The announcement was made on Friday, March 7, during a high-profile event attended by key political figures from both ODM and Kenya Kwanza-affiliated parties.

Among the primary issues agreed upon by the two leaders is the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report.

They also committed to tackling youth unemployment and ensuring adherence to the two-thirds gender rule in governance.

Additionally, Ruto and Raila emphasized the need for inclusivity among all Kenyans, regardless of religious background.

They stated that fostering inclusivity would create more equitable opportunities in public sector appointments.

The agreement also outlined other commitments, including the promotion of leadership and integrity.

This entails curbing extravagant lifestyles among leaders and creating a legal framework to address conflicts of interest in government institutions.

The two leaders also pledged to uphold the rule of law and constitutional principles.

Furthermore, they called on the government to respect the right to peaceful assembly and ensure compensation for victims with outstanding claims related to human rights violations.

Another key element of the agreement is the immediate audit of Kenya’s national debt, with a detailed breakdown of how the borrowed funds have been utilized.

Both Raila and Ruto vowed to intensify efforts in combating corruption and eliminating the misuse of public funds, particularly by government officials.

As part of their broader governance strategy, they also reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding devolution as enshrined in the 2010 Constitution, which established the 47 counties.

Speaking before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Trade on Thursday, March 6, Cooperatives Principal Secretary Susan Mang’eni attributed the discrepancies to data extraction errors rather than an actual misallocation of funds.

Mang’eni clarified that the ministry had since rectified the records, ensuring that all individuals sampled possessed verified identification and registered phone numbers.

“The data used in the audit report contained significant extraction errors because the audit was not conducted in a live environment. We have since cleaned up the records, and all individuals sampled have verified identity cards and telephone numbers,” she explained.

Reassuring the committee, Mang’eni emphasized that the Hustler Fund’s system has built-in restrictions preventing minors from accessing loans.

She reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in managing the fund.

Mang’eni also highlighted the fund’s primary objective, stating that as a flagship initiative, its main purpose is to support small businesses and individual entrepreneurs.

“The Hustler Fund remains a critical tool in driving financial inclusion and economic empowerment, with proper safeguards in place to ensure funds reach the intended beneficiaries,” she noted.

Mang’eni’s remarks come in response to a recent report by Auditor General Nancy Gathungu, which revealed that Ksh31.8 million had been disbursed to 44,167 underage recipients and unborn individuals with future birth dates.

According to the audit, 1,186 children between 10 days and 17 years old received a total of Ksh681,395 from the Hustler Fund, while 42,981 individuals recorded with future birth dates were allocated Ksh31,135,690.

in an interview on Friday, March 7, Kasmuel criticized Maraga, questioning his credibility, pointing out that he is of the same age as former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“I cannot trust this man because, if anything, he’s just age mates with my party leader. So, there’s no way you can call Raila Odinga old and then want to tell me that David Maraga is an honest option.

“So, a lot of these things have come up, and now he is getting into the political waters where he will come to realize that it is not enough to pay lip service,” he said.

Kasmuel argued that he could not trust Maraga with the presidency, citing the former CJ’s past actions when he had the opportunity to prove himself.

“He annulled an election, and all he did is accepted a sham election afterwards, he presided over the judiciary when the legislative arm of government was unconstitutionally constituted. And all that could happen is that he wrote an advisory, and he did not push it to the end.

“Therefore, it means that whoever the person is who will occupy the office is not the problem. Because he was the president of the judiciary. He did not occupy a small position in government,” he stated.

Additionally, McOure noted that as the former president of the Apex Court, Maraga should recognize the judiciary’s power to drive change, especially in recent years.

“They have the power to partner with the people within their landmark rulings and in the, the explanation of those rulings. The interpretation of the law can be made robust.

“These things that he’s saying yesterday are the things that my party leader and young people have been saying time without number,” he added.

Kasmuel further emphasized the need for systemic change in Kenya, arguing that leadership is about collective effort rather than individual prominence.

“He will have to do it with the partnership of the business community, the religious community, the youth, the women, and persons who are differently abled. The head of that vehicle is not as important as the vehicle itself. The vehicle is more important because it is what will bring about the systemic change,” he remarked.

A veteran pilot with over four decades of experience, Gitahi’s career was marked by unparalleled dedication, skill, and an unwavering commitment to serving his country.

Known for flying two of Kenya’s most iconic leaders—former Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki—his legacy is one of precision, professionalism, and profound influence on the aviation industry.

Tragically, his life came to an abrupt end on March 5, 2025, in a devastating road accident, leaving behind a nation in mourning and a story worth celebrating.

