Kenya Politics & Government
Featured News Stories
Gachagua Flags South Korean Firm Over Suspect Poll Systems
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of predetermining the procurement of a new election management system in favor of South Korean firm Miru Systems Co Ltd, alleging it's a scheme to manipulate the 2027 General Election. The allegations by Gachagua have brought the company's past into scrutiny, with questions raised about the reliability of technology kits. The IEBC has temporarily halted the procurement of critical election technology, potentially jeopardizing the 2027 General Election calendar. Meanwhile, opposition plans to closely monitor the upcoming elections to prevent vote rigging according to Kalonzo Musyoka. Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has separately accused State House of allegedly interfering with the Linda Mwananchi registration process, claiming the interference is hindering the success of the initiative.
Sh87b Unaccounted for in Counties as Weak Controls Hurt Devolution
Kenya marks 16 years since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution, highlighting significant challenges with devolution 13 years after its establishment, with Sh87 billion unaccounted for in counties. Sixteen years after the 2010 Constitution established new accountability institutions in Kenya, these watchdogs continue to grapple with deep-seated issues like corruption and human rights abuses despite significant funding. Kenya's new constitution introduced the right to access government information, establishing a framework for public dissemination, however the article reflects on the ongoing journey highlighting both advancements and shortcomings in its implementation. Separately, sixteen years after the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution, key promises regarding gender equality and public participation remain unfulfilled in Kenya, with the judiciary frequently reminding state institutions of their constitutional duties.
Politicians Appetite for Self-Serving Constitutional Reforms Questioned
As Kenya approaches the 16th anniversary of its 2010 Constitution, the article questions the commitment to constitutional reforms, suggesting a trend of politicians pursuing self-serving agendas including the failed BBI and Nadco proposals. President William Ruto's commitment to implementing the 2010 Constitution is being scrutinized, 16 years after its enactment, with sceptics questioning his performance in upholding this significant legal framework. Recent court cases in Kenya have revealed concerning instances of state agencies allegedly defying legal rulings and exhibiting brutal tactics. The resilience of the 2010 Constitution is highlighted by past failed attempts to significantly alter its provisions, including a presidential push to rewrite 74 provisions.
Gachagua Says Opposition Will Name 2027 Presidential Candidate After Christmas
Kenyan opposition leader Rigathan Gachagua announced that the opposition coalition will name its presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election after the Christmas period, emphasizing that political mobilization and voter registration are current priorities. Deputy President Rigathi's Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) is increasingly eroding former President Uhuru Kenyatta's Jubilee Party support, particularly in Nairobi, with elected leaders defecting. Leaders from Mt Kenya East are intensifying pressure on their counterparts in Mt Kenya West to reciprocate decades of political support by backing Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in the upcoming election cycles. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has announced that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) will not field a candidate for the Kilifi governor seat in the 2027 General Election, backing Mung'aro instead.
Faith Leaders, NCIC Form Unit to Keep Peace Ahead of 2027 Elections
In anticipation of the 2027 General Election, faith leaders are collaborating with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and World Vision Kenya to launch a proactive campaign against political violence and hate speech. Kenya celebrated the 16th anniversary of the 2010 Constitution, marked as Katiba Day, with human rights groups acknowledging democratic progress while calling for its full implementation. The 2010 Constitution of Kenya, often referred to as KATIBA 16, is empowering Kenya's Gen Z to demand accountability from their leaders.
