File image of Kindiki and Kimani Ichngwah Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has criticised political leaders over the chaotic scenes witnessed during the requiem service of the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho, saying the incident reflected poorly on leadership and contravened Mt Kenya cultural values. Speaking at the burial ceremony in Tigoni, Kiambu County, Kindiki said the send-off of the late legislator had been turned into a political arena, marked by exchanges that disrespected both the bereaved family and mourners. While he did not mention names, the Deputy President appeared to respond to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over the tensions witnessed, insisting that funerals should remain solemn and free from political confrontation. According to Kindiki, the events at the requiem service went against the traditions of the Mt Kenya community, which places a premium on dignity and respect during burial ceremonies. He emphasised that political differences should never be displayed during funerals, particularly when families are grieving. “As the people of Mt Kenya, it is not our culture to misbehave during funerals and private events. Whether Kikuyu, Embu or Meru, it is not within us to disrespect the departed during solemn occasions,” Kindiki stated. The Deputy President also issued an apology on behalf of political leaders whose conduct may have contributed to the disruption, noting that their actions fell short of expectations. “I apologise on behalf of the political leaders whose utterances, actions and behaviour put into disrepute the sending-off ceremony of Hon. Kiaraho,” he added. Kindiki further urged leaders to exercise restraint during funerals and memorial services, warning against turning such events into platforms for political rivalry or messaging. He maintained that leaders must prioritise the dignity of bereaved families and ensure funerals remain spaces of unity, reflection, and respect. The Deputy President expressed hope that similar incidents would not recur in future burial ceremonies across the country.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is entering the Kenya Air Force plane headed for Diani Airport on February 28, 2026. The Office of the Deputy President on Thursday came under scrutiny over its spending on helicopter travel, as the National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee interrogated pending bills totaling Ksh478 million for the 2024/2025 financial year. Lawmakers questioned an expenditure of up to Ksh8 million per day on helicopter services, with the office currently owing Ksh150 million to service providers. An inquiry into the pending bills indicated that a significant portion of the debt stemmed from helicopter use linked to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s official movements. Members of the committee raised concerns over whether the spending represented value for money for taxpayers. “There is an entry here for chopper use from Tharaka, Laikipia, Isiolo, Tharaka, Kitui… for Ksh8 million a day… is it reasonable?” Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo posed. Lawmakers also sought clarification on the frequency of trips to Tharaka Nithi County, the Deputy President’s home region. “Kipipiri, Tharaka, Tharaka, Tharaka… can the Deputy President work in one village?” Funyula MP Wilberforce Oundo questioned. Committee chairperson Tindi Mwale defended the Deputy President’s right to travel, even as concerns persisted over the use of public funds. “The DP has a right to go home… yes, he is the Deputy President,” Mwale stated. However, members maintained pressure, demanding justification for the high daily expenditure. “I had asked whether it is practicable to spend Ksh8 million in one day… that at least you can answer,” Otiende added. Meanwhile, the Deputy President’s Principal Administrative Secretary Moses Mbaruku was also put to task over spending on hospitality, including catering services, fresh flowers, and foodstuffs.

A side-by-side image of Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and PS Omollo Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i on Friday, April 10, cautioned Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo that power is temporary, amid allegations linking him to the attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi. Speaking at a United Opposition rally in Masinga, Matiang’i said several former Interior PSs once wielded immense authority but later faded into ordinary life after leaving office. According to Matiang’i, Omollo’s situation mirrors that of former Interior PS Hezekiah Oyugi, who served during President Daniel Moi’s era and was allegedly used to suppress dissent before falling out of power. “There used to be a PS of Interior known as Hezekiah Oyugi, who was as short as him. But today, he is no longer with us,” Matiang’i stated. “The path is the same. Do not think that because you have power, you can use goons to attack those with different political views,” he added. The Jubilee Party presidential hopeful warned that continued use of hired gangs to settle political disputes could push the country into chaos and instability. He questioned the safety of ordinary citizens, noting that if a sitting senator with state security can be attacked in broad daylight, then civilians remain highly vulnerable. Matiang’i further revealed that the opposition plans to escalate the matter to international bodies, alleging a deliberate scheme by the Kenya Kwanza administration to fuel unrest. “The coming week, we will hold a meeting to address this issue because we must tell the world that the government risks pushing Kenya into conflict like Haiti,” he said. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua echoed the concerns, warning Omollo that President William Ruto could be using him to achieve political objectives. Gachagua claimed that beyond deploying goons, Omollo was being used to weaken ODM’s influence in Luo Nyanza ahead of future elections. He further alleged that without zoning, ODM risks losing seats in its traditional strongholds to rival political formations. Leaders from the United Opposition and the ODM-linked Linda Mwananchi group have accused Omollo of allegedly masterminding the attack on Osotsi. Omollo has yet to respond to the claims, while police have so far arrested three suspects in connection with the incident.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has affirmed that he will attend the upcoming Linda Mwananchi rally in Nakuru, just days after he was attacked by unknown assailants in Kisumu. In a TikTok video shared on Friday, April 10, 2026, Osotsi, who is currently receiving treatment in hospital, urged Kenyans to turn up in large numbers for the rally scheduled for Sunday, April 12, in Nakuru County. “Wakenya wenzangu niko hospitalini lakini mjipange. Nakuru tunakuja. Mambo ni Wantam,” Osotsi said. The senator sustained injuries during an attack in Kisumu on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, before being airlifted to Nairobi for specialised treatment. CCTV footage from the restaurant where the incident occurred shows Osotsi in a confrontation with a group of rowdy individuals, which quickly turned violent, forcing his security team to intervene and evacuate him. His planned appearance at the Nakuru rally is expected to energise supporters of the Linda Mwananchi movement, which has been gaining momentum in recent weeks. Observers say his decision to show up despite the recent attack could amplify the movement’s message and draw even larger crowds. The Linda Mwananchi faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, has been holding rallies across the country, calling for political change ahead of the 2027 General Election.

