As mourners gathered at the family home in Tala on Saturday, February 14, 2026, to lay Moses to rest, Muthama issued a clear and emotional directive: the “WANTAM” and “TUTAM” slogans that have turned Kenya’s public spaces into political battlegrounds would not be tolerated at his son’s funeral.

“Today, we are not here as politicians. We are here as parents burying our child,” Muthama told the solemn gathering.

“Let us honor Moses with dignity, not drama.”

“By God’s plans, the mother of Moses and I may follow different political paths. But if you want to respect our peace in this home, do not bring ‘WANTAM’ or ‘TUTAM’ issues here, just forget them. When you speak, speak with gratitude for the opportunity, and nothing else. I will be holding the remote control to the microphone, and if you divert to politics, I will switch it off. That’s how you take charge of your home,” Muthama warned.

Muthama further stated that his son’s burial should serve as a model for funerals across the country.

“Is it right to bring politics into a family that is mourning and see people start fighting?” he asked.

“If you want to promote UDA’s agenda, there will be other platforms for that, not at a burial event.”

The 26-year-old Moses tragically passed away on February 4 after collapsing at home and developing breathing complications, leaving his parents and the entire community in deep mourning.

Friday’s pre-burial gathering painted a rare picture of political unity. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and ODM leader Oburu Oginga, figures often at opposite ends of Kenya’s political spectrum, sat side by side at the Muthama residence, their differences temporarily shelved in the face of shared human sorrow.

Kalonzo, visibly moved, described Moses as “a young man full of promise, purpose and dreams for the future,” calling the loss “a moment of profound sorrow” for the entire Ukambani community.

Senator Agnes Kavindu, Moses’s mother and Muthama’s wife, received the condolences with quiet grace, surrounded by family and close friends.

Muthama’s stand has resonated nationwide. Across social media platforms, thousands of Kenyans have praised the grieving father for drawing a firm line between political theater and personal tragedy.

“Finally, someone said it. Funerals are sacred spaces, not campaign rallies,” one supporter wrote.

The ban has ignited broader debate about the boundaries of political expression in Kenya.

While WANTAM and TUTAM slogans have become fixtures at public gatherings, many now question whether every space, including final farewells, must become a political arena.

As Moses was laid to rest on Saturday afternoon, the ceremony remained peaceful and centered on remembrance, exactly as his grieving parents had requested.

Pole sana to Commissioner Muthama, Senator Kavindu, and the entire family. May Moses rest in eternal peace.

The post Former Senator Muthama Bans Political “WANTAM” & “TUTAM” Chants at Son’s Burial appeared first on Insider Bits News.

Sifuna, the Nairobi Senator stressed that he remains true to the voices of ordinary Kenyans and that his leadership reflects their aspirations.

“You are the ones who sent me,” Sifuna declared, highlighting that his positions come from the people he represents, even as critics threaten his position within the party.

Taking a firm stance against aligning with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Sifuna told the crowd that the group would not support policies that do not align with ODM’s values or the late Raila Odinga’s vision.

He also challenged those who once doubted the rally’s success, quoting opponents who said, “we will not enter Busia, where are we now?” to applause from supporters.

Thousands of supporters turned up at the Busia event as part of the newly launched Linda Mwananchi tour, a grassroots mobilisation initiative aimed at strengthening the party’s base and charting its direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Sifuna’s remarks come amid escalating internal debates within ODM over cooperation with the national government and the route the party should take as it prepares for future elections

The post Edwin Sifuna Rallies ODM in Busia, Rejects UDA Tie-Up Ahead of 2027 appeared first on Insider Bits News.

The vocal legislator, addressing a charged crowd alongside ODM leaders including Siaya Governor James Orengo and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, criticized party colleagues who have shifted focus from grassroots activism to what he termed corporate interests.

“The party we have now is ODM Limited. It is a company that now focuses on making money,”Babu declared, drawing attention to how the party has drifted from its activist roots.

The MP pointed to the success of past protests, noting how the demonstrations have influenced political appointments and government policy.

