Government allocates Sh17b to compensate landowners for infrastructure projects: The Kenyan government has allocated Sh17 billion to compensate landowners for infrastructure projects under the National Securitisation Programme, aiming to unlock funding for crucial development projects across the country. Kenya has separately presented its innovative financing model for sustainable urban development at a United Nations meeting, highlighting advancements made under the Affordable Housing Act, 2024. Principal Secretary for East African Community Affairs, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, and Regional Development Caroline W. Karugu announced a government strategy to transform border regions into hubs for cross-border trade and regional integration. Albert Ojwang Murder Trial Begins at Kibra Law Courts: The murder trial of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang began today at the Kibra Law Courts in Nairobi. Justice Diana Kavedza confirmed that the protected witness in the Ojwang murder case is a real person, addressing concerns about witness credibility. Separately, the LSK court boycott threatens to paralyze the justice system as lawyers protest working conditions. In a related development, a family in Garissa is demanding answers following the alleged abduction of their relative by individuals suspected to be security officers, seeking transparency about his whereabouts. DCI Launches Investigation Into Violence During Ol Kalou By-Election: The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has initiated an investigation into violence that marred the Ol Kalou by-election on July 20th, reportedly involving armed and hooded individuals. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku defended the United Democratic Alliance campaign spending in the by-election, stating it was financed by the party and not taxpayer money, amounting to approximately Sh100 million. East African Legislative Assembly MP Kanini Kega announced that his government security detail has been withdrawn, days after alleging he survived an armed attack during the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election campaign. Political analyst Makau Mutua has dismissed the Democratic Congress Party's win in the by-election, calling it a NOTHINGBURGER and urging supporters not to overreact. Kongamano la maaskofu wa Kanisa Katoliki laendelea Nairobi: An eight-day conference for Catholic Bishops is underway at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa in Nairobi, focusing on key themes for the church and society. Catholic leaders are meeting at CUEA to discuss matters of national importance. In Kwale, efforts are underway to promote ecological tourism following the restoration of mangroves, aiming to boost local conservation and sustainable tourism. Kiambaa MP Njuguna Kawanjiku says he was on a genuine mission in Ol Kalou: Kiambaa MP Njuguna Kawanjiku has stated that he was on a genuine mission in Ol Kalou, defending his involvement in the area during the recent by-election. However, residents of Kiambaa are protesting against their MP's involvement in the Ol Kalou goons mayhem, expressing concern over political violence. Meanwhile, President William Ruto bid farewell to outgoing EU-UNEP Ambassador Henriette Geiger at State House, Nairobi. Ruto bids farewell to outgoing EU envoy Henriette Geiger: President William Ruto bid farewell to outgoing EU Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger at State House, Nairobi, with her term officially concluding on July 31, 2026. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called for enhanced collaboration between governments, faith leaders, and youth to foster peace, empower young people, and promote good governance in Eastern Africa. Separately, Mudavadi urged the church to be a champion of unity and national cohesion, emphasizing its role in Kenya's social and economic development. Rigathi Gachagua Urges Tourists to Avoid Kenya Over Security Fears: Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged tourists to avoid Kenya over security fears, a statement that comes amid heightened political tensions following the Ol Kalou by-election. The ELOG (Election Observation Group) exposed an incident involving armed men during the Ol Kalou by-election, raising concerns about electoral violence. Meanwhile, CS Ruku has vowed to secure Mt. Kenya East support for Ruto's 2027 re-election bid. State of The Nation reports indicate the opposition is buoyant after winning the Ol Kalou seat, while DCP is basking in glory after the by-election victory. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is simultaneously rallying the Mulembe community to back the current administration as the 2027 General Election approaches. Judiciary Rejects LSK Boycott, Says All Courts Will Sit as Scheduled on Wednesday: The Kenyan Judiciary has rejected the Law Society of Kenya's planned nationwide boycott of court proceedings scheduled for July 22, stating all courts will remain operational nationwide. The Judiciary views the boycott as an inappropriate response that would harm litigants seeking justice. Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi has sparked fresh debate by claiming Kenyan judges sit for only 54 days a year, amid planned nationwide protests by lawyers over judicial inefficiency. The LSK court boycott threatens to paralyze the justice system according to reports, raising concerns about access to justice for ordinary Kenyans.
