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Dr. Charles Onchoke, MP for Bonchari Constituency

A somber but heartfelt eulogy marked the funeral of Josephine Anyona on Sunday, December 29, 2024, as Dr. Charles Onchoke, MP for Bonchari Constituency, joined mourners in celebrating her remarkable life and legacy.

The ceremony, held in Dallas, brought together family, friends, and members of the Kenyan diaspora to honor a woman described as a beacon of faith, generosity, and resilience.

Speaking on behalf of 20 Members of Parliament from Kenya’s Gusii region, Dr. Onchoke painted a vivid picture of Josephine Anyona’s impact on her family, community, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

“Josephine was not only a daughter, wife, mother, and sister but also an altruist, a friend, provider, benefactor, and role model to many,” he said. “She was a woman of candor, faith, honor, integrity, purpose, and valor.” Dr. Onchoke’s eulogy read.

In his deeply personal remarks, the MP said Anyona’s role as a source of wise counsel and unwavering support. He also lauded her for her generosity and nurturing spirit, which extended even to sharing organic foods such as enderema, risosa, and egesare, a testament to her deep connection to her roots.

Addressing the family, including Josephine’s husband Evans, children, and the wider Onchoke and Ongera families, Dr. Onchoke offered heartfelt condolences. “Poleni sana,” he said, expressing empathy for their grief.

He also comforted mourners with a powerful metaphor, quoting author Max Lucado: “When heaven sees a breathless body, it sees the vacated cocoon and the liberated butterfly.”

Dr. Onchoke called on those gathered to find inspiration in Anyona’s legacy, urging them to carry forward her values of love, generosity, and faith.

He said, “Josephine, we now surrender you for the angels to lift you high up to the bosom of our Heavenly Father,” he concluded. “You will have no more pain or sorrow, but plenty of joy. Fare thee well, my dear sister and friend, till we meet again.”

The funeral highlighted the strong ties between the Kenyan diaspora in the United States and their homeland, as well as the enduring bonds of community and shared heritage.

According to Dr. Onchoke, he strongly maintained that Josephine Anyona’s memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who knew her, both in Kenya and abroad.

During a round-table meeting today with the President of the Supreme Court of Kenya and Chief Justice, Justice Martha Koome, members of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) today sought potential areas of collaboration to tackle the rising sexual gender-based violence (SGBV) cases in the country.

The Chairperson and Kajiado County MP, Leah Sankaire, shared key legislative frameworks that legislators have championed towards addressing SGBV cases, for instance, the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act (2015), the Sexual Offences Act (2006), the Children’s Act (2022), and the Penal Code and Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (2011).

She also highlighted the oversight and accountability role played by Members of Parliament to ensure that the SGBV cases receive the attention and action they demand.

However, Sankaire raised concerns over the increasing frequency of SGBV cases in the country, questioning whether the current legal framework was insufficient.

She added that the movement of SGBV desks to hospitals from the police stations would provide victims with more access to the judicial system and timely support.

In addition, the KEWOPA chairperson called on the judiciary to ensure that their registries capture the history of SGBV offenders and review SGBV jurisprudence for any bail to SGBV offenders.

On strengthening collaboration, Martha Koome highlighted the judiciary’s commitment to addressing the rising GBV cases. She noted that the judiciary had already set up SGBV courts in some parts of the country, with the latest one launched recently in Dagoretti.

However, she cautioned that the rapid rise in cases poses a challenge due to inadequate SGBV courts and magistrates.

To address the SGBV cases amicably, Senator Catherine Mumma (nominated) called for a multi-sectoral approach with a forum and data tools on how to report such cases.

Dagoretti North MP, Beatrice Elachi, underscored the importance of having SGBV courts in all counties, if not constituencies.

Adding to the challenges encountered by SGBV victims, Senator Gloria Orwoba warned that the delay in assigning investigative officers to SGBV cases could lead to tampering with cases.

