May 25 - May 31, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, May 25 to Sunday, May 31, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
May 25
IG Kanja Orders Changes to Ruto's Security Detail After Kilifi Breach - May 2026
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has announced immediate changes to President William Ruto's security detail following a significant breach during a public event in Ganze, Kilifi County on Sunday, May 24, 2026. An individual briefly approached the President during a thanksgiving event, touching his shoulders before being restrained. The National Police Service has initiated significant changes, with William Sawe appointed as the new Commandant of the Presidential Escort Unit, replacing Noah Kirwa Maiyo. Senior officers in the Presidential Escort Unit have been reshuffled as part of the security overhaul ordered after the breach.
Chaos Erupts in Nyeri, Thika and Nyahururu Over High Transport Fares - May 2026
Nyeri, Thika, and Nyahururu experienced widespread chaos as residents protested exorbitant transport fares driven by rising fuel prices. The demonstrations brought transport and business to a standstill, with angry citizens blocking major roads. In Nyahururu, protesters engaged police in running battles amid the demonstrations. Transportation services in Nyeri were severely disrupted due to a strike by matatu operators protesting escalating fuel prices. Meanwhile, Nairobi experienced significant traffic disruptions on Limuru Road following a protest by boda boda operators. Governor Johnson Sakaja is urging banks to implement a 90-day freeze on matatu repossessions to alleviate financial pressure on transport operators.
CS Mbadi Urges Leaders to Stop Propaganda Over Finance Bill 2026 - May 2026
National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has urged political leaders to cease spreading misinformation about the Finance Bill 2026/27, defending its measures as aimed at simplifying taxes and protecting Kenyans. Mbadi has rebuffed claims made by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka regarding the bill, specifically allegations about an annual rent on freehold land. The National Assembly has vehemently denied reports claiming the Finance Bill 2026 introduces an annual land rent for freehold land. Treasury has also debunked circulating claims about new taxes on cryptocurrency, bread, and mobile money.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
May 26
Finance Bill 2026 Draws Mixed Reactions From Stakeholders - May 2026
Kenyan businesses broadly support a proposed tax amnesty program under the Finance Bill 2026, but are urging lawmakers to extend deadlines and reform laws surrounding tax refunds to avoid liquidity issues. Kenya's private sector is pushing back against the proposed digital tax in the Finance Bill 2026, warning it could harm financial flows and the tax base. Stakeholders and the National Assembly's Finance Committee are raising concerns about potential system inefficiencies at the Kenya Revenue Authority, opposing a proposal to shorten the annual tax filing deadline. Separately, Kenyan lawmakers are cautioning the National Treasury against its Sh4.82 trillion budget for the 2026/27 financial year, citing the risks posed by rising public debt and high oil prices amid global instability.
Parliament Seeks Additional Ksh33B to IEBC Ahead of Elections - May 2026
The National Assembly Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs has proposed an additional Ksh 33 billion for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to ensure adequate funding for the 2027 General Election. A parliamentary committee proposed a substantial budget increase for the IEBC and other justice sector institutions to address funding gaps before the 2027 polls. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has dismissed claims of election rigging, asserting the Kenya Kwanza administration will win the 2027 General Election based on its development achievements. Meanwhile, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is urging for national stability and unity ahead of the August 2027 general elections, emphasizing that peace is crucial for economic prosperity.
KeNHA Secures World Bank Funding for New 536KM Highway Linking 7 Counties - May 2026
The Kenya National Highways Authority has secured a significant grant from the World Bank for a massive road development project in the Rift Valley region. A Super Metro bus overturned on the Northern Bypass near the Kahawa West underpass on Tuesday morning, causing significant traffic gridlock. The Kenya Pipeline Company has announced plans to auction off used trucks and unserviceable equipment through a competitive bidding process next month. The National Transport and Safety Authority has rescheduled crucial eLogbook training sessions due to the declaration of Wednesday, May 27, as a public holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
May 27
UDA Leaders Give SG Hassan Omar 48 Hours to Resign - May 2026
A group of UDA leaders from the Mount Kenya region are demanding the immediate resignation of party Secretary General Hassan Omar within 48 hours. The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has also accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of actively undermining President William Ruto's administration. Additionally, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has accused UDA of a secret plan to infiltrate Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) ahead of the 2027 General Election. Meanwhile, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has stated that President Ruto's administration development record will be the deciding factor in the 2027 General Election, dismissing what he termed as empty rhetoric from the opposition.
