KBC Channel 1

Author: Margaret Kalekye

  • NPS denies Central Police OCS is being processed for court

    NPS denies Central Police OCS is being processed for court

    The National Police Service has dismissed as misleading and inaccurate social media reports alleging that the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station was being processed for a court appearance.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, the police service clarified that at no point was the OCS being prepared for arraignment in court, contrary to claims circulating online.

    “The National Police Service wishes to respond to entirely erroneous and misleading social media reports alleging that the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) of Central Police Station, Nairobi, was being processed for a court appearance. This information is incorrect,” the statement read.

    The service noted that, like other disciplined institutions, it has established internal mechanisms for handling matters involving its officers, which may result in administrative or disciplinary action where necessary.

    The NPS further explained that a court appearance cannot occur arbitrarily and must meet a defined legal threshold before any such action is taken.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, at no time was the OCS of Central Police Station processed for a court appearance,” the statement added.

    The police service urged members of the public to verify information from official sources before sharing it on social media.

    “We appreciate the speed and dynamism of social media, but remind the public to obtain and verify accurate information on such matters directly from the National Police Service”, the service stated.

    NPS was responding to reports that Central Police OCS Dishon Angoya, was expected to be arraigned in court on Wednesday following his arrest over the release of 64 suspects detained during Monday’s protests.

    He was reportedly placed in custody at Lang’ata Police Station pending further action, with an OB report indicating he was complaining of high blood pressure.

    The officer was undergoing treatment at Langata Hospital.

  • Rachel Wandeto’s death is disturbing, she must get justice, vows CS Murkomen

    Rachel Wandeto’s death is disturbing, she must get justice, vows CS Murkomen

    Anger has greeted the sudden death of gospel artiste Rachel Wandeto, who was allegedly doused with petrol and set ablaze in Mwiki by unknown assailants over her political beliefs.

    Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who had visited the musician at the Kenyatta National Hospital where she was admitted, vowed that justice would be served.

    Murkomen also mourned Wandeto, describing her death as disturbing. “I am profoundly saddened to learn of the demise of Ms Rachel Wandetto, which happened this morning at the Kenyatta National Hospital following a heinous attack by a vile and intolerant group of people. Her passing is deeply disturbing”

    He added that her passing on should prick the conscience of those propagating politics of hate, violence and division.

    “No one deserves to be injured or killed for their political views or affiliation in this day and age. When I visited Rachel in the hospital last evening, her face showed resilience and courage. It is quite unfortunate that she lost the fight”

    He pledged government’s support even as he conveyed his condolences to the family

    “We shall bring the perpetrators of this senseless act to book. Rachel will get justice. I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to her family and friends for this painful loss. The government stands with you in this time of immense grief”

    Wandeto had gone viral after tattooing the image of President William Ruto on her body alongside the words “Two Terms” inscribed on her chest.

    She was attacked Saturday and rushed to KNH after suffering 70pc burns. Doctors had assured she was receiving the best possible care.

    The head of Presidential Special Projects & Creative Economy, Dennis Itumbi, regretted what he described as painful and unnecessary death.

    “A young Gospel artist has been silenced while carrying nothing but her music, her faith, and her personal political beliefs. Rachel Wandeto Muthoni, did not deserve the hate, the pressure, and the hostility that surrounded her simply because she publicly supported President William Ruto”, he said on his X.

    He said no artist should be targeted because they think differently politically, expressing concern that politics of intimidation, cancellation, and tribal hostility are destroying lives and creating dangerous divisions.

    “Today we mourn not just an artist, but a daughter, a friend, a believer, and a human being whose only ‘crime” was expressing her political choice openly. She even tattooed the name of the leader she believed in on her body as a personal expression of loyalty and love for her convictions. Kenya must never become a place where artists are punished, isolated, or targeted because they think differently politically”. He stated.

    Leaders, government officials and human rights defenders have condemned the incident, reiterating that Rachel did not deserve to die in such a manner.

    The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has also weighed in on the matter, demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of all those responsible.

    “Violence, intimidation, and attacks against citizens have no place in Kenya’s constitutional democracy and must be confronted firmly through justice and accountability”, it said in a statement.

    The female legislators further expresses concern over the emerging pattern of targeted violence and growing intolerance in public life, which they said threatens democratic participation and weakens public trust in state protection mechanisms.

