'Anguka Nayo', civilian Gachagua & KCSE: beats, betrayal, books
Today we are covering Wadagliz shrugging off backlash over their Mashujaa Day performance, Gachagua adjusting to life post-impeachment, and KCSE exams kicking off amid a looming Kuppet boycott. Happy reading.
THE BIG TAKE
Anguka Nayo stars Wadagliz defend Mashujaa performance
Wadagliz, known for the popular hit Anguka Nayo, insist they're not political and say their Mashujaa Day performance was purely for entertainment. "We don’t have political ties," their manager, Sam Michaka, stated. The duo faced backlash online, with some fans calling their performance at the government event a betrayal. Others defended the artists and urged critics not to cancel them. Anguka Nayo was one of the anthems that powered Kenya's Gen Z revolt in June this year. The duo clarified that their song has always been a party anthem, not a political symbol, despite being used during protests in the past. Focusing on the music, they hinted at a new release and denied meeting President Ruto, insisting they were paid like other artists.
Diaspora warns as life changes dramatically for Gachagua
The Kenyan diaspora condemned Gachagua's impeachment, the delayed reconstitution of the IEBC and the possible extension of Parliament's term limit, urging vigilance to protect democracy. Meanwhile, Gachagua's paranoia grew in July, leading to changes in kitchen staff and heightened security amid fears of leaks and poisoning. A hotel bugging incident added to his suspicions. Following his impeachment, the former deputy president's state security was withdrawn and his Karen home was guarded by private security. Gachagua pleaded for peace, claiming betrayal and persecution by President Ruto, and asked to be left alone to look after his family.
KCSE begins as Kuppet threat looms
The 2024 KCSE kicks off today with practical exams ahead of the general papers from November 4. There are a record 965,501 candidates registered this year. The exams will be held in 10,755 centres, with extra security amid logistical challenges posed by the rains. Knec has expanded distribution centres to facilitate the process. Meanwhile, Kuppet is threatening a boycott unless allowances and working conditions improve. At the same time, the KPSEA Grade Six examinations are underway, with 1.3 million candidates registered. Knec has introduced stricter measures to prevent cheating, including phone restrictions for exam staff. The marking will be completed in December, ensuring a smooth reopening of schools in January 2025.
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Today's newspapers
The Daily Nation leads with 'How Treasury is abetting Sh437bn Adani secret deals'. Business Daily leads with 'Kenyans with over half a million in bank revealed' sale blocked'. Taifa Leo leads with 'MTIHANI KWA MAJAJI'.
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