Author: Judith Mwaura

In September 2024, Zimbabwe introduced new regulations requiring WhatsApp group administrators who manage groups for business purposes to obtain licenses. The fees are tiered based on group size, starting at $50 for groups with 50 to 1,000 members and escalating to $2,500 for groups exceeding 500,000 members. These measures aim to enhance data protection and accountability among entities handling personal information. However, the regulations have sparked public concern, with critics arguing that they could infringe on privacy and freedom of expression. The government maintains that the focus is on commercial groups, exempting those used for personal, family, or household purposes.…

In a recent incident, a journalist from NTV was reportedly assaulted by an individual identified as an officer from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) while covering an event hosted by the Kiambu Senator. This event has raised significant concerns about press freedom and the state’s tolerance towards journalists. Such actions not only threaten the safety of media personnel but also undermine the fundamental principles of democracy, where a free and independent press is essential. This incident is not isolated; there have been previous reports of journalists facing harassment and assault by law enforcement officers in Kenya. For instance, in…

In August 2024, Bangladesh witnessed a significant political upheaval as Generation Z (Gen Z) protesters took to the streets, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The movement, primarily driven by young citizens, was fueled by frustrations over economic challenges, unemployment, and allegations of governmental corruption. The protesters effectively utilized social media platforms to organize and amplify their demands, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s political landscape. The demonstrations were characterized by their intensity and widespread participation, with students and young professionals forming the core of the movement. In response to the escalating protests, the Bangladeshi government…

During a recent event, Chinga Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Kiruga Thuku faced an unexpected reaction from attendees. As he began to praise President William Ruto, the audience started to leave, leaving him addressing empty chairs and tents. This incident highlights the complex political dynamics in the region. Despite Thuku’s support for President Ruto, as evidenced by his role as a National Executive Committee (NEC) member of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, the audience’s departure suggests a disconnect between his political stance and the sentiments of his constituents. The event underscores the importance of aligning political messages with…

The Tragic Case of George Stinney Jr.: The Youngest Person Sentenced to Death George Stinney Jr., a 14-year-old boy, became the youngest person ever sentenced to death in the United States when he was accused of murdering two white girls, aged 11 and 7, in 1944. His case remains one of the most controversial in American history. At the time, the bodies of the two girls were found near their home in Alcolu, South Carolina. Stinney was arrested, despite there being no physical evidence linking him to the crime. His trial was held quickly, and his parents were not allowed…

In recent developments, Interpol has intensified efforts to combat cybercrime in Kenya, leading to significant arrests and international collaboration. Operation Serengeti and Arrests in Kenya Between September 2 and October 31, 2024, Interpol, in partnership with Afripol, conducted Operation Serengeti across 19 African countries. This initiative targeted cybercriminals involved in ransomware, business email compromise, digital extortion, and online scams. In Kenya, nearly two dozen individuals were arrested in connection with an online credit card fraud scheme that resulted in losses of approximately $8.6 million. The stolen funds were funneled through fraudulent scripts that altered banking security protocols and subsequently redistributed…

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently reached out to residents of Kirinyaga Central via a phone call following a troubling security incident in Limuru. The incident occurred during a funeral service, where armed individuals disrupted the gathering, injuring mourners and damaging property. Gachagua expressed his concerns about the state of security, criticizing the government’s withdrawal of his security detail shortly before the attack. He described the event as a “terrible moment of shame,” stating that the assailants targeted him specifically as he fled the chaotic scene​. During the call to Kirinyaga residents, Gachagua reassured them of his commitment to advocating…

Government Unveils 2025 School Opening Dates Amid Festive Season Excitement On Thursday, November 28, the Ministry of Education released the much-awaited academic calendar for 2025, outlining key term dates and national examination schedules for all schools. The timetable provides a clear framework to guide schools, students, and parents as they prepare for the upcoming academic year. First Term to Begin on January 6 According to a statement issued by Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Belio Kipsang, all schools across the country are set to reopen for the first term on January 6, 2025. The term will last for 13 weeks,…

President William Ruto recently signed three key bills into law, including the Division of Revenue Amendment Bill, 2024. This legislation is pivotal in shaping the fiscal relationship between Kenya’s national and county governments. The bill allocates Ksh. 2.9 trillion in total revenue, of which Ksh. 400 billion is earmarked for counties. This allocation marks an increase of Ksh. 14.6 billion compared to the previous fiscal year, underscoring the government’s focus on bolstering service delivery at the county level. Additionally, Ksh. 7.8 billion is set aside for the Equalization Fund, which aims to improve essential services like water, electricity, and health…

Joseph Kairo Wambui, a prominent car dealer operating under the name Khalif Kairo, was arrested on December 3, 2024, for allegedly obtaining money by false pretenses. Police detained him at Kasarani Police Station after multiple complaints were filed against him. One notable allegation involves a client who claims to have paid Kairo KES 26 million for a luxury Range Rover, which was never delivered. Kairo was apprehended at his Ridgeways car yard and is expected to face court proceedings. Authorities aim to extend his detention to facilitate further investigations into similar complaints lodged at different police stations​. Kairo’s legal team…