Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has penned a hopeful new year message saying 2026 will see a stronger and united opposition as the country heads to 2027 general elections. He said 2026 would lay the foundation of what would happen in2027 and wished Kenyans good health and wisdom that would enable them to elect good leaders for the sake of the future generations. On Trans Nzoia matters, Natembeya said his administration had worked with the people of Trans Nzoia to correct the mess caused by the previous regimes. “We are now out of that bad situation, and I thank the residents of Trans Nzoia for giving me the chance to serve them. I wish the people of Trans Nzoia and all Kenyans a happy 2026 full of blessings," Natembeya said.

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Oginga has declared that he will be the party’s presidential candidate if ODM opts to contest the 2027 General Election on its own. Oburu said the ODM constitution is explicit that the party leader automatically becomes its presidential candidate in the event the party chooses to go it alone. That presidential candidate is clearly stated in the constitution of our party, and it is the party leader. I am the presidential candidate for ODM if ODM decides that it goes it alone,” Oburu said. The ODM party leader added that ODM is closely monitoring the implementation of the 10-point agenda signed between Raila Odinga and President William Ruto.

Veteran Sadio Mane and Paris Saint-Germain 17-year-old Ibrahim Mbaye, in two appearances off the bench, have been among the stars as 2022 champions Senegal confirmed why they are among the favourites by winning Group D. Sudan, representing a country ravaged by civil war since 2023, reached the second round despite failing to score. Their only Group F win, against Equatorial Guinea, came via an own goal.

The Diaspora Bicameral Parliamentary Framework is seeking the establishment of a secure digital and online voting system. [File, Standard]The Diaspora Bicameral Parliamentary Framework (DBPF) caucus is now pushing for the introduction of 15 diaspora constituencies through implementation of the long overdue boundaries review and delimitation exercise. Apart from 15 diaspora constituencies in the National Assembly, one diaspora seat in the Senate, The DBPF also seeks the establishment of a secure digital and online voting system to ensure a broad equitable participation. Mwaura explained that establishment of diaspora constituencies should allow voters to be reassigned to polling stations within their regions of residence, ensuring meaningful and equitable participation. Any further delay, he warns, would perpetuate the disenfranchisement that diaspora citizens have faced for more than a decade.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to unity, reconciliation and economic stability, announcing a national reconciliation commission and plans to implement National Development Vision 2050 from 2026. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Wednesday night reaffirmed the government's commitment to national unity, reconciliation, and economic stability following unrest that erupted during the country's general elections on October 29, 2025. In a national address, Samia said the government has established a national reconciliation commission aimed at healing divisions and restoring trust among citizens. Highlighting recent economic performance, Samia said average inflation stood at 3.4 per cent in 2025, while economic growth reached 5.8 per cent, up from 5.2 per cent in 2024. Looking ahead, Samia said Tanzania will begin implementing its National Development Vision 2050 in 2026, alongside a three-year medium-term strategy to boost government revenue through expanded use of electronic systems and stronger public financial management.

However, failing to keep our intake of sugary drinks under control can lead to dire health consequences, just like how one Malaysian man found out for himself. Had Coke with condensed milk dailyIn a TikTok video, it showed a middle-aged man recounting how he lost not one, but two of his legs to diabetes due to a poor habit of his. Screenshot via TikTok/@kedidi_kakipalsuAccording to him, this was caused by him ordering Coca-Cola or Pepsi which had condensed milk added into it whenever he went out to hang out with friends each night. Expressed regretNeedless to say, the man’s unhealthy habit eventually led to him being diagnosed with diabetes and he was forced to amputate both of his legs. The man also seemed rather regretful of his poor lifestyle habit, where he placed his face in his hand while groaning in despair.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula at a past function. [File, Standard]President William Ruto and his key point men in Western Kenya, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, were hoping to capitalise on UDA’s win for Malava by-election to perpetuate a narrative that the popularity of the government was still intact in the region. Recent political developments, however, indicate that Ruto’s grip on the Luhya nation is still facing a significant challenge marked by emerging unity efforts among local leaders and growing support for alternative political movements.

