May 4 - May 10, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, May 4 to Sunday, May 10, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
May 4
37 High Court judges officially sworn in by President William Ruto - May 2026
President William Ruto has officially sworn in 37 new High Court judges at a ceremony held at State House. At the same event, Ruto urged newly sworn-in judges to prioritize integrity and deliver justice promptly, even in the face of unpopular decisions. Separately, homicide detectives have taken over the investigation into the death of former Nairobi Hospital Board member Doctor Job Obwaka, with several individuals who were in contact with him prior to his passing questioned as part of the ongoing probe.
Kang'ata to quit Ruto's UDA party citing 'honest differences' - May 2026
Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has announced he will not seek re-election on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in 2027, citing "honest differences" with President William Ruto over policy priorities. Meanwhile, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended former President Uhuru Kenyatta against threats by some Kenya Kwanza leaders to withdraw his retirement benefits due to his political activities. Separately, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has introduced a motion in Parliament seeking to significantly reduce or withdraw the retirement benefits of former president Uhuru Kenyatta, alleging his continued involvement in active politics.
Police hunt masterminds behind weapons seized along Thika–Garissa Highway - May 2026
Kenyan police are actively hunting for the masterminds behind a significant firearms and ammunition cache seized from a bus along the Thika–Garissa Highway on Sunday. The discovery was made during a routine check. In a separate incident, Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives successfully thwarted an attempt to steal jet fuel from an aircraft at Wilson Airport, arresting four suspects who tried to steal 800 litres of jet fuel. Tension also erupted in Vihiga County where boda boda operators clashed with police along the Busia-Kisumu highway following a crackdown on motorbikes, leading to temporary transport paralysis with operators blocking roads.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
May 5
Ruto, Suluhu Clash Over Dangote-Backed Tanga Oil Refinery - May 2026
President William Ruto has defended his announcement of a proposed oil refinery in Tanga, Tanzania, after President Samia Suluhu publicly stated she had not been consulted. Speaking to the Tanzanian Parliament during a historic address in Dodoma, Ruto emphasized East African Community (EAC) integration and regional benefits. Tanzanian MPs openly endorsed President Ruto, praising him and expressing hopes for his re-election in 2027. Kenya and Tanzania signed eight agreements to deepen bilateral ties and boost regional integration. The Voi-Mwatate-Taveta railway line, dormant for over two decades, is set to be fully operational by April 2027, with Ruto identifying unemployment and poverty as the primary adversaries for both nations.
ODM Leadership Calls Truce at Mombasa Retreat to End Internal Wrangles - May 2026
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership has called for a truce at a Mombasa retreat, resolving to end internal conflicts and restore party unity. The retreat entered its second day focusing on strategizing for the 2027 General Election. ODM warned against anyone making statements contradicting party leadership. Siaya Governor James Orengo defended his role in securing ODM's claim for unpaid public funding, as the party demands Sh12 billion from the State. ODM leader Oburu Oginga called for an end to internal party disputes, warning that ongoing conflicts risk weakening the party ahead of next year's General Election.
Media Freedom in Kenya at Lowest Point in Over Two Decades - May 2026
A new report indicates that media freedom in Kenya is at its lowest point in over two decades, raising significant concerns about the safety of journalists and the overall deteriorating environment for independent media. Journalists' safety and declining public trust in Kenyan media were highlighted during World Press Freedom Day commemorations, amidst rising threats to press freedom. A U.S. envoy urged Kenyan media to uphold strong ethical standards and transparency to safeguard public trust, especially in the age of AI-generated content. A Media Council of Kenya report indicated that Standard Group PLC's media platforms remain a trusted source of news for Kenyans.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
May 6
Fresh Fuel Shortage Hits Nairobi, Several Towns Ahead of EPRA Review - May 2026
A widespread fuel shortage is currently affecting several towns across Kenya, with Nairobi experiencing the most severe impact. Motorists are facing long queues and some stations are running dry, creating significant disruption. Matatu operators from the Mwiki route staged a protest in the Nairobi CBD on Wednesday, May 6, disrupting public transport and citing ongoing extortion, insecurity, and interference from unknown groups. The Kenyan government is actively working to resolve the fuel supply issue.
