President William Ruto’s party United Democratic Alliance has fired back at Thursday’s High Court ruling that nullified its merger with the Alliance for National Change, describing the judgment as addressing “a matter that events have overtaken.”

In a statement released Friday, UDA’s 2nd Deputy Party Leader and Lamu Governor Issa Timamy declared the court’s finding fundamentally mischaracterized what actually transpired between the two parties.

“I would like to state categorically that the court ruling on the purported ANC-UDA merger is a matter that events have overtaken,” Timamy said, challenging the core premise of the legal challenge.

The governor drew attention to official records showing ANC dissolved itself through internal party processes nearly a year ago, arguing this makes talk of any merger legally meaningless.

“For the record, on March 14, 2025, vide a Gazette Notice No 3449, the then Registrar of Political parties, Ms. Ann Nderitu, notified all and sundry that ‘Pursuant to section 9 and 34C of the Political parties Act, Cap. 7 D, and paragraph 22, of the Second schedule to the Political Parties Act,’ that ANC at its Special National Delegates Congress on 7th February, 2025, in line with the party constitution, dissolved,” the statement read.

Timamy emphasized this was a critical legal distinction that undermined the entire court case.

“Clearly, what was done was a voluntary dissolution by the ANC party by its members, and therefore, the matter of the ANC Party having ‘merged’ with UDA is, with respect, not factual. In fact, and in law, there was never a merger between the two political parties,” he stated.

The governor suggested the court and litigants failed to properly examine official records before proceeding. “A casual reference to the Gazette Notice, as stated above, should have helped,” he added.

Taking direct aim at the ruling’s language, Timamy dismissed the notion that anything had been nullified.

“Consequently, to state that the ‘merger’ has been declared ‘unlawful’ by the court is to scribble yet another fiction. You cannot nullify a decision that never was in the first place!” he declared.

According to the UDA position, once ANC dissolved itself, all subsequent actions followed proper legal channels.

“After the dissolution, all ANC assets were lawfully transferred to the UDA, and the dissolved ANC’s members were fully integrated into the UDA following due process and established legal procedures. There exists no parallel structure, no competing claim and no legal or operational ambiguity whatsoever,” Timamy stated.

The response comes as President Ruto and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi face questions about their 2027 electoral strategy following Thursday’s court decision.

However, UDA appears unbowed by the legal setback.

“As members of the UDA, our priority is to protect the integrity of the party, consolidate unity and mobilize our members as we work decisively towards the re-election of H.E. President Dr William Samoei Ruto,” Timamy said.

He concluded by redirecting focus toward the government’s development agenda.

“Our focus remains on delivering the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and ensuring real, measurable development outcomes for the people of Kenya,” the statement read.

The party has not indicated whether it plans to appeal Thursday’s ruling or seek other legal remedies, but the defiant tone suggests UDA intends to proceed as if the judgment carries no practical effect on its operations or membership structure.

The post UDA Dismisses Court Ruling on ANC Merger as “Fiction” appeared first on Insider Bits News.

The ruling strikes at the heart of their 2027 electoral strategy, which hinged on combining UDA’s national machinery with ANC’s Western Kenya base under one political vehicle.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye declared the dissolution of the Alliance for National Change unconstitutional, ordering the immediate restoration of the party along with all assets and property already transferred to the United Democratic Alliance.

The judgment exposes critical flaws in how the merger was executed.

According to court documents, the meeting that approved ANC’s dissolution lacked proper constitutional authority.

Consumer Federation of Kenya Secretary General Stephen Mutoro, who challenged the process, argued he held legitimate claim to party leadership but was excluded from deliberations.

The timing compounds an existing headache for the coalition.

Since December, when Alur MP Joseph Denar passed away, officials have been paralyzed over which party list should guide his replacement.

Internal documents reviewed by this publication reveal intense behind-the-scenes wrangling between UDA and ANC camps over the nomination process.

