Parliament Presses Govt Over Stalled Affordable Housing Projects: Kenyan Parliament has demanded answers from the Government regarding stalled projects under the Affordable Housing Programme, with lawmakers pressing for updates on project completion and accountability for delays. The programme is facing significant delays, with revelations that some contractors submitted fraudulent documents during the tendering process, raising concerns about procurement integrity. President William Ruto has defended the 1.5 per cent Affordable Housing Levy deductions, stating that workers should consider it in light of a recent 10 per cent minimum wage increase. Ruto orders police to pursue sponsors of political violence: President William Ruto has directed Kenyan security agencies to actively pursue and hold accountable individuals who finance, organize, and recruit youths for political violence, emphasizing that sponsors, not just perpetrators, must face consequences. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has secured additional 15-year prison terms for three terror convicts who escaped from Kamiti Maximum Security Prison. Separately, President William Ruto unveiled a new police uniform, marking a significant change for the Kenya Police Service, stating the uniform is a result of extensive consultations and recommendations from a presidential taskforce. Nairobi Traders Arrested, Tear-Gassed Over Sh700,000 Increase in Import Costs: Nairobi traders were arrested and tear-gassed during protests against a Sh700,000 increase in import costs. Traders clashed with the Kenya Revenue Authority over new customs valuation benchmarks, warning of higher costs for consumers. Traders in the Central Business District also staged a separate demonstration against new tax impositions, voicing grievances over increased financial burden. Additionally, traders raised significant concerns about a recently proposed tobacco bill that has sparked widespread debate and apprehension among those in the tobacco trade. Police Want Reforms, Not Just New Uniforms: Kenyan police are calling for significant reforms rather than just new uniforms, emphasizing that superficial changes will not address underlying issues within the National Police Service. Kenya's General Service Police officers began transitioning to new uniforms officially launched by President William Ruto. However, a company awarded the contract to manufacture the new uniforms has raised suspicions due to its registered address. President Ruto addressed new police recruits at Kiganjo Police Training College, delivering a message regarding their responsibilities. United Opposition Demands Audits of Police, TSC and KDF: The United Opposition, led by Wiper Patriotic Front Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, is calling for comprehensive financial and recruitment audits of key government institutions including the police, TSC, and KDF. Victims and survivors of state violence have rejected President William Ruto's expression of remorse on Katiba Day, calling for tangible action rather than mere words. Separately, victims of police brutality have dismissed President Ruto's apology for past injustices, demanding concrete action against those responsible for killings and disappearances. Opposition leaders have also told President Ruto to implement the Maraga taskforce police reforms. Kenya Intensifies Push for Digital Economy and Cyber Security: Kenya is intensifying its efforts to foster a robust digital economy, signaling a significant push towards technological advancement and innovation. The country is also aiming to boost its digital trade sector by focusing on value addition strategies to enhance participation and competitiveness in the global digital economy. Simultaneously, African nations are urgently enhancing cybersecurity capabilities to combat escalating cyber threats, investing in training and infrastructure to build a skilled workforce capable of defending against sophisticated attacks. Ruto Accuses Uhuru of Financing Opposition, Labels United Opposition Tribal: President William Ruto has strongly criticized the United Opposition, labeling it a tribal political group lacking a genuine agenda for Kenyans. Separately, Ruto once again accused former President Uhuru of financing the opposition to undermine his administration. Meanwhile, a group of Kitui leaders led by Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna have strongly dismissed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's recent claims about potential rigging in the 2027 general election.