Health PS Muthoni Elected Chair of the African Permanent and Principal Secretaries for Health - May 2026
Kenya's Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the African Permanent and Principal Secretaries for Health during a high-level meeting in Brazzaville focused on cross-border health security. Healthcare workers in Kenya are experiencing alarmingly high rates of burnout, characterized by profound physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion due to chronic workplace stress, negatively impacting patient care. On International Midwives Day, a critical shortage of midwives and nurses in Kenya was highlighted, with calls for urgent government intervention. Kenya, in collaboration with KEMRI, has also launched the TRACE project to investigate the impact of aflatoxins on child health, exacerbated by climate change.
Ministry to Introduce New Digital System in Schools Amid Shortage Crisis - May 2026
The Ministry of Education is launching a new real-time digital system within the next month to tackle persistent textbook shortages affecting Kenya's Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum. The government is also implementing a policy shift to increase student enrollment in the country's top-performing national and extra-county schools. A report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics reveals a surge in demand for specific health science courses at the Kenya Medical Training College, with enrollment figures highlighting most preferred diploma and certificate programs. Meanwhile, KMTC issued a stern warning about a fraudulent letter circulating on social media falsely claiming to offer assistance with admission letter replacements, course changes, transfers, and deferrals.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
May 7
Kindiki Vows Sustained Action Against Kitui Violence - May 2026
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has vowed sustained government action against recent killings and organized crime in Kitui County, calling the incidents barbaric. He assured residents that security agencies have been directed to bolster efforts to prevent further violence. Meanwhile, residents of Embu town are expressing growing concern over a recent surge in crime, citing a perceived breakdown in law and order. In a separate development, a family in Homa Bay is demanding an investigation by the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPO A) into the death of their relative while in police custody.
National Assembly opens public participation on Sh4.78 trillion budget - May 2026
The National Assembly has initiated public hearings on Kenya's proposed Sh4.78 trillion budget for 2026/27, taking the consultative process to 16 counties from May 13 to May 15. The Budget and Appropriations Committee is gathering input across these counties on the budget estimates. This massive budget allocation comes as Kenyan workers will see wage adjustments following the formalization of a 12% increase in general minimum wages and a 15% increase for agricultural workers, signed by Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua to cushion Kenyans from rising cost of living.
Treasury Increases eCitizen Service Fees Up to Ksh100 - May 2026
The National Treasury is increasing fees for government services accessed via the eCitizen platform, with charges now set to range up to Ksh100 per service. This comes as the Treasury has separately allocated Ksh50.6 billion to the Affordable Housing Units project for 2026/2027, a significant decrease from previous years, amid concerns over funding. The National Treasury has also unveiled substantial funding for higher education in the 2026/27 budget, significantly increasing support for students through HELB allocations and scholarships to bolster access to university and technical training programs.
More from Thursday:
Friday
May 8
First Win for Gachagua in Impeachment Case After Latest Court Pronouncement - May 2026
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has secured a significant victory in his impeachment case after a three-judge bench allowed the admission of a supplementary affidavit despite objections from Parliament and the Office of the Attorney General. The Kenyan court has allowed medical evidence from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's doctor regarding his health during his impeachment proceedings. The National Assembly is pushing for a fresh medical examination of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as part of his impeachment case, questioning the validity of his previous medical absence. The High Court hearing a petition challenging Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment was adjourned until Wednesday after respondents declined to proceed. Lawyers for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua are challenging a Senate decision in court, seeking to overturn his removal from office. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has warned that his potential removal from office could pave the way for political retribution.
54 Police Recruits Discontinued from Training Over Forged Documents - May 2026
A total of 54 police recruits have been discontinued from the National Police College Main Campus training course due to various infractions, including forged documents and criminal records. The trainees were part of a larger intake following a hiring freeze. Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced stricter vetting measures for the National Police Service following these dismissals. Meanwhile, the Kenyan government plans to elevate the National Police Training College Kiganjo in Nyeri into a fully-fledged police university to modernize the security sector.
