As Kenya gradually approaches the 2027 General Elections, this reality is becoming more visible in the re-emergence of familiar political actors who are repositioning themselves within new alliances and narratives despite their past records in governance. The uncomfortable truth is that many voters are not necessarily choosing change but are instead choosing familiarity, even when that familiarity has previously produced governance failures, economic strain, or institutional stagnation.

Across modern democracies, including Kenya, a recurring pattern has emerged in which political actors who presided over economic decline, corruption scandals, or policy paralysis often return to the political stage years later repackaged as reformers. Alliances shift, rivalries dissolve, and yesterday’s opposition figures become today’s establishment leaders.

This process creates the illusion of change without altering the underlying political structures that shape governance outcomes. The persistence of such leaders through electoral legitimacy raises a critical question about the nature of voter decision-making.

Elections are too often influenced less by institutional memory and more by emotional momentum, where citizens vote in response to charisma, identity affiliations, temporary frustration, or campaign rhetoric rather than long-term governance records. In such environments, accountability becomes negotiable, allowing past mismanagement to be reframed as victimhood or contextualized as the result of external constraints rather than leadership shortcomings.

Another significant factor that enables the recycling of political failure is the erosion of ideological politics. Historically, opposition movements offered alternative policy visions that differed fundamentally from those of incumbent governments. In contemporary politics, however, opposition frequently represents displaced factions of the same elite structure rather than a genuinely distinct governance philosophy.

When such actors ascend to power, they often replicate the very institutional patterns they previously criticized, thereby reinforcing continuity instead of disruption. As Kenya moves closer to the 2027 elections, early political realignments suggest that the contest may once again revolve around personalities rather than policy frameworks. Familiar names are returning to the national conversation not necessarily with new governance models but with renewed political branding, and this risks transforming elections into mechanisms for elite rotation rather than platforms for structural reforms.

Political recycling cannot persist without voter participation, whether conscious or unconscious. When citizens prioritize identity over competence, symbolism over substance, and short-term political gratification over long-term institutional integrity, they inadvertently weaken the accountability function of elections. This dynamic creates a feedback loop in which leaders learn that perception matters more than performance and that strategic campaign positioning can substitute for governance delivery.

Over time, political memory becomes selective, allowing failures to fade from public scrutiny while successes are amplified through narrative framing. In such circumstances, democracy risks becoming cyclical rather than progressive, as leadership changes fail to produce meaningful policy or institutional transformation.

Breaking this cycle requires a shift in how democracy is practiced at the citizen level, particularly as the country prepares for 2027. Voting must evolve from an act of hope into an act of judgment grounded in historical awareness and policy scrutiny. This involves interrogating leadership beyond slogans and alliances by assessing past records, evaluating proposed reforms, and distinguishing between systemic change and personal rebranding.

Democracy functions effectively only when voters remember and connect past performance to present ambition. Ultimately, leadership recycling is sustained not solely by politicians but by the absence of rigorous voter scrutiny. As the next election approaches, the central question facing citizens is no longer whether change is promised but whether change is demanded, because the true test of democratic maturity lies in the willingness to reject failure even when it returns disguised as experience.

The late Maluki was an employee of the Kenya Pipeline Company. He was involved in a fatal road accident when a public service vehicle he was travelling in rammed into the back of a trailer along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway.

His 58-year-old widow can no longer afford travelling to Nairobi to attend cancer treatment which requires KSh82,000 every session. Amid sobs, she offers a passionate plea for help, "I need assistance either from the government,  our elected leaders or well-wishers. I need to be paid the compensation money so that I can complete my cancer treatment before the worst happens".

During an interview with MWINGI TIMES last week,  she said a  Makindu court awarded her KSh3million compensation in 2019 but she has not received any coin.

She said that the law firm that represented her in the compensation case has not released the initial KSh1.5million that was deposited into their account. 

Documents seen by MWINGI TIMES show that

the Directline Insurance company paid the first instalment to the law firm's account. The insurance company had no issues as it went ahead to deposit another KSh1.5million in a joint interest generating account as directed by court.

Mrs Wainji Maluki appeals for help to access the compensation funds awarded to her by Makindu Senior Resident Magistrate A. Ndung'u. The family sold much of its property while pursuing this case.

In 2020, Wainji was diagnosed with colon cancer, a life threatening condition. Both cancer treatment and pursuing the compensation case of her late husband have exhausted all her savings which resulted in selling off most of her prime property. They include a developed plot in Kamuwongo Market.