    “We further urge all actors in public life to exercise restraint and responsibility, and to reject any narratives that normalize or justify violence against citizens. Kenya’s constitutional order is anchored on peaceful coexistence, justice, and the protection of fundamental rights”, they said.

  • Political intolerance: Gospel artiste Rachel Wandeto dies after brutal attack

    Political intolerance: Gospel artiste Rachel Wandeto dies after brutal attack

    Gospel artiste Rachel Wandeto, who sustained severe burn injuries after she was allegedly attacked in Mwiki area, Nairobi, for expressing her political opinion, has succumbed while undergoing treatment.

     

    Wandeto had gone viral after tattooing the image of President William Ruto on her body alongside the words “Two Terms” inscribed on her chest.

     

    She was reportedly attacked by three masked men on Saturday night and allegedly doused with petrol and set ablaze. According to police reports, the incident occurred along Obama Road, 11th Street in Mwiki shortly after midnight.

     

    She was initially rushed to Uzima Uhai Hospital before being transferred to the Kenyatta National Hospital after suffering burns covering nearly 70 per cent of her body.

     

    The musician died just hours after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and other senior security officials visited her in hospital, where doctors had assured she was receiving the best possible care.

     

    The Interior CS condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric, and vowed that investigative agencies would work tirelessly to establish the motive and bring to book those responsible.

     

    “This evening, I visited Madam Rachel Wandeto, who was attacked and injured for expressing her political opinion. The doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital informed us that she suffered significant burns and is getting the best care possible,” the CS said.

     

    “I condemn this barbaric act that has no place in our society. Our investigative agencies are working hard to establish the motive and bring to book the perpetrators of the heinous act,” he added.

     

    Murkomen had also pledged government support to Ms Wandeto, who received specialised treatment before news of her death was shared on Monday morning.

     

    The incident has since sparked outrage, with a section of Kenyans condemning the attack and calling for swift investigations and justice for the late gospel artiste.

  • Humanitarian crisis as Lake Naivasha rising waters displace more families

    Humanitarian crisis as Lake Naivasha rising waters displace more families

    Over 6,000 students are set to miss school in Naivasha after their families were displaced by the rising waters of Lake Naivasha.

    There are fears that the numbers could rise in the coming days as the levels continue to rise, flooding more homes, schools, government institutions and farms.

    This came as residents of Kihoto estate, which is the most affected and home to tens of flower farm workers, expressed their fears of disease outbreak after tens of latrines and shallow wells were flooded.

    Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja, on a visit to the estate raised concerns over the repeated flooding that has left thousands of learners with no learning institutions.

    Karanja said the floods had affected over 6,000 learners while calling for urgent action from the Ministry of Education officials.

    The Senator termed the perennial flooding a wake-up call to the government to speed up compensation for land owners and relocate tens of affected families urgently before a health disaster.

    Karanja said the over 800,000 people living in the 800 acre estate were at risk of contracting waterborne diseases as a result of sewerage spillage which could overwhelm health facilities.

    “Tens of businesses have shut down due the immense flooding, tens of families lack funds to vacate and the Nakuru County disaster funds have not been activated to help residents”, said Karanja.

    Karanja said the flooding may soon reach the Kihoto power substation, a situation that could expose hundreds of Naivasha households to power outages.

    According to Susan Odipo, a resident, the floods had left their children without access to education as the only affordable public school had been closed.

    Grace Amyeloto, said most of the affected families lacked funds to relocate to other estates, noting that her children were at risk of contracting waterborne diseases.

    “I am forced to rely on menial jobs to help my family, and I urgently need assistance to move to higher grounds”, said Amyeloto.

    On his part, Hariri Matthew regretted the inaction from the national government in implementing the parliamentary lands committee recommendations, which called for compensation and relocation of affected families.

    Hariri said residents have not yet felt help from the County disaster kitty which had annual budgetary allocation of over Sh800m.

    On her part, Lydia Nyambura, who lives in a flooded estate and has a three-year-old child said they need urgent help to relocate from the area as they currently lack financial capacity.

  • Police mount patrols as towns remain deserted

    Police mount patrols as towns remain deserted

    Authorities in Nanyuki have intensified security operations to maintain law and order as fuel hike protests begin in different parts of the country.

    Patrick Muli told the Kenya News Agency on Monday that security agencies had mounted patrols across the county to ensure smooth operations and deter criminal activities.

