Denis Mwangi

Kenyan National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung&rsquo;wa faced unexpected backlash during an intense head-to-head interview with Mehdi Hasan on Al Jazeera, but it wasn&rsquo;t just his political defense that drew criticism.&nbsp;

His choice of footwear, expensive red-bottom shoes, became a viral talking point, sparking public outrage over the lifestyle of Kenyan politicians amid economic hardship.

During the Q&amp;A session, an audience member pressed Ichung&rsquo;wa on wasteful government spending, questioning the frequent use of helicopters for minor events and the extravagant perks enjoyed by public officials.&nbsp;

Then, with cutting sarcasm, she delivered the line that would steal the show:

"By the way, very nice red-bottom shoes."

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa speaking at State House, Nairobi

The audience burst into laughter and applause, momentarily throwing Ichung&rsquo;wa off balance.&nbsp;

The video quickly spread online, with Kenyans seizing on the symbolism of a leader flaunting luxury while millions struggle with the cost of living.

<h3>Luxury in a Time of Economic Struggles</h3>

The shoes weren&rsquo;t just a fashion statement, they represented the growing disconnect between Kenya&rsquo;s leadership and its people. Kenya has been grappling with soaring inflation, high taxes, and rising unemployment, triggering widespread frustration and protests.

For many, the signature red-bottomed soles, often associated with Christian Louboutin, a brand where prices range from $700 to over $2,000, are an emblem of extravagance.&nbsp;

Seeing a high-ranking government official sporting such luxury while ordinary citizens struggle to put food on the table struck a nerve.

Hasan, who had been <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/mehdi-hasan-fearless-journalist-who-cornered-kimani-ichungwa-2025022801312022659">grilling Ichung’wa on corruption, police brutality, and unfulfilled election promises,</a> capitalised on the moment.

READ ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/kabogo-breaks-down-his-sh3-billion-wealth-in-terms-of-cash-investments-2025011415225614950">Kabogo breaks down his Sh3 billion wealth in terms of cash, investments</a>

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa's shoes

"Kenyan MPs are among the highest paid in the world relative to the average citizen. You make 32 times the average salary. And yet, Kenyans are watching their leaders flaunt extreme wealth while they struggle with the cost of living. Do you understand why they are so furious?" Hasan asked.

Ichung’wa, while acknowledging the frustrations, defended his nearly Sh1 billion wealth, stating that it did not come from his government salary but from previous business ventures.

Memes flooded social media, some likening Ichung’wa’s fashion sense to the excesses of leaders and corrupt elites.&nbsp;

Others pointed out that MPs continue to receive hefty allowances and perks while the government asks citizens to tighten their belts.

This is not the first time Kenyan politicians have been called out for flaunting wealth. In recent months, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/mehdi-hasan-fearless-journalist-who-cornered-kimani-ichungwa-2025022801312022659">videos of politicians showcasing luxury cars, expensive watches, and high-end vacations</a> have fueled public resentment.&nbsp;

The latest uproar only adds to the perception that leaders are indifferent to the struggles of ordinary Kenyans.

President William Ruto walking in Christian Louboutin shoes

At its core, this controversy is bigger than shoes. It&rsquo;s about the widening gap between Kenya&rsquo;s ruling class and its people.&nbsp;

In a country where many are barely scraping by, the image of a top government official walking through an economic crisis in designer footwear only reinforces the belief that leaders are out of touch with reality.

Kimani Ichung'wa during an interview with Al Jazeera

Ichung’wa defended his nearly Sh1 billion wealth, stating that it did not come from his government salary but from previous business ventures.

Kimani Ichung’wa’s shoes, net worth steal spotlight in heated interview

When Mehdi Hasan sat down with Kimani Ichung’wa, the Majority Leader in the National Assembly, the interview quickly became one of the most talked-about political showdowns in recent memory.

