AU race; Gen Z abductions; Rashford warms bench

Kenya's political chessboard continues as Raila aims for AU chair. Meanwhile, Gen Z kidnappings spark outrage and Manchester United's woes deepen as Rashford is benched. All this and more in today's newsletter!

Kenfrey Kiberenge,

Newsletters editor

THE BIG TAKE

Ruto, Raila and AU seat battle

President Ruto is leading Raila Odinga's push for the chairmanship of the AU Commission, a role with enormous influence. Ruto is backing Raila on a platform of reform and unity. Raila's campaign focuses on peace, infrastructure and youth empowerment, with the aim of improving Africa's global standing. Observers believe Raila's victory could redefine Kenyan politics, potentially aligning ODM with Ruto's 2027 ambitions. Critics question Raila's motives, while allies highlight his statesmanship. The high-stakes contest also involves candidates from Djibouti and Madagascar. The government's strategic support, including intelligence resources, underlines the importance of this seat for Kenya's regional and global influence. The outcome in February will shape Africa's leadership.

Gen Z abductions spark anger

A wave of abductions targeting young government critics has sparked outrage across Kenya. More than 80 people, including cartoonist Gideon Kibet, have been abducted since June, often by masked men in unmarked vehicles. Police deny involvement, but critics accuse the authorities of silencing dissent.  The judiciary, opposition leaders, clergy and civil society have condemned the disappearances, likening them to the repressive Nyayo era. There are growing calls for President Ruto to intervene, with demands for accountability and justice. Religious leaders warn against authoritarianism and urge respect for constitutional freedoms. The government faces growing pressure to end the abductions and protect citizens' rights.

Rashford frozen out, United stumble

Manchester United's struggles deepened with a 2-0 defeat at Wolves on Friday. Marcus Rashford missed his fourth game as manager Ruben Amorim once again benched him. Amorim insists professionalism is more important than form. Bruno Fernandes' red card hampered United's chances and left them toothless in attack. Wolves' Matheus Cunha curled in a bizarre corner that caught goalkeeper Andre Onana off guard. Amorim defended Onana but admitted the defeat stung. United have now lost four of their last five games, with fans questioning tactics and player management. Rashford's future at the club remains uncertain as United's season continues to spiral out of control.

Quick hits

• Crime: Murders that shocked the nation in 2024.

• Business: How Finance Bill, Adani deals left MPs with egg on the face.

• Sports: Kenya women's volleyball star Janet Wanja is dead.

• Lifestyle: Visiting artists deliver floppy performances in Kenya.

• Lifestyle: Churchill talks about writing a book, and why he’s been invited by President Samia Suluhu.

• OpEd: Nairobi MCAs must put Sakaja to task over bad roads.

• Crime: Hunger, torture, and death: Witnesses recount horrors of Shakahola forest cult.

COUNTY ROUNDUP

1. Four dead in Kilifi Christmas morning accident
2. Burial of Meru blogger 'Sniper' postponed again, one year after his brutal murder
3. ‘We want to bury our people': Double tragedy, pain for families of Shakahola dead amid fears of mass grave plan
4. Murang'a residents help police foil armed attack
5. How Nairobi man’s visit to longtime friend in Nakuru ended in tragedy

Today's newspapers

The Daily Nation leads with 'Abductions outrage'. Business Daily leads with 'Tanzanian tycoos inject billions into Kenyan ventures' Taifa Leo leads with 'PEPO LA UTEKAJI'.

Cartoon of the day

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Raila calls for an immediate stop to ongoing mysterious abductions.

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