January 26 - February 1, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, January 26 to Sunday, February 1, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
January 26
Uganda Lifts Social Media Ban Amid Post-Election Crackdown Following Museveni's Win - January 2026
Following a contested election where President Yoweri Museveni secured a seventh term with 71.65 percent of the vote, Uganda has lifted its ban on social media platforms. The ban was imposed after the January general elections and its removal was announced by Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba. In the post-election period, exiled former Supreme Court Justice Esther Kisaakye has condemned a violent crackdown on the opposition. President Museveni has since outlined a five-year agenda which includes safeguarding peace and eradicating poverty. Amidst these tensions, military chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba also denied claims that soldiers had assaulted Barbara Kyagulanyi, wife of opposition leader Bobi Wine.
Police Investigate Teargas Canister Thrown at Othaya Church Service Attended by Rigathi Gachagua - January 2026
The National Police Service (NPS) has launched an urgent investigation after a teargas canister was thrown into St. Peter's African Church of Kenya (ACK) in Witima, Othaya, on January 25. The incident disrupted a church service attended by leader Rigathi Gachagua. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) condemned the police for the attack, calling it unconstitutional. Following the chaos, allies of Gachagua are demanding drastic changes to the police service, including its devolution to counties. Meanwhile, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki hinted the violence might have been orchestrated for political sympathy, while Gachagua claimed there was an assassination attempt by a state-sponsored killer squad.
Al-Shabaab Attack in Hulugho Kills Chief and Teacher; Security Team Deployed - January 2026
A Location Chief and a primary school teacher were killed in a suspected Al-Shabaab attack in Hulugho town, Garissa County, on Monday morning. The militants also attacked the local police station but reportedly caused no injuries there. Following the deadly attack, Inspector General Douglas Kanja ordered the deployment of a multi-agency security team to the area. The National Police Service (NPS) has since launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. Security operations are now underway to apprehend those responsible, and patrols have been intensified in the region.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
January 27
GBV Taskforce Presents Femicide Report, Proposes Legal Reforms and Sh50 Billion Fund - January 2026
President William Ruto received a report on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide from a taskforce led by former Deputy Chief Justice Dr. Nancy Baraza, pledging a coordinated national response to what is described as a national crisis. The report revealed that Kenya lacks a standalone femicide law despite a 10 percent rise in reported killings between 2022 and 2024. The Technical Working Group on GBV has proposed several reforms, including mandatory chemical castration for child sex offenders and criminalizing out-of-court settlements in abuse cases. Furthermore, the taskforce urged the National Treasury to allocate a ring-fenced Sh50 billion in the 2026/2027 financial year to establish a dedicated response fund. President Ruto also called on all Kenyans to take collective responsibility in ending gender-based violence.
IEBC Delays Boundary Review and Registration of 32 Parties Stalls Ahead of 2027 Election - January 2026
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has postponed the review and delimitation of electoral boundaries until after the 2027 General Election, citing tight constitutional timelines and logistical preparations. IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon warned that these delays could significantly impede the 2027 general elections. In a separate challenge to the upcoming polls, the registration of 32 new political parties has stalled due to a funding crisis within the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP). Amid these developments, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula warned that over half of current Members of Parliament might lose their seats in the 2027 elections, based on a 56 percent attrition rate. He urged MPs to contribute to a savings scheme, reigniting discussions on pension and medical insurance reforms.
Political Fallout and Denials Follow Attack on Rigathi Gachagua at Nyeri Church - January 2026
A political storm has followed an attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, on Sunday. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) condemned the teargassing of worshipers at the church on January 26, 2026, describing the police action as brutal and a flagrant violation of human rights. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki vehemently denied claims made by Rigathi Gachagua that one of his bodyguards was involved in the violence. Kindiki stated the individual in a circulated image is unknown to him and not part of his staff, accusing Gachagua of political targeting. He refuted any links to the chaos at the church service, which has sparked widespread condemnation from clergy and political leaders.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
January 28
President Ruto Swears in 15 Judges, Addresses Judiciary on Court Orders and Policy - January 2026
On Wednesday, January 28, President William Ruto presided over the swearing-in of fifteen new appellate judges at State House, Nairobi, to address a severe shortage in the Court of Appeal. During the ceremony, President Ruto affirmed his administration's commitment to upholding the rule of law and vowed never to defy court orders. However, he also publicly criticized the Kenyan Judiciary in front of Chief Justice Martha Koome, accusing judges of blocking key government projects and impeding his administration’s mandate. President Ruto also announced his intention to seek a court interpretation on the legal standing of political party manifestos in government policy implementation. This move aims to clarify how an electoral manifesto can guide policy when facing legal challenges.
