November 10 - November 16, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, November 10 to Sunday, November 16, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
November 10
Ruto Appoints Hospital Chair, KRA Names Commissioner, and Teachers Move to SHA - November 2025
President William Ruto has appointed Dr. Charles Olang’o Onudi as the new Non-Executive Chairperson of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) for a three-year period, effective from November 7, 2025. In another appointment effective November 10, 2025, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) named George Obell as the Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST) to enhance service delivery for small businesses. Separately, Kenyan teachers' unions and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have agreed to transition to the new Social Health Authority (SHA) medical cover. This move will take effect on December 1. The transition aims to address past challenges with the previous medical scheme and improve healthcare access for teachers.
KRA Issues Auction Ultimatum, KFS Warns of Scam, and Kuria Slams IEBC Over Threats - November 2025
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has issued a 30-day ultimatum to importers to collect their goods currently held at the Inland Container Depot and bonded facilities in Nairobi, or face public auction. In a separate public notice, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) issued a warning about a new WhatsApp scam targeting Kenyans. According to the warning, fraudsters are impersonating Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko to extort money. Meanwhile, former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has criticized the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The criticism followed a viral video threatening former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua ahead of his November 16 visit to Mbeere North for a by-election campaign.
Manchester City Secures 3-0 Victory Over Liverpool; Roma Claims Serie A Lead - November 2025
Manchester City secured a 3-0 victory over Liverpool, a result captain Ruben Dias called a return to their best form. The win brings City within four points of Premier League leaders Arsenal and marked manager Pep Guardiola's 1,000th match in management. For Liverpool, the defeat was described as demoralizing, dropping them to eighth in the Premier League table, though Virgil van Dijk affirmed the team's commitment to fight back. In other European league news, Roma claimed the Serie A lead after defeating Udinese 2-0, capitalizing on Napoli's 2-0 loss to Bologna. African players also had strong performances across Europe's top leagues, with Bryan Mbeumo scoring for Manchester United and Idrissa Gueye contributing to Everton's win.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
November 11
Cabinet Approves New Embassies, Kiambu Road Dualling, and Infrastructure Pricing Framework - November 2025
On November 11, the Cabinet approved the establishment of three new Kenyan embassies in Vatican City, Copenhagen (Denmark), and Hanoi (Vietnam) to strengthen diplomatic ties and expand the country's global footprint. The Vatican City embassy aims to specifically bolster cooperation with Catholic development agencies in Kenya. The Cabinet also approved the dualing of the 23.5km Muthaiga-Kiambu-Ndumberi road to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance mobility between Nairobi and Kiambu Counties. As part of a broader effort to ensure value for money in public investments, Kenya has adopted a new data-driven Infrastructure Projects Pricing Framework to combat inflated project costs and eliminate irregular pricing practices.
Former Governor Lenolkulal Acquitted as Waititu Faces New Charges and MP Salasya Heads to Trial - November 2025
The High Court has acquitted former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal of a Ksh84.5 million corruption conviction after his legal team successfully argued that the State failed to provide sufficient evidence. In a separate case, former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu is facing new charges for alleged incitement remarks made at a public event on September 29, 2024, while already serving a prison sentence for graft. Additionally, Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya is set for a full trial on January 17, 2026, over hate speech allegations after conciliation talks with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) failed.
Teachers Transition to SHA Amid Patient Cost Concerns and Organ Donation Bill Progress - November 2025
Kenyan teachers' unions and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have agreed to transition to the new Social Health Authority (SHA) medical cover starting on December 1. This move aims to improve healthcare access for teachers. However, representatives from the Kenya Network of Cancer Organisations (KENCO) have appealed to the government, highlighting severe emotional and financial distress for cancer patients caused by delays and high costs under the SHA. In a separate health development, the National Assembly is finalizing the Transplant and Organ Donation Bill to combat organ trafficking. This comes as Mediheal Hospital faces investigations into alleged organ harvesting and transplantation irregularities.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
November 12
Cabinet Approves Dualling of 23.5km Muthaiga-Kiambu-Ndumberi Road - November 2025
The Cabinet has approved the dualing of the 23.5-kilometer Muthaiga-Kiambu-Ndumberi road to alleviate traffic congestion between Nairobi and Kiambu Counties. The project, part of a plan to modernize Nairobi's transport network, will include bypasses, loops, and facilities for non-motorized transport. Following the approval, the Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) criticized the government's decision, calling it a “pre-election spectacle” that will harm local businesses. The motorists' lobby subsequently issued fresh demands to the government regarding the planned expansion of Kiambu Road.
