Kwani iko nini

In recent weeks, Kenya has witnessed a disturbing turn in its democratic trajectory—one where power appears increasingly intolerant to divergent voices, especially those that emerge with promise and boldness. The most recent target of this governmental clampdown is none other than Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, a leader whose vocal and fearless approach to governance has captivated not just his county but has signaled a possible shift in the political compass of the Luhya community and Kenya at large. Today’s raid on Natembeya by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), without clear reasons or transparency, has sparked suspicion, rage, and protests among the residents of Kitale who view the governor as a beacon of accountability and hope. Though the government insists on fighting corruption, this raid has all the hallmarks of a politically motivated act, one aimed at quelling an emerging threat to the established political class rather than pursuing just...

The leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company Ltd, a critical public asset in Bungoma County, Western Kenya, to Rai Group for over 30 years marks yet another painful chapter in the systematic economic sabotage of Western Kenya by both the state and complicit local leadership. This decision, framed as part of a national sugar sector revitalization plan, is neither revitalizing nor reformative — it is a death sentence to a company that for decades sustained thousands of families, supported public schools, maintained a sports stadium for Nzoia Sugar FC, and powered nuclear farms in Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties. This move comes with echoes of betrayal from the past. Kenyans in the region vividly remember how Pan Paper Mills in Webuye — once the industrial heartbeat of Western Kenya — was handed over to the same Rai family under the guise of revival. More than a decade later, the mill remains a shadow of its former self. The promises of jobs, economic rejuvenation, and ...

Kenya’s political terrain is shifting—perhaps more rapidly and unpredictably than it has in decades. The traditional foundations of tribal alliances and regional strongholds are gradually eroding, giving way to a new political consciousness led by a generation that identifies more with issues than with ethnicity. This generation—Gen Z—is rising not only as voters but as a powerful social force that cannot be ignored. Yet, in a classic move of political adaptation, there seems to be a strategy underway to co-opt or divide this emerging bloc by presenting them with a presidential candidate of their own age—an idea that, ironically, doesn’t sit well with the very group it seeks to represent. To understand the contradiction, one must examine the nature of this youthful force. Gen Z in Kenya has grown up in a time of expanded internet access, education, and exposure to global democratic values. Unlike their predecessors, they are not easily swayed by tribal arithme...

The recent saga surrounding Butere Girls High School’s play Echoes of War exposes a disturbing pattern of double speak, repression, and disregard for artistic freedom within the current Kenyan administration. What was supposed to be a celebration of young talent and creative expression at the National Drama Festival turned into a political theater marred by state paranoia and conflicting government narratives. After a court ruling cleared Echoes of War to be performed at the National Theatre in Nakuru, what followed was nothing short of state-sponsored censorship. Instead of a vibrant celebration of art, the performance unfolded under a blanket of intimidation. The auditorium, which should have been filled with cheering students, parents, and drama enthusiasts, was instead swarming with uniformed police officers. The environment was tense and restrictive — as if the girls were staging a revolution, not a school play. Journalists were barred. Fellow students ...

The recent censorship and suppression of the play Echoes of War by Butere Girls High School during the Kenya National Drama Festivals is a disturbing indictment of the shrinking democratic space and growing intolerance within the Kenyan government. In a move that reeks of authoritarian overreach, the government not only attempted to ban the play but also arrested its scriptwriter, Hon. Cleophas Malala — a former senator of Kakamega and one-time Secretary General of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). This is not just an attack on the arts; it is a dangerous silencing of voices that challenge the status quo. That it took a court order for the school to be granted permission to stage the play is an indication of the state’s unwillingness to tolerate dissent — even when it is couched in creative expression. But even after the judiciary acted to safeguard artistic freedom, the Ministry of Education and the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival Secretari...

The proposed leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company for 30 years by the Government of Kenya has raised serious concerns among stakeholders, especially in Bungoma County. This lease, which includes not only the factory itself but also nuclear farms, houses, machinery, storage yards, a stadium, and learning institutions like Nzoia Primary, Nzoia Girls, and Industrial Primary, is a contentious issue that calls for critical scrutiny. Hon. Majimbo Kalasinga, the MP for Kabuchai Constituency, has stood firm in opposition to this deal, despite facing intimidation and threats. His stance reflects the frustrations of the people of Western Kenya, who see this lease as a direct assault on their economic and social welfare. A Skewed and Secretive Tendering Process One of the most alarming aspects of this lease is the manner in which the tendering process is being conducted. The process is taking place in Maanzoni, a location far removed from the stakeholders most affected by thi...

Hon. Ndindi Nyoro, the Member of Parliament for Kiharu Constituency, has established himself as one of the most dynamic and influential politicians in Kenya. His political trajectory has been marked by resilience, strategic positioning, and, most recently, a wave of speculation surrounding his political allegiance. As a former Chair of the Budget Committee in Parliament, Nyoro was once considered a close ally of President William Ruto. However, his decision to distance himself from the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his subsequent removal from the Budget Committee have sparked intense debate about his political future and standing within the government. The Rift with the Pro-President Camp Ndindi Nyoro’s rise to prominence was largely fueled by his unwavering support for President Ruto, especially during the 2022 general elections and the formation of the Kenya Kwanza government. His role as the Chair of the Budget Committee was s...