November 17 - November 23, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, November 17 to Sunday, November 23, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
November 17
Police Recruit 10,000 Constables and JSC Shortlists 185 Candidates Amid Recruitment Irregularity Probes - November 2025
The recruitment of 10,000 police constables is underway across 427 centers in Kenya after the High Court lifted a suspension. However, a new report by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has revealed widespread irregularities in the police hiring process, highlighting bribery and political interference. In a separate recruitment matter, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has shortlisted 185 candidates for judicial appointments across the Court of Appeal, High Court, and Environment and Land Court. Meanwhile, the Senate Standing Committee on National Cohesion has ordered the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to terminate the contracts of 22 newly hired staff due to irregularities in their recruitment process.
PS Bitok Confirms KJSEA Results by Dec 11 and Grade 10 Placements Before Christmas - November 2025
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok announced that results for the first-ever Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA) for Grade 9 learners will be released by December 11. Following the release of the exam results, Bitok confirmed that Grade 10 placement letters will be issued before Christmas. The selection for Grade 10 is also expected to be completed before the Christmas holiday. In a related development, the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC), which administers the assessment, has issued a warning against a fake news item circulating about a mass recruitment drive. KNEC urged Kenyans to exercise due diligence when applying for jobs, as numerous phony recruitment agents are active.
Govt Advances Rironi-Mau Summit Highway Project; KeNHA to Acquire Land for Nyali-Kilifi Road - November 2025
President William Ruto announced that the dualling of the 170km Rironi-Naivasha-Mau Summit road will commence on November 28, 2025. This decision followed a State House meeting with the President of China Communications Construction Company (CCCC). Separately, the National Land Commission (NLC) has announced adjustments for the construction of the Nyali Bridge-Mtwapa-Kwa Kadzengo-Kilifi Road, with 19 new land parcels to be acquired on behalf of the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA). On another matter of land use, MPs will have the final say on a plan to convert 6,700 hectares of forest into human settlements due to encroachment.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
November 18
Courts Suspend Govt Payment System, Rule on Waititu's Bond, and Affirm Underpayment Lawsuits - November 2025
The Kerugoya High Court has suspended the government's Direct Settlement System (DSS) for coffee farmer payments until May 20, 2026, following a successful argument by farmers that the system was implemented without public participation. In another legal matter, Principal Magistrate Rose Ndombi ruled that former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu can secure his freedom by depositing a Ksh53 million bank guarantee. The Employment and Labour Relations Court in Kisumu affirmed in a landmark ruling that employees can sue their bosses for underpayment, establishing that paying below the statutory minimum wage is unlawful. Additionally, a city lawyer arrested in a nationwide counter-terrorism operation awaits a court ruling on November 19, 2025, regarding a DCI request for extended detention for further investigation into terror financing suspicions.
PSC Cancels Jobs, Senators Order Sackings, and KUTRRH Announces Vacancies - November 2025
The Public Service Commission (PSC) announced on Tuesday, November 18, the cancellation of 86 previously advertised job positions, including senior roles in the Foreign Affairs department. In a separate action, the Senate Standing Committee on National Cohesion ordered the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to terminate the contracts of 22 newly hired staff due to irregularities in their recruitment. Meanwhile, the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) has announced 99 job vacancies, with 97 being permanent and pensionable. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) also issued an alert about a fake recruitment advertisement for 20,000 teachers, clarifying that official vacancies are only announced via its official website.
Govt Clarifies SIM Registration Data Rules; CBK Halts Crypto Firm Licensing - November 2025
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has refuted allegations that it authorized telecommunication providers to collect biometric data during SIM card registration, labeling the claims as unfounded. The government also stated that it will not require DNA for SIM card registration. In a separate regulatory update, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) announced that the licensing of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) is on hold. The hold will remain until the National Treasury issues new regulations for the Virtual Assets Service Providers Act, 2025. The CBK clarified that despite the Act being in effect since November 4, no firm is currently authorized to operate as a licensed VASP.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
November 19
Govt Plans Leasing of PPCK as KSh17B Mombasa Deal & Talanta Stadium Loan Face Scrutiny - November 2025
The government is facing scrutiny over several large-scale financial deals and plans. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has announced plans to lease the struggling Pyrethrum Processing Company of Kenya (PPCK) to private investors, a decision pending cabinet approval. Meanwhile, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has alleged the existence of a hidden loan for the Talanta Stadium, claiming it will ultimately cost taxpayers Ksh145 billion. Separately, Nyali MP Mohammed Ali has petitioned the EACC to investigate a Ksh17 billion waste management deal between the Mombasa County Government and a Ghanaian company, citing alleged irregularities and lack of transparency.
