Hon. Geoffrey Ruku has been appointed as the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programs. His leadership and experience are expected to bring transformative progress to the ministry.
Leaders and citizens have expressed confidence in his ability to enhance public service delivery and drive human capital development initiatives. As he assumes office, many anticipate impactful policies that will benefit the nation.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka led a delegation of political leaders in condoling with the family of the late Ben Robert Omariba Onwonga in Nyakongo village, Kitutu Masaba constituency, Nyamira County.
Musyoka was joined by Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) party leader Eugene Wamalwa, Kitui County Woman Representative Hon. Irene Kasalu, Yatta MP Robert Basil, Luanda MP Dick Maungu Oyugi, former Borabu MP Ben Momanyi, and WDM Deputy Chairman Victor Swanya.
The former Vice President described the late Onwonga as a close friend, lauding his warmth, humor, and kindness. He acknowledged Onwonga’s dedication to education and its transformative impact on society.
“Ben was a close friend of mine who was known for his warmth, humour, and kindness. He loved and recognised the importance of education in changing lives for the better. I will miss him dearly,” Musyoka stated.
Addressing Onwonga’s widow, Beatrice Bochaberi, and their four children, Musyoka extended his deepest condolences and offered words of comfort from the Bible, quoting Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
The Wiper leader prayed for strength for the bereaved family and asked God to grant Onwonga’s soul eternal rest.
The late Ben Robert Omariba Onwonga was celebrated for his contributions to the community, particularly in education and social development.
Kitui South MP Dr. Rachael Nyamai, who chairs the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Lands, was among legislators who engaged in a heated session with government officials over the ownership of a disputed land parcel in Lang’ata.
The session, held at Parliament Buildings, saw Principal Secretary for Lands & Physical Planning, Hon. Nixon Korir, appear before the committee to provide clarity on the contested L.R No. 209/14582, which is claimed by the Wilson Mutumba Women’s Group. The National Police Service also asserts ownership of the land, prompting a formal inquiry sought by Kiambaa MP Hon. John Kawanjiku.
During the session, fresh concerns arose regarding the historical records and legality of the title deeds held by both parties. In response, the committee directed PS Korir to reappear on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, for further clarification on the matter.
Additionally, officials from the National Land Commission (NLC) have also been summoned as part of the ongoing investigation. The committee aims to ensure that due process is followed in resolving the dispute fairly.
The contested land has been at the center of wrangles, with both the women’s group and the police force laying claim. Parliament’s involvement signals a crucial step toward determining rightful ownership and resolving the long-standing issue.
The 13th Parliament continues to oversee key land matters affecting Kenyans, with Dr. Nyamai playing a critical role in steering the discussions toward a just resolution.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has moved to recover Ksh.22.7 million from former Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) CEO Dr. Ezekiel Mutua over allegations of illegally obtained salary increments and allowances.
According to court documents, the anti-corruption agency claims Dr. Mutua’s salary was irregularly increased beyond the limits set by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). His monthly salary reportedly rose to Ksh.1.1 million in 2019, far exceeding the SRC-approved cap of Ksh.480,000. Additionally, he allegedly received an unauthorized entertainment allowance of Ksh.100,000 per month between 2016 and 2021.
The EACC has filed a lawsuit at the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Court, seeking to recover the funds. Also implicated in the case are 12 former board members of KFCB, including Bishop Jackson Kosgei, a former board chairman who is currently a nominated Member of Parliament. The commission argues that the board members facilitated the approval of the irregular salary increments and allowances.
EACC is demanding the return of Ksh.22,658,085, which represents the alleged excess salary payments made to Dr. Mutua from April 2019 to July 2021, along with Ksh.4,600,868 paid as entertainment allowances from March 2016 to July 2021.
Dr. Mutua, who now serves as the CEO of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), has yet to issue a public response regarding the allegations. The case highlights the continued crackdown on financial irregularities in public institutions as the EACC intensifies its fight against corruption.
The matter is now before the courts as the agency pushes for accountability and recovery of public funds.
Renowned gospel artist Stella Mengele has spoken out against fellow gospel musician Stephen Kasolo, demanding that he produce evidence supporting his allegations against her or face legal action. In a strongly worded statement posted on her social media, Mengele expressed her frustration over the ongoing dispute, saying it has caused unnecessary pain to many people.