Early life

Gitahi was born in a modest village in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, into a family with no prior connection to aviation.

Growing up in a rural setting, the young Gitahi had little exposure to the world of flight beyond the occasional sight of an airplane streaking across the sky.

However, a pivotal moment came when he saw an aircraft up close at a local airstrip—an encounter that ignited a passion he would pursue relentlessly.

Financial constraints and limited resources posed significant barriers, but fate intervened when Gitahi stumbled upon an advertisement for recruitment into the Kenya Air Force (KAF).

Seizing the opportunity, he applied and was accepted, marking the beginning of a transformative journey.

“The first time I got near a plane was at the KAF training college. Learning to fly a plane requires a lot of resources, which my family could not afford,” he recalled.

Military career

Gitahi’s aviation training was rigorous and comprehensive, reflecting the high standards of the Kenya Air Force.

He honed his skills at the Moi Airbase in Kenya and later pursued advanced training in prestigious institutions, including those in the United States and the Pakistan Air Force Academy.

His dedication and natural aptitude saw him rise steadily through the ranks, eventually earning him a place in the elite VIP Squadron.

In 1984, Gitahi began his tenure as a co-pilot under Colonel (Retired) Hussein Farah, who flew then-President Daniel arap Moi.

This apprenticeship was a formative period, exposing him to the immense responsibility of transporting the Head of State.

When Farah retired in 1992, Gitahi took over the reins, becoming Moi’s primary fixed-wing pilot—a role he would hold for 17 years until Moi’s retirement in 2002.

His first flight with Moi, as a co-pilot, was a nerve-wracking experience, but Moi’s approachable demeanor put him at ease.

“He was in Kisumu, and it was a night flight. He trusted us, and that made the job easier,” he recalled.

Gitahi’s service extended beyond Moi’s tenure. From 2002 to 2010, he piloted President Mwai Kibaki, accumulating over 220 presidential flights across his career.

“While flying the president, together with my co-pilot, I had to bear in mind that we were holding the fate of the country in the air,” he said.

Throughout his 32 years in the military, Gitahi logged over 19,000 flight hours, a testament to his skill and endurance.

Flying two Presidents

One of the most fascinating aspects of Gitahi’s career was his unique perspective on the personalities of the two presidents he served.

In interviews, he often contrasted Moi’s outgoing nature with Kibaki’s reserved demeanor.

“President Moi was more lively. He was happy to watch wildlife movies or Vitimbi comedies on board and would laugh heartily. He’d come to the cockpit, ask where we were, and show a keen interest in what we were doing,” he said.

Moi’s generosity also left an impression—after flights, he would offer tokens of appreciation, such as money to share with the crew or provisions like a bull for Christmas celebrations at Moi Airbase.

Kibaki, on the other hand, was a man of few words.

“He was a quiet man, basically he used to read a lot of magazines and newspapers,” he said.

To accommodate Kibaki’s habits, Gitahi ensured the aircraft—known locally as Harambee One and internationally as Air Force One—was stocked with reading material.

Despite their differences, both leaders entrusted Gitahi with their safety, a responsibility he carried with pride and precision.

A standout achievement was Gitahi’s role in bringing Kenya’s presidential jet, the Fokker 70 Extended Range (ER), into the country.

“The presidential jet that we have today, I am the one who brought it from Holland,” he revealed.

Transition to civilian life

After retiring from the Kenya Air Force in 2010, Gitahi did not hang up his wings.

Instead, he transitioned into commercial aviation, joining Bluebird Aviation—a company founded by his mentor, Colonel Hussein Farah.

As chief pilot, Gitahi spent 12 years flying commercial fixed-wing aircraft out of Wilson Airport in Nairobi, mentoring a new generation of aviators and ensuring the skies remained safe.

His final flight with Bluebird on May 19, 2023, was a poignant moment—a 30-minute journey to Masinga Dam and back, accompanied by his wife, Senator Betty Batuli Montet, and other passengers.

The landing was met with a water salute, a fitting tribute to a career spanning 44 years.

Gitahi’s influence extended beyond flying.

He expressed a desire to continue contributing to aviation through simulators and training, emphasizing the importance of hard work and passion.

“If you don’t have passion for this job, don’t expect good results,” he advised aspiring pilots.

Personal life

Behind the aviator’s uniform was a devoted family man.

Gitahi met Betty Batuli Montet in 1982 while she was a student at the Government Secretarial College and he was a lieutenant in the KAF.

