April 20 - April 26, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, April 20 to Sunday, April 26, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
April 20
Ruto Defends Fuel Prices, Dismisses Regional Comparisons - April 2026
President William Ruto has defended the current fuel prices in Kenya, dismissing comparisons with neighboring countries, stating that the price of fuel is influenced by various global and local factors. An opinion piece highlighted concerns that Kenya is paying more for fuel than landlocked neighbours like Uganda and Rwanda despite having coastal access and established infrastructure. Rongo MP Paul Abuor has proposed amendments to the Petroleum Act 2019 to allow for more frequent fuel price reviews during emergencies, aiming to benefit consumers faster when global oil prices fall.
Civil Society Demands Immediate Halt to Gold Mining in Western Kenya - April 2026
Rights groups and civil society organizations are sounding the alarm over alleged illegal land acquisition by gold mining companies in Western Kenya, specifically in Kakamega, Vihiga, and Siaya counties. They are calling for a halt to mining activities until a resolution is found, citing widespread concerns about the impact of these operations on communities and the environment.
Duale Reveals Failed Plan to Impeach Ruto - April 2026
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale claimed that former President Uhuru Kenyatta attempted to impeach William Ruto when he served as Deputy President but lacked the necessary numbers in the National Assembly. Duale has also publicly clashed with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over alleged claims concerning SHA teacher coverage, accusing Gachagua of having ties to suspended insurers and providers linked to fraud. Gachagua has criticized the Kenyan government, alleging involvement in political violence and accusing the administration of orchestrating chaos.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
April 21
Nairobi Police Commander Issues Fresh Warning Over 'Reject Fuel Price' Protests - April 2026
Nairobi police Commander Issa Mohamud announced the arrest of 11 individuals protesting fuel price hikes in the Central Business District on Tuesday, April 21. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen revealed that over 100 organized gangs are actively operating across the nation, posing a significant threat to national security. Amnesty International Kenya has called for police restraint ahead of nationwide fuel price protests, reminding law enforcement of the constitutional right to peaceful assembly. The Ngong Law Courts has separately acquitted 50 youths arrested during the June 24, 2024 protests against the Finance Bill 2024 in Ongata Rongai. Transport groups are demanding government intervention due to soaring fuel costs, threatening mass action if their proposals are not met. Meanwhile, the National Taxpayers Association is warning of exploitative transport fare hikes by some operators, claiming current increases go beyond justified costs due to rising fuel prices.
International Medical Institution Closed Hours After Govt Closes KIM Campuses - April 2026
The Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) has ordered the immediate closure of Northlands International Medical Training College for allegedly offering unapproved nursing courses. The Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) is undergoing an audit following an abrupt order from the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) to close all its campuses and revoke its accreditation on April 20, 2026. Separately, the Ministry of Health has inaugurated a new board for the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening regulatory standards and patient safety in the country's health sector. The Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) will introduce a new Primary Health Care (PHC) course across all its faculties, integrating it into its curriculum as a mid-level PhD equivalent.
High Court Grants Chief Justice's Office 30 Days for Response in Rules Challenge - April 2026
The High Court has granted the office of the Chief Justice's office and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) 30 days to respond to a challenge against key provisions of the Fair Administrative Action Rules, 2024. The High Court in Nairobi is set to deliver its judgment on May 13 in a significant case accusing mobile giant Safaricom PLC of failing to adequately protect subscriber data. The High Court in Kiambu has lifted temporary orders that had barred the arrest and detention of governors who fail to appear before parliamentary summons, following amendments sought by the petitioners in the case.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
April 22
Petrol Station Owners Warn of Fresh Price Hike - April 2026
The Petroleum Outlets Association of Kenya (PAOK) has criticized the government's VAT reduction on fuel, warning it will not provide lasting relief and could lead to future price hikes. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered its growth forecast for Kenya and Sub-Saharan Africa due to rising fuel costs and economic uncertainty triggered by the Middle East conflict. Kenya's Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) hosted a delegation from Brazil's energy regulator ANEEL for a benchmarking visit focused on regulatory cooperation and clean energy transition, while also urging greater regional collaboration among African nations to reduce electricity costs.