“We are now being told that the party cannot produce a presidential candidate, nor does it want a deputy presidential position,” he stated, highlighting what he sees as a retreat from the party’s original mission.

Babu’s stance comes from his consistent record of joining protesters on the streets, actions that have previously cost him his security detail and brought him into confrontation with government authorities.

He also issued a stern warning to sections of the ODM senior leadership, telling supporters that the party’s grassroots would “deal with” leaders he accused of betraying its core ideals.

The Embakasi East MP said the movement belongs to ordinary members and vowed that any internal attempts to “sell out” the party would be fiercely resisted.

“I want to warn the ODM senior leadership, if you betray the party and its supporters, we will deal with you. ODM belongs to the people, not a few individuals,” the MP stated

The Linda Mwananchi Tour represents a new chapter in ODM’s internal struggle, with dissidents using the platform to challenge current party direction and reaffirm their commitment to street activism as a catalyst for political transformation.

The tour is expected to continue across various counties as the faction seeks to mobilize grassroots support ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The post Babu Owino: Kenyans Will Picket and Demonstrate Because It Brings Change appeared first on Insider Bits News.

Speaking at a packed rally in Busia County during the Linda Mwananchi Tour, Orengo joined forces with fellow ODM leaders including Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino to deliver a clear message: the Orange Democratic Movement must remain an independent opposition force.

“Nobody can dare auction the ODM party,” Orengo declared to roaring crowds, switching between Kiswahili and English. “We will not be swallowed by any other party.”

What stood out at the Busia rally was the nature of the crowd itself, thousands of supporters turned out with little to no orange-branded merchandise, suggesting an organic groundswell rather than a choreographed political event.

The turnout appeared to validate claims by Orengo’s faction that they represent the authentic voice of ODM’s grassroots base.

The opposition wing of ODM, led by Sifuna, Orengo, Babu Owino, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Caroli Omondi, Joshua Kimilu, and Obadiah Barongo, positions itself as the custodian of the party’s founding principles against what they describe as an opportunistic faction that has been co-opted by the Ruto administration.

“ODM Must Field a Presidential Candidate”

Orengo was unequivocal about the party’s 2027 strategy: ODM must field its own presidential candidate and cannot join forces with UDA.

“ODM cannot join UDA, it will not happen,” he insisted.

“No one will force us to join a government that we do not agree with. ODM must field a presidential candidate.”

His remarks drew a sharp line between his faction and ODM members who have taken positions in Ruto’s government or suggested closer cooperation with Kenya Kwanza.

Orengo and his allies argue that such arrangements represent opportunism rather than principled politics, and that they dilute ODM’s identity as an opposition force.

The rally comes amid a bitter internal struggle over the party’s future direction.

While some ODM figures have embraced working arrangements with the government, Orengo’s wing accuses them of abandoning the party’s core values in pursuit of political expediency.

By casting the debate as one between ODM’s “real owners” and “founding members” versus what they characterize as a compromised wing, Orengo’s faction is making a play not just for control of party strategy but for its very soul.

The Linda Mwananchi Tour appears designed to demonstrate that significant grassroots support exists for maintaining ODM’s independence, and that the party’s base will resist any attempt to sell out to the current administration as Kenya moves toward the 2027 General Election.

The post Orengo Declares ODM Will Not Join Ruto’s UDA at Busia Rally appeared first on Insider Bits News.

In a statement released Saturday, Musyoka outlined what he describes as a deliberate attempt to undermine multiparty democracy in Kenya, alleging that despite following all legal procedures, the government prevented the gazettement of new AZIMIO leadership appointments scheduled for Friday, February 6, 2026.

According to Musyoka, three key appointments were legally made and duly accepted by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties, with Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka serving as Party Leader, Caroli Omondi as Secretary General, and Philip Kisia as Executive Director.

“The facts are simple,” Musyoka stated. “Our changes were legally appointed. The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties accepted our changes. Local dailies published them last week.”

The former Vice President claims that despite this regulatory approval and public announcement, State House directly instructed the Government Printer to block the official gazette publication that would formalize these changes.

