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Senate puts NTSA on the spot over delays in issuing vehicle number plates

By
Binti Wangila
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NAIROBI-The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is under mounting pressure to explain persistent delays in the issuance of new-generation vehicle number plates following complaints from motorists who have completed the registration process but are yet to receive the plates.

The Senate Standing Committee on Roads and Transportation has been tasked with investigating the cause of the delays, assessing the extent of the backlog, and recommending measures to improve service delivery.

The inquiry was initiated by Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, who said many vehicle owners have fulfilled all registration requirements, including payment of the prescribed fees, but continue to wait for their number plates.

Nyutu wants NTSA to provide a comprehensive report on all pending applications as of July 1, 2026, detailing the backlog by county, vehicle category, and the length of time each application has remained unprocessed.

He also called on the authority to explain its current production capacity, plans to expand or modernize the manufacture and distribution of number plates, and the timelines for implementing the proposed improvements.

In addition, the senator is seeking details on the procurement of raw materials used in the production of number plates and the measures being taken by the Ministry of Roads and Transport, in collaboration with NTSA, to eliminate the backlog.

Nyutu argued that motorists should not be penalized for delays caused by government agencies.

The concerns drew support from several senators, who questioned NTSA’s efficiency, accountability, and service delivery.

Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo criticized the implementation of some NTSA regulations, arguing that they had not undergone the required parliamentary approval process. He noted that the Senate Committee on Delegated Legislation had recommended the annulment of three NTSA regulations.

“Kenyans must know that this House has pronounced itself on those regulations,” Maanzo said.

He further claimed that regulations relating to vehicle number plates were already being enforced despite not having been tabled before Parliament.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka called for a broader probe into NTSA’s leadership and the management of revenue collected from motorists, including funds associated with speed governors.

“The issue of NTSA raised by Senator Nyutu is a matter that affects county governments,” Onyonka said.

Meanwhile, Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang said the delays have significantly affected vehicle importers, with many imported vehicles remaining at the Port of Mombasa, the Inland Container Depot (ICD), and Container Freight Stations (CFS) because they cannot be released without registration plates.

“There are many people importing vehicles from Japan, Dubai, Thailand and South Africa. Sometimes vehicles remain at the Mombasa Inland Container Depot and Container Freight Stations for a long time because the number plates have not been issued,” Kisang said.

He urged the Ministry of Roads and Transport to streamline the vehicle registration process to prevent unnecessary storage costs and delays.

“NTSA needs to improve its operations and ensure that vehicles are registered promptly upon arrival and number plates are issued without delay. Without number plates, vehicles cannot be released or legally driven on the road,” he added.

The Senate committee is expected to establish the cause of the delays, determine the scale of the backlog, and recommend measures to improve the production and timely issuance of vehicle number plates across the country.

Fai nation unites behind Dr. Hassan Mohamed for Wajir 2027 gubernatorial race

By
Vincent Amara
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In a major political milestone ahead of the 2027 General Elections, Hon. Dr. Hassan Mohamed hosted a high-profile thanksgiving dinner bringing together key community leaders, elders, and delegates following his official endorsement as the Fai Nation gubernatorial candidate for Wajir County.

The exclusive gathering convened 56 Fai Delegates, the Sultanates, the Fai Mediation Team, and senior Fai Elders at the Sultanates Headquarters to celebrate the endorsement and reinforce community solidarity. During the event, leaders and delegates formally reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace, purpose, and community harmony as they prepare for the 2027 polls.

The dinner followed the receipt of the Final Coronation from the Fai Mediation Committee and Sultanates, cementing Dr. Hassan’s position as the clan’s unified candidate. Expressing deep gratitude to the Fai Nation for their trust, Dr. Hassan pledged to lead with humility, good governance, and inclusive leadership aimed at driving meaningful development across all of Wajir County.

