Author: Lorren Aliwa

The contentious Finance Bill 2024 took a significant step forward on Thursday, June 20, as members of the National Assembly voted to advance the bill to the Committee of the Whole House. The decision came after a heated First Reading, where the bill garnered 204 votes in favor and 115 against, setting the stage for more intense debates and possible amendments in the coming sessions. The Finance Bill 2024, which has been a subject of widespread public and political debate, proposes a range of new fiscal measures aimed at addressing the country’s economic challenges. Despite strong opposition, the bill’s supporters…

The Occupy Parliament protests, initially a political movement against the Finance Bill, took a tragic turn when Chief Inspector David Karuri Maina, a dedicated police officer and father of three, lost both his arms in a harrowing accident. The incident, which occurred during a tense standoff with protestors, has not only transformed his life but has also brought to light the physical and emotional toll faced by those charged with maintaining public order. Speaking from his hospital bed at Nairobi West Hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment, Maina shared his poignant story with Citizen TV on June 20, 2024.…

The tragic death of 24-year-old Rex Kanyike Masai during anti-Finance Bill protests has sparked a vehement outcry against the National Police Service, with Embakasi East MP Babu Owino leading the charge. The young protester was shot dead on Thursday, June 20, amidst escalating demonstrations in Nairobi, a loss that has intensified scrutiny over police practices and fueled calls for accountability and reform. Speaking passionately on the matter, MP Babu Owino delivered a damning condemnation of the current police practices that he described as “alarming and unacceptable.” He expressed grave concerns over the rising instances of police officers deliberately concealing their…

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, has officially announced the closure of the investigation into Worldcoin, concluding that no criminal charges are warranted against the cryptocurrency company. This development follows an extensive investigation led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Serious Crime Unit, which found no evidence of illegal activity by Worldcoin. In a letter dated June 14, 2024, the DCI informed Worldcoin’s legal representatives that the investigation file had been forwarded to the DPP for an independent review. The letter, signed by Hillary Kimutai, revealed that after careful examination, the DPP agreed with the DCI’s findings…

President William Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to driving transformation in Kenya, emphasizing his determination to overcome obstacles and implement bold reforms aimed at improving the lives of all citizens. His remarks came during the 5th graduation ceremony at Garissa University, where he addressed the nation alongside key government officials. Speaking passionately about his vision for the country, Ruto declared, “This country will change, I promise you. We are going to change it because we are determined to make whatever decisions to unlock its full potential.” The President highlighted the government’s initiatives, including negotiations with multiple countries to secure employment opportunities…

In the tumult of civil unrest and public protest, tear gas emerges as a ubiquitous yet contentious tool of crowd control. Its acrid clouds disperse crowds and quell dissent, but beyond its immediate dispersal effects lie deeper, often unseen consequences on human health. From the burning sensation in the eyes to the searing discomfort in the throat, tear gas’s physical effects are immediate and visceral. However, its impact extends far beyond the moment of exposure, raising profound questions about public health, civil liberties, and the ethical use of force. Here are the some short term effects of teagas you need…

On Thursday, June 20, 2024, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) issued a stern warning to the National Police Service (NPS) amid ongoing nationwide protests against the Finance Bill 2024. LSK President Faith Odhiambo called for immediate respect of the citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, as enshrined in Article 37 of the 2010 Constitution. In a public statement, Odhiambo expressed the society’s determination to safeguard the protesters’ rights and monitor any instances of police misconduct. “The Law Society of Kenya is closely observing today’s protests. We want to remind the police officers across the country that any form of…

The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), an organ of the AU, through its Country Rapporteur for Kenya, Honorable Commissioner Solomon Ayele Dersso, has expressed serious concerns regarding recent developments in Kenya following the introduction of a controversial finance tax bill. Reports have indicated that the proposed tax legislation has sparked significant public unrest, culminating in widespread protests across the country. The Commission highlighted the arrests of over 300 individuals during the protests on June 18 and underscored that the right to peaceful protest is protected under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The ACHPR urged…

Family Bank has announced the passing of its newly appointed Board Chair, Francis Gitau Mungai, just three weeks after he assumed the role. The bank’s board and management shared that Mungai died while receiving medical treatment in the United States. Francis Gitau Mungai, who joined the Family Bank Board in 2016, had been the Vice Chairman for the past two years before his recent elevation to Chairman. During his tenure, he chaired the Board Credit Committee and the Board Human Resource Committee. Additionally, he was an active member of the Nominations and Governance Committee and served as a Director for…

Kenyan musician and activist Reuben Kigame has become a prominent voice against the Finance Bill 2024, rallying citizens with his passionate call to action. In a powerful statement on his X account, Kigame declared, “I will not allow wheelchairs to be taxed,” highlighting the bill’s potential to impose unjust taxes on essential items for people with disabilities. Kigame, who is blind, has inspired many with his commitment to fighting the bill, which he believes will unfairly burden the most vulnerable, Folks, I am blind, but I will be on the streets to take my country back,” he stated, emphasizing the…