Mama Wainji Maluki was a diligent trader before she got sick. She sold clothes and cereals. "Previously I ran shops where I sold clothes and cereals. I used  my money pursuing the compensation case after my husband's death", she said.

The mother of eight revealed that her last born child dropped out of Mitunguu National Vocational Training College due to inability to pay school fees.

The annual exhibition has attracted over 160 exhibitors this year, a notable rise from the 110 who participated in last year’s show, signaling growing interest from farmers, institutions, and businesses in the region.

Speaking during a press briefing in Embu town, ASK Embu Show Chairman Martin Mutwiri described the upcoming event as one of the most vibrant agricultural exhibitions the region has witnessed in recent years.

Mutwiri said the increase in exhibitors reflects renewed confidence in agricultural exhibitions as platforms for learning, networking, and promoting modern farming technologies.

He noted that this year’s show will run under the theme “Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth,” a message he said resonates strongly with the current realities farmers face due to climate change.

According to Mutwiri, climate change has continued to affect agricultural productivity across the country, making it necessary for farmers to adopt modern and resilient farming techniques.

He explained that the show will provide a platform where farmers can interact directly with experts, researchers, agribusiness companies, and government agencies to learn innovative farming solutions.

“We are encouraging farmers and members of the public to come out in large numbers and take advantage of the knowledge and technologies that will be showcased during the exhibition,” said Mutwiri.

He added that exhibitors will demonstrate a wide range of innovations including improved seed varieties, modern irrigation systems, mechanized farming equipment, and value addition technologies.

Mutwiri emphasized that such innovations are critical in improving productivity, reducing production costs, and ensuring food security in the country.

Also addressing the press, Embu County Chief Officer for Blue Economy Elias Kathiga reaffirmed the county government’s full support for the Embu ASK Show.

Kathiga said the county administration recognizes the important role agricultural shows play in empowering farmers with knowledge and new technologies.

He revealed that various departments within the county government will set up exhibition tents during the show to showcase the services they offer to residents.

Through these exhibitions, he said, residents will have an opportunity to interact directly with county officials and learn more about government programs aimed at improving agriculture, trade, and livelihoods.

Kathiga urged residents of Embu and neighboring counties to attend the show in large numbers, saying it will not only provide learning opportunities but also open doors for partnerships and economic growth in the agricultural sector.

Speaking during a burial ceremony held at Emurua Dikirr Primary School, Kosgei’s father broke down in tears as he explained the painful sacrifices the family made to educate him.

“We sold everything to educate our son. Right now we do not even have a place to bury him,” he said emotionally.

Nick Kosgei was born in December 2001 in Bomet County and grew up in a humble family that believed education would change their future.

He attended Koibeiyon Secondary School before joining Maseno University, where he studied Journalism and Mass Communication. He graduated in 2023, marking a proud moment for a family that had struggled for years to keep him in school.

After completing his studies, Kosgei secured an internship at the Bomet County Government, where he began building his career in media and communications.

According to his father, Kosgei had already become the main breadwinner of the family, supporting his parents and helping educate his younger sister. The family said he was expected to clear her school fees this week before his untimely death.

The father explained that the family sold their ancestral land over the years to finance Kosgei’s education. They later moved to town in Bomet County, where they now live on a rented plot.

He added that the small piece of land they currently occupy is only under a sale agreement and does not have a title deed, leaving the family without legally owned land.

Now, as they prepare for his burial, the family says they are struggling to find a place to lay their son to rest.

They have appealed to leaders including President William Ruto and Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu, as well as well wishers, to help the family give their son a dignified send off.

The issue was first raised publicly by popular Kamba musician Ken wa Maria, who questioned the circumstances surrounding the Sammy Kioko case and sought answers from the county leadership.

On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, Governor Wavinya responded to the concerns, saying she does not handle procurement matters in the county government.

“I don’t deal with county procurement. That’s not my work,” the governor said.

However, the statement sparked criticism from some leaders, including Kalama MCA Hon. Maeke.

Speaking on Thursday, March 5, 2026, Maeke said the governor’s remarks raised serious concerns about leadership and accountability in the county. According to him, while procurement processes may be handled by specific departments, the governor remains the overall head of the county government and should be aware of how such functions are carried out.

Maeke argued that leaders cannot distance themselves from key government processes that affect public resources and service delivery.