Musyoka drew particular attention to what he sees as a fundamental breach of commitments made during the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) talks, which he co-chaired.

Among the 10 agenda items agreed upon was “Fidelity to the law on multiparty democracy.”

“I co-chaired those talks in good faith, believing we were building consensus on strengthening Kenya’s democratic institutions,” Musyoka said.

“Yet here we are, watching the same administration undermine the very principles we agreed upon.”

The NADCO talks were established to address political tensions following the 2022 elections and to strengthen Kenya’s democratic framework.

The AZIMIO leader framed the incident as part of what he describes as a consistent pattern by President William Ruto’s administration to weaken opposition structures.

“Ruto has consistently undermined opposition parties and coalitions,” Musyoka charged.

“This is yet another example of using state machinery to weaken political competition rather than competing on ideas and track record.”

He warned that the implications extend beyond AZIMIO itself: “When State House can arbitrarily stop the publication of legally constituted political party leadership, it’s not just AZIMIO under attack, it’s Kenya’s multiparty democracy itself.”

Musyoka announced that AZIMIO would pursue all available legal avenues to ensure the leadership changes are officially recognized.

“We will pursue all legal avenues to ensure our rightful leadership is gazetted,” he declared. “Democracy cannot function when those in power manipulate the rules to silence dissent.”

The post State House Blocks AZIMIO Leadership Changes, Musyoka Alleges Democratic Interference appeared first on Insider Bits News.

The governor appeared before the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) detectives following mounting concerns about questionable tender awards and procurement processes within the county government.

The probe centers on several major contracts awarded between 2022 and 2024, including road construction projects, medical equipment supplies, and county infrastructure development.

According to documents seen by investigators, the procurement irregularities involve inflated project costs, non-competitive tendering processes, and payments made to suppliers who allegedly failed to deliver goods and services.

Some contracts were reportedly awarded to companies linked to county officials and their associates.

Governor Otuoma, who took office in 2022, has maintained his innocence, stating that his administration has operated within the law and followed all due procurement procedures.

“I have cooperated fully with the investigators and provided all the documentation they requested. We have nothing to hide,” the governor said in a brief statement after recording his statement.

The investigation has also roped in several county officials, including members of the procurement committee, finance officers, and heads of various departments.

At least six county employees have already been questioned, with some asked to provide documents detailing how specific tenders were awarded.

The probe follows complaints from contractors and civil society groups who raised concerns about the transparency of procurement processes in the county.

Auditor General reports had also flagged several procurement irregularities in Busia County over the past two financial years.

EACC spokesman confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that more individuals could be summoned to assist with inquiries.

The commission has emphasized that no one will be spared if found culpable of corruption or economic crimes.

Busia County Assembly members have called for transparency in the investigations and urged all implicated officials to cooperate with authorities.

The assembly’s Public Accounts Committee has also launched its own inquiry into the procurement concerns.

If charges are preferred and convictions secured, those found guilty could face hefty fines, jail terms, and disqualification from holding public office under Kenya’s anti-corruption laws.

The investigation continues as authorities seek to recover any public funds that may have been lost through the alleged irregular procurement processes.

The post Busia Governor Records Statement Over KSh 1.4B Procurement Probe appeared first on Insider Bits News.

Magwanga says the governor’s actions go beyond politics and have crossed into illegality. 

The deputy governor argued that his constitutional rights as a holder of public office have been violated.

“My office is still closed, and my staff have no access to it. What kind of management is this? You cannot close a public office to deny the holder access. This is a violation of the Constitution,” Magwanga says

“The move is a calculated political power play aimed at undermining my office and obstructing the functions of county governance.”

The dispute erupted after Governor Wanga removed Magwanga from his additional role as County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, part of a wider cabinet reshuffle that deepened their political rift following the recent Kasipul by‑election.

Magwanga has publicly signalled his intention to contest the governor’s seat in the 2027 general elections, intensifying tensions within the county leadership.

 He accused the county administration of sidelining him and sabotaging his duties.

“You cannot close a public office to deny the holder access. This is a violation of the Constitution… It is only a matter of time before the people of Homa Bay lock you out through the ballot. Your time is up, and you are going home,” he said.