Cabinet Approves Wildlife Corridor Project and Waives Sh12.3 Billion Land Loan Interest - November 2025
Kenya's Cabinet has approved the Nairobi National Park–Athi-Kapiti Wildlife Corridor project. This initiative involves allocating public land for a new wildlife migration route to connect the two areas. The plan aims to restore vital migratory routes for species like zebras and wildebeests and address human-wildlife conflict. In a separate decision, the Cabinet also approved a waiver of Sh12.3 billion in interest and penalties on outstanding land settlement loans. The waiver is intended to relieve financial pressure on low-income settlers across 26 counties.
Government Warns of Scams as Police Arrest Impersonator in Migori - November 2025
The Kenyan government has issued a warning about a scam targeting beneficiaries of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme, where fraudulent apps require registration fees for Ksh50,000 grants. It also expressed concern that citizens rescued from cybercrime networks abroad are returning home to establish similar online scam operations. Separately, police in Migori County arrested a woman for impersonating a lawyer and illegally offering legal services, recovering fake seals and stamps. This follows a similar operation two weeks prior in Kisii where three other individuals were apprehended for similar offenses.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
November 13
Police Pledge Security for November 27 By-Elections Amid Political Tensions - November 2025
The National Police Service (NPS) has pledged robust and impartial security management for the upcoming November 27 by-elections, ensuring comprehensive measures amidst escalating tensions. This follows allegations from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua regarding planned violence in the Mbeere-North parliamentary by-elections, which he vowed to proceed with via a 9-day campaign tour. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has strongly refuted Gachagua's claims. Tensions have been high elsewhere, with three DCI officers suffering serious injuries in Homa Bay County during a violent confrontation with assailants amid rising political tensions ahead of a by-election. NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga stated the police will remain neutral while acting firmly against electoral chaos.
CS Murkomen Restructures Nairobi Administration, Creating 3 New Subregions - November 2025
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced a major administrative shake-up in Nairobi by creating three new subregions to enhance service delivery. The new administrative regions are Nairobi North, Nairobi East, and Nairobi West. This restructuring aims to decentralize administration and improve service delivery for the city's rapidly growing population, which is estimated at over five million. The move includes new appointments and promotions within the National Government Administration. As part of the changes, Murkomen also deployed six new County Commissioners to various counties.
Upcoming November By-elections Emerge as Key Political Battlegrounds - November 2025
Upcoming by-elections are seen as a crucial indicator of political strength for President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza coalition and opposition parties, with 27 by-elections scheduled. Areas like Mbeere North and Malava are emerging as key battlegrounds. Ahead of the November 27 by-election in Mbeere North Constituency, Cabinet Secretary for Public Service Geoffrey Ruku has refuted allegations of election violence threats made by DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua. Amid the by-election push, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki met with over 60 MPs and Senators from Mt Kenya to outline the Kenya Kwanza administration’s strategy for consolidating support.
More from Thursday:
Friday
November 14
Authorities Respond to Fatal Violence Ahead of Kasipul By-Elections - November 2025
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is investigating violent incidents that resulted in two deaths in Kasipul Constituency ahead of the November 27 by-elections. In connection with the violence, an assistant chief in Kasipul has been suspended from Public Service after the deadly clashes occurred at his home on November 6. The National Police Service (NPS) has pledged robust security management for the upcoming by-elections, ensuring comprehensive measures amidst escalating tensions like a recent gunfight in Homa Bay County. The NPS affirmed its impartiality and commitment to ensuring security, responding to allegations of bias from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Anti-Corruption Actions Taken Against Public Officials for Bribery and Fraud - November 2025
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) arrested Josphat Kabeabea, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors at the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), over allegations of demanding a Ksh15 million bribe, extortion, and unexplained wealth. The arrest on Friday, November 14, followed a raid on his residence and offices. Separately, an arrest warrant was issued for Kisumu County City Manager Michael Abala Wanga by the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court after he failed to appear for charges related to forgery and fraudulent acquisition of public funds. In another case, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) officer Evans Agumba Oriato was charged in Kisumu for allegedly soliciting a Kes500,000 bribe to "assist" a secondary school with tax filings.