Nairobi County MP Esther Passaris highlighted a worrying trend of SGBV offenders being granted bail, which she said could often lead to cases disappearing in courts.

Njoro MP, Charity Chepkwony, noted the delay in receiving reports from the government chemist, thus slowing down justice to victims.

To reduce time taken and financial pressure by SGBV victims and witnesses while seeking justice, the Transzoia County MP, Lilian Siyoi, called for a wholesome approach to ensure that SGBV courts are situated in all parts of the country.

Kasipul Kabondo MP, Eve Obara, emphasized the need for the judiciary to observe timelines and strict adherence to their service charter.

On her part, Thika MP, Alice Ng’ang’a pointed out the need to lobby for more funds for the Judiciary and Gender Ministry.

While noting the concerns of the Women MPs, the Judge of Appeal, who is also a Member of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), Hon. Lady Justice Lydia Achode, commended women lawmakers for a multi-sectoral approach and movement of SGBV desks from police stations to hospitals, noting that there are few experts in the police stations as well as in the government chemists to deal with SGBV cases.

On issuance of bail to offenders, Principal Magistrate Renee Kitagwa told the legislators that the Judiciary is guided by the constitution when granting bail and that when advised by Police Officers, they do listen and deny bail. 

In her closing remarks, CJ Koome appealed to women lawmakers to advocate for increased funding to the judiciary to facilitate the establishment of more SGBV courts and the hiring of additional magistrates.

Shisele Tosha Community Based Organization (CBO) has called for increased government funding on development projects.

Speaking during a visit to Parliament, the Women Based CBO raised concerns that the current grant offered to them for development initiatives is insufficient.

“I request that Parliament and the Commissioner assist us and other CBOs in the county. Why should we be given Kshs 100,000 when we could receive millions in grants to uplift our communities?” she asked. 

In a historic event, Commissioner Rachel Ameso, on Wednesday hosted Shisele Tosha Community-Based Organization (CBO) at Parliament’s Mini Chamber in County Hall.

The engagement forum marked the first time a CBO has been officially hosted by the Parliament of Kenya, showcasing a growing recognition of grassroots organizations in national development. 

Hon. Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani), celebrated the milestone as a proud moment for his constituents.

“This is the first time Parliament has hosted a CBO since its inception, and it happens to come from my constituents. I am very happy,” he said.

Discussions during the meeting revolved around enhancing financial support for CBOs to enable them to create a more significant impact.

Gladys Omukongolo Malenya, MCA for Idakho North Ward and Chairperson of the CBO, passionately appealed for increased grants.

Rachel Ameso commended CBO members and pledged her full support for grassroots initiatives, particularly those led by women.

“I’m delighted to welcome you to Parliament. You have done an amazing job by forming this CBO. You are women with good hearts, and I will always support all women and Kenyans, starting with Ikolomani Constituency and the 11 constituencies in Kakamega,” she stated. 

The event was graced by leaders, including Members of Parliament Mishi Mboko, Millie Odhiambo, Beatrice Elachi, Nabii Nabwera and former Kakamega County First Lady Priscilla Oparanya.

Their attendance underscored the importance of grassroots advocacy in driving national development. 

This landmark event highlights the growing collaboration between Parliament and community-based organizations. It sets a new precedent for integrating local initiatives into Kenya’s national agenda, demonstrating Parliament’s commitment to empowering grassroots movements. 

Shisele Tosha CBO’s visit symbolizes the power of women-led organizations to influence policy and underscores the importance of investing in community-driven solutions for sustainable development.

The Shisele Tosha CBO is a women-led initiative aimed at empowering communities through resource mobilization and innovative solutions.

The Senate has upheld the National Assembly’s impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and voted to remove him from office.

The outcome of the vote, taken late in the night, is the first time in Kenya that the Office of the Deputy President has ceased to hold office through a trial borne out of impeachment proceedings.

The 67 lawmakers of the Senate found the DP guilty on five grounds but absolved him on six charges.

