September 22 - September 28, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, September 22 to Sunday, September 28, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
September 22
EACC, KRA, and Judiciary Take Action in Corruption, Tax Evasion, and Forgery Cases - September 2025
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is auctioning 10 properties in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Migori, which were recovered during a graft probe involving former Migori Governor Okoth Obado. In a separate action, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) exposed a Ksh 16 million tax evasion scheme involving 21,600 high-end smartphones. Meanwhile, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has launched an investigation into bribery allegations involving a sitting judge following accusations on social media. Additionally, former Nairobi Senatorial aspirant Gabriel Chapia has been convicted of forging academic certificates and fraudulently acquiring public funds.
UK, Australia, Canada, and Portugal Formally Recognise Palestinian State - September 2025
The UK, in a significant shift in foreign policy, has formally recognized a Palestinian state. The move, announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, was mirrored by Australia, Canada, and Portugal. This collective recognition by key U.S. allies sets the stage for a high-stakes United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. The UNGA has become a global showdown for the Israel–Palestine conflict, marked by overwhelming votes supporting Palestine. Discussions are focused on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid rising death tolls and a UN finding of genocide.
Political Maneuvering Involving Ruto, Raila, and Kalonzo Amidst ODM Nomination Chaos - September 2025
ODM party leader Raila Odinga revealed that his 2024 truce with President William Ruto was intended to protect Kenya's peace and stability, stating the country was "on the verge of collapse". Separately, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has suggested that Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka should join the Kenya Kwanza government, fueling speculation about a potential alliance. Meanwhile, chaos has erupted in Kasipul Constituency ahead of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party nominations, with aspirants accusing the party of inconsistent communication and potential rigging.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
September 23
Police Arrest Suspects for KPLC Equipment Theft, School Arson, and Drugging Bus Passengers - September 2025
Police in Kisumu have arrested two suspects in connection with the theft of Ksh3 million worth of energy equipment. The suspects allegedly received the stolen items from vandals and resold them for illegal electricity connections. In a separate case, eight students from Litein Boys High School will spend seven days in custody after being arraigned on charges of arson, burglary, and malicious damage to school property. Additionally, detectives apprehended a suspected mastermind behind a series of stupefying and theft incidents that targeted bus passengers. The suspect was arrested at the Mariakani Weighbridge, ending a crime spree across Kenya and neighbouring countries.
Parliament Resumes to Consider Constitutional Amendment Bill and New Legislation - September 2025
Kenya's Parliament is set to resume with a packed agenda that includes a significant constitutional review and the consideration of crucial bills. The Senate will consider the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which is aimed at expanding its oversight role, including joint vetting of state officers and having an equal say in budget-making. Concurrently, the National Assembly will address various reports, international agreements, and a substantial legislative agenda. In addition, Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo is set to introduce separate legislation targeting serial Parliament nominees. She argues that repeated nominations undermine the original intent of affirmative action seats as a launching pad for new politicians.
US Pledges Support for Kenya-Led Haiti Mission Following President Ruto's Appeal in New York - September 2025
The United States has pledged support for the transition of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti just before its October 2 mandate expiry. This pledge follows an appeal from President William Ruto. In response, the US and Panama have introduced a UN Security Council resolution to establish a larger gang-suppression force. Efforts are underway to transition the MSS to this larger UN-backed force. During his visit to New York for the United States-Kenya Business and Investment Roundtable, President Ruto also assured American investors that Kenya is a secure and stable destination for investment.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
September 24
TIFA Polls Show Declining Party Support as ODM Faces Violent Primaries - September 2025
A TIFA survey reveals that Kenya's dominant parties, UDA and ODM, have lost significant support since the August 2022 General Election, with a dramatic increase in Kenyans identifying as non-affiliated. Another TIFA Research poll indicates that despite many Kenyans believing Raila Odinga will support President William Ruto's 2027 bid, a significant portion still views him as the face of the opposition. Amidst this, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is leveraging upcoming by-elections as a strategic "dress rehearsal" for the 2027 General Elections. However, the party's primaries for the Kasipul Constituency by-election were delayed due to violent disruptions, with the party accusing one aspirant of intimidating officials and using "goons".