This moment was nothing new for Hasan. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of the world’s toughest interviewers, unafraid to challenge presidents, prime ministers, and powerful figures. His sharp, fact-driven questioning style has made him both a feared adversary and a respected journalist.

Born in July 1979 in Swindon, Wiltshire, England, Hasan is a distinguished British-American journalist, broadcaster, and author.

He is known for his incisive political commentary and interviews.

With a career spanning prominent media outlets and a reputation for rigorous debate, Hasan has become a significant voice in contemporary journalism.

Born to Indian Muslim parents from Hyderabad, India, Hasan's upbringing was steeped in a blend of British and Indian cultures.

He received his education at Merchant Taylors' School in Northwood, a prestigious independent institution.&nbsp;

Hasan pursued higher education at Christ Church, Oxford, where he studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE), graduating in 2000.

Hasan's foray into journalism commenced with roles as a researcher and producer for ITV's "Jonathan Dimbleby" program.&nbsp;

He further honed his skills at BBC One's "The Politics Show" and later as deputy executive producer for Sky's breakfast program "Sunrise."&nbsp;

His editorial acumen led him to Channel 4, where he served as editor of news and current affairs.&nbsp;

In 2009, Hasan transitioned to print media, joining the "New Statesman" as senior editor for politics, a role he held until 2012.&nbsp;

He then advanced to political director at &quot;The Huffington Post&quot; UK, further solidifying his presence in political journalism.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/waihiga-mwaura-reveals-why-reading-news-is-only-10-20-of-a-news-anchors-job-2024072910494027547">Waihiga Mwaura - Reading news is only 10-20% of a news anchor's job [Video]</a>

<h3>Broadcasting and International Recognition</h3>

In 2012, Hasan expanded his reach by joining Al Jazeera English. He became the host of programs such as "The Café," "Head to Head," and "UpFront," where his interviewing style garnered international attention.&nbsp;

His move to Washington, D.C., in 2015 marked a commitment to global journalism, allowing him to engage with a broader audience.&nbsp;

From 2018 to 2020, Hasan also hosted the "Deconstructed" podcast for "The Intercept," delving deep into political analyses and interviews.

<h3>The Mehdi Hasan Show and Subsequent Ventures</h3>

October 2020 saw the launch of "The Mehdi Hasan Show" on Peacock, NBCUniversal's streaming service.&nbsp;

The program's success led to its extension on MSNBC in February 2021. However, in November 2023, MSNBC announced the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/teacher-wanjiku-narrates-how-she-was-trolled-after-her-tv-show-was-cancelled-after-2024082206261531354">show's cancellation</a>.&nbsp;

On his final broadcast on January 7, 2024, Hasan revealed his departure from the network. Shortly thereafter, in February 2024, he joined &quot;The Guardian&quot; as a columnist, continuing his tradition of insightful commentary.&nbsp;

Demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit, Hasan co-founded the digital media company Zeteo in the same month, aiming to provide a platform featuring diverse opinions and in-depth analyses.

<h3>Authorship and Thought Leadership</h3>

Beyond broadcasting, Hasan has contributed to literature and political discourse. He co-authored "Ed:&nbsp;The Milibands and the Making of a Labour Leader," a biography exploring the political ascent of Ed Miliband.

In 2023, he authored "Win Every Argument: The Art of Debating, Persuading, and Public Speaking," sharing insights into <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/mens-health/how-to-avoid-a-communication-breakdown-in-your-relationship-2024081711022986847">effective communication and persuasion techniques</a>.

Hasan maintains a private personal life. He is married, and together with his wife, they have two daughters.

&nbsp;In October 2020, Hasan became a naturalised U.S. citizen..

Throughout his career, Hasan has received accolades acknowledging his contributions to journalism and media.

In January 2014, he was honored with the Services to Media award at the British Muslim Awards.&nbsp;

His influence was further recognised in 2017 when he was named a European Young Leader by a Brussels-based think tank.&nbsp;

In 2019, Hasan's excellence in online column writing earned him the Society of Professional Journalists' Sigma Delta Chi Award.