Their romance blossomed quickly, leading to a marriage that lasted 41 years.

Together, they raised two children, a daughter, now a lawyer with two children of her own, and a son who followed in his father’s footsteps as a pilot, working in Somalia and married to another pilot.

Montet, a nominated senator with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), often spoke of the challenges and joys of being a military wife, crediting their close friends for support during Gitahi’s frequent absences.

Death

On Wednesday, March 5, Gitahi’s illustrious journey came to a heartbreaking close.

Driving alone on the Mombasa Highway, his vehicle collided head-on with an oncoming lorry at Kyumvi Junction in Machakos County.

Witnesses reported that he was overtaking another truck when he misjudged the distance, leading to a catastrophic crash that caused his car to burst into flames.

The veteran pilot, whose body was burned beyond recognition, perished at the scene, leaving a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the nation.

With a career spanning over two decades, she has captivated audiences with roles in films ranging from family-friendly hits like The Princess Diaries to critically acclaimed dramas such as Les Misérables, for which she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Hathaway’s talent, combined with her down-to-earth personality, has made her a beloved figure in Hollywood.

Beyond acting, she is also recognized for her advocacy work, including her role as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, where she champions gender equality.

Parents

Anne was raised by her parents, Gerald Hathaway and Kate McCauley Hathaway, who played significant roles in shaping her life and career.

Gerald Hathaway, born in 1952, is a labor attorney with a sharp intellect and a grounded demeanor. His Irish and French ancestry contributed to the family’s rich cultural background.

Kate McCauley Hathaway, born in 1954, is a former actress and singer who transitioned into a career as a teacher.

Kate’s experience in the performing arts had a profound influence on Anne, sparking her early interest in acting.

Raised in Philadelphia, Kate brought a creative energy to the household, while Gerald provided a stable, supportive foundation.

Anne has often credited her parents for instilling in her a strong work ethic and a sense of humility.

Career

Hathaway’s career began with a breakout role at the age of 18 in Disney’s The Princess Diaries, where she played Mia Thermopolis, a clumsy teenager turned princess.

The film’s success launched her into stardom and established her as a relatable, charismatic talent.

She quickly proved her range by taking on more mature roles, such as in Brokeback Mountain (2005), where she portrayed Lureen Newsome Twist, and The Devil Wears Prada (2006), where she held her own opposite Meryl Streep as the ambitious Andy Sachs.

Her career reached new heights with Les Misérables in 2012, where her raw, emotional performance as Fantine earned her an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and widespread praise.

Hathaway’s ability to balance blockbuster films like The Dark Knight Rises (2012), where she played Catwoman, with intimate projects like Rachel Getting Married (2008), for which she received her first Oscar nomination, showcases her versatility.

Recent works, such as The Idea of You (2024), demonstrate her continued evolution as an actress unafraid to take on bold, unconventional roles.

Known for his versatile roles in film and television, Wyatt has carved out a unique space in Hollywood despite coming from a family of entertainment royalty.

His journey reflects a blend of inherited talent and personal determination, making him a notable figure in his own right.

Parents

Wyatt is the only child of Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, two of Hollywood’s most beloved and enduring stars.

Kurt, born on March 17, 1951, in Springfield, Massachusetts, began his career as a child actor, starring in Disney films like The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes (1969).

He evolved into a leading man with iconic roles in action and sci-fi classics such as Escape from New York (1981), The Thing (1982), and Big Trouble in Little China (1986).

Kurt also appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ego, the Living Planet, in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017), adding a cosmic connection to his son’s later MCU involvement.

His father, Bing Russell, was also an actor, known for roles in Westerns like Bonanza, further rooting the family in show business.

Goldie, born on November 21, 1945, in Washington, D.C., rose to fame as a comedic actress, earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Cactus Flower (1969).

Her infectious charm shone in films like Private Benjamin (1980), for which she received a Best Actress Oscar nomination, and Overboard (1987), where she starred alongside Kurt.

Goldie’s career began in dance and television, notably on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, before she became a cinematic staple.

Career

Russell’s career path is a testament to his individuality, shaped by both his athletic beginnings and his eventual embrace of the family trade.

As a child, Wyatt had small, uncredited roles in his parents’ films, such as Overboard (1987) and Escape from L.A. (1996), but acting wasn’t his initial focus.

Instead, he pursued ice hockey with passion, starting at age four after his father introduced him to the sport.

His family even relocated to Vancouver during his teenage years to support his burgeoning career as a goaltender.

