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Category: News

  • Wednesday Protests

    [Photo courtesy of Pulse Kenya]

     

    By Sophie Kinya.

     

    At least four people have died on the first day of three days of nationwide demonstrations organized by the Azimio coalition, while numerous others have been hurt and are in danger of losing their lives in different regions of the country. Speaking to the press, the medical superintendent of Nakuru Level Five Hospital, Dr. James Waweru Munene, revealed that one person had been shot and killed in Nakuru County while seven others were receiving medical attention there for their wounds. Two people in Nairobi County and one more in Makueni County have also been confirmed dead.

    The protests started at around midday in Kibera and Mathare areas where the people protesting dared the police to intervene. This did not turn out very well for them especially in Mathare because police in civilian clothes showed up and opened fire which resulted in a 13-year old boy being shot. He was later taken to the hospital and his current health status is unknown.

    Peace was also disrupted in Migori, Kisumu and Siaya Counties where about thirty-eight protesters were injured and majority of them left with gunshot wounds.

    The Interior Cabinet Secretary, Mr. Kithure Kindiki released a statement that said that more than 300 people have been arrested across the country. They will be charged with various crimes including looting, arson, malicious damage of property, robbery with violence, assaulting law enforcement police among other crimes.

    Aside from the 300 protesters arrested, it is believed that at least nine Azimio leaders have been arrested so far due to the protests. Among them are Kilifi South MP Ken Chonga, Kilifi County Speaker Teddy Mwambire, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.

    The protests, set in motion by the Azimio Coalition, are aimed to pressure the Kenya Kwanza government to lower the cost of living and slash taxes. Speaking exclusively to the Nation media group, Azimio leader Raila Odinga maintained that the demonstrations would go on as planned until the government paid attention to them. He also thanked his supporters for coming out on the streets and asked them to end the demonstrations at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday.

    A joint commentary by Editors’ of Kenya’s leading media houses asked the government to give dialogue a chance one more time so as to stop the protests. Speaking on behalf of the editors, Journalist Dan Mwangi advised the people in question to first address the underlying reasons of the perpetual conflict. “To do this you must hold dialogues and they must contain the following core principles; the constitutional freedom of expression cannot be curtailed under any circumstances even under the guise of maintaining law and order or protecting the government in power, those set out to exercise their constitutional right must do so under the confines of the law. When protesters destroy property, cause chaos, disturb the peace and limit the movement of other people, they must face the wrath of the law.” he said.

    The journalist also went on to remind the police and security agents of their mandate, which is to serve the people of Kenya rather than the political need of any individual.

    “Those in the government must be cautioned against the arrogance of power and the presumption that they are in office eternally and that they will never be called to account. Those on the other side must respect that there is a government in place, elected on a platform by which it must be given time and space to deliver on or fail and face the wrath of voters.

    At the end of the day we all live in one nation sailing on the same boat. If it sinks, we will all go down with it. No one will be spared.” Dan Mwangi said as he finished his commentary.

  • RIDING IN STYLE: DAYSTAR ACQUIRES A NEW BUS

    [Photo courtesy Daystar University FB]

     

    By Beverly Mautiah

    (beverlymautiah200648@daystar.ac.ke)

     

    Daystar University has expanded it’s  transportation services by acquiring a brand new bus.

    This new addition to the University’s fleet will serve the Daystar Falcons sports teams.

    The bus comes as a service to the large and vibrant campus community.

    Equipped with a range of amenities, the newest sixty two seater bus is designed to provide a pleasant and an enjoyable experience.

    With its spacious seating capacity, the seats will provide a more comfortable and a smooth journey to both students, faculty and staff.

    A section of the Daystar students have affirmed the act and admitted they are ready for the new ride.

    The introduction of the new bus is a testament to Daystar’s commitment to providing a top-notch facilities and services to its community.

    The new bus will operate on a regular schedule , providing convenient transportation options for students, faculty and staff for sports activities. As Daystar continues to invest in infrastructure and services, it solidifies Its position as a leading institution that prioritizes the needs and welfare of its students and staff.

  • KRA RECORDS GROWTH IN REVENUE BUT MISSES TARGETS.

    By Samuel Migele.

    The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has posted a revenue collection growth of up to Ksh 2.17 trillion in the financial year (FY) 2022/2023. This is a 6.7% growth from the FY 2021/2022 where the taxman posted 2.031 in revenue collection, a 135 billion Kenyan shillings surpass from the previous financial year.

    However, the taxman has missed the revenue target for this financial year ended June by a stunning 107 billion Kenyan shillings, recording a 95.3% revenue performance uptake. The taxman has over the years missed revenue targets and is under more pressure from President William Ruto to collect Ksh. 2.57 trillion in the FY 2023/2024 by sealing revenue leaks and widening the tax base. It is yet to be seen again if this will be achieved with the finance act facing legal hurdles.

    Acting Commissioner General Madam Rispah Simiyu emphasized the influence of the current economic circumstances in tax administration in her remarks following the release of the revenue results report.