Frustrated by the response, the MCA announced that he will move a motion in the Machakos County Assembly on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, seeking a vote of no confidence against the governor.

If tabled, the motion could trigger intense debate within the assembly as members consider whether the governor’s remarks reflect a misunderstanding of her role or a broader governance concern.

The matter has since stirred discussion among residents and leaders in Machakos, with many calling for clarity and accountability in the management of county affairs.

Speaking in Nairobi during a consultative meeting of the Council of Governors with all the County Secretaries where he had been invited as the chief guest to deliver a keynote address, the Governor said county secretaries play a critical role in linking political leadership with the administrative systems of county governments and ensuring that executive decisions are effectively implemented.

"You are the links between the political leadership and the administrative systems of the county. You facilitate continuity in governance by putting into place systems that ensure institutional memory. Your success in the execution of the mandate of your office greatly contributes to effective service delivery by county governments" he noted.

Governor Malombe recalled his experience as a member of the Task Force on Devolved Government, which developed the policies and legal framework that operationalized devolution, including the County Governments Act, the Public Finance Management Act, and the Intergovernmental Relations Act.

He noted that devolution has hugely transformed governance by decentralizing resources and key services closer to citizens. He highlighted progress made since 2013, particularly in healthcare, early childhood education and agricultural extension. 

However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges such as delayed disbursements, fiscal constraints and capacity gaps in county administrations.

Governor Malombe urged county secretaries to uphold professionalism, maintain integrity in the public service, strengthen cooperation between national and county governments, and embrace digital systems and performance management to improve efficiency and service delivery.

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‎13.8% of the sampled respondents were undecided. This, according to Mizani Africa, "indicates that while Nzengu currently holds a strong advantage, a portion of the electorate is still open to persuasion as the political environment evolves."

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‎Gen Zs have been seen as a weak link in electoral system since they do not embrace voter registration unlike the other voter groups like the elderly and women.  In October 2025, only 20754 new voters out of the targeted 6.3million voters were enrolled since the IEBC resumed continuous voter registration on September 29.

Ng'eno, who represented Emurua Dikirr constituency in Narok County for three consecutive terms, died in a helicopter crash in Mosop Constituency, Nandi County on February 28, 2026 at around 4.45 pm. He was among the six occupants who tragically perished on the spot. The helicopter was piloted by retired Lieutenant Colonel George Were.

Born on December 12, 1972 in Narok County, Ng'eno built a strong reputation as a lawyer and a committed legislator. He was admired for his dedication to his constituents and for entering politics at a young age. But while his career flourished, one aspect of his life often drew attention: his decision to remain single well into his forties.

Friends, family and even voters frequently reminded him that it was time to marry. His mother, in particular, often expressed her wish to see grandchildren. At one point she told him, “My son, please marry. I want grandchildren. Or do you want to give me grandchildren when I am too old and cannot even see them?”

Ng'eno, however, had a clear plan. He wanted to achieve his personal and professional goals before committing to a family. In an interview with TV47 Kenya, he revealed that he had been postponing marriage since his student days. Even after becoming an MP, locals in Emurua Dikirr would jokingly ask him why he remained single. He often replied with humor, saying that the “MP seat was my first wife.”

Still, the pressure never fully faded. Some voters even jokingly threatened not to support him if he did not settle down.

After achieving many of his life goals, including completing his degree, earning a master’s and establishing himself as a respected lawmaker, Ng'eno felt it was finally time for love. On August 18, 2018, he married Naiyanoi Ntutu in a colorful ceremony attended by leaders and friends from across the country. Then Deputy President William Ruto humorously welcomed him into the “married men’s club,” joking, “I am happy you can now settle down as a family man. You are now an elder. Welcome to the married club.”

Ng'eno embraced family life wholeheartedly. He and his wife were blessed with two children, and for eight joyful years from the day he said “yes I do” he enjoyed the life of a devoted husband and father.

Today, as the nation continues to mourn him, Kenyans remember Johanna Ng'eno not just as a lawyer, a legislator and a politician, but as a man who pursued his dreams before embracing love. His story is a reminder that life unfolds differently for everyone, and sometimes love comes later, but it can be just as meaningful.

The ship, identified as the IRIS Dena, was returning from international exercises and was not engaged in combat when disaster struck. Sri Lankan rescue teams raced to the scene, pulling dozens of sailors from the water and rushed them to hospitals in Galle. Families waited in anguish, desperate for news of loved ones still unaccounted for.

