December 8 - December 14, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, December 8 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
December 8
IEBC Chair Comments on Integrity and Interference in November 27 By-Elections - December 2025
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Edung Ethekon confirmed a 99% functionality rate for KIEMS kits during the November 27 by-elections. He stated that thanks to enhanced transparency, improved technology, and strict audit trails, stealing an election in Kenya is now "an impossibility". Ethekon emphasized that the electoral system is designed to prevent manipulation without immediate detection. However, he also issued a severe warning about "super agents," identified as senior politicians, who allegedly disrupted elections through intimidation and unlawful interference. This interference was noted as a particular issue during the by-elections held on November 27.
Government Faces Scrutiny Over Safaricom Stake Sale and 2026 Finance Bill - December 2025
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka accused the Kenya Kwanza government of reckless debt management and covert attempts to privatize national assets, citing the country's escalating public debt. Concurrently, the National Assembly has initiated public participation for the government's plan to sell a 15% stake in Safaricom PLC, a move projected to raise Sh244.5 billion. This proposal is facing significant backlash over potential undervaluation and lack of transparency. In a related financial matter, the National Treasury has invited Kenyans to submit tax policy proposals for the 2026/2027 budget and Finance Bill 2026. This initiative aims to enhance public participation following protests over a previous finance bill in 2024.
Kenyan Teams and Athletes Secure Wins in Football, Rugby, Basketball, and Boxing - December 2025
AFC Leopards defeated arch-rivals Gor Mahia 1-0 at Nyayo National Stadium in the 98th edition of the Mashemeji Derby. In rugby, defending champions Kabras Sugar are leading the Kenya Cup table after a record-breaking 123-0 victory over Impala. At the Manyatta Polo Club in Gilgil, two teams, Sosian Energy and Play With Fitness, emerged victorious in the Moi Cup and Martin Kesier Memorial Trophy polo tournaments. The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) basketball team stormed into the quarter-finals of the 2025 Women Basketball League Africa in Cairo after defeating Nigeria's FirstBank 82-53. In boxing, Kenya's Washington Wandera advanced to the pre-quarterfinals of the Elite World Men Boxing Championships in Dubai after a unanimous points' decision victory.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
December 9
Authorities Arrest Suspects in Major Land, Job, and Military Impersonation Scams - December 2025
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have apprehended a suspect responsible for the fraudulent acquisition of a Ksh200 million land parcel in Karen, Nairobi. The individual was arrested after allegedly forging a deed of gift to unlawfully claim the property. In a separate case, an investigation revealed an elaborate recruitment scam on TikTok where scammers use fake overseas job offers, ask for large “processing fees,” and deliver forged documents to victims. Additionally, a man accused of impersonating a Kenya Air Force Brigadier and defrauding parents of aspiring recruits was dramatically rearrested at the Milimani Law Courts on December 9, 2025. This followed his initial arrest on November 17, 2025, and release on bond for similar charges.
Kenya Deploys Police to Haiti and Hosts US-Led Security Forum - December 2025
Kenya has deployed a fifth contingent of 230 specialized police officers to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, for security reinforcement under the Gang Suppression Force (GSF). This deployment follows President William Ruto's recent commitment to supporting Haiti in addressing gang violence. The arrival of Kenyan police in Haiti marks the first deployment since the UN expanded the mission's mandate. Separately, Kenya hosted Silent Warrior 2025, a high-level security forum led by the United States. The conference brought together senior military leaders from 40 nations to discuss counterterrorism and strengthen partnerships. This was the second time the conference has been held in Africa.
Kalonzo Musyoka Threatens IEBC Prosecution Amid Shifting Political Alliances - December 2025
Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has indicated plans for private prosecution against Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chiefs over alleged irregularities in recent by-elections. Speaking in Murang’a, Musyoka accused the government of colluding with the IEBC. In another political development, former ODM leader Raila Odinga's chief agent, Saitabao Ole Kanchory, revealed a secret plan by Odinga to make President William Ruto a one-term president. Meanwhile, lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, known for defending Rigathi Gachagua during his impeachment trial, publicly declared his support for Kalonzo Musyoka's Wiper party during an interview on December 8.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
December 10
KNCHR Reports Highlight Human Rights Delays, Corruption, and Economic Violations - December 2025
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has urged the government to promptly submit two overdue human rights reports, warning that delays could jeopardize Kenya's international standing. According to the KNCHR's State of Human Rights Report 2024–2025, violations of Economic, Social, and Cultural (ECOSOC) rights were the most reported abuses in Kenya over the past year. These violations accounted for nearly half of all complaints received by the commission. A separate KNCHR report identifies rising corruption as a major threat to human rights and faults half-hearted anti-corruption measures. The commission has called for comprehensive reforms to combat this corruption. Upholding Kenya's commitments under regional and international law is dependent on the submission of the overdue reports.