Mehdi Hasan sat down with Kimani Ichung’wa, the Majority Leader in the National Assembly

How Mehdi Hasan built his reputation as a tough interviewer

Mehdi Hasan's Biography: Fearless journalist who cornered Kimani Ichung’wa

For many small business owners in Kenya, social media has become more than just a place to connect with friends—it&rsquo;s a powerful sales engine.&nbsp;

Platforms like Facebook, X,&nbsp; Instagram and TikTok are transforming how entrepreneurs reach customers, showcase their products, and drive revenue.

One of those entrepreneurs is Sam Akinyi, who sells wigs through social media.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@sam_sams1/video/7470040446618635575" data-video-id="7470040446618635575" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;" > <section> <a target="_blank" title="@sam_sams1" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@sam_sams1?refer=embed">@sam_sams1</a> Wig available for 2500&#47;= We are located at TF Mall shop 2D along moi avenue <a title="semihumanwigs" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/semihumanwigs?refer=embed">#semihumanwigs</a> <a title="closurewigs" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/closurewigs?refer=embed">#closurewigs</a> <a title="wigsnairobi" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/wigsnairobi?refer=embed">#wigsnairobi</a> <a title="wighair" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/wighair?refer=embed">#wighair</a> <a target="_blank" title="♬ Your Love x Sexy Love Dj Quest Bw - DJ Quest Bw" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Your-Love-x-Sexy-Love-Dj-Quest-Bw-7299374658823490309?refer=embed">♬ Your Love x Sexy Love Dj Quest Bw - DJ Quest Bw</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>

While Instagram has long been a favourite for online businesses, she decided to experiment with the newly launched TikTok for Business platform to see if this could help her expand her customer base.

Akinyi&rsquo;s experience with TikTok advertising was eye-opening. &ldquo;Getting a lot of views means my videos are seen by a wide range of people, not just my followers. As a result, I get more sales, inquiries, and follows,&rdquo; she said.&nbsp;

Unlike traditional marketing, where businesses have to fight for attention, TikTok&rsquo;s algorithm pushes content to users who might not have otherwise discovered a brand.

This gives small businesses an opportunity to go viral without spending massive amounts on advertising.

Beyond ads, TikTok’s culture of engagement, through trends, challenges, and user interaction, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/kenyan-street-food-vendors-leverage-tiktok-to-overcome-economic-hardships-2024092714452605629">allows businesses to showcase their products in a fun, organic way</a>. A short, engaging video can be enough to turn a viewer into a customer.

For many small businesses, budget constraints are a key concern when it comes to advertising.&nbsp;

According to Akinyi, TikTok ads are not only effective but also more affordable than other platforms. “It’s cheaper than most platforms, and you get impactful results,” she said.

This affordability makes social media advertising accessible to businesses of all sizes, allowing even startups with limited funds to compete with larger brands.

The potential to scale a business through well-placed ads and organic reach is one of the biggest advantages social media offers to entrepreneurs.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/kenyan-street-food-vendors-leverage-tiktok-to-overcome-economic-hardships-2024092714452605629">Kenyan street food vendors leverage TikTok to overcome economic hardships</a>

Despite the benefits, TikTok ads do have limitations. One of the biggest challenges Akinyi faced was audience targeting

“I had challenges targeting the ads to the specific people you want, like on Instagram. Your content appears on anyone’s For You Page, even if they aren’t your target audience,” she explained.

Despite its challenges, TikTok continues to evolve as a major player in social commerce.&nbsp;

In Kenya, the platform’s recent partnerships with digital marketing firms are expected to<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/world/unilever-to-stop-advertising-on-facebook-twitter-and-instagram-in-us-2024082020462179825"> make advertising more accessible and efficient for businesses</a>.

Entrepreneurs like Akinyi are optimistic that improvements in audience targeting and business tools will make TikTok an even stronger marketplace in the future.