Oburu Oginga Appointed ODM Party Leader Amid Internal Tensions - November 2025
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially appointed Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as its party leader, elevating him from an interim capacity following the demise of his brother, Raila Odinga. Oburu has assumed leadership affirming the party's independence and commitment to unity, stating his mission is to ensure the party remains formidable while cooperating with President William Ruto. The leadership change comes as Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late Raila Odinga, alleged a plot to sell the ODM party during its 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa. In response to such concerns, Oburu assured supporters that "ODM will not be swallowed."
More from Friday:
Saturday
November 15
Factions Within ODM Clash Over Party's Relationship with President Ruto's Government - November 2025
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is facing significant internal turmoil regarding its alliance with President William Ruto's government. EALA MP Winnie Odinga described the party's current broad-based pact with Ruto as "complicated" and called for a National Delegates Convention to decide its future. She also alleged a plot to sell the ODM party during its 20th-anniversary celebrations in Mombasa. Siaya Governor James Orengo dismissed the push for a coalition by some ODM ministers in Ruto's government as "idiotic," warning it would erode the party's identity. In a similar vein, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino criticized his party's leadership appointments. Tensions are also evident in the Coast region, where allies of Mining CS Hassan Joho are asserting his leadership, and within the wider opposition, where DCP's Cleophas Malala accused a DAP-K leader of colluding with Ruto.
China Protests US and Japan's Taiwan Relations; Launches New Amphibious Assault Ship - November 2025
China has made multiple diplomatic moves regarding Taiwan while also advancing its naval power. Beijing issued a warning to Japan concerning interference on the issue of Taiwan. The Chinese government also strongly protested the United States' latest arms sale to Taiwan, which is the first such sale under President Donald Trump's second term. As part of this protest, China warned against supporting "Taiwan independence" separatists. In a display of military development, China's largest and most advanced amphibious assault ship, the CNS Sichuan, commenced its maiden sea trial from Shanghai. This represents a significant development for the People's Liberation Army Navy’s capabilities.
Regional Bodies Address Drought, Environment, and Trade in East Africa - November 2025
Regional bodies in East Africa are addressing significant cross-border issues. The IGAD weather centre has predicted an intensified drought in the Horn of Africa, with forecasts of continued below-normal rainfall through January 2026 threatening millions across eastern Kenya, southeastern Ethiopia, and southern Somalia. Separately, the East African Community (EAC) launched the preview of the Lake Victoria State of the Basin Report 2025 at the COP30 conference in Brazil, assessing the environmental and socio-economic conditions of the basin. At the 25th EAC MSMEs Trade Fair, Rwanda advocated for a regional strategy to boost culture-driven entrepreneurship and market access for small businesses.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
November 16
Internal Tensions and External Relations Discussed Within ODM Party - November 2025
President William Ruto praised the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) for its 20 years of resilience at the party's Founders Dinner, urging other parties to learn from its example. During the event, Ruto responded to calls to rejoin ODM by reaffirming his loyalty to UDA but highlighted his support for the party. He also recounted details of his last official meeting with the late ODM leader Raila Odinga. Internal party dynamics were also on display, as Oburu Oginga stated he would privately address EALA MP Winnie Odinga's concerns about the party's relationship with the government. Tensions flared when Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo confronted Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai over his criticism of Winnie Odinga. Additionally, a power struggle has emerged in the Coast region between allies of Mining CS Hassan Joho and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir.
Security Agencies Make Arrests for Exam Leaks, Seize Tusks, and Conduct Forest Surveillance - November 2025
The Kenyan government has confirmed that at least 78 individuals have been arrested in connection with compromising the 2025 national examinations. The arrests were mainly linked to the unauthorized exposure of KCSE and KJSEA examination content on social media platforms. Separately, a multi-agency security operation in Nyahururu resulted in the arrest of two suspected wildlife traffickers and the recovery of elephant tusks valued at Sh3.6 million. Meanwhile, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) is enhancing forest protection, with Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko leading an aerial surveillance mission over the Mau, Chemususu, and Mukutani forests on Saturday, November 16.
President Ruto Announces SGR Extension, New Admin Units, and Pledges Ksh100M Donation - November 2025
President William Ruto announced that construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension from Naivasha to Kisumu is set to commence in January. He also announced further government decentralization through the operationalization of new administrative units, with Marsabit County among the first to benefit. The move is intended to bring public services closer to people in marginalized regions. While in Marsabit County for a church service at AIC Loglogo, President Ruto pledged to donate Kshs.100 million to the Africa Inland Church (AIC) for "ongoing works" in Ileret.