President William Ruto, during the signing of the lease Agreement between Zaria and Kenya Railway Development of Indoor Arena at State House, Nairobi on April 10, 2026/PCS President William Ruto on Thursday lightened the mood at State House with a playful jab at the dress code of some leaders attending an official function. Speaking during the signing of the Agreement for the Modern Arena and Entertainment District in Nairobi, the Head of State drew laughter after questioning whether some guests had anticipated the formal nature of the event. “I was looking at the people who came to this occasion, including the governor of Nairobi, and I was asking myself if they are here by design or if they were way late,” Ruto said, prompting laughter. “The way they are dressed, they don’t look like they knew they were coming to State House,” he added. Maintaining a light and humorous tone, the President went further to suggest tighter enforcement of dress expectations at official functions. “I think next time I would ask the people at the gate not to allow people dressing like that, especially when they’re coming for a serious function like this,” he said. Among those present was Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who, like several attendees, opted for a more relaxed look compared to the traditional formal attire associated with State House events. Sakaja wore a long-sleeved patterned shirt without a tie, paired with trousers, reflecting a smart casual style rather than full business attire. Several other guests were similarly dressed in open-collar shirts and lighter fabrics, with noticeably fewer suits and ties than is typical for high-level engagements at State House. The relaxed dress code contrasted with the formal setting, where official functions are often marked by strict adherence to business or ceremonial attire. Despite the remarks, the atmosphere remained upbeat, with the President’s comments adding a lighter moment to the proceedings. The event itself marked a key step in plans to develop a modern arena and entertainment district in Nairobi, a project aimed at positioning the city as a regional hub for sports, culture and entertainment. Ruto’s remarks highlighted the evolving nature of professional dress while subtly reinforcing the importance of decorum at official State House functions.

Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga Businesswoman and former nominated senator Millicent Omanga has revealed why she quit the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), claiming she was used to mobilise votes, particularly among women. Speaking during an interview on Milele Radio on Friday, April 10, 2026, Omanga accused President William Ruto of leveraging her influence to attract support from various grassroots groups. According to Omanga, she later realised that her role had been largely political mobilisation, which contributed to her fallout with the party. “Na mimi nilitumika, sikujua kwamba ilikuwa kutumika kutafuta kura kwa akina mama. Tukasema, ‘Ooh, watu wa mama, akina mama mboga, watu wa boda boda, vijana wa kinyozi, wasichana wa salon, akina mama fua’ – vitu vyote vile ikawa, kumbe, ni kuadaa, so hiyo ndo jambo moja kubwa haswa ya mimi kutoka pale UDA na kukosa kumsupport Rais Ruto,” she said. Her remarks come weeks after she officially joined the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. In a statement shared on March 19, 2026, Gachagua welcomed Omanga to the party, praising her track record and describing her as a development-oriented leader. He added that the DCP remains committed to listening to the voices of Kenyans while recognising the role of every citizen. Omanga, who was previously a vocal supporter of President Ruto during the 2022 General Election, has since shifted her political alignment as the country gears up for the 2027 polls. She has also confirmed that she will contest the Nairobi Woman Representative seat in 2027, a position she narrowly lost in the last election. Reflecting on her previous bid, Omanga thanked the Mt Kenya region for its support, noting that the backing she received played a key role in her decision to run again. “I am so impressed with the community from Mt Kenya because you gave me 600,000 votes in Nairobi in 2022. I want to say thank you. I just fell short by a small number, but this time around, in 2027, I will still be contesting for the seat,” she said. She expressed optimism about her chances, citing what she described as growing unity within the opposition. “And this time all cousins will be together. It will not be just 600,000; we will have other cousins on board. You have seen Fred Matiang’i bringing the Gusii community together. He is coming to unite with his cousins from Mt Kenya. And from Eastern, Kalonzo Musyoka has united his people also,” she added.