For small business owners looking to grow, social media is no longer optional, it&rsquo;s essential.&nbsp;

Social media platforms offer an unprecedented opportunity to connect with customers, build trust, and drive sales, proving that in today&rsquo;s digital world, a viral video can be just as powerful as a billboard.

How to use TikTok ads to power your small business

Social media platforms offer an unprecedented opportunity to connect with customers, build trust, and drive sales, proving that in today’s digital world, a viral video can be just as powerful as a billboard.

Kenyan households are governed by a unique set of unspoken rules, traditions and expectations that are rarely discussed but instinctively followed by everyone.

Whether it&rsquo;s how meals are served, the way visitors are treated, or the hierarchy of responsibilities, these unwritten guidelines shape daily life in every home.

If you grew up in Kenya, chances are you’ve encountered most of these rules, sometimes enforced with a simple look from a parent.

A serene evening scene of a Kenyan man spending time with his family at home

<h3>1. Greeting Everyone is Mandatory</h3>

You can't just walk into a room and sit down. Whether it's family, visitors, or even the househelp, you must greet everyone. Ignoring this is seen as disrespectful.

<h3>2. First Come, First Serve? Not Really</h3>

The best piece of meat (or the biggest ugali portion) is usually reserved for the father or the eldest male in the house. You don&rsquo;t just grab the biggest piece unless you want to be seen as disrespectful.

Your aunties, uncles, and even close family friends are automatically your parents. You&rsquo;ll call them &ldquo;mum&rdquo; or &ldquo;dad,&rdquo; and if they discipline you, your actual parents will probably support them.

<h3>4. You Can&rsquo;t Be in the House the Whole Day</h3>

Sitting in the house from morning to evening is unacceptable. You&rsquo;ll be asked, &ldquo;Hautoki nje kidogo upate jua?&rdquo;&nbsp;

<h3>5. The Last-Born is Everyone&rsquo;s Errand Runner</h3>

If you're the last-born, forget about chilling. You're automatically responsible for fetching the remote, getting drinking water, and running every small errand in the house.

If your parents or older siblings want to <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/kenyans-salimia-jeff-koinange-after-morara-kebasos-interview-on-citizen-tv-2024092714270371675">watch the news,</a> you will watch the news. Cartoons, Netflix, or anything you like is secondary.

<h3>7. Every Meal Must Have Ugali or Rice</h3>

A meal without either of these two is not considered a proper meal. You can eat spaghetti, but don't dare call it &quot;dinner.&quot;

<h3>8. Visitors are Treated Like Royalty</h3>

Even if the family was eating githeri the day before, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/history-of-chapati-in-kenya-how-it-became-a-staple-2025022519450122461">when visitors come, meat, chapati, and soda must appear</a> as if it’s an everyday thing.

<h3>9. School Fees is a Mystery Until the Last Minute</h3>

Your parents will somehow have school fees, but they won&rsquo;t tell you where it comes from. You just hear &quot;Utaenda shule, usijali&quot; (You&rsquo;ll go to school, don&rsquo;t worry) even if they don&rsquo;t have the money at that moment.

<h3>10. Parents Always Have &quot;Another Plan&quot;</h3>

No matter how well you explain something, Kenyan parents will always have a mysterious alternative. You can say, &ldquo;Mum, I want a laptop for school,&rdquo; and she&rsquo;ll say, &ldquo;Kwani hizi simu hazitoshi?&rdquo; (Aren't these phones enough?).

<h3>11. You Can&rsquo;t Just Announce a Friend&rsquo;s Visit</h3>

Bringing a friend home? You better inform your parents early.

<h3>12. Sundays are for Church or Cleaning</h3>

Sleeping in on a Sunday is a myth in most Kenyan homes. If you're not in church, you're scrubbing the house or washing clothes.

Use products that kills germs. It's very important when cleaning surfaces.