Kenyan Security Forces Undertake Deployments in Haiti, DRC, and Kisumu - December 2025
Kenya is lauding 230 police officers returning from an 18-month tour of duty in Haiti, while another contingent of 230 officers has departed for Haiti to join the Gang Suppression Force. The returning officers were part of the now-defunct Multinational Security Support Mission. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenya's 5th Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 5) has escalated patrols amidst allegations of ceasefire breaches, despite a recent peace accord facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump. Domestically, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) will be deployed to Kisumu County to assist in the upgrade of Moi Stadium. This project followed a meeting between the Ministry of Defence and the Kisumu County Government and is expected to be completed within the next year.
Kenya-US Health Deal Contested as US Government Labels 15 Kenyans in Immigration Action - December 2025
President William Ruto has defended the Kenya–United States Health Cooperation Framework, assuring Kenyans it will not lead to exploitation and is anchored on firm legal ground. The Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) has filed a lawsuit challenging the Ksh 200 billion health deal, citing concerns over governance, consumer representation, and data privacy. President Ruto responded that the agreement was thoroughly vetted by the Office of the Attorney General and that Kenyan data protection laws would take precedence. In a separate development, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has labeled at least 15 Kenyans as the 'worst of the worst' illegal aliens. This designation refers to alleged criminal illegal aliens with serious convictions and was announced on a new public webpage.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
December 11
Govt Announces Security Measures and Road Closures in Nairobi for Jamhuri Day - December 2025
The Ministry of Interior has announced stringent security and traffic measures for Kenya's 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations on Friday at Nyayo National Stadium. Access gates will open at 5:00 am, and guests are expected to be seated by 7:00 am amid heightened security. Attendees have been warned against displaying expensive electronics or jewelry to prevent theft. As part of preparations, police announced that significant road closures will be implemented in Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) on Friday, December 12. KeNHA also confirmed that several key roads in the CBD and around Nyayo Stadium will be closed for the event.
Summit Sets Strict County Salary Deadlines and Withdraws Public Finance Bill - December 2025
The National and County Governments Coordinating Summit has implemented a new resolution mandating prompt salary payments for county employees to end chronic delays. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki mandated that the National Treasury must disburse all county personnel salaries by the third day of every month. County governments were also directed to settle all statutory deductions by the ninth day of each month. Following a separate directive from the same summit, the National Treasury has withdrawn the Public Finance Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025 from Parliament. The bill had aimed to reform rules governing county funding.
2025 KJSEA Results Released; Girls Outperform Boys in 10 Subjects - December 2025
The 2025 Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) results for over 1.13 million learners have been officially released. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced that the results are now available online to streamline dissemination under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). Parents and guardians can access the results online or via SMS to facilitate the transition of learners to Senior Schools. In this year's assessment, girls significantly outperformed boys, excelling in 10 out of 12 subjects. This marks a notable gender gap, with girls showing particular strength in languages and humanities.
More from Thursday:
Friday
December 12
High Court Halts Data-Sharing Component of Ksh 200B Kenya-US Health Deal - December 2025
The High Court issued conservatory orders on December 10, halting the implementation of the data-sharing component of the Kenya–US Health Cooperation Framework. The Ministry of Health has vowed to defend the $1.6 billion (Sh208 billion) partnership in court, stating it will provide full documentation and respects Kenya's data protection laws. Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who filed the petition, raised concerns about data sovereignty, the constitutionality of the agreement, and potential human experimentation. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized that the court's order only affected data sharing aspects, not the entire agreement. In response, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya criticized the petitioners, accusing them of sabotaging vital government health programs.
President Ruto Leads Tourism-Themed 62nd Jamhuri Day Celebrations at Nyayo Stadium - December 2025
President William Ruto led Kenya's 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium, attended by thousands. This year's event introduced a new model of themed national holidays, with a focus on Tourism, Wildlife, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) to highlight the sector's economic potential. The celebrations marked 62 years since Kenya attained republic status and featured Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama Adama as the Chief Guest. The event included a Trooping of the Colours led by the elite 20th Parachute Battalion of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
President Ruto Announces New Nairobi-Thika and Thika-Museum Hill Expressways - December 2025
During the 62nd Jamhuri Day Celebrations, President William Ruto announced several major infrastructure projects. He revealed plans to construct a new 60-kilometre expressway connecting Nairobi City to Thika town in Kiambu County, with construction set to begin in 2026. This project is intended to complement the existing Thika road and alleviate severe traffic congestion. The President also announced plans for another new expressway to connect Thika to Museum Hill in Nairobi. In addition, Ruto announced a major rehabilitation and beautification project for the Mombasa Road–Uhuru Highway corridor, stretching from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to ABC Place in Westlands, with work scheduled to start in December and be completed by January.
