Top of The Day: Former IEBC Chairman, Wafula Chebukati, Passes on and Other Headlines
Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Wafula Chebukati has passed away yesterday. He died on Thursday, February 20, 2025, 11PM, while undergoing treatment at a Nairobi hospital.
Chebukati, 63, had been admitted to the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for nearly a week prior to his passing. The specific cause of his illness has not been publicly disclosed by his family. His family plans to hold a meeting to discuss whether to conduct a postmortem exam.
President William Ruto has mourned Chebukati’s death, describing him as a principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity.
Chebukati, a lawyer by profession, was appointed as the IEBC Chairperson in January 2017 and served until his retirement in January 2023. During his tenure, he oversaw the 2017 and 2022 General Elections.
Kizza Besigye Charged With Treason in a Court of Law in Uganda
Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye has been formally charged with treason, a capital offense in Uganda. The charges were filed during a court session in Kampala on Friday, February 21, 2025.
Besigye, aged 68, has been in custody since November 2024 following his alleged abduction from Nairobi, Kenya, and subsequent return to Uganda. Initially tried in a military court for illegal possession of firearms and treachery, his case was transferred to a civilian court after the Supreme Court ruled that prosecuting civilians in military tribunals is unconstitutional.
Despite his deteriorating health due to a prolonged hunger strike, the court denied requests for his hospitalization. The government maintains that Besigye must face trial, while his supporters and international organizations, including Amnesty International (AI), argue that the charges are politically motivated and call for his immediate release. This development intensifies political tensions in Uganda ahead of the upcoming presidential elections.
Gachagua Meets Over 80 MCAs in His Wamunyoro Home
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently hosted over 80 former Members of County Assembly (MCAs) and councillors from Nairobi County at his Wamunyoro residence. The meeting was held on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
During the meeting, they discussed changes since their tenure, lessons learned, and opportunities for future collaboration.
This gathering is part of Gachagua’s ongoing efforts to engage grassroots leaders and discuss socio-economic issues affecting the region. Similar meetings have been held with MCAs from Nakuru and Murang’a counties, indicating a broader strategy to consolidate support within the Mt. Kenya region.
These engagements come ahead of the anticipated launch of Gachagua’s new political party. The new party would be launched in May 2025 or sooner, and is aiming to unseat President William Ruto in the upcoming elections.
MP Salasya Has Called Out Azziad Amid Her Ongoing Financial Crisis
Mumias East MP Peter Salasya recently criticized Azziad Nasenya’s boyfriend, Adrian, for not supporting her during a financial crisis. Salasya urged Azziad to end the relationship, stating Adrian doesn’t deserve to be their “son-in-law”, after the influencer was dragged over a 300K unpaid debt from a friend.
The controversial MP has publicly addressed matters concerning Azziad. In March 2023, he criticized her appointment to a government position, expressing concerns over the selection process.
Additionally, in February 2023, Salasya questioned Sports CS Ababu Namwamba’s decision to appoint Azziad to a government role, suggesting that other deserving individuals were overlooked.
Despite these criticisms, Salasya has also shown support for Azziad. Over two years ago, he advocated for her to become the brand ambassador for Kakamega County, highlighting her influence and connection to the region.
Salasya’s ongoing interest in Azziad’s personal and professional life has sparked public discussions. The young first time MP seems to have eyes for her but the sassy beauty has always remained mum.
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