    Muli, however, noted that there was minimal activity reported in the region despite the nationwide demonstrations.

    The administrator assured business owners that their property would be protected, saying both uniformed and undercover police officers had been deployed and placed on high alert.

    He also warned against vandalism during the protests, urging residents to immediately report individuals suspected of engaging in criminal activities under the guise of peaceful demonstrations.

  • Police repulse bandits, recover stolen livestock in Isiolo

    Police repulse bandits, recover stolen livestock in Isiolo

    A multi-agency team has recovered stolen livestock during the ongoing Operation Maliza Uhalifu in Isiolo County.

    The officers repulsed suspected bandits who had raided livestock belonging to local herders in Kona Village, Ngaremara.

    The attack sparked fear and tension as the armed criminals attempted to drive away the animals under the cover of the vast and rugged terrain.

    Upon receiving reports of the raid, the multi-agency security team swiftly mobilised and launched an immediate pursuit operation targeting the suspected bandits.

    The officers successfully recovered 100 sheep and goats stolen during the raid.

    Meanwhile, the National Police Service says the operation continues to record significant progress in the fight against banditry and livestock theft.

    The multi-agency security teams have intensified operations aimed at restoring peace and protecting livelihoods in affected regions.

    “The sustained operation has seen security personnel maintain heightened vigilance, rapid response mechanisms and coordinated patrols in areas prone to criminal attacks. This successful operation once again demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated multi-agency security efforts under Operation Maliza Uhalifu”, NPS said in a statement.

    Rapid response capabilities have been strengthened, and security presence enhanced to disrupt criminal activities.

    The National Police Service continues to urge members of the public to cooperate closely with law enforcement agencies by sharing timely and credible information that may assist in combating insecurity, tracking down criminals and protecting communities from future attacks.

    “The Service remains committed to sustaining operations within affected areas to ensure lasting peace, stability and safety for all residents”, it assured.

  • Matatu strike bites over high fuel prices as police assure of security

    Matatu strike bites over high fuel prices as police assure of security

    The National Police Service has assured Kenyans of adequate security even as matatu operators made good on their threat to withdraw services over rising fuel prices.

    Thousands of commuters were stranded on Monday morning after public service vehicles (PSVs) operating on various routes joined a nationwide strike.

    Several roads were barricaded, while some vehicles ferrying passengers to Nairobi were turned away. The disruption also affected learning, with many schools advising learners to remain at home.

    Last Thursday, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced an increase of Ksh16.65 per litre for Super Petrol and Ksh46.29 per litre for diesel, while kerosene prices remained unchanged.

    The adjustments have sparked public outrage over the rising cost of living.

    In a statement, authorities said measures had been put in place to ensure normal operations across the country.

    The police said they were aware of reports that a section of matatu operators and public service transport actors intended to stage a strike. However, the service noted that the majority of stakeholders in the transport sector remained committed to uninterrupted operations.

    “The National Police Service (NPS) has noted reports of a planned matatu strike on Monday, 18 May, organised by a minority of matatu operators and a section of public service transport actors. The majority of stakeholders in the transport sector remain committed to conducting their business without interruption,” NPS said.

    It cited the position of the United Transport Association of Kenya (UTAK), which has distanced itself from the strike by issuing a comprehensive statement to that effect.

    The NPS urged members of the public to remain calm, continue with their daily activities, and cooperate with law enforcement officers deployed across the country.

    “The National Police Service wishes to assure Kenyans of their security as they go about their duties,” the statement read. “Security measures have been enhanced, and any disruptive conduct will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law.”

    Kenyans have been asked to report emergencies or suspicious activities through the toll-free numbers 999 and 911, or anonymously via the #FichuaKwaDCI platform on 0800 722 203 and WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.

     

  • Interior CS Murkomen reshuffles regional, county commissioners

    Interior CS Murkomen reshuffles regional, county commissioners

    Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced immediate transfers, promotions and deployments affecting senior national government administrators.

    The reshuffle targets Regional Commissioners (RCs) and County Commissioners (CCs) in new changes aimed at enhancing service delivery and coordination of national government functions across the country.

    Among those affected is Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Nyaboke Onyacha, who has been transferred to Nairobi, while Paul Rotich, who had been serving in the Eastern region, will replace her at the Coast.

    Western Regional Commissioner Samson Macharia Irungu and Nyanza Regional Commissioner Flora Nkatha Mworoh have both been transferred to the Office of the President headquarters.