More from Friday:
Saturday
December 13
Former MP Cyrus Jirongo Dies in Head-on Collision in Naivasha - December 2025
Former Lugari MP and veteran politician Cyrus Jirongo died on Saturday morning, December 13, in Naivasha. The accident occurred around 3:00 am on the Nakuru Highway and involved a head-on collision between his car and a Climax Coach bus, killing him on the spot. The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) attributed the death to the failure by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to dual the Nakuru-Naivasha Highway, calling it an incident of sustained institutional negligence. The driver of the 65-seater bus involved has since detailed the moments leading up to the crash. Following the accident, National Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo urged motorists to exercise caution on Kenyan roads. The incident also brought renewed attention to Jirongo's political past as leader of the Youth for KANU ’92 (YK’92) group.
President Ruto's Administration Faces Criticism on Finance, Religion and Job Policies - December 2025
President William Ruto's administration has faced criticism from various leaders on several policies. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka strongly criticized a plan to raise Ksh5 trillion through new financial mechanisms, claiming it threatens Kenya’s constitutional fiscal principles and would bypass parliamentary oversight. The Pentecostal Voices of Kenya (PVK) have also accused President Ruto's government of attempting to curtail the church's freedom with the proposed Religious Organization Amendment Bill 2024. In addition, former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria slammed the administration for prioritizing infrastructure projects such as expressways over job creation for young people. Kuria's remarks followed the President's Jamhuri Day announcements of major road developments.
County Leaders Address Local Security Issues including Banditry and Illicit Trade - December 2025
Authorities in several counties are taking measures to address local security challenges. In Baringo County, leaders and residents are celebrating the return of peace after years of banditry and cattle rustling, paving the way for a renewed focus on tourism. This improvement is attributed to a multi-sectoral approach and a national amnesty program. Meanwhile, in Murang’a, County Commissioner Hassan Bule issued a stern warning to liquor traders against selling substandard and illicit alcoholic drinks ahead of the festive season. The commissioner also noted rising criminal activities involving boda boda riders operating at night. In Kisii County, Governor Simba Arati demanded the arrest of police officers during Jamhuri Day celebrations, accusing them of colluding with drug peddlers.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
December 14
Former MP Cyrus Jirongo Dies in Crash on Nairobi-Nakuru Highway - December 2025
The family of former Lugari MP, Cyrus Jirongo, is demanding an investigation into his sudden death following a fatal accident on the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway on Saturday, December 13. Family and friends, including former Westlands MP Fred Gumo, suspect foul play regarding the circumstances of his death. The accident occurred in a head-on collision on a notorious blackspot at Karai, reinforcing the Nakuru–Naivasha Highway's reputation as one of Kenya's deadliest roads. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta paid tribute to the late Cyrus Jirongo, remembering him as a bold and principled leader who worked tirelessly for the nation.
Officials Tackle KCSE Marking Strike, Fake Degrees, and Graduate Skills - December 2025
Over 800 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examiners marking English Paper 2 at Mary Hills Girls' High School have gone on strike due to unpaid coordination allowances. In a separate incident, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Commission for University Education (CUE) halted a graduation ceremony in Changamwe, Mombasa, after discovering the institution lacked accreditation to award degrees. Meanwhile, during the University of Nairobi's 74th Graduation Ceremony, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba challenged the 4,504 graduates to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence.
Nairobi Announces Land Rate Waiver Amid Urban Development Initiatives - December 2025
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has announced a new land rate waiver from December 15 to December 31, offering a temporary reprieve to landlords. The initiative aims to address a compliance crisis by wiping out 100 per cent of accumulated interest and penalties for those who clear arrears. In other urban news, NEMA has cautioned that extensive refurbishment at Nairobi Central Station by the Kenya Railways Corporation could damage nearby buildings. These works are part of the Nairobi Railway City project. Concurrently, the Ministry of Lands has initiated a comprehensive boundary review for proposed municipalities and urban areas across Embu, Turkana, and Wajir counties, effective July 1, 2025.