A total of 54 Senators upheld the first count on gross violation of Articles 10 (2)(a), (b) and (c); 27 (4), 73 (1)(a) and (2)(b); 75 (1)(c), and 129 (2) of the Constitution and Article 147 (1), as read together with Article 131 (2)(c) and (d) of the Constitution. The vote also saw 13 of the lawmakers voted against.

The House absolved the Deputy President on the second count which was about gross violation of Articles 147 (1) and 152 (1) of the Constitution by undermining the President and the Cabinet and the effective discharge of the national government’s executive mandate. A total of 39 Senators voted against the allegations and 28 in support.

The lawmakers absolved the second in command of gross violations of Articles 6 (2), 10 (2)(a), 174, 186 (1), and 189 (1) and the Fourth Schedule to the Constitution, which he was accused of undermining Devolution. Forty-five senators voted to save the DP, 19 voted to indict him, and 3 abstained.

Count five was on gross violation of Article 160(1) of the Constitution on the Institutional and Decisional Independence of Judges. On this, 49 senators voted to send the Deputy President home, 16 voted to save him and 2 abstained.

“The Senate has resolved to remove from office Deputy President through impeachment and therefore he ceases to hold office,” ruled Speaker Amason Kingi after the final tally.

The vote came on the second day of the hearing of the impeachment trial and was characterized by drama after the Deputy President was taken ill soon after the end of the morning session.

The vote was taken without the Deputy President taking the witness stand, after he had taken ill, according to his legal team, led by the Senior Counsel Paul Muite.

Senior Counsel Muite told the House that the DP had been hospitalized at Karen Hospital after he was admitted for unknown ailments.

Senior Counsel Muite pleaded with the House to grant his client a five-day grace period so that he could appear on Tuesday, October 22 to defend himself against the 11 allegations.

However, when the matter was put to the vote, the House rejected the proposal after a brief debate, choosing instead to continue with the trial.

The National Assembly legal team called three witnesses: Hon Mwengi Mutuse, who was the mover of the motion in the National Assembly, Dr Andrew Mulwa, who had served as acting CEO of the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency and Mr Ahmed Abdi the deputy CEO of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.

Collage image of Director General, Kenya Urban Road Authority, Eng. Silas Kinoti. CS Transport, Davis Chirchir, and West Pokot MP and Chairperson Public Investment Committee on Energy.

The David Pkosing-led Public Investments Committee on Commercial Affairs and Energy has summoned Cabinet Secretary for Roads Mr. Davis Chirchir to appear before the committee next Tuesday, ?? October.

Pkosing (South Pokot) is seeking clarity on various issues impacting road infrastructure across the country.

Speaking during a session on Tuesday at Parliament Buildings while examining the audited accounts of the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) for the Financial Years 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 with officials from the agency led by Director General Silas Kinoti.

The Committee Chairperson emphasized the importance of the CS’s appearance alongside officials from the Kenya Roads Board for a one-hour session focused on key policy matters.

During the meeting, Pkosing stressed the need for transparency, urging the Cabinet Secretary to present a breakdown of road allocations per constituency saying that the issue extends beyond the current discussion.

“We cannot conduct an audit without addressing other pressing issues raised by Members. Every Member should be present to voice their concerns to the Cabinet Secretary,” he stated.

The South Pokot legislator criticized the current Budget Committee, recalling past experiences with its lack of integrity.

“This is the worst Committee I have encountered in Parliament, I remember during the eleventh parliament we disbanded the then Budget Committee due to integrity issues,” he remarked.

Hon Adan Keynan remarked ‘’ It’s not going to be business as usual, very soon will be listing those CEOs who have presiding over the abuse of office and I’m willing to do this, please go back to your books”

He added “How you have used what has been allocated, please let’s get a fair share of what is allocated “

On roads, KURA is mandated to construct Director General Silas Kinoti said, “We don’t do all municipalities, we do where we have classified urban roads and there is a formula of the classification roads”

Pkosing however said that there were serious issues to be clarified by the CS in all the road agencies before proceeding with agency audits.

