Top 5 Today: “Ruto Offered Me Kshs 2B to Resign” Gachagua Says and Other Headlines
On February 4, 2025, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua made several significant claims during interviews with local radio stations.
He alleges that President Ruto offered him a send-off package of KSh 2 billion, a salary, security, and state vehicles. This was in a bid to persuade him to resign or face impeachment. The former DP claims he declined the offer citing his readiness to face an impeachment.
He further criticized the government’s focus on international peace efforts (DRC), while domestic security issues like abductions remained unaddressed.
Regarding his political future, Gachagua dismissed claims that his impeachment barred him from contesting in future elections.
“It is not a must that I be Kenya’s leader; there are many people who can lead. I will be part of the team that will make decisions. But no one has stopped me from running for office—I have an ongoing court case,” he said
Gachagua firther distanced himself his involvement in the Gen-Z anti-government protests in 2024. He however promised to support the youth’s right to question government .
USAID Officially Shut Down as Directive Takes Effect Globally
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is undergoing major structural reforms. The directive is set to take effect on Friday, February 7, 2025, according to the official statement but the effect has already been felt worldwide.
USAID employees from around the world, except for those designated as essential staff, have been asked to withdraw from their assignments and take administrative leave. Overseas staff are instructed to return to the USA within 30 days, with travel extensions considered on a case-by-case basis.
President Trump put a freeze on foreign aid, in his first executive orders following his inaguration, leading to the halting of the six-decade mission. The foreign aid was focused on combating hunger, funding education, and eradicating epidemics. The disruption has affected almost 120 countries as mass evacuation of USAID offices and staff continues.
His Highness Karim AgaKhan IV Passes Away in Portugal
The 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and Founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, has passed away.
According to the Aga Khan website, Prince Karim passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4th February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family.
Besides philanthropy, through the Aga Khan Development Network (AGDN), he invested in various Kenyan companies including: Nation Media, Industrial Promotion Services (Kenya) LTD, Allpack Industries, Farmer’s Choice, Premier Food Industries and Tourism Promotion Services Eastern Africa LTD. Aga Khan Schools, The Aga Khan University Hospital, and its satellite facilities are also part of his conglomerate for economic development.
Prince Karim Aga Khan IV inherited his title in 1957, at the tender age of 20, following his grandfather’s, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III. His succession details are underway and would follow in due course.
Angry Mombasa Residents Stone Kenya Ferry Security
Drama ensued at the Likoni channel today when residents crossing threw stones at security personnel after they blocked them from boarding the ferry.
The incident started when one of the ferries had not properly docked as required. As the residents rushed to board, the security personnel also moved into to the scene to avert what would havea possible disaster. That’s when the back and forth started.
Kenya National Private Security Workers Union (KNPSWU) Secretary General, Isaac Andambwa, confirmed the news. Three guards are reported to have sustained multiple injuries and booked in different hospitals for treatment.
“We call upon the relevant authorities to investigate this matter thoroughly and ensure accountability. At the same time, we urge all security firms to uphold professional conduct and prioritise conflict resolution mechanisms that respect the dignity of all individuals,” said the union.
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