Clinical Officers End 36-Day Strike as Matatu Operators Announce Nationwide Strike for Feb 2 - January 2026
Kenyan clinical officers have called off their 36-day strike after signing a Return-to-Work Formula with the Council of Governors (CoG). Normal operations in public hospitals are expected to resume immediately following this agreement. Meanwhile, matatu operators have announced a nationwide strike starting Monday, February 2. They are threatening the strike due to alleged vehicle torching and "lawlessness" by boda boda operators. The matatu owners claim the government has failed to protect their private property and plan to block major roads until their concerns are addressed.
Education Ministry Addresses School Demolition, Fees Scandal, and Athlete Age Cheating - January 2026
Education CS Julius Ogamba assured Parliament that Laromoru Primary School in Baringo South will continue operating despite a partial demolition by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). He confirmed an agreement to halt further demolitions and pledged government support for pupils who were forced to learn under trees. The CS also pledged to take action against school principals and education inspectors colluding on unlawful school fees.Separately, an investigation by Athletics Kenya (AK) found at least 20 international athletes guilty of age cheating. The probe implicated 10 schools in age manipulation, prompting AK to seek discussions with the Ministry of Education.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
January 29
Clinical Officers' 36-Day Strike Ends; Health Sector Faces Fraud and Crackdowns - January 2026
The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has called off its 36-day strike after signing a Return-to-Work Formula with the Council of Governors (CoG), allowing for the resumption of normal operations in public hospitals. The agreement addresses stalled Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations and other demands. In separate news, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has committed to publicly naming hospitals implicated in Ksh11 billion in fraudulent claims rejected by the Social Health Authority’s (SHA) fraud detection system. Duale affirmed these claims, identified through forensic audits, will not be paid. Concurrently, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) have initiated a crackdown on unlicensed health facilities in Nairobi, leading to arrests.
Authorities Respond to Separate Violent Crimes in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Mumbai - January 2026
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has approved murder charges against two police officers, Sergeant Godwin Mjomba and Constable Patrick Mutunga Titus, for the fatal shooting of Shukri Adan Ibrahim Isaac in Mukuru kwa Njenga on January 11. In Mombasa, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested one suspect involved in the brutal assault of a watchman with a panga, an incident captured in viral CCTV footage. The suspect was apprehended at a guest house in the Bondeni "A" area. Meanwhile, a Kenyan businesswoman was robbed of ₹66.45 lakh (Ksh9.3 million) in Mumbai by individuals impersonating Indian Police on Tuesday, January 27.
President Ruto Announces Nyanza Projects and Conducts Diplomatic Meetings - January 2026
President William Ruto announced plans for the construction of a new airport and an international football stadium in Kisii County, with a development tour of the region scheduled for next month. In diplomatic engagements, the President met with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau at the State House in Nairobi to review trade and security cooperation. The discussions on Thursday, January 29, focused on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional security. Additionally, President Ruto promised Kenya's assistance to South Sudan for its December 2026 elections, a commitment made after a meeting with South Sudan's presidential special envoy, Tut Gatluak.
More from Thursday:
Friday
January 30
Government Agencies Launch and Upgrade National Infrastructure Projects - January 2026
Kenya and the United States have launched a Ksh9.1 billion runway expansion project at Kenya Navy Base Manda Bay in Lamu, aiming to enhance regional security operations. Concurrently, the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) has energized the new Sondu-Ndhiwa-Homa Bay-Awendo 132kV transmission line to reduce power outages in Nyanza and parts of Western Kenya. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is also upgrading its cargo monitoring system, the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS), to incorporate user-owned electronic seals to improve cross-border trade efficiency. In the transport sector, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the National Police Service (NPS) are piloting a digital ID system for boda boda riders in Nairobi. This initiative aims to regulate the motorcycle transport sector and address concerns about traffic violations.
Power Struggle in ODM and Ruto-Oginga Talks Emerge After Raila Odinga's Death - January 2026
Following the death of Raila Odinga, a significant power struggle has emerged, marked by the bold political emergence of his daughter, Winnie Odinga. His widow, Idah Odinga, revealed the family was surprised by his request to be buried within 72 hours and thanked President William Ruto for his assistance in honoring this wish. In a separate development, UDA allies are growing concerned about their political future due to talks between President William Ruto and ODM leader Oburu Oginga. These talks hint at a potential pre-election power-sharing agreement, which many in UDA fear could sideline them within the ruling coalition.
