August 18 - August 24, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, August 18 to Sunday, August 24, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
August 18
President Ruto Threatens to Arrest MPs for Extortion and Pledges Stadium Funding - August 2025
President William Ruto has issued strong warnings about rising extortion and corruption within Parliament, stating he will arrest and prosecute any leaders, particularly Members of Parliament and Senators, involved in soliciting bribes. Alongside ODM leader Raila Odinga, he warned that parliamentary committees turning into "extortion rackets" is scaring away investors. In separate announcements, President Ruto also committed to personally funding the upgrade of the Baba Dogo Grounds in Nairobi, a crucial soccer pitch for youth development. This follows an empowerment forum at State House, where the Boda Boda Association refuted claims that youths did not receive motorcycles, asserting that pre-agreed beneficiaries were given them.
Bus Incidents Occur on City Roads as Govt Initiates Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway Dualing - August 2025
The Kenyan government has initiated stakeholder consultations for the expansion of the 175-kilometre Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway. Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir announced the public engagement on August 18 for the project, which aims to dual the critical stretch. On the same day, a Guardian Angel bus erupted in flames on the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway at Soysambu, causing significant traffic disruption. In a separate incident in Nairobi, a passenger bus from the Kanash fleet plunged into a ditch on Magadi Road near the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, reportedly after veering off the road while overlapping, leading to major traffic congestion.
Former County Clerk Killed by Police; Murder Trial Against Ex-Officer Resumes - August 2025
Former Siaya County Assembly Clerk, Felix Isaac Olwero, was shot dead by police in a suspected case of mistaken identity on Monday morning at his Whitehouse Resort in Seme, Kisumu County. Olwero was reportedly responding to a break-in at his bar when officers mistook him for a suspect and opened fire. In a separate case, the murder trial against former Pangani officer Ahmed Rashid has resumed at Kibera Law Courts. The hearing, scheduled from August 18 to 22, involves the alleged murder of two teenagers in March 2017. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecution has lined up over 15 witnesses to testify in the trial.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
August 19
HELB Disburses Sh9.46 Billion as Teachers' Unions Threaten Strike Over Devolution Proposal - August 2025
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has disbursed Ksh9.46 billion in financial aid to 309,178 university students for the new academic year. The funding is intended to cover both tuition fees and living costs, and applicants are advised to check their portals for confirmation. Meanwhile, Kenya's major teachers' unions, the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), have strongly opposed a proposal by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to devolve education to the counties. The unions are threatening a nationwide strike if the plan proceeds.
Partial Closure on Mombasa-Nairobi Highway and Dualling Plans for Nairobi-Nakuru Highway Amidst Gridlock - August 2025
Kenya's major transport corridors are facing significant disruptions and planned developments. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) announced a two-week partial closure of a section of the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway from Makupa Bridge to the Changamwe Interchange, beginning August 23, 2025. This comes as severe traffic gridlock has left thousands of travelers stranded for nearly two days on the Nairobi–Nakuru and Nairobi–Narok highways. Separately, the government has initiated stakeholder consultations for the dualling of the 175-kilometre Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway, a project announced by Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir.
President Ruto's Bribery Allegations Against Parliament Spark Shutdown and Summon Demands - August 2025
President William Ruto ignited a major controversy by alleging that some Members of Parliament demanded Ksh10 million to pass a bill and that unnamed Senators pocketed Sh150 million to influence an impeachment vote. In protest against the President's claims of extortion and bribery, MPs have shut down all committee activities. This move escalated tensions between the executive and legislative branches. Subsequently, Senators are demanding that President Ruto be summoned by the Speakers of the National Assembly and Senate to provide evidence for his allegations. They warn his remarks undermine parliamentary credibility.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
August 20
High Court Suspends President Ruto's Multi-Agency Anti-Corruption Taskforce - August 2025
A petition was filed by Dr. Magare Gikenyi and three other petitioners challenging the legality of the Presidential Multi-Agency Team on the War Against Corruption (MAT-WAC), arguing that President William Ruto had overstepped his constitutional mandate. Hours after the team's announcement, the High Court in Kenya suspended the president's executive order establishing the taskforce. On Wednesday, August 20, Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued conservatory orders halting the implementation of the Presidential Proclamation. This decision temporarily blocks the initiative to form the multi-agency team, pending determination of the petition challenging its legality.