Mengele outlined a set of conditions that she insists must be met within 24 hours, failing which she will pursue legal action. She urged Kasolo to release all their past conversations, including WhatsApp messages, voice recordings, and chats dating back to 2023. She also called for transparency regarding his interactions with another individual, identified as “Ndeke,” and a woman referred to as the “Grootveld lady.”
“I have nothing to hide. If I am the Jezebel or evil person he claims, I want all the evidence made public,” Mengele stated. She also demanded that Kasolo apologize to everyone he has allegedly insulted and hold a live TikTok session with her to clarify matters.
Further, Mengele proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to prevent future conflicts, which would be witnessed by three elders from each side. She also insisted that Kasolo cover all legal costs incurred so far in the dispute.
“If the conditions are not met, I will let the courts determine the truth,” she concluded.
The fallout between the two gospel artists has drawn significant attention, with fans and fellow musicians urging them to resolve their differences amicably. It remains to be seen whether Kasolo will comply with the demands or proceed with the legal battle
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
The County Assembly of Kitui recently hosted a high-profile delegation from the Commission on Administrative Justice (Ombudsman Kenya) in partnership with the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program. The delegation was led by Hon. Charles Njagua Kanyi (Commissioner in charge of Complaints & Investigations) and Ms. Mercy Kalondu Wambua (Commission Secretary/CEO), who paid a courtesy visit to discuss governance and accountability frameworks.
The engagement centered on providing technical support for the domestication of the Complaint Handling Policy and the County Access to Information Act. Key discussions underscored the need for accountability, transparency, and the establishment of effective grievance redress mechanisms (GRM) in county governance.
Hon. Kevin Kinengo, Speaker of the County Assembly of Kitui, emphasized the Assembly’s commitment to strengthening governance by enacting legislation and policies that enhance public service delivery. “As the legislative and oversight arm of the county government, we are dedicated to ensuring accountability and transparency in public service. Our collaboration with the Ombudsman Kenya will help us improve access to information and refine public grievance handling mechanisms,” he stated.
The meeting was attended by several key county leaders, including Hon. Christopher Nzioka Nzilu (Deputy Speaker & MCA Kyangwithya West), Hon. Harrison Maluki (Majority Leader & MCA Migwani), Hon. Jeremiah Mutua (Deputy Minority Leader & MCA Nguni), and Hon. Muthengi Ndagara (Deputy Majority Whip & MCA Tharaka). Members of the county assembly service, led by Ms. Lucy Waema (Acting Clerk of the Assembly), were also present.
The County Assembly of Kitui reaffirmed its openness to further collaboration with the Ombudsman Kenya to explore best practices in grievance handling and access to information. The visit marks a significant step toward reinforcing governance structures that ensure Kitui residents receive effective and accountable public services.
A heated dispute has emerged in Mwingi after Thunguthu River, a vital natural resource in the region, allegedly “annexed” ancestral land and native heritage from a local family. The affected residents claim that the river’s expansion, possibly due to recent heavy rains or environmental changes, has eroded sacred lands that have been part of their lineage for generations.
Community elders have called for urgent intervention, citing the spiritual and historical significance of the affected land. Meanwhile, local authorities and environmental experts are assessing the situation to determine if natural factors or human activity played a role in the river’s sudden territorial shift.
Residents now await government action as they push for restoration measures and legal recognition of their ancestral heritage.
A fresh political storm is brewing in Kenya as opposition leaders accuse President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga of colluding to manipulate the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to serve their political interests.
The accusations were made by key opposition figures, who claim that the bipartisan talks initiated between the Kenya Kwanza administration and Azimio la Umoja have been turned into a scheme to influence the selection of new IEBC commissioners in favor of the two leaders’ political agendas.
Speaking at a press conference in Nairobi, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc Kenya’s Martha Karua, and other opposition leaders criticized the ongoing process, arguing that it lacks transparency and is designed to benefit Ruto and Raila ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“The IEBC is supposed to be an independent institution, but what we are seeing is a deliberate effort to ensure that the commissioners who come in are loyal to specific political factions. This is unacceptable,” said Kalonzo.
Martha Karua echoed the sentiments, warning that if the process is not handled fairly, the country could be headed for another electoral crisis. “We have seen what happens when electoral bodies are compromised. Kenya deserves free, fair, and credible elections,” she said.
The opposition leaders are now demanding a more inclusive and impartial process in the selection of new IEBC commissioners. They are calling for the involvement of civil society groups, religious organizations, and other neutral stakeholders to oversee the exercise.