Political allies of the governor have challenged Magwanga’s conduct, with County Finance CECM Solomon Obiero saying critics should resign if they plan to run against the governor.

The matter is now before the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Kisumu, where Magwanga is seeking orders compelling the county government to restore his office access and official vehicles.

Governor Wanga’s office has not yet filed a response to the lawsuit and the matter is pending hearing 

The post Homa Bay Deputy Governor Magwanga Sues Governor Wanga Over Locked Office, Withdrawn Vehicles appeared first on Insider Bits News.

The announcement, made Wednesday from the Commission’s Nairobi headquarters, marks a significant leadership transition for Kenya’s electoral body just over a year before the 2027 General Elections.

Mr. Marjan, who joined the IEBC as CEO and Commission Secretary in March 2022, will formally exit the position as the Commission begins recruiting his successor.

“This, in effect, brings to an end his tenure in IEBC and marks the beginning of the process of recruitment of a new CEO and Secretary to the Commission,” the IEBC stated in an official press release.

The Commission did not disclose specific reasons for the mutual separation but emphasized that the transition would be managed carefully to ensure continuity.

The electoral body announced that an interim replacement would be named shortly to maintain operational stability during the transition period.

“The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission will announce an interim replacement who will take over as Acting CEO/CS in due course,” according to the statement signed by IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon, HSC.

The Commission praised Mr. Marjan’s leadership during a particularly challenging chapter in IEBC’s history, when the body operated without a full complement of commissioners.

“We particularly thank him for steering the Commission Secretariat during the period of absence of the Commissioners until when the current Commission was fully constituted on 11th July 2025,” the IEBC stated.

The Commission described the outgoing CEO as “a committed servant” who “offered his professional services and leadership to IEBC” throughout his tenure.

Coinciding with the leadership change, the IEBC announced plans for “critical reforms within the Secretariat” aimed at strengthening institutional capacity ahead of the 2027 polls.

“We wish to assure Kenyans that any changes will be designed to ensure we achieve effective institutional preparedness, strengthen our internal accountability and results oriented systems, and leadership continuity,” the Commission stated.

The electoral body emphasized its commitment to maintaining high standards in electoral management.

“The IEBC Secretariat is very crucial in service delivery on electoral management and related matters and it is the intention of the Commission that it has to reflect the level of preparedness, passion and commitment to delivering credible, free and fair elections in Kenya,” the statement read.

Despite the high-level departure, the IEBC moved swiftly to assure stakeholders that ongoing electoral activities would not be disrupted.

“The Commission assures the people of Kenya and stakeholders that the changes within its Secretariat and management arrangements will not affect our ongoing activities including the conduct of the by-elections and preparedness for the 2027 General Elections,” according to the official statement.

The Commission framed the changes as positive steps toward improved service delivery.

“Instead, we believe the changes are meant to enhance effectiveness, efficiency, transparency and accountability of the Secretariat in service delivery to the people of Kenya,” the IEBC concluded.

As Mr. Marjan prepares to leave, the Commission extended its well wishes: “The Commission wishes the former CEO/CS well in his future endeavors.”

The search for a new CEO and Commission Secretary now begins at a critical juncture, with less than 18 months remaining before Kenyans head to the polls in 2027.

The post IEBC Chair Ethekon Confirms CEO Marjan Exit After Mutual Agreement appeared first on Insider Bits News.

The disclosure has triggered intense debate over fiscal accountability and the prioritization of public funds.

The report indicates that the controversial loan was processed despite the county struggling with pending bills amounting to billions of shillings, raising eyebrows over the prioritization of luxury over essential services.

Lawmakers grilled Governor Wilber Otichilo during a fiery assembly session, pressing him on how public funds meant for development and service delivery were diverted for what some have called “a personal celebration.”

Governor Otichilo faced tough questioning as he admitted that allocating the Sh5 million was a difficult decision.

He explained that the county was grappling with unpaid contractors, delayed salaries, and mounting bills but insisted the loan was “an emergency arrangement to facilitate the Speaker’s official functions.”