Parliament Considers Bills on Police Term Limits, Land Zoning, Asbestos Ban, and Loan Interest Caps - September 2025
A new bill in the National Assembly seeks to impose age and term limits for the Inspector General and Deputy Inspector Generals of police, requiring appointees to be under 60 and introducing a five-year term for DIGs. In another legislative push, MPs are calling for the reintroduction of special land zoning laws to protect dwindling agricultural land from urban and infrastructural development. MPs are also urgently pushing for the nationwide removal of all asbestos roofing due to health risks, following a public petition. Furthermore, the National Assembly is addressing a petition to amend the Consumer Protection Act to enforce the in duplum rule, aiming to limit interest charged on loans.
Legal Developments in Kericho MCA Case, Agnes Wanjiru Murder, and Baby Pendo Trial - September 2025
Four Members of County Assembly (MCAs) in Kericho County have been suspended for 90 days after being caught on CCTV allegedly stoning Governor Eric Mutai's office and the county assembly building on August 15. In a separate case, the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) is urging Kenya and the United Kingdom to expedite the extradition of a British soldier linked to the 2012 murder of Agnes Wanjiru, seeking prosecution in a Kenyan court. Meanwhile, the High Court in Nairobi has ordered the transfer of the Baby Samantha Pendo murder trial from Nairobi to Kisumu, citing the convenience of witnesses and crime scenes. The court also directed the National Police Service Commission to facilitate the transport and subsistence for the accused officers.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
September 25
Kenya Enters into Defence, Trade, and Innovation Agreements with International Partners - September 2025
Kenya and Ethiopia have signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement to enhance collaboration in addressing regional security challenges and facilitate rapid intelligence sharing. In a separate development, Kenya is on track to sign a new bilateral trade agreement with the United States by December to provide a safety net for its textile and apparel sectors. In another partnership, Kenya and California agreed to establish Africa's first Centre of Excellence on Clean Transport Systems in Nairobi, a deal made during the UN General Assembly. Additionally, Kenya and France announced they will co-host the “Africa Forward: Africa–France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth” Summit in Nairobi on May 11–12, 2026. This summit aims to foster innovation and mutual cooperation.
President Ruto Calls for UN Reform and African Security Council Seats at UNGA - September 2025
At the 80th United Nations General Assembly, President William Ruto warned that the UN must adapt or risk irrelevance, calling for a modernized Security Council. Leading a push by African nations, Ruto intensified calls for permanent seats in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He strongly advocated for Africa's representation, demanding two permanent seats with full veto rights. The President highlighted that African issues dominate the UNSC's agenda despite the continent lacking a permanent seat. During the assembly in New York, Ruto was also honored as the Global Champion of Adequate Housing for All. Following his address, he met with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss security, including the situation in Haiti.
Teenager Arrested for Desecrating Kenyan Flag at Football Match - September 2025
A 17-year-old boy has been arrested for desecrating the Kenyan flag during a CAF Champions League match between Mogadishu City Club and Kenya Police FC. The incident occurred on September 20 at Nyayo Stadium and was captured on video, which subsequently went viral and sparked widespread outrage. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed they arrested the suspect linked to the act. Following the event, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen threatened to deport foreigners who disrespect the national flag. The calls for action arose after the video circulated widely online.
More from Thursday:
Friday
September 26
Kenya Kwanza Leaders Address Development Agenda, Party Strength, and Internal Clashes - September 2025
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki declared that the Kenya Kwanza development agenda will serve all regions, rejecting the "shareholding theory" for public resources and stating all Kenyans are entitled to development regardless of political affiliation. Speaking at UDA headquarters, Kindiki also affirmed the party remains strong and is dedicated to its bottom-up economic transformation agenda, as he presented nomination certificates to candidates for upcoming by-elections. Concurrently, a political storm is reportedly brewing in Nyeri County between allies of President William Ruto and supporters of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over ongoing empowerment forums.
Two Somali Teens Detained Over Kenyan Flag Desecration at Nyayo Stadium - September 2025
Two Somali teenagers, aged 17 and 14, were arrested in Nairobi for allegedly desecrating the Kenyan flag. The incident occurred during a CAF Champions League football match at Nyayo Stadium between Kenya Police FC and Mogadishu FC and was captured on a viral video. The two appeared before the Milimani Children’s Court and have been detained pending a social inquiry report. The case has sparked a debate regarding the legal handling of minors in Kenya, with the law emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.