“We do not know if our brothers and sons are alive,” said one relative at a Galle hospital, her voice trembling. “Every minute feels like a lifetime.”

The attack has raised serious questions about naval safety in international waters. Authorities have not confirmed the identity of the submarine responsible, focusing instead on rescue and medical care. Analysts warn that the incident shows how regional tensions are now reaching far beyond traditional conflict zones.

For those aboard the ship and their families, the tragedy is painfully personal. The chaos, fear, and uncertainty mark a human cost that goes beyond military strategy and headlines, leaving lives forever altered by a sudden strike far from home.

Like thousands of Kenyans, he graduated with hope. "I graduated in 2024 with a degree in Business Management but I am still looking for a stable employment. My certificate now hangs framed on the living walls of my parents' home and my laptop sits open its screens with a lot of job applications.’’ 

His experiences reflects a growing concern across the country. Every year, thousands of students graduate from Kenyan universities full of hope. For many families, graduation is seen as a gateway to employment, financial stability and social mobility. However, for a growing number of young graduates, the reality after university is different, Despite holding degrees and professional qualifications, many young people spend months and sometimes years searching for employment without success. 

Recent data shows that about 11.9 % of Kenyan youth aged 15–24 are unemployed, a slight decline from previous years but still notably high. At the same time, institutions of higher learning continue to release thousands of graduates into the job market each year.

The most recent labour data indicates that young Kenyans face significant challenges in labour market absorption. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, youth unemployment remains a key concern affecting a large number of graduates.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has acknowledged the pressure on the labour market, noting that the number of young people entering the workforce each year continues to exceed available opportunities. This imbalance contributes to the persistent unemployment challenge in Kenya.

‘’Since graduating, I have attended several interviews,’’ Brian who graduated from Chuka University explains. ‘’Most employers ask for experiences I do not have yet. How do they expect us to have experiences when they are not employing us to have the work experience?’’ This mismatch between the number of graduates and the number of jobs available continues to widen political gaps.

Experts argue that the issue is not only about the number of jobs available but also about how well graduates are prepared for the workplace. Meaning you must be experienced in the field.

A major report by Brighter Monday Kenya, one of the country’s leading job platforms, highlights that even where positions exist, many employers increasingly prioritise digital skills, adaptability and practical experience alongside academic qualifications. "When I went for the interview, they asked about practical skills and software tools which I was unable to provide because I believed that skills I will get them later on.We practised theories in classes. Practicals were limited.’’ Brian says. 

This is partly because technology is changing over time and modern business practices are reshaping job requirements faster than traditional curricula, creating a skills gap between what graduates learn and what employers seek.

Now that formal employment opportunities are limited, many graduates are turning to informal work and self-employment. Small businesses, online freelancing and short term contracts have become common among young professionals seeking financial independence. This trend is supported by broader labour data showing that a significant portion of job creation in Kenya lies in less regulated sectors, where work may be unstable. "At some point you start considering small businesses ideas just to avoid staying idle.’’ Brian admits.

Economic analysts say that while self-employment and entrepreneurship can be valuable, they are often responses to necessity rather than structured career development.

Youth unemployment has implications beyond individual income. High rates of unemployment among educated youth can slow national productivity and reduce the return on investment in higher education. "My family invested a lot in my education. I feel pressure to become financially idependent but opportunities are limited.’’ says Brian.

Data also points to regional disparities. For example, recent local studies show that certain areas, such as Mombasa County, have youth unemployment rates estimated as high as 44 %, illustrating uneven economic opportunity across the country. 

The Government of Kenya has introduced various youth empowerment and employment support programmes, including enterprise funds and digital skills initiatives designed to help young people find work or start businesses. However, experts maintain that addressing graduate unemployment will require deeper structural changes. These include stronger collaboration between universities and employers, curriculum reforms to align training with labour market needs, and policies to stimulate growth in sectors capable of creating large-scale, quality jobs. 

Looking ahead, Kenya has made significant progress in expanding access to higher education. More young people are graduating than ever before. However, employment growth has not matched this expansion. 

A university degree remains valuable, but it no longer guarantees immediate job security. Closing the gap between qualification and employment will require coordinated efforts and collaboration from educators, policymakers, the private sector and young people themselves. Until structural adjustment are made, the transition from graduation to stable employment will continue to present challenges for many Kenyan youth just like Brian.

As for this new month of March,  the weatherman says, "most places in Kitui county are likely to receive near average to above average rainfall".

