The Online Kenyan

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has declared he is "no pushover" and intends to retain his position, asserting the Deputy President seat is not vacant and dismissing ambitions from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). He spoke at an event in Embu County, addressing approximately 20,000 grassroots leaders. In a separate development, Kindiki has also dismissed Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka's presidential ambitions for the 2027 General Election, questioning his development record. Meanwhile, Raila Junior, son of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, is set to contest the Kibra parliamentary seat in 2027, causing political ripples within the ODM party as the race for succession intensifies ahead of the general election.

Kenya is intensifying its efforts to foster a robust digital economy, signaling a significant push towards technological advancement and innovation. The country is also aiming to boost its digital trade sector by focusing on value addition strategies to enhance participation and competitiveness in the global digital economy. Simultaneously, African nations are urgently enhancing cybersecurity capabilities to combat escalating cyber threats, investing in training and infrastructure to build a skilled workforce capable of defending against sophisticated attacks.

Nairobi traders were arrested and tear-gassed during protests against a Sh700,000 increase in import costs. Traders clashed with the Kenya Revenue Authority over new customs valuation benchmarks, warning of higher costs for consumers. Traders in the Central Business District also staged a separate demonstration against new tax impositions, voicing grievances over increased financial burden. Additionally, traders raised significant concerns about a recently proposed tobacco bill that has sparked widespread debate and apprehension among those in the tobacco trade.

Kenyan police are calling for significant reforms rather than just new uniforms, emphasizing that superficial changes will not address underlying issues within the National Police Service. Kenya's General Service Police officers began transitioning to new uniforms officially launched by President William Ruto. However, a company awarded the contract to manufacture the new uniforms has raised suspicions due to its registered address. President Ruto addressed new police recruits at Kiganjo Police Training College, delivering a message regarding their responsibilities.

President William Ruto has strongly criticized the United Opposition, labeling it a tribal political group lacking a genuine agenda for Kenyans. Separately, Ruto once again accused former President Uhuru of financing the opposition to undermine his administration. Meanwhile, a group of Kitui leaders led by Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna have strongly dismissed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's recent claims about potential rigging in the 2027 general election.

The United Opposition, led by Wiper Patriotic Front Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, is calling for comprehensive financial and recruitment audits of key government institutions including the police, TSC, and KDF. Victims and survivors of state violence have rejected President William Ruto's expression of remorse on Katiba Day, calling for tangible action rather than mere words. Separately, victims of police brutality have dismissed President Ruto's apology for past injustices, demanding concrete action against those responsible for killings and disappearances. Opposition leaders have also told President Ruto to implement the Maraga taskforce police reforms.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has refuted claims of political interference, graft, and voter suppression concerning the 2027 General Election preparations. The commission stated these allegations are false and aim to erode public trust. IEBC has strongly refuted allegations made by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua regarding the 2027 General Election preparations, including claims that politicians bought a house worth up to Ksh200 million for its Chairperson. The commission also rejected claims that Miru Systems, a South Korean company, was awarded a contract for the 2027 general election technology in a scheme to rig the vote.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has clarified a new Ksh3.2 million threshold for consolidated cargo, amidst plans by small-scale traders to hold nationwide protests. Traders argue the increase has raised business costs. Protests erupted in Nairobi's Central Business District on Friday, August 28, as small-scale traders marched towards the KRA offices to demonstrate against increased taxes. Business owners closed their shops to protest against new tax policies and changes in customs valuation, with police firing teargas at demonstrators protesting along Kenyatta Avenue. The traders are demanding immediate intervention to address their grievances related to taxation and customs valuation changes.