Parliament Suspends MP Wamboka as PIC Chair Over Bribery, Intimidation Probe - April 2026
Bumula Member of Parliament Jack Wamboka has been suspended as chairperson of the Public Investments Committee (PIC) on Governance and Education amid allegations of bribery and intimidation. The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) Chairperson Samuel Kobia subsequently petitioned National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula to investigate the MP over the same allegations. Parliament removed Wamboka as PIC chairperson pending a formal investigation into the bribery allegations.
Pressure Mounts on IEBC Acting CEO to Resign Over Voter Register Irregularities - April 2026
Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has demanded the immediate resignation of IEBC acting CEO Ledama Sunkuli over alleged voter registration irregularities. Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), demanding immediate action on serious concerns about the integrity of the voter register. Members of the National Assembly are also demanding answers from IEBC regarding alleged irregular voter transfers within the voter register, particularly affecting voters in Nairobi.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
April 23
Kenya to Invest in Ksh 500B Company in Uganda, Ruto Announces - April 2026
Kenya is set to invest in Uganda's Ksh 500 billion oil refinery, announced President William Ruto, signaling a deepening economic and energy cooperation between the two East African nations. Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote has pledged to build an oil refinery in East Africa, mirroring his Nigerian facility, with significant support from President Ruto and President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda to boost regional fuel supply. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni arrived in Nairobi to attend the Africa We Build Summit 2026, a forum focused on accelerating infrastructure development across the continent. However, the Bomas International Convention Complex in Kenya will not meet its May 2026 completion deadline, forcing the relocation of the planned Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth Summit.
KIM Resumes Operations After Court Halts TVETA Enforcement - April 2026
The Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) has resumed full operations after the High Court stayed enforcement of a revocation notice by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA). The High Court temporarily suspended TVETA's decision to revoke the operating licence of KIM, providing relief to thousands of students. Separately, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba debunked a viral social media notice falsely claiming that contracted professionals for the 2025 national examinations would be paid starting July 1, 2026, noting the notice was a fabrication using the Ministry of Education letterhead. The Teachers Service Commission also debunked viral social media posts claiming changes to hardship allowances and approved teaching subject combinations.
Treasury Issues Update on Kenya Pipeline Status After Privatisation - April 2026
The National Treasury has officially removed the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) from its list of state entities following the completion of its Initial Public Offering (IPO), marking a significant milestone in Kenya's privatisation efforts. The Treasury had previously received Ksh103 billion from the partial sale of KPC. Meanwhile, the Controller of Budget, Dr Margaret Nyakango, issued a strong warning that the proposed Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) Bill, 2026, could allow significant revenues to bypass the Consolidated Fund, potentially violating the Constitution. Separately, the National Treasury invited Kenyans to submit their ideas for the 2026/27 Budget Statement, set to be presented to Parliament on June 11, 2026, with public consultation focused on economic policy, expenditure priorities, and tax measures.
More from Thursday:
Friday
April 24
UAE Warns of Diplomatic Failure as Iran Attacks Persist in Gulf - April 2026
The United Arab Emirates has declared that diplomacy will fail if Iran's attacks persist in the Gulf Region, emphasizing that a simple ceasefire is insufficient for stability. Further, the UAE has assured Kenya that approximately 30,000 Kenyans living and working in the Gulf nation are safe amidst ongoing regional tensions. At the same time, the UAE has pledged to maintain strong trade and travel links with Kenya despite regional security concerns impacting shipping routes, as Kenya seeks alternative cargo corridors due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea.
Maraga opposes zoning, warns it fuels tribalism - April 2026
Presidential hopeful David Maraga has voiced strong opposition to the concept of political zoning ahead of the general election, arguing it could undermine national unity. He strongly condemned alleged schemes by political parties to zone constituencies based on ethnic and regional influence. At the same time, President William Ruto remained non-committal regarding ODM zoning remarks during a meeting he chaired at State House, Nairobi. A recent high-stakes meeting between ODM and UDA at State House exposed deep tensions over political turf, particularly regarding zoning and grassroots expansion. Meanwhile, Kenyan political leaders are being urged to adopt a new approach towards the youth, shifting from exploiting them as political pawns or tools for violence.