Asking a simple question in a Kenyan home rarely guarantees a straightforward response.&nbsp;

Instead, you&rsquo;ll get a cryptic proverb that leaves you more confused than before. Want permission to go out? Your mom might hit you with &ldquo;hii nyumba imekua yako sindio?&rdquo;

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/9-bible-characters-that-lived-like-kenyan-comrades-2025021712280975159">9 Bible characters that lived like Kenyan comrades</a>

Kenyan parents have perfected the art of wisdom with a side of mystery, and if you don&rsquo;t understand their message, well… that&rsquo;s your problem.

Kenyan households have unspoken rules that everyone follows without needing to be told. Here are some of the most common ones

Growing up Kenyan: 13 unspoken rules in every Kenyan home

A video of a school bus being transported on a boat in Lamu has gone viral. The bus belongs to Kiunga Secondary School and is seen on a wooden boat moving across the water.&nbsp;

Many Kenyans have been wondering how such a heavy vehicle can be ferried in a wooden boat without sinking. The answer lies in basic physics.

A video of a school bus being transported on a boat in Lamu has gone viral.

The boat stays afloat because of buoyancy. This is the force that keeps objects from sinking in water.&nbsp;

According to Archimedes&rsquo; Principle, an object in water experiences an upward force equal to the weight of the water it displaces.

An illustration of Archimedes’ Principle

Since the boat is large and made of wood, it displaces enough water to support the weight of the bus. Wood is also less dense than water, which helps the boat stay afloat.

For the boat to remain stable, the weight must be evenly distributed. The bus is placed at the centre to keep the balance. If it were positioned on one side, the boat could tip over.

The boat also has a wide hull, which helps it displace more water and remain steady. The lower the centre of gravity, the more stable the boat becomes.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/food-and-travel/5-star-luxury-and-amenities-aboard-largest-cruise-ship-inspected-by-ruto-in-mombasa-2025022311423538854">5-star luxury &amp; amenities aboard largest cruise ship inspected by Ruto in Mombasa</a>

Lamu is one of Kenya&rsquo;s most fascinating destinations. Located along the Indian Ocean, it is the country&rsquo;s oldest town, dating back to the 14th century. Its rich history, unique transport system, and blend of cultures make it a truly special place.

Lamu&rsquo;s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its Swahili architecture, influenced by Arab, Persian, and Indian traders, has remained unchanged for centuries.

The town&rsquo;s stone buildings, intricately carved doors, and shaded courtyards tell a story of trade, culture, and history.

One of the most interesting facts about Lamu is that it has almost no cars. The town&rsquo;s narrow streets were built long before vehicles existed.&nbsp;

Instead of cars, people use motorcycles, donkeys and boats for transport. In fact, Lamu has more donkeys than people, and the town even has a donkey hospital to care for them.

<h3>Floating Transport System in Kenya</h3>

Because Lamu is an island, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/food-and-travel/these-4-traditional-swahili-boats-can-be-experienced-today-in-lamu-and-kenyas-coast-2024081819543738238">boats are the main form of transport</a>. Unlike other Kenyan towns where people rely on matatus and boda bodas, here, boats serve as taxis, buses, and trucks.&nbsp;

They transport everything from people to animals, and, as seen in the viral video, even school buses!

A police vehicle being transported on a boat

The town is known for its <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/money/twende-lamu-all-roads-lead-to-lamu-county-this-weekend-2024081706485052495">vibrant Lamu Cultural Festival</a>, where visitors experience Swahili traditions, dhow races, and poetry competitions.&nbsp;

Another major event is the Maulid Festival, an Islamic celebration honouring the Prophet Muhammad&rsquo;s birthday.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/lamu-county-2024081623382483528">Walking through Lamu feels like stepping into the past</a>. There are no traffic jams, no skyscrapers, and no modern noise.&nbsp;

The island&rsquo;s slow pace, peaceful atmosphere, and rich heritage make it one of Kenya&rsquo;s most magical places.

