Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission invited political parties and civil society groups to review the November by-elections. The forum aims to gather feedback and guide future electoral planning. The commission previously raised concern over reports of violence, intimidation, and disruptions in several constituencies. A coalition of rights organizations said it is assessing potential legal challenges, citing irregularities. The Elections Observation Group also noted political interference and resource misuse that affected the broader electoral environment.

President William Ruto and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio finalized a $2.5 million bilateral health pact, marking the first major agreement under Washington’s new foreign aid approach. The deal allocates $1.7 billion from the US and requires Kenya to contribute $850 million. It signals closer political alignment between the two governments, which also highlights Kenya’s leadership in international security efforts. Public debate continues over data-sharing terms, which officials defended as compliant with Kenyan law.

British lawmakers reported that British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) personnel were implicated in killings, sexual abuse, and environmental violations during training in Kenya. A Kenyan parliamentary inquiry documented years of misconduct, including poor handling of explosives, toxic waste dumping, and unresolved cases such as the 2012 death of Agnes Wanjiru. Officials said they will pursue extradition and compensation processes while expanding oversight of foreign troops.

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru ruled out joining former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party ahead of the 2027 elections. Waiguru said she cannot align with Gachagua following his 2024 impeachment, which bars him from seeking elective office. Her remarks came during the groundbreaking of the KMTC Kirinyaga Central Campus. Gachagua has accused Waiguru and other UDA-aligned leaders of undermining Mt. Kenya unity, claims that Deputy President Kithure Kindiki dismissed.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire will lead a two-week nationwide sensitization program for the United Democratic Alliance ahead of January 10 grassroots elections. UDA said the initiative will expand membership, strengthen internal democracy, and prepare supporters for local leadership roles. Mbarire noted that members will be guided on election procedures and dispute resolution. Party leaders said the drive aims to energize participation across 20 counties as preparations for the polls continue.

Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi urged members of the Western Jurists Forum to promote moral leadership, strengthen public institutions and expand community support. He highlighted the group’s work in scholarships, book drives and pro bono legal aid, and encouraged broader mentorship and outreach to youth. Mudavadi warned that weak structures undermine public trust and emphasized collaboration between jurists and government to advance governance reforms and community development across the Western Region.