East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) member Winnie Odinga EALA Member of Parliament Winnie Odinga has condemned the attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, terming the incident shameful and unacceptable. In a statement shared on her official Instagram account on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Winnie criticised the growing trend of political violence, warning against normalising assaults under the guise of politics. “You don’t beat up people and call it politics. What happened to Senator Godfrey Osotsi is shameful. No spin. No excuses,” she stated. Her remarks come as Osotsi continues to receive treatment at Karen Hospital after he was attacked by a group of armed assailants in Kisumu County on Wednesday, April 8. According to Derick Luvega, Director of Communication at the Vihiga Senate Office, the senator had made a routine visit to the Acacia area for a haircut before heading to a Java restaurant, where he met a friend and interacted with members of the public. Moments later, a group of armed individuals reportedly confronted him, questioning his political allegiance before launching the attack. Luvega noted that Osotsi’s security team exercised restraint to avoid discharging firearms in a public setting and risking harm to innocent civilians. “We strongly condemn this barbaric and cowardly act, which appears to have been premeditated and orchestrated,” the statement read in part. “It is important to emphasise that this isolated incident should not, in any way, be used to tarnish the image of the people of Kisumu, who have consistently demonstrated warmth and hospitality,” the statement added. Meanwhile, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested three suspects linked to the attack. In a statement issued on Thursday, April 9, 2026, the DCI confirmed that the suspects are in custody and are being processed ahead of their arraignment in court. “Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kisumu County have arrested three suspects in connection with the attack on Vihiga Senator Hon. Godfrey Osotsi at Java House, West End Mall,” the agency said. Authorities added that investigations have been intensified, with efforts ongoing to track down additional suspects believed to be involved. The DCI also thanked members of the public for providing crucial information that has aided the probe and urged continued cooperation to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice.

Information, Communication and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo Information, Communication and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Nyandarua Senator John Methu, accusing them of disrespecting President William Ruto. Speaking at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Kabogo condemned the conduct of the two leaders during the requiem mass of the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho. According to Kabogo, regardless of personal differences, leaders have a duty to respect the presidency as an institution entrusted to an individual by Kenyans. “Even if you do not like William Ruto as a person, you must respect the office he holds, and that office is given to him by us Kenyans, including yourselves. He is not the president of a society or a community, he is the president of the Republic of Kenya,” Kabogo stated. The CS further termed the behaviour of Methu and his allies as inappropriate, urging leaders to exercise restraint in public forums. “Senator Methu and the baptised Wamunyoro, the way they behaved, it was uncalled for, it is not necessary, and I hope that from here going forward we shall style up,” he added. The remarks follow dramatic scenes at the Nyandarua event on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, when Senator Methu took to the podium and began addressing the president directly, prompting a brief interruption as his microphone was switched off. In his address, Methu claimed the late Kiaraho had warned against joining the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), before asserting that he remained unafraid of the president. “Wakati tuliingia chama cha UDA, mheshimiwa Kiaraho alituambia hiyo chama ni mbaya hataingia, akaingia Jubilee, na watu wa hapa Ol Kalou mkamchagua. Kwanza kabisa mheshimiwa William Ruto, bado mimi ndio John Methu. Sijabadilika, bado mimi ni Methu wa zamani,” Methu said. “Na ile maneno mheshimiwa Kwenya unaogopa ati nisiseme hapa, sitasema lakini ukinisukuma sana nitasema. Mimi nataka nikuambie nikiwa hapa kwa sababu sijakuona kwa siku mingi kama Methu nakuheshimu sana mheshimiwa rais. Nakuheshimu kama mzazi lakini nataka nikwambie sikuogopi,” he added. At the same event, Gachagua also addressed the president, insisting that despite his removal from office, he still commands significant support in the Mt Kenya region. “Rais vile umeona leo na utakuja kuona tukienda mbele, ni kweli ulinitoa kwa ofisi lakini kunitoa kwa roho za hawa watu itakuwa kibarua kigumu sana. Itakuwa kama kukata mti wa Mugumo na wembe,” Gachagua said.