He noted the need to involve additional agencies, including the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), to ensure a thorough examination of pending bills and funding sources.

“We must address serious queries before auditing these agencies,” he added.

Pkosng directed that a formal invitation be issued to the CS, ensuring his attendance.

Pkosing sought clarity on the classification of National Urban Roads and their funding allocations, highlighting potential disparities in road distribution between KURA and KeRRA.

He called for comprehensive statistics on all roads in the country, including a map illustrating their distribution.

Responding to the Nairobi Outering Road Improvement Project the Auditor general report indicated that the Tassia road section, had open drainages clogged with garbage and overgrown vegetation despite the fact that a firm had been contracted to regularly maintain drains along the road.

Kinoti replied, ‘’In Nairobi, we have partnered with the County and we only do cleaning and there is a tendency of dumping and the experience we have in Outering is that when the contractor is collecting garbage others do dump as the contractor is working.’’

The DG added that pending bills have affected the running of activities which has delayed work as the action has led contractors to terminate services because of changes in the prices of materials designated for the projects.

The Committee chair however condemned the pending bills which have crippled the services in KURA empathizing with the DG, Silas Kinoti.

The Ndindi Nyoro-led Budget and Appropriations Committee has met to consider Senate Amendments to the Division of Revenue (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

The Division of Revenue (Amendment) Bill (National Assembly Bills No. 38 of 2024), seeks to amend the Division of Revenue Act, 2024, to revise the sharing of the revenue raised nationally between the National and County Governments, to reflect the downward revision of projected ordinary revenue collection for the Financial Year 2024/25.

The shortfall as proposed in the Bill amounts to Kshs. 346 billion, occasioned by the failure to enact the Finance Bill, 2024 into law.

The sharing of the Kshs. 346B shortfall between the two levels of government is indicated as Kshs. 325.88B to be borne by the National Government and Kshs. 20.12 billion to be reduced from the County Equitable Share.

The new allocation for the National Government was proposed to be Kshs. 2.214 trillion, down from Kshs. 2.540 trillion, while that of the County Government was adjusted to Kshs. 380 billion, down from Kshs. 400.117 billion.

In the Bill, it was observed that the Kshs. 380 billion as an equitable share to Counties was 24.2 percent of the last audited and approved government revenues for the Financial Year 2020/21, hence meeting the constitutional threshold of 15 percent as per article 203(2).

During the meeting, Hon. Nyoro noted that this Bill is being considered after the Supplementary Estimates I were passed and signed into law, hence the need to consider our fiscal status.

“We have already passed Supplementary 1 with the Equalization Fund as it was then and therefore, whatever we discuss today has to be in that context.” Said Ndindi Nyoro.

Members also discussed the implications the Senate Amendments to the Division of Revenue Bill would have on Supplementary II Estimates.

The Committee shall have two options; to pass the Bill as amended by the Senate, or to reject the amendments and have the Bill referred to a Mediation Committee under Article 113 of the Constitution.

The Committee is scheduled to Table the report on Tuesday next week in the National Assembly.

Education CS Migos Ogamba says teachers found facilitating cheating to be ‘impeached’

Teachers collaborating in exam cheating would lose their jobs and get locked out of public employment.

CS Education Migos Ogamba says the government would not stand at anything to secure the integrity of the exams.

Already, it has outlawed the use of mobile phones in all the examination centers across the country

Migos said the ministry would provide one satellite phone for use by the supervisor.

He was speaking at Siala Technical College in Rongo Migori County on Tuesday during a tree planting exercise.

The government, he said, has enhanced additional penalties for exam cheats including teachers and principals facilitating the vice.

Going forward, he warned, those found culpable would be locked out of public service jobs for good.

“We have drafted new penalties which are akin to impeachment…. This is just a warning… Just be sure that you will never get a job anywhere in the public once the courts find you guilty,” Migos said.