“Tonight, I had the honour of hosting the 56 Delegates of Fai, the Sultanates, the Mediation Team, and senior Fai Elders for a thanksgiving dinner following my endorsement as the Fai Nation gubernatorial candidate… Guided by the collective vision of building a stronger, more united Wajir, together we move forward, and together we shall transform Wajir.” Hon. Dr. Hassan Mohamed

With the firm backing of the elders, mediation team, and delegates, Dr. Hassan Mohamed’s campaign gains significant momentum, setting a strong foundation for a competitive and strategic race for the top seat in Wajir County.

Hamilton hit with late penalty in frustrating Hungarian grand prix

By
Newton Ingui
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BUDAPEST — Lewis Hamilton’s string of disciplinary setbacks continued at the Hungarian Grand Prix after a late pit-lane speeding penalty dropped the Ferrari driver to fifth place.

Having already been hit with a three-place grid drop on Saturday for impeding McLaren’s Oscar Piastri during qualifying—relegating him from P2 to P5—Hamilton fought his way back into podium contention during Sunday’s race.

However, a strategic call to pit under a Virtual Safety Car brought unexpected trouble. Hamilton was clocked exceeding the pit-lane speed limit by just 0.1 km/h, incurring an automatic five-second time penalty from race stewards.

The sanction proved costly, dropping Hamilton behind Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc in the final classification.

The sanction marks Hamilton’s fourth steward penalty across the last three race weekends, following a false-start penalty at Silverstone and a collision infraction at Spa-Francorchamps.

“Every opportunity that I give those stewards, every single time they give me a penalty,” Hamilton remarked after the race, questioning the team’s late pit decision. “We’ve got to trust that there’s a decision that’s being taken, but in hindsight… it just opened the door to the penalty I got at the end.”

“Africa must take its seat in the AI revolution” Sen. Mungatana

By
Vincent Amara
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The Senator underscored that previous industrial and technological revolutions often saw Africa relegated to the periphery either as an exporter of raw materials or a consumer of foreign-built technologies.

He cautioned that allowing the AI boom to follow the same pattern risks plunging the continent into digital dependency and economic marginalization.

By advocating for proactive policy frameworks, strategic investments in digital infrastructure, and cross-border innovation, Mungatana stressed that African nations must shift from being mere consumers of foreign algorithms to creators and owners of local AI solutions.  

Highlighting Kenya’s rapidly growing reputation as a continental tech hub, Sen. Dr. Mungatana emphasized that the nation widely recognized as the Silicon Savannah is uniquely positioned to spearhead Africa’s digital transformation and drive continental strategy.

“Kenya, also known as the Silicon Savannah, must take its place to be first amongst equals in Africa,” he urged.

With Kenya’s vibrant startup ecosystem, widespread mobile tech adoption, and expanding digital footprint, Mungatana noted that the country has a responsibility to set the pace for responsible AI adoption, legislative frameworks, and regional leadership across the African continent.  

Morocco tops Group A after defeating Harambee starlets 4:0

By
Newton Ingui
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Morocco moves to the top on goal difference ahead of Algeria

Host nation Morocco  defeated Kenya  4-0 in the opening Group A match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.

Sakina Ouzraoui (20′): Broke the deadlock by latching onto a through ball from Yasmin Mrabet and finishing low into the corner.

Doubled the Atlas Lionesses’ advantage with a powerful header from a corner kick.

Ibtissam Jraidi (32′, 47′): Sealed the win with a brace, scoring a header before half-time and adding a quick fourth right after the restart.

Kenya’s Harambee Starlets, returning to the continental stage for the first time in a decade, nearly found an equalizer early when Terry Engesha’s long-range lob rattled the crossbar, but they ultimately struggled to handle Morocco’s clinical attack.

Morocco leads Group A on goal difference over Algeria, who defeated Senegal 2-0 in the group’s other opening fixture.

MP Junet Mohamed alleges lawmakers received bribes to impeach former DP Gachagua

By
Vincent Amara
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Suna East Member of Parliament Junet Mohamed has sparked intense political debate after alleging that lawmakers were bribed to support the October 2024 impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Speaking on Sunday during a joint political convention held by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in Kakamega County the home turf of Co-operatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya Junet openly claimed that money was distributed to members across both the National Assembly and the Senate prior to the vote.