Wyatt played for teams like the Richmond Sockeyes, Chicago Steel, and Groningen Grizzlies in the Netherlands, as well as collegiately at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

However, a series of injuries, including a debilitating hip issue, forced him to retire from professional hockey in 2010 at age 24.

This setback became a turning point. Wyatt pivoted to acting, leveraging his natural charisma and the subtle influence of his parents’ craft.

His early roles included appearances in Cowboys & Aliens (2011) and This Is 40 (2012), but he broke out with a comedic turn as Zook in 22 Jump Street (2014).

His versatility shone in diverse projects: the horror film Overlord (2018), where he played Corporal Lewis Ford; the quirky AMC series Lodge 49 (2018-2019), as the laid-back Dud; and the Black Mirror episode “Playtest” (2016).

Wyatt’s profile soared when he joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as John Walker, the complex U.S. Agent, in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021), a role he’s set to reprise in Thunderbolts (2025).

Interestingly, he auditioned for Captain America in Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), a part that went to Chris Evans, but his MCU journey came full circle with this later role.

Wyatt has emphasized earning his success independently, avoiding reliance on his parents’ fame.

In a 2018 interview with the New York Post, he noted, “Having parents or people who were in the industry before you does not substitute for learning on the job.”

His collaboration with Kurt in the Apple TV+ series Monarch: Legacy of Monsters (2023) marked a rare on-screen father-son moment, showcasing their mutual respect as actors.

Upcoming projects, like Steven Spielberg’s UFO film Disclosure, signal Wyatt’s continued rise.

Born on April 19, 1979, in Los Angeles, California, Hudson rose to prominence as a leading figure in Hollywood, blending her natural charisma with a down-to-earth personality.

Beyond acting, she has made a name for herself as a businesswoman, co-founding the activewear brand Fabletics and authoring lifestyle books.

With a career spanning over two decades, Hudson remains a beloved figure in entertainment and beyond.

Parents

Kate hails from a family steeped in showbiz royalty.

Her mother, Goldie Hawn, is an Oscar-winning actress and Hollywood icon, best known for her roles in films like Private Benjamin (1980), for which she won an Academy Award, and Overboard (1987).

Hawn’s effervescent personality and comedic timing have made her a household name since the 1960s.

Kate’s father, Bill Hudson, is a musician and actor, notably a member of the 1970s pop-rock band The Hudson Brothers, which enjoyed moderate success with hits like So You Are a Star.

However, Kate’s relationship with her biological father has been famously strained.

She was primarily raised by her mother and Goldie Hawn’s longtime partner, Kurt Russell, an acclaimed actor known for films like Escape from New York (1981) and The Hateful Eight (2015).

Hudson has often referred to Russell as “Pa,” crediting him as the father figure in her life.

Career

Hudson burst onto the scene with her breakout role as Penny Lane in Cameron Crowe’s Almost Famous (2000), earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress at just 21 years old.

The film, a love letter to 1970s rock culture, showcased her ability to blend vulnerability with magnetic energy, cementing her as a rising star.

Following this success, she starred in a string of romantic comedies that defined her early career, including How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) opposite Matthew McConaughey, You, Me and Dupree (2006) and Fool’s Gold (2008).

These films solidified her status as a rom-com queen, beloved for her radiant smile and relatable charm.

In recent years, Hudson has diversified her portfolio, taking on more dramatic roles and expanding her creative influence.

She starred in the 2022 mystery-comedy Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, earning praise for her comedic timing in an ensemble cast.

Beyond acting, Hudson has ventured into producing, with projects like the TV series Truth Be Told (2019-2023), and has pursued her passion for wellness.

Her fitness brand, Fabletics, launched in 2013, has grown into a multimillion-dollar enterprise, reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit.

She’s also an author, releasing books like Pretty Happy: Healthy Ways to Love Your Body (2016), blending her Hollywood persona with a focus on health and self-care.

Hudson’s career reflects a balance of her parents’ influence—Goldie Hawn’s comedic flair and Kurt Russell’s resilience—while carving her own unique path.

During a Sunday service, President Ruto announced a personal donation of Ksh.20 million and an additional Ksh.100 million through a harambee.

However, the pledge sparked public outrage, with many Kenyans questioning why Mwai would accept such a large donation amid widespread calls for austerity.

Some even threatened to stage protests at the church.

Mwai has now revealed that both he and his wife have been bombarded with harsh messages, forcing him to change his mobile numbers.

“I have received more than 5,000 abusive messages and cannot make calls,” he said adding that the situation has left him feeling panicked and paranoid.

He also sought to clarify the matter, insisting that Ruto’s donation was merely a pledge and that he has not received any funds from the President.