Uhuru Kenyatta Leads Jubilee Party's Special National Delegates Conference - September 2025
Former President and Jubilee Party Leader Uhuru Kenyatta led a Special National Delegates Conference on September 26, 2025, to determine the party's future direction. This marked his first such meeting in three years after he regained full control of the party. The conference's agenda included reviewing the party's constitution, policies, and a potential exit from the Azimio coalition. Speaking at the conference in Nairobi, Kenyatta accused President William Ruto's administration of eroding gains made during his tenure. He specifically cited the dismantling of programs like Linda Mama and criticized the government's "untried and untested" schemes.
More from Friday:
Saturday
September 27
China Announces Climate and US-Ties Efforts; Bill Gates Unveils Child Mortality Roadmap - September 2025
Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with US business leaders and scholars in New York, stressing the importance of stable China-US relations and mutual success through economic and trade cooperation. Separately, at the United Nations Climate Summit 2025, President Xi Jinping outlined China's updated climate action plan under the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to significantly cut emissions. Experts believe this move will boost confidence in global climate efforts. In another global initiative, Bill Gates unveiled a roadmap at the 2025 Goalkeepers event to halve child deaths by 2045. Gates urged world leaders to act against recent sharp cuts in health aid, emphasizing that current choices will determine the future for millions of children.
ODM Faces Revolt in Gusii as Party Secures Candidate for Ugunja By-Election - September 2025
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is facing a significant challenge in Gusii, as six MPs from the region boycotted the party's 20th-anniversary celebrations. This action from all its MPs in Kisii signals a potential revolt and possible defections before the 2027 elections. The party's support in the region is reportedly crumbling due to the snub. In a separate development, the ODM party held primaries for the Ugunja parliamentary by-election. Moses Omondi, the former Ugunja NG-CDF Manager, secured the party ticket for the race to succeed the current MP. Omondi's victory came despite dramatic events during the primaries, which included injuries and accusations of vote manipulation.
Ruto's Administration Responds to Criticism, Clarifies US Immigrant Stance, and Faces Housing Levy Petition - September 2025
Allies of President William Ruto, led by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, have hit back at former President Uhuru Kenyatta's criticism of the current administration, accusing him of making hypocritical claims. On a separate matter, President Ruto clarified that Kenya has not received a formal request from the United States to accept deported illegal immigrants, despite similar deals with other African nations. The administration is also facing a new legal challenge to its affordable housing levy. The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and various lobby groups have filed a new petition at the High Court. The petition argues that the housing levy is unconstitutional and detrimental to Kenyans.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
September 28
Government Bodies Announce Land Acquisitions and Appointments in Judiciary & Education - September 2025
The National Land Commission (NLC) has issued land acquisition notices for road projects affecting private landowners in Nairobi and Taita Taveta counties. Land in Isiolo County has also been reserved by the NLC for the State Law Office. In the judiciary, Chief Justice Martha Koome appointed 129 judicial officers to serve as adjudicators in small claims courts across Kenya. This move aims to provide faster and more affordable justice for civil disputes. Separately, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced 16 appointments and reappointments across several educational bodies, as detailed in a gazette notice dated Friday, September 26. Similar appointments were also made by Attorney General Dorcas Oduor to improve public service delivery.
Kenyan Teams Compete in CAF and FIFA Tournaments - September 2025
Nairobi United has advanced to the second round of the CAF Confederation Cup after securing a 1-1 draw against Uganda’s National Enterprises Corporation (NEC) at Nyayo Stadium. In the CAF Champions League, Kenya Police is set to face Mogadishu City in the return leg, holding a strong 3-1 aggregate lead from the first match. Coach Etienne Ndayiragije has warned his team against complacency. Meanwhile, the Rising Starlets face a crucial home match against Ethiopia on Sunday at 3pm in the second leg of the 2026 Fifa Under-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. Following a 1-1 stalemate in the first leg in Addis Ababa, the Kenyan team must secure a win at Ulinzi Sports Complex to advance. A victory would keep them in contention for one of Africa's four slots to the global event in Poland.
Gachagua Accuses Ruto and MPs; CS Ruku Accuses Uhuru of Incitement - September 2025
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made accusations against President William Ruto and Members of Parliament. Speaking at a PCEA service in Ongata Rongai, Gachagua accused President Ruto of alleged widespread land allocations to political allies, vowing to revoke irregular titles. Separately, he accused MPs and local leaders of shortchanging Kenyans who attend meetings at State House, warning citizens to negotiate directly for promised tokens. In a different event, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of inciting Kenyans against the Kenya Kwanza administration. Ruku urged the former president to cease partisan politics while also defending the current government's record, especially its health initiatives.