Kikuyu MP and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has hit back at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following a heated confrontation during the requiem mass of the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho. Speaking in the National Assembly on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Ichung’wah criticised the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader, accusing him of lacking decorum during a solemn moment. “It was very callous of Gachagua to go even without paying any regard to the mourning family and those children of honourable Kiaraho to even lie,” Ichung’wah said. The Kikuyu MP also took issue with Gachagua’s remarks directed at President William Ruto, faulting him for attempting to lecture the Head of State in public. “Someone even pretending that he can lecture the President and pretending that he is the one now to allow the President to speak to the people of Mount Kenya,” he added. The exchange follows a tense moment at the requiem mass on Wednesday, April 8, where Gachagua openly confronted Ichung’wah in the presence of President Ruto. In his remarks, Gachagua revisited past political advice he claims to have given the President, blaming some of his allies for the current political challenges in the Mt Kenya region. “Nilikuambia kabla hatujakosana. Nilikuambia. Nikakuambia hawa vijana unatembea na hawa, watakuweka kwa shimo. Hawa kina Ichungwa nilikuambia watakuweka kwa shimo,” Gachagua said. Standing just a few metres from the President, in their first public appearance together since his exit from office, Gachagua warned of the political consequences of ignoring his counsel. He further accused Ichung’wah of misleading the President and dismissed claims that he would fade from the political scene. “Mimi nilikushauri rais nikakuambia hawa watu wa mlima hawapendi usaliti. I told you that betrayal is not forgiven among our people. You chose to listen to Kimani Ichungwa. Sasa hii jamii imekukataa,” he added. “Sasa huyu Ichungwa alikuambia Riggy G atasahaulika baada ya wiki mbili sasa ni miaka ngapi? Mr President nakuomba ndugu yangu, you are my brother, tafadhali, tafuta amani na hii jamii. Tafuta amani na hii jamii. Usiskize hii watoto.”

A photo collage of the three suspects arrested by DCI. PHOTO | COURTESY Detectives in Kisumu have arrested three suspects allegedly involved in the attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi at a local restaurant on Wednesday. The suspects are Carlos Owiti, also known as Kalonje, 24, and Vincent Odhiambo, alias Tinga, 27, both from Nyalenda, and Eric Otieno, known as Dude, 39, from Manyatta. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the arrests followed intelligence-led operations and a tip-off from the public. “The DCI thanks members of the public who have volunteered useful information to aid the ongoing investigations and urges continued cooperation as detectives work to bring all perpetrators to justice,” the agency said in a statement. Authorities also promised intensified investigations to identify and apprehend additional suspects linked to the attack. The trio is currently in police custody and is being processed ahead of their arraignment.

An image of the State House in Nairobi after the upgrade. President William Ruto has ordered the demolition of part of the State House, Nairobi perimeter wall after it was found to have encroached on protected riparian land. Speaking at the Nairobi County Assembly on Thursday, April 9, 2026, the President said a multi-agency team had issued a notice indicating that a section of the wall near Kirichwa Kubwa River falls within the riparian reserve. “State House has received a notice that part of the State House boundary wall along the Kirichwa Kubwa River falls within the riparian reserve. And it must come down,” Ruto said. He assured leaders that the directive would be effected, noting that the affected section violates the required distance from the river. “They have told me at least 15 metres from the high mark. I promise you that wall will come down,” he added. Ruto linked such encroachments to environmental degradation, warning that interference with riparian land has worsened flooding, especially in Nairobi. More to follow...

File image of Stanley Kimure Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has revealed that Democratic Congress Party (DCP) Political Affairs Director Stanley Kimure, popularly known as Stano, has been found after he was allegedly abducted near Rironi. In a statement, Njiru said Kimure was traced to Kajiado County, where he was later arraigned before the Kajiado Law Courts under unclear circumstances. The lawyer linked the incident to what he described as a failed attempt to implicate former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in a criminal case. Njiru alleged that investigators had pressured Kimure to record a statement connecting Gachagua to possession of illegal firearms, tear gas canisters and drugs. “The DCI wanted him to implicate Rigathi and falsely testify that he is in possession of arms, tear gas canisters and drugs,” Njiru claimed. He further stated that Kimure’s prosecution followed his refusal to cooperate with the alleged demands from investigators. According to Njiru, Kimure was in the company of Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje at the time of the incident, with the legislator reportedly pursuing a suspicious vehicle along Limuru Road. The lawyer identified the vehicle in question as a Subaru Forester bearing registration number KCV 747T. Authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations.