The Kenyan government has appointed Charles Owino, the former spokesperson of the National Police Service, as the new government spokesperson, sparking controversy over his impartiality.

• Charles Owino is a known defender of state institutions, often shielding the National Police Service from public criticism for alleged brutality.
• His past remarks, including those that appeared to justify police actions during the Gen Z protests in June 2025 and a "shoot-to-kill" order from Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, have resurfaced.
• Pundits and security experts suggest his appointment is a political move, questioning his ability to communicate government business transparently, especially ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), has criticized recent government appointments, arguing they will not improve the Kenya Kwanza administration's image.

• Gachagua dismissed the appointment of Charles Owino as Government Spokesperson, stating it won't restore confidence in the National Police Service.
• He also criticized the appointment of Samuel Muchina to the Nairobi River Commission, claiming it's a tool for persecution.
• Gachagua accused President William Ruto's administration of rising lawlessness and police excesses, contrasting it with the era of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Charles Owino, formerly of the National Police Service, has been appointed the new government spokesperson, facing immediate scrutiny over his credibility and impartiality.

• Government spokesperson Charles Owino transitions from the National Communications Centre to the executive office of the President.
• His appointment revives memories of controversial past remarks, including those seen to justify police excesses during the Gen Z protests in June 2025.
• Pundits and security experts suggest his appointment is a political move, questioning his ability to deliver transparent communication and suggesting his statements will likely defend the government.

A dispute has erupted between the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the Kenya Independent Commissions Workers Union (KICOWU) over the conversion of TSC secretariat staff from contract to permanent terms.

• KICOWU is demanding the suspension of the rollout of TSC Circular No. 7/2026 until the union's concerns are addressed, including offering employees a choice in their employment terms.
• Key stakeholders involved are the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the Kenya Independent Commissions Workers Union (KICOWU), with KICOWU Secretary-General Njeru Kanyamba being a central figure.
• The union is also insisting on the protection of workers' current salaries during the transition and accuses the TSC of failing to conduct adequate public participation and stakeholder engagement.