    At the same time, Meru County Commissioner Jacob Muganda has been promoted and deployed as the new Eastern Regional Commissioner, while Kakamega County Commissioner Onesmus Musyoki Kyatha has been promoted and moved to the Nyanza region.

    Allan Machari, who was based at the Office of the President headquarters, will now head the Western region.

    “The transfers have taken into consideration the strengths and experiences of the officers as we address the various security and service delivery concerns,” Murkomen said.

    He added that the promotions were performance-based. “The promoted officers have the requisite qualifications, valuable experience and demonstrated zeal and exemplary performance in their duties,” he said.

    Regional commissioners retained in their positions are Joshua Muriungi Nkanatha (Central), John Odhiambo Otieno (North Eastern) and Dr Abdi Mohammed Hassan (Rift Valley).

    The changes, which take effect immediately, have seen 16 County Commissioners and seven Senior Deputy County Commissioners (SDCCs) transferred.

  • Advancing vaccine research: IVI, Kenya sign agreement to establish country office

    Advancing vaccine research: IVI, Kenya sign agreement to establish country office

    President William Ruto held talks with International Vaccine Institute (IVI) Director-General Jerome Kim at State House Nairobi.

    The President reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to continued collaboration in vaccine research and development, clinical trials, manufacturing partnerships, strengthening regulation and staff development.

    The Institute is opening a new Country and Project Office in Kenya, marking a significant step in the organization’s efforts to advance vaccine research and development in Africa.

    “We have had a strong partnership with the IVI for over 20 years. This relationship has blossomed and recently culminated in the election of our country to the vice-presidency of the IVI Global Council and consequently to the Board of Trustees,”President Ruto said.

    He announced that IVI will be working closely with our academic and research institutions, including the Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kenya Biovax Institute, and the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.

    The host country agreement establishing the IVI Kenya Country and AVEC Africa Project Office was signed by Musalia Mudavadi, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, and the IVI Chief in the presence of President  Ruto.

    The agreement formalises IVI’s presence in Kenya, reinforcing shared commitment to advancing vaccine research and development, translational and field research, product innovation, and capacity-building through workforce development and technology transfer.

    “The signing of this Host Country Agreement marks an important milestone in IVI’s growing partnership with Kenya and our long-term commitment to advancing vaccine research, development, and delivery capacity across Africa”,  the DG, Jerome Kim said.

    Adding “Kenya has demonstrated strong leadership and vision in strengthening regional health security and biomanufacturing capabilities. Through our country office in Nairobi, we look forward to deepening collaboration with national health agencies, research partners, and industry to support African-led innovation and equitable access to vaccines.”

    PCS Mudavadi said the establishment of IVI’s Country Office in Kenya reflects the shared commitment to strengthening health systems, advancing research and development, and championing local manufacturing for Kenya and across Africa.

    “This partnership supports Kenya’s vision to become a regional hub for biomanufacturing and underscores the importance of strong international collaboration in improving preparedness, resilience, and equitable access to critical technologies,” he noted.

    Kenya became a State Party of IVI in May 2024. Besides the new Country Office in Kenya, IVI also operates its headquarters in Seoul, an Africa Regional Office in Rwanda, a Europe Regional Office in Sweden, and a Country Office in Austria.

    The office will serve as the headquarters for IVI’s Advancing Vaccine End-to-End Capabilities (AVEC) initiative in Africa and will collaborate closely with local partners, including the Kenya BioVax Institute.

  • By-Elections: Voting underway in Emurua Dikirr constituency

    By-Elections: Voting underway in Emurua Dikirr constituency

    Voting is underway in Emurua Dikirr Constituency, where residents are electing a new Member of Parliament following the death of MP Johana Ng’eno in a helicopter crash.

    Voters are also participating in MCA by-elections in Porro and Endo Wards in Samburu and Elgeyo Marakwet, respectively. The Porro Ward seat became vacant after the death of MCA Patrick Lerte in December 2025 while receiving treatment at Samburu County Referral Hospital.

    In Endo Ward, the seat fell vacant following the death of MCA Jeremiah Biwott in January 2026 while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital.

    The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission announced that polling stations opened at 6.00 am and will close at 5.00 pm.

    IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has assured the public that the exercise would be conducted in a peaceful, transparent, credible, and accountable manner.