Further predictions indicate that rainfall is likely to be enhanced over most areas of Kitui County during the first two weeks of this month. As we head towards April, brace yourself for dry spells.

For an rainfall season onset to be considered to have taken place, an area must receive at least 20mm of rainfall within three consecutive days and with no dry spells lasting more than seven days. Kitui County Director of Meteorological Services Dr Daniel Mbithi confirmed that most parts of the county already have had an onset of March-April-May rainfall season. 

The maximum temperature for the long rains season are likely to be warmer than average over most parts of Kitui county.  This week's maximum temperature range will be between 22°C and 31°C while the minimum temperatures are likely to oscillate from 16°C to 22°C.

The operation, carried out across several towns in the county, exposed widespread irregularities in alcohol businesses, particularly at Kabati Market in Kitui West subcounty. 

NACADA officials uncovered a series of violations that contravene the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, including the sale of counterfeit alcohol, possession of fake Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) documents, expired business licences, and operating premises located in close proximity to schools and places of worship.

Sections 12 and 13 of this Act prohibit the establishment of alcohol outlets near educational institutions and religious facilities. However, during the inspection in Kabati Market, authorities discovered several bars and stores situated near a secondary school, in clear violation of the law.

The NACADA team, led by Deputy Director Cooperate Communications Simon Mwangi, confirmed that they recovered more than 900 cartons of alcoholic drinks bearing fake KRA stamps and over 250 crates of suspected harmful alcoholic beverages from one trader alone.“We have been conducting a multi-agency operation across Kitui County and successfully nabbed a distributor dealing in counterfeit alcohol within this area,” said Mwangi. “From one business person, we seized alcoholic products valued at approximately KSh5 million.”

Mwangi noted that the confiscated products not only carried counterfeit documentation but also posed a serious health risk to consumers. Some of the premises were operating with expired licences, further compounding the offences.

The suspects have since been arrested and will face prosecution in accordance with the law. The seized products have been confiscated as exhibits pending court proceedings.“We are going to prosecute the business owner to ensure he faces the full force of the law. This will serve as a warning to others engaging in similar illegal trade,” Mwangi added.

According to NACADA, Kitui County has recorded a rising number of counterfeit alcohol cases within the Eastern region, raising concerns among authorities over public health and safety. Illicit brews have previously been linked to severe health complications and fatalities in various parts of the country.

Mwangi urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious alcohol-related activities within their communities.“We request members of the public to remain alert and volunteer information regarding such illegal business activities for their own safety,” he said. “Consumers must also be vigilant about what they consume by verifying the authenticity and content of alcoholic products.”

NACADA issued a stern warning to individuals involved in the manufacture and distribution of illicit alcohol, stressing that penalties under the law are severe.“Those engaging in illegal alcohol trade must understand that once apprehended, they will face the consequences. We are committed to enforcing the law to the letter to protect the public,” Mwangi concluded.

The operation forms part of a broader national campaign aimed at curbing the proliferation of illicit and counterfeit alcohol across the country.

Through platforms like X, TikTok and Instagram, young Kenyans have amplified conversations on police accountability, corruption, constitutionalism and human rights. Their online activism has redefined public participation, often setting the national agenda and holding leaders accountable in real time.

Yet, beneath this vibrant advocacy lies a troubling paradox: while Gen Z champions freedom and good governance, voter turnout among young people in by-elections across the country has remained notably low. This contradiction raises an important question: Can a generation truly transform governance if it disengages from the ballot box?

Gen Z’s political engagement is undeniably different from that of previous generations. Unlike their parents, who expressed civic participation primarily through rallies and party affiliations, today’s youth leverage digital tools to mobilize, educate and protest. Online petitions trend within hours.

Government missteps are dissected instantly. Public pressure mounts quickly and sometimes forces institutional responses. This new model of participation is dynamic and accessible, especially in urban centres and university spaces.

However, elections remain the backbone of Kenya’s democratic framework. The Constitution provides that sovereignty belongs to the people and is exercised directly or through elected representatives. 

When by-elections record dismal youth turnout, it signals a gap between activism and institutional participation. While social media creates awareness, only voting converts that awareness into formal political power.

Several factors explain this disconnect. First, there is widespread disillusionment with political elites. Many young Kenyans feel that elections recycle the same faces under different party banners. Secondly, economic hardship has fostered survival-focused priorities; attending a by-election may not seem urgent when unemployment and the high cost of living dominate daily life. 