ANC’s list positions diplomat Petronila Were as next in line, followed by former elections board chairman Salim Busaidy.

However, Were’s posting as deputy mission head in Addis Ababa complicates matters, making Busaidy the practical choice.

UDA pushed to use its own list before both sides reached a tentative agreement favoring ANC’s roster.

Yet legal uncertainty about implementation remained unresolved as Monday’s IEBC submission deadline passed.

“There’s genuine concern that nominating from ANC’s list will trigger court challenges,” explained a coalition insider who requested anonymity.

“And if Busaidy gets nominated, which party does he represent? We’re stuck in legal limbo.”

UDA has formally requested IEBC guidance on the matter.

Sources close to Parliament indicate the leadership may seek judicial interpretation if the electoral body fails to provide clear direction.

The court decision raises fundamental questions about coalition governance.

Lamu Governor Issa Timamy had been presented as ANC party leader during the merger ceremony, alongside UDA chairperson and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire.

That process now stands invalidated, forcing both principals to reconsider their approach to Western Kenya politics ahead of the next general election.

Political analysts suggest three possible paths forward: attempting a properly constituted merger that meets legal standards, maintaining a traditional coalition agreement without full integration, or accepting a potentially divided Western region vote.

The ruling also energizes opposition voices within both parties who questioned the merger’s wisdom from the start.

Several ANC members had privately expressed concerns about losing their party’s distinct identity.

For Ruto, the setback comes amid broader coalition management challenges.

For Mudavadi, it raises questions about his influence in delivering Western Kenya as a consolidated bloc.

Both leaders have yet to comment publicly on the judgment or outline their next steps.

The post Court Bombshell Throws Ruto-Mudavadi Alliance Into Chaos appeared first on Insider Bits News.

Speaking during Jirongo’s burial on Tuesday in Lumakanda, Amisi emphasized that unresolved questions about the road accident that claimed Jirongo’s life continue to cast a shadow over the Western region.

Addressing mourners and political leaders, Amisi stressed the importance of accountability.

“I call upon those in government, you know I am not there, but those of you in government, we respect your position and your stance. We have a history, and we remember the time when Moi wanted to remove you, Musalia, from government. It was Cyrus Jirongo who stood up to Moi directly,” Amisi said.

He reminded the crowd that Jirongo had once defended Mudavadi’s position during the Moi era, urging the Cabinet Secretary to honor that history by seeking justice.

“History now places a responsibility on Mudavadi to speak out and demand answers for the late MP,” he added.

“Wewe Mudavadi stop being a coward, go and face Ruto and ask him who killed Cyrus Jirongo.”

Amisi’s remarks reflect growing calls from Western Kenya leaders for transparency and accountability regarding Jirongo’s death, with many urging government officials to provide full details on the fatal Nakuru–Naivasha highway crash.

The post Caleb Amisi Urges Mudavadi to Demand Answers from Ruto over Jirongo’s Death appeared first on Insider Bits News.

Speaking during Jirongo’s burial on Tuesday in Lumakanda, Khalwale said the solemn occasion was also an opportunity for leaders to provide clarity to the public on lingering questions about the circumstances surrounding Jirongo’s fatal road accident on the Nakuru–Naivasha highway.

Addressing former Vihiga Senator George Khaniri, Khalwale emphasized that Kenyans deserved transparency.

“I would like you, George, to say what happened on that evening because you said you saw Speaker Wetang’ula with the late. This is the right occasion,” he said.

Turning his remarks directly to Wetang’ula, Khalwale demanded that the Speaker shed light on his interactions with Jirongo on the fateful night.

“I want my brother, Speaker Wetang’ula, to tell us, the Waluhya people, what you discussed with Jirongo. What were you planning?” Khalwale said, drawing murmurs from the gathered mourners.

The senator’s statements reflect mounting public curiosity and concern over the final hours days of the late politician, whose sudden death has prompted calls for accountability and transparency from senior political figures.