Budget Committee Flags Funding Gaps, Push for Better Budget Prioritisation - May 2026
The Budget and Appropriations Committee has raised concerns about funding gaps and called for better budget prioritisation across government sectors, warning against inefficiencies and overlapping programmes. The National Assembly has voted to establish a Mediation Committee to resolve a stalemate with the Senate over the Division of Revenue Bill. New taxes proposed in Kenya's Finance Bill, 2026 are facing significant criticism for potentially increasing the cost of living and impacting family incomes. Separately, the High Court has mandated Parliament to disclose the complete budget for the 23rd National Prayer Breakfast within 30 days, emphasizing the right to access information regarding public expenditure.
DCI Arrests Bunge La Mwananchi Leader Who Threatened Ruto - May 2026
Bunge la Mwananchi leader Evans Kawala, 33, has been arrested by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) for allegedly making inflammatory public utterances against President William Ruto. This arrest follows reports that Kawala was allegedly abducted on Tuesday evening, May 26, prompting concern from supporters and observers. The incidents highlight ongoing tensions between civil society leaders and the administration, with the DCI taking action against what they characterize as threatening speech.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
May 28
16 Killed in Utumishi Girls Academy Dormitory Fire - May 2026
A devastating dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County has resulted in the tragic deaths of 16 students and injuries to 79 others. The incident occurred around 12:45 am. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba ordered the midday release of students from the school and urged parents to report through a government hotline. Senior government officials including Cabinet Secretaries Murkomen and Ogamba, along with Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, convened a crisis meeting at the scene. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations launched a probe into the fire incident while Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka urged the government to implement urgent safety reforms in schools.
Ruto Details High-Stakes Talks With Matatu Stakeholders Amid Fresh Strike Fears - May 2026
President William Ruto has denied pressuring transport stakeholders to end their strike, asserting the decision was theirs after understanding the government's position on fuel prices. Matatu workers through the Matatu Workers Union and Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association are threatening a nationwide strike over their exclusion from crucial fuel price reduction negotiations. The International Monetary Fund has advised Kenya and other nations to avoid prolonged fuel subsidies amidst rising global energy costs, warning they can worsen inflation and strain public finances.
Trump Directs U.S. Military to Build Ebola Quarantine Facility in Kenya in 7 Days - May 2026
The United States Military is rapidly setting up a $50-bed quarantine facility in central Kenya within one week to house Americans exposed to Ebola, following the rapid spread of the virus in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. The Katiba Institute has filed a lawsuit against the Kenyan government challenging the proposed establishment of Ebola quarantine and treatment facilities for US nationals exposed to the virus. The Law Society of Kenya has strongly rejected a reported proposal to establish an Ebola treatment centre in Kenya for patients from other countries. Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has stated that any agreements with foreign nations concerning the handling of individuals exposed to Ebola must adhere strictly to Kenyan law and public health regulations.
More from Thursday:
Friday
May 29
Detectives Detain Over 10 Students Over Utumishi Girls' Fire Incident - May 2026
Police in Kenya have detained over 10 students from Utumishi Girls Academy following a deadly dormitory fire that tragically killed 16 learners and injured 79 others. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has dissolved the Board of Management of Utumishi Girls Academy and ordered disciplinary action against the principal. Eght students subsequently arrested in connection with the suspected arson attack. Chief Justice Martha Koome has called for a thorough review of school safety standards following the tragedy. Meanwhile, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna plans to revive a Senate probe into the crisis of overcrowded and deteriorating infrastructure in public secondary schools. Authorities are utilizing DNA analysis to identify the victims, with some student bodies burned beyond recognition.
High Court Suspends US-Backed Ebola Facility - May 2026
The High Court in Kenya has issued a temporary order suspending the establishment and operation of any US-backed Ebola quarantine, isolation, or treatment facilities in the country. This decision came after a legal challenge by lobby groups concerned about public safety. The Katiba Institute had filed a petition at the High Court in Nairobi seeking to halt plans for the establishment of Ebola treatment centers in Kenya. Kenya had approved a US plan to establish an Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, with America committing Ksh1.7 billion to bolster the country's preparedness efforts. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Kenyan President William Ruto to discuss the ongoing Ebola outbreak and reinforce Kenya's preparedness. President William Ruto announced the formation of a National Response Committee to bolster Kenya's preparedness for Ebola, following outbreaks in neighboring countries. Kenya's Parliamentary Health Committee has summoned Health CS Aden Duale and other ministry officials over the government's approval of a US Ebola quarantine center.
