity as ODM Closes Gap: A recent Infotrak survey reveals the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leads in party popularity, though the margin over the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has narrowed, with findings preceding the 2027 General Election. The same poll reveals Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as the leading choice among Gen Z voters in Kenya, highlighting the growing influence of young people in politics. Additionally, the survey indicates a strong preference within the opposition for a presidential ticket featuring Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Ol Kalou By-election Campaigns Intensify Amid Violence Fears: The final campaigns for the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election are underway, with intense competition between DCP and UDA. Kenyans fear the by-elections might feature a wave of brutality similar to election violence patterns. Leaders from DCP have complained about being fined by IEBC over the Wanjiku Muhia MP case. Gabriel Muthama raises questions about whether developments in Ol Kalou represent genuine progress or voter bribery. World Cup Semifinals Feature Four Teams Competing for Glory: The World Cup semifinals feature four teams remaining in the competition. Meanwhile, the Golden Boot race is heating up as top scorers compete for the tournament's top individual honor. In athletics, Wanyonyi has shattered a record in the Diamond League. Additionally, athletes are preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. LSK Raises Concerns Over Alleged Electoral Malpractice in Ol Kalou By-Election: The Law Society of Kenya has expressed serious concerns regarding alleged widespread electoral malpractice in the upcoming Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election scheduled for July 16, warning that these incidents could undermine its integrity and credibility. Amnesty International Kenya is also calling for an urgent probe into election offenses that threaten to compromise the by-election. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has issued final reminders for the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, emphasizing voter identification requirements and the end of the campaign period. These developments come as the country approaches the by-election with growing concerns about electoral fairness. Goons Armed With Bows and Arrows Attempt to Storm Kisumu Church Hosting Orengo, Sifuna: Goons armed with bows, arrows, and machetes attempted to storm St. Stephen's ACK Cathedral in Kisumu on Sunday while prominent leaders were attending a church service. One person sustained injuries following the attempted disruption, with police intervening to prevent the youths from entering the cathedral. Siaya Governor James Orengo has raised concerns about politicians making extravagant cash donations at public events, questioning the origin of these funds. Meanwhile, Mau Mau veterans have called for an end to political intimidation and violence. Separately, Kang'ata's driver was shot by goons amidst a rally in Nyahururu. President Ruto Inspects Development Projects in Kitui: President William Ruto recently inspected the progress of the Chuluni–Zombe road project in Kitui county. The President also vowed to complete the Thwake Dam in Kitui, affirming that no region will be left behind in development. Earlier, President Ruto held consultations at State House, Nairobi, with leaders representing counties from Northern Kenya.