Khalwale also sharply rebuked Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, accusing him of misleading President William Ruto.

“You lied to Ruto that Luhyas will back you in 2027, which Luhyas told you that?” Khalwale asked.

He added, “Now you want a constitutional referendum to ring-fence your own seat. Is this about your position… or the hunger biting the masses?”

The post Khalwale Demands Wetang’ula Disclose Pre-Death Talks with Late Jirongo appeared first on Insider Bits News.

Speaking at a press briefing in Nairobi on Tuesday, Musyoka accused the administration of seeking to “extend their grip on power through backdoor constitutional changes.”

“This push for a referendum is not about the people,” Musyoka said.

“It is a deliberate attempt by the government to rewrite rules in their favor, ensuring they stay in power beyond 2027. We will not allow them to undermine the will of Kenyans.”

The former Vice President also touched on the United Opposition’s strategy ahead of the next general election.

Musyoka confirmed that the coalition would unveil its presidential candidate by the end of March 2026, signaling a united front against the ruling government.

“We are committed to presenting a candidate who reflects the aspirations of all Kenyans,” Musyoka stated.

“The United Opposition is ready to offer a credible alternative to the current leadership, and our decision will be guided by the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and competence.”

Kalonzo’s remarks come amid growing debates over constitutional amendments and the timing of political maneuvers ahead of the 2027 elections.

His stance puts him at odds with other political figures, including PCS Musalia Mudavadi, who have expressed support for a referendum.

The post Kalonzo Musyoka: “Referendum Is a Plot to Extend Ruto Government’s Grip on Power” appeared first on Insider Bits News.

At the height of his influence, Jirongo was not only a politician but also a businessman whose name was linked to sprawling real estate projects, shopping outlets and controversial land deals.

Enterprises associated with him, including Sololo Outlets Limited and Kuza Farms & Allied Limited — pursued large‑scale housing and land developments such as Hazina Estate, Saika Estate and Kemri Estate in Nairobi, among others.

Some of these projects were celebrated initially as visionary, but later became mired in legal disputes and debt recovery efforts.

The trouble formally began when Jirongo secured a Sh700 million loan from the National Bank of Kenya using properties registered in the names of several companies owned by businessman Sammy Boit arap Kogo.

When Jirongo failed to service the debt, the bank auctioned the collateral at a public sale in 2009.

After failing to repay the agreed amount, Kogo’s companies, including Masole Ltd, Baia Enterprises, Gilera Ltd, Koti Developers, Saman Developers, Kenete Enterprises, Marimio Enterprises and Linsala Enterprises, sought legal redress.

On October 9, 2017, a Commercial Court in Nairobi ruled that Jirongo be declared bankrupt for his inability to pay the outstanding debt.

Justice Olga Sewe ordered that an official receiver be appointed to manage his estate and oversee asset liquidation to recover funds for creditors.

The bankruptcy order marked a public fall for a man once associated with wealth and political clout.

It also had political implications: Kenyan law bars individuals declared bankrupt from running for certain elective positions, potentially dimming Jirongo’s aspirations after his 2017 presidential bid.

The legal troubles did not end there. In 2017, the High Court also ordered Jirongo to pay Sh110 million to COTU Secretary‑General Francis Atwoli in a separate judgment over a “friendly loan,” further underlining the depth of his financial challenges.

By the early 2020s, many properties linked to his business ventures had either been sold at auction, put under receivership, or remained embroiled in protracted cases, while some of his assets were seized or frozen as courts continued to unwind his financial affairs.

Off the courtroom floor, Jirongo’s personal life was never far from public view.

Open about his polygamous lifestyle, he married more than 10 wives over the years, publicly celebrating the diversity of his family as symbolic of national unity.

Four of his marriages were widely recognised included widows Christine Nyokabi,Anne Kanini and Anne Lanoi, with spouses drawn from communities including Kikuyu, Kamba, Maasai and Kalenjin backgrounds.