2 Police Officers Killed in IED Attack, MCA Arrested for Fraud, and Firearm Recovered in Nairobi - November 2025
Several security and crime incidents have been reported across the country. In Kulan, near Daadab, two Administration Police officers were killed and five others were critically injured when their patrol vehicle hit an Improvised Explosive Device in a suspected Al-Shabaab attack. In Kisii County, a Member of the County Assembly was arrested for allegedly conning residents of over Ksh200,000 through fake foreign travel opportunities to Canada. In Nairobi, police in the Huruma area recovered a firearm during a routine night patrol after a suspicious individual fled the scene.
IEBC Fines Candidates Ksh 1M Each and Releases Procedures for November By-Elections - November 2025
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has released the voting procedure for upcoming by-elections set for November 27 across 24 jurisdictions in Kenya. Ahead of the polls, the IEBC fined Kasipul by-election candidates Boyd Were and Philip Aroko 1 million Kenyan Shillings each following recent violence during their campaigns. They were given a 48-hour ultimatum to pay or face potential disqualification. In a related development, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has withdrawn from the Kisa East ward by-elections after their candidate, James Shiraku, stepped down to support a competitor.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
November 20
President Ruto Unveils Ksh5 Trillion Plan and Expanded Cancer Coverage in State of the Nation Address - November 2025
During his State of the Nation address on Thursday, November 20, President William Ruto unveiled an ambitious Ksh 5 trillion plan aimed at transforming Kenya into a "First World" nation. The blueprint focuses on investments in human capital, agriculture, energy, and transport infrastructure. In his address to Parliament, President Ruto declared that Kenya is poised to become a leading world economy, drawing parallels to the rise of the Asian Tigers. He asserted that the country is experiencing an economic recovery, presenting what he called "clear, verifiable, and indisputable" evidence of progress while dismissing critics as "high priests of eternal pessimism." As part of the address, Ruto also announced an expanded cancer treatment package under the Social Health Authority (SHA), increasing coverage from Sh550,000 to Sh800,000, effective December 1.
Kenya Responds to 'Slave Trade' and Human Trafficking Allegations - November 2025
Kenya's Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi vehemently denied allegations by the New York Times that implicated the Kenya Kwanza administration and President William Ruto's family in a 'slave trade' involving Kenyans sent to Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Mudavadi refuted claims that Kenya is a human trafficking hub, following a controversy involving 153 Palestinians who traveled from Gaza to South Africa via Nairobi. In a separate development, former Chief Justice David Maraga criticized the government's labor export program, particularly concerning jobs in Qatar reportedly paying up to Ksh200,000 per month. Maraga vowed to end the program if elected, calling it "modern-day slavery" and arguing that the government should focus on creating opportunities at home.
IEBC Receives Ballots for November 27 By-Elections as Campaigns Intensify in Mbeere North - November 2025
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has received the first consignment of ballot papers and statutory forms for the upcoming November 27, 2025 by-elections. This delivery is part of the preparations for polls in 24 electoral areas across Kenya. In Mbeere North, one of the areas with a by-election, campaigns have intensified. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki urged residents to elect United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Wamuthende Leo to accelerate government projects. However, chaos erupted at Kanyuambora shopping centre in Mbeere North on Thursday morning, where a group of residents, some in campaign reflectors, reportedly looted a shop.
More from Thursday:
Friday
November 21
Former IEBC Official Charged with Forgery; Commission Petitioned Over Mbeere North By-Election - November 2025
Detectives from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) arrested and arraigned a former employee of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The ex-official was charged with forgery for allegedly using a falsified academic certificate to secure a promotion, but denied the charges. In a separate matter, the united opposition formally petitioned the IEBC over alleged schemes to rig the upcoming Mbeere North by-elections. The petition, based on claims by former CS Justin Muturi, alleges a plan to favor a pro-government candidate through voter bribery.
Kenya Engages in Diplomatic Talks with Uganda, Sierra Leone, and Azerbaijan - November 2025
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi met with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni at Mayuge State Lodge to ease diplomatic tensions. The talks were held in response to Museveni's recent remarks concerning access to the Indian Ocean, with both leaders aiming to reaffirm strong ties. In separate diplomatic activity, Kenya's Chief of the Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, hosted delegations from Sierra Leone and Azerbaijan. The meetings took place on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Defence Headquarters in Nairobi, with the goal of strengthening diplomatic and defence ties with both nations.