A viral video showing a school bus being transported on a boat in Lamu County has sparked widespread curiosity

The science behind viral bus-on-boat video in Kenya

For days, as the battle between Nairobi County and Kenya Power dominated headlines, one key figure was missing in action, Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria.&nbsp;

Now, he has finally spoken out, explaining why he was absent at the height of the chaos.

Speaking to the news desk, Mosiria revealed that he had been admitted to Nairobi Hospital due to a serious infection, which left him unable to respond as events unfolded.

<blockquote>I had an infection that led to my admission at Nairobi Hospital yesterday. I will be discharged once I’m well. I thank my colleagues and fellow Kenyans for your prayers.</blockquote>

Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria admitted at Nairobi Hospital

Despite his hospitalisation, he expressed relief and joy that the feud between Nairobi County and Kenya Power had been resolved, putting an end to the dramatic hostilities.

<blockquote>When I am discharged, I will make sure we clean up the mess because we are a city of order and dignity. Those who have been asking ‘Where is Mosiria?’ I was undergoing treatment, but I will be back.</blockquote>

He also used the opportunity to commend Nairobi Hospital for its efficient service, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/patient-with-newborn-storms-health-cs-deborahs-briefing-to-protest-sha-video-2025011513150872948">urging public hospitals to emulate private facilities</a> in prioritising emergency treatment.

<blockquote>I pray that public hospitals can copy what private hospitals are doing. When a patient needs emergency treatment, they should be attended to as a matter of priority.</blockquote>

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/geoffrey-mosiria-what-babu-owino-must-learn-before-becoming-governor-2025021908335243306">Geoffrey Mosiria - What Babu Owino must learn before becoming governor</a>

<h3>Governor Sakaja Confirms Resolution of the Standoff</h3>

Mosiria&rsquo;s remarks come just as Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja confirmed that the long-standing dispute between Nairobi City County and Kenya Power had been peacefully resolved.

The feud had escalated after <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/kenya-power-reports-3-hour-nationwide-outage-2024121804032786867">Kenya Power disconnected electricity</a> to several county offices over an alleged Sh3 billion debt.&nbsp;

In retaliation, Nairobi County officials dumped garbage outside Kenya Power's offices at, Stima Plaza, and cut off water and sewer services to the facility.&nbsp;

The county also blocked access to the building citing non-payment of Sh4.8 billion in wayleave fees.

However, following a high-level meeting chaired by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, with Governor Sakaja, Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi, and senior officials present, a deal was struck to end the dispute.

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, with Governor Johnson Sakaja and Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi

<blockquote>We have agreed to end the brawl after sitting down, talking, and finding common ground. The county will restore water and any other services that were disrupted because we now have a clear plan for debt repayment.</blockquote>

<h3>Sakaja Distances Himself from Garbage Dumping</h3>

The governor clarified that while some enforcement measures were necessary, the dumping of garbage at Stima Plaza was not an official directive.

<blockquote>It was unfortunate that one of the trucks tipped garbage. That was not the intention, and that is why the garbage was cleared in less than 30 minutes.</blockquote>

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) had also raised concerns over the removal of fibre optic cables, warning that such actions <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/elon-musk-celebrates-starlinks-new-milestone-in-kenya-2024092714504727045">disrupted digital services in Nairobi</a>.

Governor Sakaja assured residents that all affected services would be fully restored and added that future disputes should be handled through legal channels rather than public confrontations.

Reason Mosiria was missing in action as garbage dumping drama unfolded

Given Geoffrey Mosiria's passion to fight pollution in Nairobi, many wondered why he was not vocal against the dumping of garbage at Kenya Power offices

Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) is a Sudanese military leader and commander of Sudan&rsquo;s Rapid Support Forces.&nbsp;

He has been at the centre of controversy due to RSF&rsquo;s involvement in Sudan's civil war.&nbsp;

Recently, the United States imposed sanctions on Hemedti and his close associates.&nbsp;

“As a result of today’s action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC,” the U.S. said in a statement in January.