“When we were removing Gachagua from office, something changed hands in Parliament. Let me tell you the truth the accounting officer in charge of distributing those funds was Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot,” Junet claimed.

The Suna East lawmaker went on to criticize fellow legislators over how they spent their alleged payouts, advising them to invest in building solid homes rather than squandering the funds on lavish city lifestyles. He further chided unnamed colleagues for attempting to realign politically with the very leader they had voted to remove from office.

Junet’s bombshell comments added fuel to an already politically charged Sunday across the region, as political figures from opposing camps traversed Western Kenya to pitch their agendas.

In neighboring Bungoma County, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna spearheaded a Linda Mwananchi rally, directing sharp criticisms at President William Ruto’s administration and policy initiatives.

Meanwhile, President Ruto attended a church service at the Katakwa Diocese in Busia County for the consecration of the 4th Bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK). Responding directly to Sifuna’s remarks regarding local skepticism toward the government’s Affordable Housing Program, President Ruto dismissed the opposition’s arguments with a humorous local metaphor:

“Kwani hii kuku iko na kilo ngapi haiwezi fika 12th floor?” (How heavy is this chicken that it cannot reach the 12th floor?)

Grassroots surge: Kiminini residents turn Sifuna’s rally into spontaneous fundraiser

By
Vincent Amara
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Residents of Kiminini in Trans Nzoia County transformed a roadside political rally into an impromptu fundraising event on Sunday. Supporters made spontaneous cash contributions to the Linda Mwananchi Movement, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, demonstrating strong grassroots backing for his political agenda.

Supporters mobbed Sifuna’s convoy, donating coins and notes ranging from KSh 20 to KSh 50. Videos circulating on social media showed crowd members pressing forward through the crowd to hand small donations directly to Sifuna at his vehicle.

During the stopover, former Jubilee official Pauline Njoroge also appealed to supporters nationwide to contribute as little as KSh 10 to help support the movement’s logistics and mobilization efforts.

Accepting the contributions, Sifuna argued that relying on small donations ensures a leader remains accountable to the public rather than to wealthy financiers.

“They said one cannot be president in this country without money. I would rather be indebted to ordinary people giving me as little as KSh 10 than be indebted to a single individual giving me KSh 10 million,” Sifuna told supporters.

He warned that political figures funded by wealthy donors are often forced to reward them with lucrative public contracts after taking power contracts that frequently go unfulfilled at the expense of public infrastructure and development.

The spontaneous drive comes shortly after Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli publicly questioned whether Sifuna possessed the financial capacity for a presidential bid. Speaking at a church event in Lurambi, Kakamega County, Atwoli remarked:

“I have seen one of our young leaders announce a presidential bid, but you cannot become President using only your own money or borrowed funds; you need powerful friends with resources.”

Sifuna firmly dismissed the notion, maintaining that his political movement will continue to rely on modest, grassroots contributions from ordinary citizens rather than elite political networks.

Mudavadi drums up support for Malaba highway project, calls for voter registration in Busia

By
Vincent Amara
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Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has emphasized that Kenya’s long-term economic growth hinges on strategic infrastructure investment and active civic participation, declaring that great nations are built where infrastructure, opportunity, and the voice of the people converge.

Speaking in Amagoro following a warm and enthusiastic reception from local residents, Mudavadi highlighted Busia County’s critical strategic positioning as Kenya’s western gateway to regional commerce and cross-border trade.

He pointed to the planned dualling of the Mau Summit–Malaba Highway as a transformative project that will overhaul the region’s transport network and unlock massive commercial potential.

“Busia is Kenya’s western gateway to regional trade, and with the dualling of the Mau Summit–Malaba Highway, we are laying the foundation for faster trade, increased investment, job creation and greater economic opportunities for generations to come,” Mudavadi stated.

Beyond economic development, the Prime Cabinet Secretary made a strong pitch for democratic participation as political activity across the country gathers momentum, urging citizens to take charge of their governance through the ballot.

“As we build this future, I encourage every eligible citizen to register as a voter and make their voice count. Democracy is strongest when every Kenyan participates in shaping the country’s future,” he emphasized.