Kenya-led Security Mission Conducts Operations in Haiti as Ruto Engages US on UN Support - August 2025
The Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, along with Haitian officers, conducted a joint anti-gang operation on Tuesday, August 19, in the Dofunor area, forcing local gangs to flee. The operation restored security and allowed rice farmers to access their stores. President William Ruto held a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Advisor Marco Rubio, where discussions primarily focused on supporting the Haiti peacekeeping mission. During the call, President Ruto urged the creation of a United Nations support office to strengthen the MSS mission. Both leaders emphasized the need for a UN Security Council resolution to formally establish such an office.
NTSA and Government Launch Road Safety Initiatives Targeting School Transport - August 2025
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is offering free motor vehicle inspection services for school transport vehicles as part of its "Watoto Wafike Salama" safety campaign ahead of school reopening. The NTSA also issued a critical advisory to Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators to adhere to safety standards, after random checks revealed issues like faulty speed limiters. Concurrently, the Kenyan government, with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has launched an initiative to curb road accidents by developing a national database. This project will employ big data and digital intelligence to modernize accident recording and investigation.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
August 21
Chaos Erupts on Mombasa Road During Former DP Gachagua's Return - August 2025
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua returned to Kenya on Thursday, landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after a 42-day tour of the United States. His arrival was met with a heightened security presence, as police deployed water cannons, anti-riot units, and helicopters in anticipation of large crowds. Chaos later erupted on Mombasa Road as Gachagua's convoy was blocked by rival groups engaging in violent stone-throwing clashes, paralyzing traffic. During the events, unruly youths attacked journalists, pedestrians, and motorists near City Cabanas. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja dismissed prior claims that Gachagua would be arrested, stating his arrival was an ordinary event but emphasizing that no citizen is above the law.
Senate to Hold Impeachment Trial for Kericho Governor Erick Mutai - August 2025
Kericho Governor Erick Mutai is set to face a full impeachment trial before the Senate plenary after a motion to form a special committee to hear his case failed. The impeachment charges brought by the Kericho County Assembly include gross violation of the Constitution, massive misappropriation of public funds, abuse of office, and gross misconduct. In response, Senate Speaker Amason Jeffah Kingi has gazetted three special sittings to conduct the trial. The sittings are scheduled for August 27, 28, and 29. The entire Senate will hear the case against Governor Mutai.
Government Agencies Enforce Regulations on Plastics, Couriers, and School Transport - August 2025
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has launched a door-to-door crackdown targeting businesses reported to be manufacturing banned polythene bags, which were outlawed in 2017. In a separate enforcement action, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) shut down eight unlicensed courier service companies in Nairobi's Eastleigh area and made several arrests. Additionally, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a comprehensive safety checklist for school administrators. This directive emphasizes strict adherence to safety rules for the transport of children ahead of the third term reopening, following NTSA checks that found numerous compliance issues.
More from Thursday:
Friday
August 22
Govt Investigates Violence at Gachagua's Arrival as Karua Alleges State-Backed Militia - August 2025
Following chaotic events during DCP Leader Rigathi Gachagua’s arrival from the United States, the government has launched an investigation into violent attacks against journalists. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stated that stern action would be taken against those responsible. In response to the events, Martha Karua, leader of the People’s Liberation Party, accused President William Ruto’s administration of forming a police-backed militia to target political opponents. Meanwhile, Rigathi Gachagua is scheduled to make his first official appearance by attending the Harambee Stars vs Madagascar quarter-final match in Kasarani.
EACC Investigates Five Governors for Graft, States No Evidence of Bribery by MPs - August 2025
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is actively investigating five sitting governors over a range of corruption allegations, including embezzlement, conflict of interest, and unexplained wealth. Eleven former governors are also under scrutiny for similar offenses. Separately, the EACC has stated it has no evidence to support President William Ruto's recent claims of bribery among Members of Parliament (MPs). EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud clarified that while they are investigating some MPs, these cases are unrelated to the president's allegations. The commission reiterated that it has no credible evidence or formal complaints linking MPs to bribery or extortion.
