Nassir’s scandal; Gachagua’s impeachment; Shif cuts

Governor Nassir and his mother face accusations in a blogger's gang-rape case, while DP Gachagua braces for an impeachment motion over misconduct. Shif brings a 2.75% pay cut—all?this and more in today's Daily Briefing.

THE BIG TAKE

DP Gachagua's day of reckoning

If all goes according to plan, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang'ula, will today inform MPs of a motion seeking the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The motion, sponsored by Kilifi North MP Owen Baya, cites gross constitutional violations and misconduct. More than 300 MPs are said to have signed in support, exceeding the required threshold. Speaker Wetang'ula will guide parliament on the next steps. If the motion is passed by a two-thirds majority, it will be considered by the Senate within two days. Gachagua's public statements and alleged breaches of governance are fuelling the impeachment drive. We will cover the developments live on www.nation.africa.

SHA slashes 2.75% from salaries

From today, October 1, Kenyans will have to register with the new Social Health Authority (SHA) to access public health services. The SHA replaces the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), with deductions based on 2.75 per cent of income. The government aims to raise Ksh148 billion to improve access to healthcare, but questions remain about the feasibility of the transition. Mental health services are lacking in many counties, and road ambulance services remain suspended due to financial constraints. There are also concerns about the government's 'means testing' tool, which sets premiums based on perceived wealth. Officials promise a smoother transition, but scepticism remains high, especially after past challenges to the health system. ?

Governor Nassir denies link to brutal attack on blogger

The governor of Mombasa, Abdullswamad Nassir, and his mother have been summoned by the DCI in an investigation into the abduction and gang rape of a blogger. Nassir claims he's being unfairly targeted for political reasons. He expressed confidence that the truth would come out and vowed to clear his name. Despite reporting the threats, Nassir says no action has been taken. Meanwhile, his aide, Mohamed Hussein, has been released after a court barred his arrest over the incident. Investigations into the attack continue, although the DPP has yet to press charges.

Quick hits

• Climate change: Kenya joins global coalition to end plastic pollution.

• Politics: DP Rigathi Gachagua: I’ll accept MPs' decision on impeachment.

• Business: Belgian financier BIO eyes Sh4.3bn Kenya investments.

• Politics: Sh856 million windfall for Ruto, Raila parties.

• Court: How courts are letting terrorists get away lightly.

• Politics: Drama at DCI headquarters as Kalonzo, Wamalwa denied access to arrested Waititu.

• Crime: Missing taxi driver found unconscious in Migori - police.

COUNTY ROUNDUP

1. Ismaili community in Kisumu holds blood drive to mark Civic Day
2. Skyward Express suspends flights to Kakamega
3. Expert: This is what is killing fish in Lake Victoria
4. In their own words: Kitengela brothers break silence on being stripped naked, chained and whipped in 32 days of terror
5. Where is she? Taxi driver and her vehicle go missing

Today's newspapers

The Daily Nation leads with 'Gachagua trial'. Business Daily leads with 'How workers’ take-home pay will shrink on SHIF deductions' sale blocked'. Taifa Leo leads with 'AINUA MIKONO'.

Cartoon of the day

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Nakuru taxi driver recounts chasing van of missing Victoria Mumbua