His large family included at least eight known children, though some reports suggest even more, with offspring pursuing careers in fields such as architecture, journalism and business.

While some admired his commitment to supporting a broad extended family, others viewed his personal choices as emblematic of a larger‑than‑life persona that characterised much of his public life.

Jirongo’s journey from acclaimed business figure and political pioneer, notably in the Youth for KANU ‘92 movement, to court‑mandated bankruptcy is a story of ambition, risk‑taking, legal accountability and public fascination.

His business ventures and sprawling family life kept him in the spotlight through years of triumphs and setbacks.

As Kenya mourns his passing and family members gather in Lumakanda for his burial, the nation remembers not just a charismatic politician but a complex figure whose financial collapses and legal battles left an indelible imprint on the country’s political and economic history.

The post Cyrus Jirongo Laid to Rest: A Life Marked by Politics, Business, and Bankruptcy appeared first on Insider Bits News.

The burial, held on December 30 at Jirongo’s rural home in Lumakanda, drew large crowds from across Lugari Constituency and neighbouring regions, with tight security in place as mourners gathered to honour a man whose political influence spanned decades.

KANU chairman Gideon Moi was among the high-profile figures present, alongside Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives Wycliffe Oparanya.

Others leaders present at the event are Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, as well as Members of Parliament, MCAs and senior national and county government officials.

The funeral service took place at the Lumakanda grounds, where family members, friends, community elders and political leaders paid glowing tributes to Jirongo, describing him as a bold, influential and grassroots-oriented leader who left a lasting mark on Kenyan politics.

Speakers recalled Jirongo’s time as Lugari Member of Parliament and his role as a seasoned political mobiliser whose reach cut across party lines.

Several leaders urged unity among Kenyans, saying Jirongo believed in dialogue and inclusive leadership.

Jirongo,64, a former MP for Lugari and businessman died on December 13, 2025, in a road traffic accident along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway near Karai in Naivasha, after the vehicle he was driving collided head-on with a passenger bus. He was 64.

His burial in Lumakanda marked the end of a significant chapter in the political history of western Kenya, as mourners bade farewell to a figure many described as outspoken, fearless and deeply connected to the people.

The post Former President Uhuru Attends Cyrus Jirongo’s Burial in Kakamega appeared first on Insider Bits News.

President Mnangagwa was warmly received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, who welcomed him on behalf of President Dr. William Ruto.

The Zimbabwean leader’s visit comes as regional heads of state converge in Nairobi for the high-level COMESA summit, which seeks to strengthen economic integration, boost trade, and enhance cooperation among the 21-member states.

“Kenya is honoured to host President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other distinguished Heads of State for the 24th COMESA Summit. This meeting underscores the region’s commitment to deepening economic ties and collective prosperity,” Prime CS Mudavadi said during the reception at JKIA.

Mnangagwa, who was accompanied by senior Zimbabwean government officials, is expected to join other regional leaders in deliberations focusing on intra-African trade, industrialization, digital transformation, and climate resilience within the COMESA bloc.

The summit, themed “Deepening Regional Integration for Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialization”, aims to assess progress made in implementing the COMESA regional integration agenda and address key challenges facing member states.

According to Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, several bilateral engagements and side meetings are scheduled to take place on the sidelines of the summit, including discussions on infrastructure development, agro-processing, and regional peace and security.

President Mnangagwa’s arrival marks Zimbabwe’s continued participation in shaping the economic policies and cooperative frameworks that underpin the bloc’s long-term growth strategy.

“Our countries share a strong history of solidarity and partnership. Zimbabwe remains a key partner in advancing COMESA’s mission of regional integration and economic development,” Mudavadi added.

The post Zimbabwe’s President Mnangagwa Arrives in Nairobi for 24th COMESA Summit appeared first on Insider Bits News.