Daily Nation
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s efforts to revive the Azimio coalition are facing growing resistance within opposition ranks, exposing deep divisions ahead of the 2027 elections.
A strategy meeting chaired by Kenyatta resolved to expand the coalition’s membership, but the move has instead triggered disagreements among key leaders.
Critics argue the push is being driven by attempts to reorganise leadership, including backing Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka for a bigger role.
Some opposition figures have distanced themselves from the plan, citing exclusion from key decisions and mistrust over the coalition’s direction. Others insist unity remains critical to mounting a strong challenge against President William Ruto.
Azimio, a multi-party alliance formed in 2022, has recently faced instability, with internal wrangles threatening its cohesion.
Standard
A fresh case of alleged police brutality has reignited public concern after the death of 19-year-old boda boda rider Erick Otieno. According to The Standard, Otieno was arrested over a minor traffic offence but later died after reportedly sustaining severe injuries while in custody.
His family claims he was released in a battered condition and succumbed shortly after.
A postmortem revealed fatal internal injuries linked to blunt force trauma. Authorities have launched investigations, with reports indicating several officers may have been involved.
The incident adds to growing scrutiny over deaths occurring in police custody across Kenya.
People Daily
With just under a year to the 2027 General Election, President William Ruto’s administration has intensified nationwide political activity, sparking debate over its impact on governance.
A report by People Daily highlights growing concerns that continuous campaigning is overshadowing policy implementation.
State tours by the President, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and Cabinet Secretaries have doubled as political mobilisation platforms, drawing sharp responses from the opposition.
Analysts argue that this “permanent campaign” approach—where governance and electioneering merge—risks shifting focus from service delivery to political optics.
Critics point to increased involvement of Cabinet Secretaries in political messaging, raising constitutional questions on neutrality in public office.
Legal experts warn that sustained political engagement using state resources could blur institutional boundaries.
However, government allies defend the outreach as necessary public engagement. As political temperatures rise, observers say the key test will be whether governance outcomes can match the intensity of political activity.