“For the record, President Ruto never left any money behind. I consider what he promised like any other pledge when you are left chasing after it to be fulfilled.

“The service was live, and I challenge you to review the footage and show me where my team or board member is receiving the donation,” he stated.

Pastor Mwai further emphasized that he neither handles tithes and offerings directly nor counts them.

“There are people who do that. They have told me they have received nothing from the President, but we will make a follow-up on the promises,” he said.

Several prominent figures have joined calls to mount physical pressure on the church.

In a statement posted by the Bureau of African Affairs on social media, the U.S. government criticized the move, warning that it could further destabilize Sudan, which has been embroiled in conflict since April 2023.

“The U.S. is deeply concerned by reports the RSF & aligned actors have signed a ‘transitional constitution’ for Sudan. Attempts to establish a parallel government are unhelpful for peace & security for the country, and risk further instability & de facto partition of the country,” the statement read.

The signing of the transitional constitution in Nairobi marks a significant development in Sudan’s ongoing crisis, where rival factions, including the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), have been battling for control.

The move by the RSF signals an escalation, raising fears of a deepening political divide and potential fragmentation of the country.

The U.S. has consistently advocated for a unified and inclusive political process to resolve Sudan’s conflict.

However, Washington’s latest warning suggests growing concerns that the RSF’s unilateral actions could derail diplomatic efforts and prolong instability.

Sudan’s civil war erupted in April 2023 between the RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), and the SAF, commanded by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.

The conflict has led to a humanitarian catastrophe, with thousands killed and millions displaced.

International mediators, including the U.S., African Union, and regional bodies, have urged both sides to engage in peace talks.

However, the formation of a parallel government by the RSF could complicate ongoing negotiations and further fragment Sudan’s already fragile political landscape.

As tensions rise, the international community will be closely watching how Sudan’s warring factions respond to calls for de-escalation and a negotiated settlement.

The 27-year-old, who is currently seven months pregnant, has already spent a month behind bars and expects to be released in 2026.

Before her conviction, Katulu worked at a printing shop for three years. The shop was located in a building known as Ndaragwa, where she and other employees, alongside business owners, decided to form a chama.

Due to her diligence and trustworthiness, she was chosen to manage the group’s finances.

“I served well in the first two years and distributed money according to what we had agreed,” she recalls.

But in December 2024, when it was time to distribute the members’ contributions, an unexpected decision changed everything.

The chama had accumulated a substantial amount of money, and in preparation for the end-of-year distribution, three members withdrew Ksh2.1 million from the bank and handed it to Katulu.

“We were supposed to share our contributions in December 2024. Three members went to the bank and withdrew Ksh2.1 million, which they brought to me for distribution,” she says.

As part of the process, Ksh200,000 was transferred to her mobile phone to serve as ‘loose change’ for smoother transactions.

She successfully disbursed Ksh1.9 million to members but never got the chance to distribute the remaining amount.

A friend, aware of the funds in her phone, introduced her to a mobile gambling game called Aviator.

“My friend told me that there’s a game played on mobile phone known as Aviator which was easy to play and win,” she says.

The friend claimed to have won money through the game, betting Ksh50,000 and doubling the amount. Encouraged by this, Katulu saw an opportunity to make extra money.

“I figured that since I had Ksh200,000 in my phone, I could try my luck,” she admits.

However, what started as an attempt to make a quick profit soon turned into a nightmare.

Katulu began placing small bets, hoping to win, but the losses kept piling up.

“I would place bets in small installments, and I kept losing until all the money was gone,” she says.

Realizing she had lost the entire Ksh200,000 meant for four members of the chama, she found herself in deep trouble.

The affected members—Patrick, Tinamoli, Catherine, and Gachanja—demanded their money, but she had nothing left to give.

Furious over the missing funds, they reported the matter to the police.

Katulu was arrested, taken to court, and sentenced to either pay a Ksh300,000 fine or serve a three-year prison term.

“The four members called the police. I was arrested and taken to court, from where I was sentenced to serve three years in jail or pay a penalty of Ksh300,000,” she explains.

Now behind bars, she expresses deep regret for her actions.

“I am sorry to the four members, Patrick, Tinamoli, Catherine, and Gachanja. I am really apologetic and I am asking for your forgiveness. I am pregnant and suffering in prison and I seek your mercy and forgiveness,” she pleads.

During the court proceedings, she had hoped her father could sell family land to settle the debt.

However, that plan collapsed when she discovered the land had already been subdivided and was no longer available for sale.