Judiciary Launches SOJAR Report Detailing 104% Case Clearance Rate - November 2025
The Kenyan Judiciary unveiled its State of the Judiciary and Administration of Justice (SOJAR) Report for the 2024/2025 financial year, as announced by Chief Justice Martha Koome. The report highlighted a 104 percent case clearance rate, with 647,686 cases resolved against 621,425 filed. Speaking at the launch, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki attributed the efficiency gains to the Kenya Kwanza administration's support, citing judicial appointments and improved funding. However, Kindiki also criticized some judicial rulings, stating they impede the implementation of the Kenya Kwanza manifesto and economic development.
More from Friday:
Saturday
November 22
Campaign Unrest and Party Splits Emerge Ahead of November 27 By-Elections - November 2025
Ahead of the November 27 by-elections, campaigning has featured unrest and notable political maneuvering. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya narrowly escaped an attack on Saturday, November 22, while campaigning in Chwele Kabuchai Ward for an independent MCA candidate. His campaign rally in the ward was also disrupted by tear gas and rowdy youths, which he blamed on National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. In a separate race, Homabay Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga, an ODM member, has publicly endorsed independent candidate Phillip Aroko in the Kasipul constituency by-election, challenging his own party's official candidate. Meanwhile, former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has adopted a door-to-door campaign strategy in Mbeere North for the by-elections.
President Ruto Announces Prison Relocation and Addresses Critics During Kisii Tour - November 2025
During a development tour in the Gusii region, President William Ruto announced plans to relocate Kisii GK Prison to make way for affordable housing projects. While in the region, he also rallied support for his Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Speaking in Kisii, President Ruto dismissed media scrutiny regarding his State of the Nation Address, asserting that fact-checking will not deter his mission. During a church service in Kisii County on November 22, 2025, he reiterated that he is not bothered by the fact-checking and challenged the opposition to unveil their own agenda for Kenyans. He emphasized that visible progress across the country is more important than debates over statistics.
Political Leaders Make Statements on Future 2027 and 2032 Elections - November 2025
Several political figures have made public statements positioning themselves and their regions for future elections. Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi, urged the Nyanza region to support and vote for President William Ruto in the 2027 general elections, citing a political debt. Looking further ahead to 2032, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi declared that the Western region is strategically positioned to produce President Ruto's successor. Speaking in Malava constituency, Mudavadi asserted that the Luhya nation has its "best chance in history" to achieve the presidency. In other political developments, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna affirmed his position within his party following a founders' meeting convened by President William Ruto.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
November 23
Govt to Close 742 Companies, Privatize KPC, and Pay Ksh 230M to Ex-Pan Paper Workers - November 2025
The Kenyan government has announced plans to close 742 companies, with the Registrar of Companies publishing a gazette notice giving a three-month period for objections before the dissolutions take effect in February. In a separate move impacting a state-owned enterprise, President William Ruto announced that Kenya will privatize the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC). Kenya plans to divest 65 percent of its stake, allowing Uganda and other regional investors to co-invest after a listing on the Nairobi Securities Exchange. Additionally, the government has released Ksh 230 million to former employees of Pan Paper Mills. This payment addresses long-standing arrears and is considered a significant step toward reviving the region's industrial economy.
Govt Relocates Kisii Prison and Evicts Makongeni Residents for Affordable Housing Projects - November 2025
President William Ruto announced plans to relocate Kisii GK Prison to make way for affordable housing projects during a development tour in the Gusii region. In Nairobi's Makongeni Estate, families face eviction by December 2, 2025, to clear land for a similar affordable housing project. Some residents have lived in Makongeni for over 60 years and are now appealing for an extension and fair compensation. Following the demolitions, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) plans to challenge the government's decision. LSK President Faith Odhiambo denounced the demolitions as human rights violations, highlighting that residents who were promised relocation funds did not receive them.
Allegations and Warnings Surround Mbeere North and Malava By-Elections - November 2025
Ahead of the November 27 Mbeere North by-election, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleged a vote-rigging scheme where youths are being paid for their IDs to prevent them from voting. Relatedly, Moses Kuria, leader of the Chama Cha Kazi Party, warned the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) about rising insecurity during campaigns for upcoming by-elections. He stressed the need for reinforced security to protect Kenya's international reputation. Meanwhile, ahead of the November 27 Malava Constituency by-election, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi campaigned for UDA candidate David Ndakwa. They emphasized the importance of electing Ndakwa to keep Malava aligned with the government.