Thirdly, skepticism about electoral integrity discourages participation, especially when previous electoral cycles have been marred by disputes.

Nonetheless, withdrawing from the electoral process carries consequences. When youth abstain, decisions are shaped by older and often more consistent voting blocs. Policies affecting education funding, digital taxation, job creation and innovation are then determined without substantial youth input. Silence at the ballot empowers others to decide on their behalf.

The Gen Z movement has already demonstrated its capacity to influence governance debates. Its courage in confronting excesses and demanding transparency signals democratic maturity. Yet, sustainable reform requires a fusion of digital activism and electoral participation. 

Voting in by-elections  often dismissed as minor political events  is equally significant because it shapes representation at local levels where service delivery is most tangible.

Kenya stands at a generational crossroads. The same energy that trends hashtags can transform polling stations. The same voices that demand accountability online can institutionalize change through consistent voting. For Gen Z to cement its legacy as champions of freedom and human rights, it must translate passion into ballots.

While speaking during the burial of Mr Benard Mwangangi,  a retired Director of Planning in Garissa  County, Mwingi Municipal Manager Mr Alex Mutemi said residents have a role to play in the fight against cancer.   "We should not always wait for the government to come in and help us. Let us take proactive steps in seeking early treatment to prevent unnecessary deaths", said Mutemi while addressing mourners at Mbauni Village.   

Mr Mutemi assured residents that Governor Julius Malombe administration was addressing the cancer menace. "A fully equipped and operational cancer centre has been established at Kitui Level IV Hospital, and plans are underway to set up a similar facility at Mwingi Level IV Hospital ", he said.

According to the Ministry of Health, cancer was the third leading cause of death in Kenya in 2018 after infectious and cardiovascular diseases."70-80% of cancer patients in Kenya are diagnosed at an advanced disease when it is not amenable to cure", observed the then Health CS Mrs Sicily Kariuki in a 120 page report titled; National Cancer Screening Guidelines available on the website of the National Cancer Institute.

The party contends that its wins in Muminji and Evurore wards have reshaped the political landscape of the assembly, giving it grounds to demand additional nominated Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).

With the latest triumphs, UDA now boasts 16 MCAs in the Embu County Assembly, effectively making it the majority party in the House and strengthening its legislative influence.

Party insiders argue that nomination seats are distributed based on proportional representation, meaning any increase in elected members must automatically trigger a recalculation of the allocation formula.

Speaking on behalf of UDA, party lawyer Dr. Adrian Kamotho emphasized that the law governing nomination slots is clear and must be strictly adhered to following changes in party strength.

He stated that the party will formally write to the IEBC to claim what it considers its rightful share of nominated positions, noting that the by-election results significantly altered the numerical balance.

Kamotho added that the victories in Muminji and Evurore have tipped the scales in UDA’s favour, making it necessary to realign nomination slots to reflect the current political reality.

His sentiments were echoed by UDA party leader Cecily Mbarire who said UDA is the giant party in Embu County Assembly and that by next week they will write to the IEBC requesting more slots.

Embu County Assembly Speaker Josiah Thiriku confirmed that before the by-elections, UDA had 14 MCAs, including nominated members, but the figure has since risen to 16.

According to Thiriku, the new numbers firmly place UDA as the majority party in the assembly, even without factoring in support from other Kenya Kwanza–affiliated parties.

He observed that should the IEBC approve the petition, some political parties currently holding nominated seats may be compelled to relinquish them to accommodate UDA’s increased representation.

The Speaker also announced that the two newly elected MCAs will be sworn in next Tuesday, after which the assembly will move to reconstitute its committees in line with the new majority configuration.

Meanwhile, Mbeere North MP Leo Muthende hailed the by-election victories as a significant boost to UDA’s political dominance in the region. Muthende noted that with UDA now controlling approximately 67 per cent of elected leadership positions in Mbeere North, the party’s focus is to further solidify its presence and position itself strongly ahead of the next general election cycle.

Many young people use these platforms as a space of self-expression, entertainment, learning, business and a tool of communication globally since they connect people across the world. Social media is a very powerful source of news. It also helps youths to stay touch with their friends and family members. 

In addition, social media also promotes creativity and talent development among youths as they showcase their talents on social media platforms.

However social media also presents some challenges like peer pressure, misinformation, online addiction, cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content i.e. pornographic videos and mental health issues. Today, very many young people spend a lot of time on social media platforms consuming information. They are always on phones and laptops. 

