Kenya’s major newspapers today are heavily focused on shifting political alliances, emerging power struggles, and looming national concerns as the country edges closer to the 2027 General Election. From succession politics in the Luo community to integrity questions surrounding candidates, the papers paint a picture of a country navigating turbulence on multiple fronts.
Taifa Leo: Mbadi Says “Nimetosha Mboga!” as Luo Leadership Debate Heats Up
Taifa Leo leads with a bold political declaration from Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, who says he is ready to take over as the political leader of the Luo community following Raila Odinga’s death.
The paper highlights Mbadi’s argument that he has the experience, political maturity, and national stature needed to guide the community. In a striking analogy, he likens Raila to the biblical Moses—who led his people but never entered the Promised Land—insinuating that he is the “Joshua” meant to complete the journey.
The headline captures the rising tension and shifting loyalties within the Luo political landscape, especially after Ida Odinga had endorsed him as a possible successor a year earlier.
The Star: Winnie Odinga’s Hardline Politics Stir Anxiety in Ruto and ODM Camps
The Star turns attention to Raila’s daughter, Winnie Odinga, whose recent hard stance in a key political faction opposing President Ruto is reportedly causing discomfort across both the government and ODM.
Analysts quoted by the paper warn that Winnie’s increasing prominence could complicate political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections. At the same time, a group of Luo professionals is urging the community to back President Ruto’s re-election bid — a move that further fractures an already divided political bloc.
The paper also warns Kenyans to prepare for a hotter, drier December, an advisory attributed to climate experts.
The Standard: Leo wa Muthende and the Sh643 Million Oxygen Scandal
The Standard leads with a corruption-laced political exposé involving Leonard Njeru — now known as Leo wa Muthende — who has been linked to a Sh643 million hospital oxygen scam at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Despite the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) recommending his prosecution, Njeru has been embraced by top officials in President Ruto’s UDA party as the preferred candidate for the Mbeere North by-election.
The report raises serious questions about the commitment to integrity and proper vetting within the ruling party. It also underscores concerns about how individuals with tainted histories continue to find political lifelines through rebranding and powerful networks.