State Effects Pay Rise for All Kenyan Workers - May 2026
Kenyan workers will see wage adjustments following the formalization of a 12% increase in general minimum wages and a 15% increase for agricultural workers. Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua signed the legal notices implementing these changes, aiming to cushion Kenyans from the rising cost of living. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi is facing criticism for omitting proposed Pay As You Earn (PAYE) relief for low-income earners from the Finance Bill 2026, despite earlier assurances. Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection, Alfred Mutua, has warned that drug abuse, specifically the use of Muguka and bhang, is significantly hindering young Kenyans' chances of securing overseas employment.
More from Friday:
Saturday
May 9
Samuel Nyagah clinches UDA nomination for Ol'Kalou seat - May 2026
Samuel Nyagah has won the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nomination for the Ol'Kalou parliamentary seat and will compete in the upcoming by-election to fill the vacancy left by the late area MP. The by-election is scheduled for July 16. Meanwhile, Samuel Muchina Nyagah has also won UDA party nominations and will fly the party ticket in the same Ol Kalou by-election, creating a competitive internal party dynamics. Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), is urging a significant turnout for the party's primaries in Ol Kalou Constituency on Saturday morning, highlighting the political stakes in this by-election.
Kabras Sugar Clinch Fifth Consecutive Kenya Cup Title - May 2026
Kabras Sugar RFC made history by clinching their fifth consecutive Kenya Cup title with a dramatic 14-8 victory over rivals KCB Rugby at Kakamega Showgrounds. The Kenya Cup final was set to be a historic showdown as defending champions Kabras Sugar hosted rivals KCB Rugby, with Kabras aiming to secure a record-breaking fifth consecutive title while KCB sought revenge and a return to championship glory. The Kenya Cup Rugby League finals took place at the Kakamega Showground with the highly anticipated showdown between Kabras Sugar and KCB RFC. Additionally, Kenyan rugby mourns the loss of Felix Oloo, former head coach of the Kenya Lionesses and Nakuru RFC, who passed away in the USA on May 4, 2026.
Amisi Claims Ruto Plotting to Dismantle ODM Before 2027 Polls - May 2026
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi alleges a plot by President William Ruto to dismantle the Orange Democratic Movement, potentially preventing it from appearing on the ballot in the 2027 General Election. Former Chief Justice David Maraga has warned that re-electing President Ruto in 2027 would be a disaster due to rampant allegations of corruption and costly mega-projects. Meanwhile, Bumula MP Jack Wamboka has accused National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula of orchestrating his removal as chairperson of the Public Investments Committee, alleging this is part of a politically motivated scheme to weaken him amid escalating political tensions in Western Kenya. ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga has broken his silence after a two-week absence, assuring the public he is well and has a plan to revamp the party.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
May 10
Kenya losing 15 mothers and 92 newborns daily - May 2026
Kenya faces a severe maternal and newborn health crisis, with at least 15 mothers and 92 newborns dying daily despite ongoing healthcare investments. An NTV Kenya report probes the extent to which Kenya is upholding the dignity of mothers and newborns. A separate story highlights that a significant number of women experience mental distress both during pregnancy and in the initial period following childbirth. Kenya also faces a significant reproductive and child health crisis, with a staggering number of maternal and infant deaths occurring daily.
NPS defends dismissal of 18 pregnant recruits amid backlash - May 2026
The National Police Service has defended its decision to dismiss 18 pregnant police recruits from the National Police College in Kiganjo, stating the dismissals were based on medical fitness requirements and not misconduct. The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) is demanding a complete overhaul of police recruitment and training policies and a review of existing policies. Meanwhile, NGOs are celebrating a significant milestone in the fight against gender-based violence in Nairobi's slums, with 3,000 cases successfully prosecuted. The NPS has also refuted claims that female recruits were discontinued due to pregnancies resulting from affairs within the institution.
Presidents arrive in Nairobi ahead of Africa Forward Summit - May 2026
Several African Heads of State have arrived in Nairobi for the Africa Forward Summit scheduled for May 11-12, 2026. French President Emmanuel Macron also landed in Nairobi ahead of the summit, positioning Kenya as a central hub for France's Africa strategy. Civil society groups in Nairobi are protesting the summit, calling it a rebranding of imperialism and neo-colonialism.