Opposition Seeks Meeting with IG Over Attacks on Gachagua Amid Mt Kenya Tensions - January 2026
Political tensions in the Mt Kenya region are escalating, marked by claims of police misuse and politically motivated transfers linked to the 2027 general election. An incident at ACK Witima Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, involved the deployment of teargas during a service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Following this, the United Opposition has requested a meeting on January 30 with Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja. The opposition group is seeking to address what they claim are 24 attacks targeting their leaders and supporters since November 2024. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is cited as the primary victim of these persistent attacks.
More from Friday:
Saturday
January 31
Kenya Launches Ksh9.1B Lamu Runway, Plans Indigenous IP Fair and UDA Leadership School - January 2026
The Kenyan and U.S. governments have launched a Ksh9.1 billion runway expansion project at Kenya Navy Base Manda Bay in Lamu, aiming to enhance regional peace and security operations. Separately, Kenya is set to host its first International Investment Conference and Trade Fair on Indigenous Knowledge Intellectual Assets (IKIA) in Murang’a County in April 2026. This conference is designed to commercialize ancestral knowledge and promote indigenous crops. In the political sphere, the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party plans to establish a political leadership school. To facilitate this, a UDA delegation led by Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan is currently in China studying the Communist Party of China's (CPC) expertise in cadre training and grassroots mobilization.
Kenyan Governance Under Scrutiny Over County Debts, Public Hiring, and Criticism - January 2026
Kajiado County is facing a severe water crisis as its three main utilities reported a combined negative working capital exceeding KSh 586 million. This was revealed during a Senate session where Governor Joseph Ole Lenku responded to an audit report detailing systemic failures and alleged mismanagement. In a separate matter of public administration, a coalition of Kenyan Civil Society Organizations has petitioned the Public Service Commission (PSC) regarding recent staffing changes and job advertisements at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). Meanwhile, at the groundbreaking for the Law Society of Kenya's (LSK) Wakili Towers in Nairobi, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen affirmed the government's openness to constructive criticism.
Ruto Administration Engages Opposition Regions and Figures - January 2026
President William Ruto is intensifying efforts for coalition talks between his UDA party and ODM leadership while unveiling development projects in Kisumu. Concurrently, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is urging leaders in the Western region to join the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). Mudavadi warned that the region risks political marginalization if it does not unite under the ruling party. In a separate development, Idah Odinga, widow of the late Raila Odinga, thanked President William Ruto for his assistance. She revealed his help was instrumental in honoring her husband's wish to be buried within 72 hours, a request that had surprised the family.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
February 1
Fatal Matatu Crash on Thika Road, Tanker Accident, and Suspended Operator Strike - February 2026
A horrific accident on Thika Road in Nairobi resulted in the deaths of at least 10 teachers and left 14 others injured when a 33-seater matatu with reported brake failure rammed into them. In a separate incident, a petroleum tanker crashed on the Eldoret–Malaba Highway at Maili Tisa, leading to dangerous scenes as residents attempted to siphon spilled fuel. Meanwhile, a nationwide strike by Matatu Operators and other motorists, initially planned for Monday, February 2, 2026, has been suspended. The postponement allows for dialogue between stakeholders to address pressing concerns within the public transport sector.
Government Bodies Impose Fines, Delist Companies, and Make Arrests in Crackdowns - February 2026
The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) ordered a city school to pay Ksh 637,500 for unlawfully advertising a minor's information in a national newspaper. Following this data protection ruling, parents can now sue schools for publishing their children's names without consent. In a separate action, the Registrar of Companies has struck off over 100 companies from the national register for being dormant or non-compliant, with hundreds more facing potential dissolution. Additionally, the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) has intensified its crackdown on fake pest control products, leading to the arrest of 25 individuals.
Govt Announces Nairobi Cleanup, Affordable Housing Skill Program, and Huduma Centre Digital Appointments - February 2026
President William Ruto announced a comprehensive clean-up initiative for Nairobi, commencing on April 1st, to transform the city's waste management system in collaboration with Nairobi County and residents. In another development, the Affordable Housing Project is being highlighted as a dual initiative that fosters both economic empowerment and skill development among Kenya's youth. To improve access to services, Kenyans can now book online appointments for birth and death certificates at Huduma Centres. This digital system allows users to select specific dates and times before visiting, thereby avoiding long queues.