Research shows that 95% of youths aged 13-17 years report using at least one social media platform with nearly two-thirds using it daily and over one third almost constantly.

Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that 11-13% problematic social media use is often linked to anxiety, depression and body image usage which is very dangerous to the teens.

The UK Government along with the countries like Australia, Greece and Spain is actively implementing bans on social media for children under 16 years to combat these challenges. The parents are also called upon to take full responsibilities in nurturing moral behaviors of their children.

The former Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Communication Edward Kisiang'ani warns youths who make majority of social media users on the improper use of Internet. He insisted that digital freedom should not exceed its limit.

In a nut shell, social media is a powerful tool that has greatly shaped the lives of young people today. It shapes how they learn, communicate, think and even express themselves. The impact of social media therefore, is not determined by the platforms themselves but by how they are being used. With proper guidance from the parents, educators and most specially society and with self-control and awareness from youths themselves, social media can be transformed from a distraction into a meaningful or rather a powerful tool for growth and positive change among youths. 

Ultimately, the responsibility lies in ensuring that teens use social media as a stepping towards personal development, meaningful communication and for a brighter feature. When used wisely, it can also empower youths to grow, succeed and positively influence the world around them.

One of the most common beliefs is that contraceptives cause permanent infertility. Many young women fear that once they begin using family planning methods, they may never conceive again. However, according to the World Health Organization, most modern contraceptives are safe, effective and reversible, meaning fertility typically returns after discontinuation.

Another widespread misconception is that contraceptives damage a woman’s health or “spoil the womb.” In reality, health experts explain that while some methods may have mild side effects, serious complications are rare when used correctly under medical guidance.

Research across Kenya shows that misinformation remains a major barrier to contraceptive use. Studies highlighted by the Guttmacher Institute indicate that belief in contraceptive myths remains high, especially among young people and in rural areas.

These misconceptions often include fears of birth defects, long-term illnesses, or loss of fertility none of which are supported by scientific evidence.

Despite these fears, contraceptive use in Kenya has steadily increased. Data from the African Institute for Development Policy shows that more than half of married women use modern contraceptive methods.

However, a significant number still lack access to accurate information or services, creating what experts describe as an “unmet need.”

The persistence of misinformation is closely linked to how people access information. Many young individuals rely on friends, partners, or community narratives rather than trained health professionals. Without clear and open education, false beliefs spread quickly and become accepted as truth.

Cultural and religious influences also play a role. In some communities, discussions about contraceptives are considered sensitive or even discouraged, making it harder for individuals to seek reliable information. This silence allows misinformation to persist.

Health professionals emphasize that improving access to accurate information is key. Open conversations, community education, and youth-friendly health services can help bridge the gap between myth and reality.

Contraceptives are not just about preventing pregnancy. They empower individuals to plan their lives, protect their health, and make informed choices. Until myths are replaced by facts, however, many will continue to make decisions based on fear rather than knowledge.

Emergency medical treatment is defined under section 2 of the Health Act, No. 21 of 2017 as “necessary immediate health care that must be administered to prevent death or worsening of a medical condition.” This definition captures the urgency and non-negotiable nature of emergency care.

Emergencies, by their very nature, do not wait for administrative processes, bed availability, or the ability to raise a cash deposit.

Medical research and practice identify emergencies across three broad categories. First are trauma-related emergencies arising from road traffic accidents, assaults, mob justice, penetrating injuries such as stabbings, snake bites, sexual assault, electrocution, and mass casualty incidents. 

Second are medical emergencies such as loss of consciousness, asthma attacks, poisoning, drowning, epilepsy, severe hypertension, infectious disease exposure, cerebral malaria, heart attacks, and internal bleeding. 

Third are obstetric emergencies, including labour complications, ectopic pregnancies, and abortion-related complications, many of which carry life-threatening risks for mothers.

The devastating consequences of denying emergency care were laid bare in the widely reported case of Alex Madaga in 2015. Mr Madaga, a 37-year-old man, suffered serious head injuries following a hit-and-run accident in Nairobi. What followed was an 18-hour ordeal that exposed systemic failures and ethical dilemmas within Kenya’s health system.

At Coptic Hospital and later at Ladnan Hospital, both private institutions a deposit of KSh 200,000 was demanded before admission. His wife, who had accompanied him throughout the night in the ambulance, could not raise the money. Admission was refused. By the time Mr Madaga was eventually admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital, his condition had deteriorated irreversibly. He died shortly thereafter. His death was not merely the result of injury, but of delay, delay occasioned by institutional refusals grounded in financial considerations.