Man City go top of Premier League After Burnley Defeat - April 2026
Manchester City have taken the lead in the Premier League table after a narrow 1-0 victory against Burnley at Turf Moor, confirming Burnley's relegation to the Championship. The win lifts City above their rivals in the title race. At the same time, Manchester United interim head coach Michael Carrick expressed enjoyment of his current role but stated he is not actively seeking a definitive answer about his future with the club. Reports of Italy potentially replacing Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dismissed by Italian officials and the Iranian embassy, adding to the international football discourse surrounding World Cup preparations.
More from Friday:
Saturday
April 25
KRA Lists Step-by-Step Process to Clear Tax Arrears Ahead of April 30 Deadline - April 2026
The Kenya Revenue Authority has detailed a five-step process for taxpayers to settle tax arrears before the April 30, 2026 deadline, warning of penalties for non-compliance. The government has reduced the minimum sugarcane price by Ksh250 per tonne from Ksh5,750 to Ksh5,500, a move expected to lower retail sugar prices. The Federation of Kenya Employers is urging the government to halt a proposed 7 per cent minimum wage increase, citing current economic strain on businesses ahead of Ruto's directive on salary increases. Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission is nearing the end of its Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration drive, having recorded 1.8 million new voters.
Matiang’i Urges Leaders to Stop Interfering With Police, Promote Peace Ahead of Elections - April 2026
Presidential candidate Fred Matiang’i has urged Kenyan leaders to cease interfering with police operations and to promote peace ahead of the upcoming elections. This call comes as tension builds in Kisumu ahead of a planned Sunday rally by the Linda Mwananchi brigade, with local leaders and residents urging for calm and issue-based political discourse. Meanwhile, National Police Service IG Joseph Kanja established six mandatory rules for public rally organisers across Kenya, emphasizing adherence to the law and public safety. Separately, Martha Karua, leader of the People's Liberation Party, rallied a crowd in Karatina calling for a new era of leadership focused on service and accountability.
FKF President Declares Suspension Null and Void Over Sh42 Million CHAN Scandal - April 2026
Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed has declared his suspension by the National Executive Committee null and void, citing irregularities in the meeting's convening. He has denied any misappropriation of funds in the Sh42 million CHAN insurance scandal, asserting that Confederation of African Football secured the cover. The embattled FKF boss rejected his suspension over alleged financial mismanagement related to the 2025 African Nations Championship. He was subsequently suspended by the federation's NEC due to allegations of financial impropriety involving the Ksh42 million scandal.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
April 26
Trump evacuated from White House correspondents' dinner - April 2026
U.S. President Donald Trump was evacuated from the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday night following a security incident where gunshots were reportedly heard. The shooter has been apprehended and charged.
Scores Killed as Attackers Open Fire At Civilians in Kitui - April 2026
A brutal bandit attack in Kitui County on Saturday, April 25, resulted in the deaths of at least seven people in Kamari village, Tseikuru. Homes were also set ablaze, leaving families displaced. Cabinet Secretary for Interior Kipchumba Murkomen has formally declared parts of Marsabit County a security-disturbed zone for 30 days due to escalating banditry and inter-communal violence. A suspected drug trafficker has been arrested in Likoni, Kenya, after a raid uncovered a significant quantity of narcotics.
Ruto Makes Over 30 Fresh Government Appointments - April 2026
President William Ruto has appointed 37 new judges to the High Court and the Environment and Land Court (ELC), aiming to alleviate a significant backlog of cases. However, the president is facing accusations of taking credit for projects initiated by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, as he recently visited and commissioned developments at Kiharu Technical and Vocational College, a facility previously launched by the MP. The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) is suing the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) for alleged tax evasion and misuse of public funds, citing a report from the Auditor General.