Expressing deep appreciation to the residents of Teso North for their hospitality, Mudavadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with local communities to drive equitable development across the region.

“Thank you, Amagoro, for the warm and enthusiastic reception. Together, we will continue building a stronger, more united and prosperous Kenya,” he added.

President Ruto assures nation of peaceful 2027 polls, vows firm crackdown on political violence

By
Vincent Amara
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0

President William Ruto has moved to reassure the nation amid rising political temperatures, declaring that Kenya will remain peaceful ahead of the 2027 General Election and issuing a stern warning against violence or criminality disguised as political agitation.

Speaking in Amagoro during the consecration and enthronement of the Rt. Rev. Dr. Vitalis Job Ekuru as the fourth Bishop of the ACK Diocese of Katakwa, the Head of State emphasized that national peace and stability remain non-negotiable priorities for his administration, assuring citizens that while elections come and go, the nation must remain firm, united, and stable.

Addressing the recent political mobilization across the country, President Ruto affirmed that every leader has the constitutional right to sell their agenda, present policies, and engage citizens freely, regardless of their political persuasion.

However, he drew a strict line against destruction of property and lawlessness, revealing that security agencies have been directed to firmly deal with criminal gangs and goons targeting private property and businesses under the guise of demonstrations.

Reflecting on recent unrest, the President noted that government lessons showed some protests had devolved into criminal activities, promising that such acts will no longer be tolerated in the country.

President Ruto’s strong stance on national unity echoed an earlier appeal by ACK Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, who urged political leaders to moderate their language as the country heads into the election period, warning that inflammatory rhetoric could ignite conflict if left unchecked and reminding leaders that Kenya has no spare country.

Beyond political stability, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to accelerating economic and social development in Busia County.

He announced that he will return next month to officially launch the construction of the 58-kilometre Butula-Amukura-Kocholia road project, while highlighting ongoing investments in cross-border infrastructure with Uganda, including the Standard Gauge Railway extension to Malaba, new highways, expanded electricity connectivity, affordable housing, modern fresh produce markets, and university hostels.

Turning to healthcare, President Ruto urged residents to enroll in the Social Health Authority (SHA), emphasizing that the government is actively strengthening primary healthcare by recruiting more nurses, equipping hospitals, and increasing funding for county health systems.

2026 Mashujaa Day preparations on track in Eldoret amid tri-county venue debate

By
Leah Kawon
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Preparations for the 2026 Mashujaa Day national celebrations remain fully on track, according to the National Celebrations Steering Committee, even as a fresh wave of public debate brews over the choice of venue.

Speaking after a steering committee meeting at Harambee House, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen assured the nation that key infrastructure developments across Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Nandi counties are progressing smoothly ahead of the October festivities. Murkomen confirmed that the government is on schedule to deliver sports facilities, roads, energy supply, and other critical ancillary projects across the three counties to support the week-long lineup of national activities.

The steering committee’s confirmation follows an announcement by President William Ruto, who revealed that the newly elevated Eldoret City will serve as the principal venue for this year’s Mashujaa Day, with Kipchoge Keino Stadium slated to host the main event. President Ruto noted that the decision came after a consultative meeting on July 13 with leaders from Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Nandi counties to strategize on a joint tri-county hosting model designed to distribute development projects across the North Rift region.

However, the decision to hold the main ceremony in Eldoret marks a sharp departure from earlier plans that had earmarked Kamariny Stadium in Elgeyo-Marakwet as the primary venue. The sudden shift has sparked disappointment and pushback from Elgeyo-Marakwet residents, who expected Kamariny to host the event following years of stalled construction and prior official assurances. Protesting locals expressed frustration over missing out on the main showcase, with some asserting that they would gather at Kamariny Stadium on Mashujaa Day regardless of the President’s presence in Eldoret, while demanding clear answers on how Kamariny will feature in the week-long program.

Despite the localized friction, government officials stand firm on the tri-county framework, emphasizing that the 2026 celebrations are intended as a collective undertaking for the entire region. The state maintains that the broad scope of infrastructure upgrades ranging from road network improvements to sports facilities will bring long-term economic benefits to Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Nandi counties alike.

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