    “The revenue performance reflect the prevailing economic indicators, especially the projected GDP growth of 5.8 percent in the financial year 2022/2023 (Budget Policy Statement 2023.), compared to a growth of 6.5 percent in financial year 2021/2022.” Madam Rispah Simiyu said.

    The taxman also confirmed that Ksh 6.3 million Kenyans filed their returns for the year 2022 and that it had collected Ksh 136.4 billion on behalf of government agencies, representing a 3.7% from the previous financial year. Inflation rate passed the forecast rate to 8.7% up from 6.2%.

    Revenue growth has steadily increased over the last five years but meeting the target has proved over-ambitious for the Times Towers chaps.

  • FAREWELL JEREMY.

    By Joe Aura.

    Death leaves a pain that no one can repair, but love leaves a memory that no one can take.

    On July 13, 2023, Daystar University bid farewell to Jeremy Don on the main campus. The day’s events included a film screening, talks, and remarks that happened at the ICT theatre, followed by a candle lighting as we ushered the soul away.

    Both staff and students in attendance were able to experience the late Jeremy and his colleagues’ creativity as they screened his new film titled Bi-polar. The black-and-white short video explores the difficulties of relationships when living with bipolar disorder. It was an upsetting situation, and most people felt like they could have done more for our brother.

    Following speeches by Madam Nita Kihiro who spoke on behalf of the school administration, the school president, Geoffrey Tum, Secretary General, Newton Kamuyu and two other members of the Congress, the congregation proceeded to the candle lighting at P.A.C, where they sang hymns and lit their candles.

    “Starting today, we must look out for one another. Not as on-campus or off-campus students, Nairobi or Athi river students, but as one Daystar community”. Tum stated. He went on to urge students not to wait for such events to demonstrate their strengths. He closed his remarks by requesting everyone in attendance to “allow Daystar to become a community once more.”

    Jeremy’s funeral will be held on Tuesday in Makuyu, Murang’a County. An email sent by Daystar Chaplaincy asked students wishing to travel for the funeral to register with the office of the Dean of Students as soon as possible to allow for proper transport planning. The email further stated a short memorial service will be held at the DAC auditorium in Nairobi Campus on Monday, 17th July at 2:00 p.m. This would be a great time to encourage and pray with Jeremy’s family as they plan to lay their son to rest.

    Rest in peace Jeremy Don.

  • A THOUSAND TREE PLANTING EXERCISE.

    By壯陽藥
    m> Samwel Owino

    Daystar University in collaboration with AA Kenya services engaged in a tree planting exercise at main campus on Thursday, 13 July.

    Officials present were AA CEO Mr Francis Their, DVC FAP Prof. Muturi Wachira, Chief Manager HR Mr. Pius Muia, corporate affairs manager, Md. Damaris Kimilu and Daystar Head of public relations Md. Jean Murungi, main campus governor, Laban Choti and students.

    The goal of the exercise was to plant a thousand trees that resonates with the Daystar plan and the global goal to go green.

    AA Kenya also had interesting offers for students and staff. AA Kenya CEO, Mr. Francis Their, said that they would offer discounts for Daystar students and staff.

    In addition, AA Kenya provided litter bins to the university.

  • UNLEASHING CHAOS :LIVES LOST, PROPERTIES DESTRUCTION  UNLEASHED IN KENYA’S UNREST.

    By Beverly Mautiah

    Another protest organized by the ODM party erupts in response to soaring cost of living.

    A section of Kenyans took to the streets in different counties In the country.

    As tension mounted, peaceful demonstrations evolved in clashes in areas like Mlolongo, Nyamira,  Kisumu and Kitengela. A mass destruction of properties, nationwide businesses distraction and loss of lives was witnessed in resultant to the demonstrations.

    In a striking display of public frustration , Kenya recently confirmed a widespread demonstrations that spiraled into chaos, leaving a trail of tragedy and destruction.

    The Nairobi Expressway counted losses as the flower pots and the barrier fences.

    Speaking on the same the Transport Cs instructed the police to retrieve the CCTV footage and arrest the culprits involved in the destruction of the Nairobi Expressway.

    ” We cannot normalise such acts of violence, lawlessness”, Kipchumba Murkomen remarked.

    Mavoko MP Patrick Makau was arrested by the police and taken to the DCI for further investigation on allegations of the violence which occurred in the said area.

    Additionally, The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) reported loss of Ksh 3billion a day due to the antigovernment protests claiming the country cannot withstand the political activities.

    The aftermath of the violent  demonstrations especially in the affected areas prompted mixed reactions amongst Kenyans.

  • HIGH COURT SUSPENDS THE FINANCE ACT 2023.

    By Hilda Kavai.

    Kenya’s taxation plans have hit a snag as the High Court of Kenya indefinitely extended a prior suspension on the Finance Act 2023 that was due to go into effect on July 1.

    This decision occurred as a result of a case filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who challenged the constitutionality of numerous portions of the bill, claiming that they violate the Constitution in taxation concerns.