EACC Arrests Senior Police Officers Over Ksh100,000 Land Bribe - May 2026
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested two senior police officers in Kisii County over allegations of soliciting a Ksh100,000 bribe. The officers were apprehended after allegedly receiving a partial payment in connection with a land dispute case. In a separate case, the EACC has also arrested a Kenya Power employee and an accomplice for allegedly soliciting and receiving a bribe of KSh30,000 to restore electricity.
More from Friday:
Saturday
May 30
Ebola isolation centre set up at JKIA as Kenya steps up preparedness - May 2026
Kenya has significantly enhanced its preparedness measures against Ebola and other public health threats, establishing a dedicated isolation center at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Kenya's Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni reviewed Ebola preparedness and containment measures at JKIA, where Gate 16 has been designated specifically for passengers arriving from Ebola high-risk countries. Kenya is strengthening screening measures at JKIA to prevent the entry of Ebola from high-risk countries. The Prime CS announced Kenya is preparing to enhance its Ebola preparedness by establishing nearly 16 intervention centres across the country.
Finance Bill 2026 Proposes Tax Increases Amid Cost of Living Strain - May 2026
The Finance Bill 2026 has sparked debate in Kenya as it proposes significant tax increases to raise approximately Sh120 billion amid persistent cost of living pressures. Mitumba traders in Kenya are advocating for a 5% presumptive tax on imported second-hand clothing, presenting their proposal to the National Assembly's Finance Committee as part of the Finance Bill 2026 public participation. Kenya's annual inflation has climbed to 6.7% in May 2026, a significant increase from 5.6% in April 2026, driven by food, transport and fuel costs. The National Assembly Finance Committee is grappling with misinformation surrounding the Finance Bill 2026, as false claims about tax measures are misleading the public.
IPOA Investigates Fatal Shooting During Anti-Fuel Protests - May 2026
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into deaths and shootings that occurred during recent fuel protests across Kenya. IPOA is investigating multiple deaths and an officer-involved shooting that occurred during the nationwide fuel price protests on May 18 to 19. The Cabinet Secretary for Public Service Geoffrey Ruku has warned that state agencies failing to adopt the new Human Resource Information System (HRIS) risk having their salary payments frozen, amid broader civil servant policy enforcement.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
May 31
Duale Explains KDF Involvement in Laikipia Ebola Facility - May 2026
Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale confirmed that the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) will operate the new Ebola virus quarantine facility in Laikipia, allaying concerns about potential U.S. control. Kenya has identified 25 counties as high risk for Ebola Virus Disease, though no confirmed cases have been recorded to date. The government issued a travel advisory warning citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo due to a surge in Ebola cases. The East African Community held an emergency virtual meeting on June 1st-2nd, 2026, to address the escalating Ebola outbreak. Kenya has intensified screening measures and strengthened border surveillance to prevent entry of the virus.
Autopsy Reveals What Killed 16 Utumishi Girls Students - May 2026
Autopsy results confirmed that all 16 students who died in the dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls' Academy on May 28, 2026, succumbed to severe burns, contradicting earlier reports of suffocation. Detectives have positively identified seven students from the school involved in the devastating arson attack, while eight students have been detained as investigations continue. A dormitory at St Joseph's Seminary School in Molo, Nakuru County was also destroyed by fire on Saturday evening, with students safely evacuated and no injuries reported. Kenyan leaders are demanding an end to the practice of locking dormitories at night following the Utumishi tragedy, with calls for stronger parenting as school arson incidents raise alarm nationwide.
Government spends Sh4 billion on Madaraka Day in Wajir - May 2026
Kenya's government invested Sh4 billion in infrastructure development for the upcoming Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County. The 63rd edition will be led by President William Ruto at the new 10,000-seater Wajir Stadium. President Ruto announced the revival of the stalled 157-kilometre Modogashe-Samatar Road project with World Bank backing. This marks the first time the event will be held in the North Eastern region.