The RSF started as a militia called the Janjaweed, which was used by the government in the early 2000s to fight rebels in Darfur.&nbsp;

Over time, the Sudanese government gave them more power, integrating them into the military in 2013.

Later, they became very powerful and even helped remove President Omar al-Bashir in 2019.&nbsp;

In 2023, they fought against the Sudanese army for control of the country, leading to a civil war.

Hemedti has business interests that are closely tied to his political and military influence.&nbsp;

Hemedti has been involved in Sudan's gold mining industry, which is a major source of revenue for the country.&nbsp;

His business interests have been a subject of controversy, with allegations of corruption and exploitation.

The RSF controls trade routes and border crossings, allowing them to exert influence over the flow of goods and resources.&nbsp;

This control enables them to profit from smuggling and other illicit activities.

Hemedti has interests in agriculture and livestock, particularly in areas where the RSF operates.&nbsp;

This includes large-scale farming and cattle herding, which can be lucrative in Sudan's rural regions.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/us-treasury-fbi-sanction-5-kenyan-tycoons-freezes-their-us-assets-list-2024120916445556973">U.S Treasury, FBI sanction 5 Kenyan tycoons, freezes their U.S. assets [LIST]</a>

The U.S. has sanctioned businesses linked to Hemdti and RSF.&nbsp;

Capital Tap Holding L.L.C., a UAE-based company owned by Sudanese national Abu Dharr Abdul Nabi Habiballa Ahmmed, has allegedly provided financial and military support to RSF.

Several related companies under its management, including Capital Tap Management, Capital Tap General Trading, and Horizon Advanced Solutions, have played roles in facilitating RSF&rsquo;s operations.

Additionally, Creative Python L.L.C. has been used to hide financial transactions linked to RSF leader Hemedti, while AZ Gold has purchased and transported Sudanese gold, benefiting the RSF.&nbsp;

Al Jil Al Qadem, another company co-owned by Abu Dharr, has longstanding RSF ties, with links to Alkhaleej Co LTD, a financial institution financing RSF operations.

The <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/us-treasury-fbi-sanction-5-kenyan-tycoons-freezes-their-us-assets-list-2024120916445556973">U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control </a>(OFAC) has sanctioned multiple individuals and entities connected to these activities, targeting RSF’s funding and logistics network.

<h3>Hemedti&rsquo;s relationship with Ruto</h3>

Hemedti has visited Kenya severally and has met with President Ruto and other senior government officials.&nbsp;

On February 18, 2025, the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/sudan-conflict-charter-for-parallel-govt-signed-in-nairobi-rutos-role-and-implications-2025022317514369426">RSF convened at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre</a> (KICC) to discuss the formation of a "Government of Peace and Unity" in Sudan.

This elicited <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/south-sudan-directs-access-to-social-media-be-shutdown-for-90-days-2025012304081981812">strong reactions from Sudan's government</a>, which accused Kenya of violating its sovereignty and termed the hosting of the RSF as an "act of hostility."

Abdul Rahim Hamdan Dagalo (C), Sudan's Rapid Support Forces deputy commander and brother to Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (also known as Hemedti), flanked by representatives of other political parties affiliated to Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF)

Abdul Rahim Hamdan Dagalo (C), Sudan's Rapid Support Forces deputy commander and brother to Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (also known as Hemedti), flanked by representatives of other political parties affiliated to Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (SRF)

<h3>U.S. criticism of Kenya hosting RSF</h3>

U.S. Senator Jim Risch, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has criticised Kenya for hosting RSF in Nairobi.&nbsp;

In a statement on February 22, 2025, Senator Risch accused Kenya of legitimising the RSF.

He stated, "Now, Kenya, a U.S. ally, is helping the RSF legitimise their genocidal rule in Sudan under the guise of peacemaking, this is an unthinkable attempt to obscure the truth and will not end the massacre."

Denis Mwangi

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