    During the court hearing, Senator Omtatah expressed concern about 30 sections of the bill that allegedly violate constitutional provisions on taxation, urging the court to halt implementation of the Finance Act until the pending case is heard and determined, claiming that “it will subject Kenyans to slavery and servitude.”

    In May this year, the Kenyan government proposed a number of amendments to the Finance Act 2023 that was not well received by most Kenyans. Among the amendments was a proposal to tax content creators, influencers, and crypto currency dealers.

    President William Ruto assented to the Finance Bill and Appropriations Bill on Monday, June 26, 2023 at State House, Nairobi after a few modifications.

    He also approved the Supplementary Appropriations (No. 2) Bill, 2023 warranting the additional spending by the National Government of Sh22.9 Billion from the Consolidated Fund.

    This results in the reduction of overall expenditure by Sh25.5 Billion compared to the revised total National Government expenditure approved in the Supplementary Appropriations (No. 1), Act 2023.

    The reduction comprises an increase in recurrent amounting to Sh9.5 Billion and rationalization of development spending by Sh 35 Billion.

    The scaling down in spending is in line with the Government’s fiscal consolidation efforts in the light of debt servicing payments.

    The Appropriations Bill authorizes the withdrawal of money from the Consolidated Fund for the expenditure of the National Government.

    This is the first Appropriations Bill under the Kenya Kwanza Government and, therefore, seeks to align its Manifesto and promises through assignment of actual resources to meet various services and projects.

    Speaking on behalf of the state, former Attorney General Githu Muigai cautioned that suspending the Act would jeopardize government operations. However, Justice Mugure Thande went ahead and extended the suspension.

    In her ruling, the judge stated that, comparing the inconveniences that President William Ruto’s administration would face against the pain that Kenyans would have to bear if the law was determined to be unconstitutional, the latter was the lesser of two evils.

    As she concluded her ruling, Justice Mugure directed that she would hand over the file to Lady Justice Martha Koome who would go on to appoint a three-judge bench so that they can hear the case.

    It has been 13 days since the Act was suspended.

  • DAYSTAR STUDENT DIES BY SUICIDE AT OFF CAMPUS.

    By Sophie Kinya 

     

    The Daystar community is mourning the loss of yet another student who has tragically passed away in an apparent case of suicide, off Athi-River Campus, on Monday 10th, July.

    Jeremy Don Njuguna, in 4th year, a student in the School of Communication, was discovered lifeless, hanging in the bathroom of his off-campus residence, his parents confirmed.

    Concern arose when he failed to return home on Friday, July 7th, as planned. Throughout the entire weekend, his parents’ attempts to reach him were futile, which was uncharacteristic of Jeremy. Resultantly, they decided to search for him on Monday, July 10, 2023, at his off-campus hostel in Athi River, where they were confronted by this devastating scene.

    This distressing news follows the recent loss of an international student to a gunshot in the vicinity of Portland in Athi River, last week.

    Rev. Miano Weche, the college chaplain, has reached out to the students through an email, requesting prayers for the family during this difficult time. Further details regarding funeral arrangements are awaited from the family.

  • CLARIFICATIONS AND CAUTIONS FOLLOWING BIEM’S TRAGIC PASSING.

    By Beverly Mautiah

    (beverlymautiah200648@daystar.ac.ke)

    The email from the chaplaincy has shed some light on the miscommunication of the late Biem’s death. It remarked that there was need to clarify certain things.

    “Dear Daystar, as we continue to come to terms with the death of Biem, some clarification is necessary on some detail.” Rev. Miano noted.

    According to the email, Biem was shot 4 km away from the Main Campus where there are no traces of other students living in the said area.

    “Biem was shot at Portland, nearly 4kms away from the Main Campus. I’m informed that no students live there. By saying “off-campus” we realize that we communicated the idea that this happened in the area immediately outside the Main Campus, where many students reside.” Rev. Miano stated.

    The entire Daystar community is struggling with the profound loss of Biem Lang that occurred on July 7. Biem was an international student in his freshman year pursuing Computer  Science at the Main Campus.

    In the aftermath of the devastating incident, Rev. Miano advised the Daystar community to collectively acknowledge the imperative of fostering a  safe and a secure environment both on and off campus as the investigations continue.

    “In the meantime we urge more vigilance, increased situational awareness, and greater social responsibility on and off campus; investigations into this incident are ongoing.” He said.

     

  • Daystar University Student Found Dead at Off Campus

    By Evelyne Kioko

    Daystar University first year student Biem Mabek Lang (23-0605) was found fatally wounded by a gunshot last night Friday, 7 July in Athi River off campus.

    The internationally student’s death was announced to students by the Chaplaincy Reverend Johnny Miano Weche on Saturday 8 July via email.

    “His body lies at Lee Funeral Home, while the real circumstances of his death remain unknown and under investigation, “ stated the email.

    The late was a computer science student. The email stated that more information will be shared.