Truphena Muthoni received her 48-hour tree-hugging Guinness World Record. Photo: Truphena Muthoni. Back in February, Truphena successfully completed a 48-hour tree-hugging challenge, and she has now finally received her official Guinness World Record badge for that feat. Truphena also explained that her 72-hour tree-hugging attempt is yet to be formally acknowledged because she has not submitted the required evidence to Guinness. After completing her 72-hour attempt, Truphena won the hearts of many, prompting an outpouring of gifts.

Speaking on Wednesday evening at the Future Africa Leaders Awards (FALA) 2025 ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria, Uhuru said Africa’s future depends not on external solutions but on the vision, integrity and innovation of its young people. Uhuru commended the young leaders recognised at the awards ceremony, describing them as examples of a new generation committed to service and innovation. According to Uhuru, Africa’s progress will be realised when leaders are guided by vision, integrity and a commitment to serve the people. The former president also praised Pastor Chris Oyakhilome for founding the Future Africa Leaders Foundation, which he said plays a critical role in nurturing young African leaders. He said Obasanjo’s continued engagement with young leaders has helped shape Africa’s future beyond his time in office.

/FILEAs 2025 closes, Kenyans are stepping into the new year with a mixture of hope, apprehension and weary resilience. Many Kenyans say their incomes have shrunk as new policy measures — including the Finance Bill 2025 adjustments, the mandatory housing levy and the roll-out of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) — have reduced take-home pay. As Kenyans debate the state of the economy, the Central Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) presented a cautiously hopeful outlook for 2026. Others hope 2026 will bring relief through better rains, improved agricultural output, clearer fiscal policies and sustained currency stability. But for now, as the clock ticks toward 2026, Kenyans remain steadfast.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. [Bernard Lusigi, Standard]National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has pledged that Parliament will prioritise people-centred legislation, fiscal discipline, and robust oversight as the country enters 2026 amid economic and political pressures. “The National Assembly remains firmly focused on enacting people-centred legislation, exercising robust oversight over the Executive, and ensuring the prudent and accountable use of public resources,” Mr Wetang’ula said. The Speaker said the proposed legislation is intended to deepen democracy, empower citizens, protect the environment, and stimulate inclusive economic growth. As the country marks the start of 2026, Mr Wetang’ula urged Kenyans to choose peace over division and service over self-interest, calling for collaboration between government, the private sector, civil society, and citizens.

Siaya Governor James Orengo when he appeared before the Senate CPIC Committee at Parliament on June 9, 2025. They want Orengo to focus on service delivery to Siaya residents and shun national politics. According to Atandi, ODM risks losing the Siaya seat if Orengo is given a ticket for the next election. “Orengo should focus on service delivery, especially ensuring that contractors in the county are paid promptly,” he said. Similarly, Ochieng, who has declared interest in unseating Orengo in the 2027 General Election, accused Orengo of failing to deliver services to the people as promised during campaigns of his election.

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[SIMON MAINA / AFP]Harambee Stars midfielder Austine Odhiambo has completed a move from Gor Mahia to Lebanese Premier League side Nejmeh SC. Nejmeh confirmed the signing through their official Facebook page, welcoming Odhiambo to Beirut with an exciting message that underlined their confidence in his ability to deliver on the pitch. The move comes on the back of an outstanding spell at Gor Mahia, where Odhiambo established himself as the most creative player in the FKF Premier League over the past two seasons. Odhiambo wrote a heartfelt farewell message on social media to Gor Mahia fans after his move to Lebanese giants Nejmeh SC. Odhiambo will also find familiar faces at his new club, joining fellow Harambee Stars players Teddy Akumu and Masoud Juma.

Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi has dedicated their AFCON 2025 milestone to those who died on October 29. Source: TwitterThe country's men's football national team progressed to the knockout rounds of AFCON for the first time in their history. The huge milestone was well-received by Gamondi, who dedicated the win to Tanzanians, after the violence that marred the country following the presidential election in October. Tanzania's coach dedicates AFCON success to election victimsSpeaking after qualifying for the Round of 16, Gamondi dedicated the qualification to the citizens back at home. Source: TwitterHow Sudan qualified for AFCON Round of 16In another report, Sudan qualified for the Round of 16 without scoring a single goal.