The Madaga case starkly illustrated the tension between two competing interests: the constitutional right to emergency medical treatment and the commercial nature of private health care institutions. Do private hospitals, operating as profit-making entities, bear the same constitutional obligation as public hospitals? And if they fail to provide emergency care, what is the responsibility of the State?

In response to such tragedies, Kenya has taken significant legislative and policy steps. In 2017, Parliament enacted the Health Act, No. 21 of 2017, establishing a unified national health system encompassing both public and private providers. The Act reinforces the constitutional guarantee by prohibiting the denial of emergency medical treatment and by placing obligations on all health facilities to provide such care.

Further, in 2021, the Ministry of Health promulgated the Kenya Emergency Medical Care Policy 2020–2030. The Policy seeks to establish a functional Emergency Medical Care (EMC) system by integrating national and county health infrastructure, setting standards for quality emergency care, providing mechanisms for sustainable financing, and creating governance structures for emergency services. Importantly, the Policy aligns Kenya with the World Health Organization Resolution 72.16, which calls on all countries to ensure universal access to timely emergency care for the acutely ill and injured.

These reforms represent meaningful progress. However, enforcement remains the critical test. A right without effective enforcement mechanisms risks becoming hollow. For emergency medical treatment to be truly realized as a right, private and public institutions alike must be held accountable, and the State must play an active role in regulation, oversight, and financing.

When a Kenyan collapses, bleeds, convulses, or goes into labour, the Constitution does not ask whether they can pay. It does not distinguish between a public or private hospital. It speaks in absolute terms. The challenge before Kenya is to ensure that this constitutional promise is honoured not only in law books and policy documents, but in hospital corridors, emergency rooms, and ambulances where life often hangs in the balance.

The initiative forms part of Governor Cecily Mbarire’s broader development agenda focused on strengthening connectivity, stimulating trade, and uplifting livelihoods across the county.

Among the roads set for improvement are three access roads within Embu Town, Rwika Market Road in Mbeere South, Siakago Market Road in Mbeere North, and the Runyenjes Town exit in Runyenjes Constituency.

In addition to tarmacking, the works will include installation of street lighting, construction of drainage systems and culverts, as well as establishment of pedestrian walkways to enhance safety and accessibility.

County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Roads, Transport and Public Works, Francis Ndwiga, said the upgrades will significantly improve mobility for residents, traders and motorists by providing safer and more efficient transport networks.

Speaking during the official handover of project sites to contractors on Wednesday, Ndwiga noted that the improved roads are expected to spur sustainable economic growth by easing transportation of farm produce and goods, thereby supporting farmers and local enterprises.

Rwika Market is among the areas poised to benefit greatly from the project. The market hosts the Jeremiah Nyagah National Polytechnic, which has a student population exceeding 6,000.

The institution’s Trustee and former Kamukunji MP, Norman Nyaga, described the road upgrade as a long-overdue development that will unlock new investment opportunities in the area.

He observed that the poor condition of the road had previously hindered growth at the institution, contributing to stagnation in student enrollment due to accessibility challenges. He expressed optimism that the improved road network will attract more learners and ease movement to and from the institution.

Kirimari Ward MCA Ibrahim Swaleh also welcomed the initiative in Embu Town, saying it will enhance the business environment and improve movement within the town.

He pointed out that traders have for years endured hardships caused by dusty conditions during dry seasons and muddy roads during rains, affecting business operations.

Swaleh further urged the County Government of Embu to prioritize tarmacking of roads in urban centres over repeated graveling, terming bitumen roads as more durable, cost-effective and sustainable in the long run.

‎"I have been talking about wild animals for a long time. Recently we had a meeting with KWS  officials who assured us they will remove wild animals from here. That has not happened.

‎I want to remind KWS to take wild animals from our ward to stop destroying our environment and injuring residents", said the MCA.

‎He condemned KWS saying that there was no use of reacting in response when the wild animals kill residents. He reminded them that human life is move valuable than that of a wild animal and they should act immediately when people's lives are endangered by wild animals. 

‎Additionally, he told MWINGI TIMES that Kyanyaa residents in Kitui South spotted elephants. They were trekking among households and were likely to cause harm in their return to their habitat, Tsavo National Park which was 40km away.

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