However, government officials have dismissed the allegations, insisting that the process is being conducted in accordance with the law. Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah defended the bipartisan approach, stating that all parties have been represented fairly and that the process should not be politicized.
Political analysts argue that the battle over the IEBC reconstitution underscores the high stakes involved in Kenya’s electoral process. With both Ruto and Raila expected to play a key role in the 2027 elections, control over the electoral body could be a major factor in shaping the political landscape.
As the debate rages on, Kenyans are watching closely to see whether the calls for a more transparent process will be heeded or if the standoff will escalate into another political showdown.
Kwitu FM continues to dominate the airwaves, solidifying its position as the leading radio station in Eastern and Coastal Kenya. The station, known for its engaging content and commitment to community-driven programming, now reaches audiences across multiple counties with its expanded frequency coverage.
Listeners in Machakos, Kitui, Mwingi, and Embu can tune in on 90.1 FM, while those in Mombasa, Lamu, and Kwale can enjoy the station’s programming on 106.4 FM. Residents of Makueni and Taita-Taveta are now served on 105.1 FM.
Kwitu FM has gained a loyal following due to its focus on local news, informative talk shows, interactive discussions, and a vibrant mix of music. The station continues to provide a platform for community voices, governance discussions, and cultural storytelling.
Listeners have welcomed the expansion, citing the station’s role in promoting regional issues and connecting communities. “Kwitu FM is not just a radio station; it’s a voice for the people. We feel heard and represented,” said a resident of Kitui South.
As Kwitu FM grows, it remains committed to delivering quality content, ensuring every listener stays informed, entertained, and empowered.
Stay tuned to Kwitu FM – Your Voice, Your Station!
Yatta Kwa Vonza Member of County Assembly (MCA), Hon. Mark Nding’o, was featured as a guest on Mbaitu FM’s widely followed talk show, Kyengo Kya Atongoi, hosted by Irene Nyanzi-Mwela. The show, which aired on Thursday, October 27, 2027, from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, focused on the theme Siasa na Maendeleo (Politics and Development).
During the discussion, Hon. Nding’o shed light on key governance and development projects in Yatta Kwa Vonza Ward, Kitui County. He highlighted collaborative efforts with Governor Dr. Julius Makau Malombe to upgrade the Lower Yatta Sub-County Hospital to Level Four status. He noted that the Kitui County Government has successfully built a male ward, completed and operationalized the mortuary, significantly easing the burden on residents who previously had to transport their deceased loved ones to Kitui town.
On water access, Hon. Nding’o mentioned the successful implementation of the Mitasyano Water Project, among other water initiatives under Governor Malombe’s leadership, which have significantly benefited Kwa Vonza residents.
In the education sector, the MCA revealed that the county government has constructed over ten Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) classrooms in Yatta Kwa Vonza Ward, a move aimed at improving the learning environment for young children.
Additionally, he highlighted infrastructure improvements in Kiusyani, where residents have benefitted from dustless road programs and the installation of high-end mast streetlights in various centers within Yatta Kwa Vonza.
Hon. Nding’o emphasized his commitment to aligning with Governor Malombe’s manifesto to ensure smooth governance without unnecessary conflicts. He stressed that his role as an elected leader is to work within the legal framework and remain accountable to the people who elected him. He underscored the thin line between politics and development, advocating for leadership that listens to constituents’ needs.
Looking ahead, the MCA expressed his vision of transforming Yatta Kwa Vonza into a model ward that would serve as a benchmark for other leaders across the country. He urged leaders to prioritize development over endless politicking, warning that constant political wrangling negatively impacts service delivery.
Hon. Nding’o also addressed the recent cancellation of the national celebrations that were to be held in Kitui County in July, stating that the lack of proper consultation affected county leadership. He urged UDA-affiliated leaders to refrain from unnecessary internal conflicts, suggesting that such disputes might have contributed to the cancellation of the national event.
Furthermore, the MCA criticized President William Ruto for exclusively meeting with UDA leaders during his engagements in Kitui, arguing that the president should have included all elected leaders for more inclusive consultations. He urged county assembly speakers in Ukambani to foster harmonious leadership and resist attempts to brand Kalonzo Musyoka’s counties as politically unstable.
In conclusion, Hon. Nding’o called upon leaders to prioritize voter registration and national ID acquisition ahead of the upcoming general elections. He also rallied support for Kalonzo Musyoka’s presidential bid while discouraging divisive local politics.