Authorities Announce Closures of Sections of Thika, Bomas-Kiserian, and Marigat-Loruk Roads - August 2025
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced multiple road closures for different reasons. A section of the Bomas-Kiserian (B19) Road is temporarily closed for two months to facilitate the construction of two box culverts. In a separate announcement, KeNHA indefinitely closed a section of the Marigat-Loruk highway due to severe flooding caused by rising water levels in Lake Baringo. Additionally, sections of Thika Superhighway have been closed with diversions in place ahead of the Kenya vs Madagascar CHAN Quarter-final clash at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. Motorists and commuters have been advised to expect delays in affected areas.
More from Friday:
Saturday
August 23
SHA Accused of Diverting Sh7.6bn as Hospitals Warn of Shutdown - August 2025
Private hospitals in Kenya are on the verge of a nationwide shutdown due to delayed compensation from the government, primarily under the Social Health Authority (SHA) and the now-defunct NHIF. This situation has pushed many facilities to the brink of closure, threatening healthcare access. Separately, former Cabinet Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development JB Muturi has accused the SHA of financial misconduct. Muturi alleged the authority diverted Sh7.6 billion intended for 3,297 families of deceased and injured civil servants. The funds were allegedly redirected to other government agencies.
KRA, KCAA & KeNHA Issue Warnings, Shutdowns and Deadlines - August 2025
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has given a 30-day deadline for the collection of abandoned goods from the Inland Container Depot in Nairobi to avoid a public auction, following an August 22 notice. In a separate action, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) announced the immediate suspension of all aviation personnel licensing activities for 30 days, effective Friday, August 22. This temporary shutdown of its Personnel Licensing (PEL) Department is to allow a transition to a new automated system. Additionally, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) issued a severe warning to motorists about rampant overloading on the Kiserian–Magadi Road.
Harambee Stars Eliminated From CHAN After Losing to Madagascar on Penalties - August 2025
The Harambee Stars faced Madagascar in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinal at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi on Friday evening, with fans painting the stadium red and white. The team was eliminated from the tournament after a 4-3 loss on post-match penalties to Madagascar at MISC Kasarani. During the match, Alphonce Omija scored for Kenya, but Fenohasina Gilles equalized from the spot for Madagascar, which led to the penalty shootout. In the quarterfinal match at the Moi International Sports Center, goalkeeper Byrne Omondi missed a crucial save. The defeat left fans at Kasarani Stadium devastated and heartbroken.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
August 24
Calls for Legal/Constitutional Changes and Accusations Against Public Officials - August 2025
Leaders from the North Rift allied with President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) are calling for constitutional amendments before the 2027 General Election, proposing a referendum be held concurrently. Separately, Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has accused Deputy President Kithure Kindiki of misusing public resources for his nationwide empowerment programs, labeling them the "biggest theft of public funds." Rights groups are also pressing the Attorney General to amend the Prisons Act to protect transgender prisoners following a High Court ruling in a case won by a transgender Kenyan against the state. In the health sector, the Rural & Urban Private Hospitals Association of Kenya (RUPHA) warns that budget cuts at the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) are fueling fraud within the Social Health Authority (SHA) by allowing the licensing of "bogus facilities."
Robbery in Nairobi CBD, Murder in Pipeline, and New Car Theft Tactics Reported - August 2025
Business owners along Kimathi Street in Nairobi CBD experienced significant losses after armed goons stormed and robbed their establishments on Sunday, August 24. Witnesses reported that individuals threatened traders with knives before stealing goods. In a separate incident in Pipeline, Nairobi, a 27-year-old woman, Susan Nabwire, was allegedly murdered by her husband, a former police officer, on the night of August 13. The suspect also allegedly assaulted the house help. Meanwhile, a new crime trend has emerged as car thieves in Kenya are now reportedly employing illegal signal jammers to disable vehicle tracking systems, overwhelming traditional security measures.
Harambee Stars and Uganda Cranes Eliminated From CHAN 2024 Quarter-Finals - August 2025
Kenya's Harambee Stars were eliminated from the African Nations Championship (Chan) 2024 after a devastating penalty shootout loss to Madagascar in the quarter-finals on August 22, 2025, at Kasarani Stadium. This occurred despite an impressive debut performance in the tournament. The Uganda Cranes were also eliminated from the 2024 CHAN following a 1-0 quarter-final loss to defending champions Senegal at Namboole Stadium. The defeat of both teams means that no East African co-host will feature in the medal bracket of the tournament. The event serves as a dry run for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).