MPs, however, remained unconvinced, with some accusing the county executive of mismanagement and a lack of transparency.

The incident has sparked national outrage and intensified calls for stronger oversight on how counties utilize public funds.

The post Vihiga Speaker’s Lavish Residence Sparks National Outrage appeared first on Insider Bits News.

The outspoken legislator took to her official X account on Monday, January 26, 2026, posting a video that left no room for ambiguity about her political loyalties.

In the clip that has since gone viral, Wamuchomba posted a photos showing dressed in UDA party outfits and outlined her ambitious political roadmap while cementing her allegiance to the President.

“Yangu ni three term ya Rais ni two term twende kazi bila kelele,” Wamuchomba declared in the video, her voice brimming with confidence and determination.

The statement, delivered in Swahili, translates to a clear message: while she pursues a three-term journey representing Githunguri Constituency, she’s committed to ensuring President Ruto secures his two terms in office.

Her rallying cry of “twende kazi bila kelele” (let’s work without noise) has particularly resonated with her followers, signaling a no-nonsense approach to governance and political engagement.

On her part, the Githunguri Member of Parliament, while maintaining her support for President Ruto, insisted on actualising her 2026 resolution, which she announced to be more developmental with politics aside.

“Yeah i have decided this year i want maendeleo na kazi, siasa tutapiga baadaye,” she added.

Drapped in a United Democratic Alliance scarf, Wamuchomba announced she feels at home.

“Niko nyumbani niko State House kwa UDA,” Wamuchomba firmly stated.

Her remarks come just months after she questioned the excitement that teachers showed when they danced with President William Ruto at State House, saying the reality of their pay slips does not match the jubilation.

Wamuchomba’s public endorsement comes at a critical juncture in Kenya’s political calendar, as various camps begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 polls.

Her declaration is significant, given her reputation as a vocal and sometimes controversial figure in Parliament who doesn’t shy away from speaking her mind.

The Githunguri MP’s statement appears to be a strategic move to align herself firmly with the Kenya Kwanza administration, potentially positioning herself for greater influence within the ruling coalition.

By publicly committing to Ruto’s re-election bid while simultaneously announcing her own three-term ambition, Wamuchomba is signaling her intention to be a long-term political player in both constituency and national politics.

At the time, the Githunguri Member of Parliament went on to say that she found it surprising to see civil servants celebrating at State House when they continue to face frustrations caused by multiple salary deductions.

“I saw teachers dancing with the president, very excited. Kwani, what did he give them? Did he remove the house levy, or did he give them a waiver? I was not on the news all day,” Wamuchomba posted on her official X account on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

“I get surprised when I see civil servants dancing in the Statehouse, yet their pay slips are punched,” she added.

Political analysts have been quick to weigh in on the implications of her announcement.

Some view it as a calculated political gamble that could pay dividends if Ruto’s popularity remains strong leading up to 2027.

Others see it as an early attempt to secure her political base in Githunguri by associating herself with the presidency.

The timing of Wamuchomba’s endorsement is particularly noteworthy.

With over a year still remaining before the 2027 general elections, her early declaration could influence other politicians in the Mt.

Kenya region to publicly declare their positions. The region has historically been a crucial voting bloc in Kenyan elections, making such endorsements politically significant.

Her call for “kazi bila kelele” (work without noise) also appears to be a subtle dig at opposition politicians who she may perceive as focusing more on rhetoric than delivery.

This messaging aligns with the Kenya Kwanza government’s narrative of prioritizing development and service delivery over political grandstanding.

As country’s political temperature gradually rises ahead of the 2027 polls, Wamuchomba’s declaration serves as a reminder that campaign season is unofficially underway.

Whether her bold pronouncement will translate into sustained political capital for both herself and President Ruto remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Gathoni Wamuchomba has firmly planted her flag in the Ruto camp.

The coming months will reveal whether other MPs follow her lead or chart different political courses as the nation inches closer to another crucial electoral showdown.

The post Wamuchomba Declares Unwavering Support for Ruto’s 2027 Re-election Bid appeared first on Insider Bits News.