Mwakilishi News Bulletin - Midday Edition, Tuesday 20 October 2026

Midday Edition for Tuesday, 20 October 2026. Running time 8:20.

In this bulletin

Diaspora News

1. Enoch Kariuki joins EpiCRISPR board

Immigration News

1. Proposed US H-1B salary hike impacts Kenyans
2. US opens portal to report visa fraud
3. Green Card Lottery winners advised on common mistakes

Kenya News

1. Ruto and Natembeya clash ahead of elections
2. Gachagua meets Sifuna to strategize opposition
3. Ruto proposes tax exemptions for low earners
4. Mashujaa Day honors national heroes

World News

1. Kenya cult case sees convictions and ongoing revelations (see also: Kenya Court Convicts All 29 Shakahola Accused of Murder, Sets Sentencing for November 6)
2. Ghana set to surpass Ethiopia economically by 2026

Transcript

This is the news from Mwakilishi.com.

Good afternoon. It's midday on Tuesday, the twentieth of October, and here is your midday edition.

Coming up.

Ruto and Natembeya clash ahead of 2027 elections.

New US bill may impact Kenyan H-1B visa holders.

Kenya court convicts 29 in Shakahola starvation case.

Those stories, and more, in the next few minutes.

In diaspora news, Kenyan-born Enoch Kariuki has been appointed to the Board of Directors at EpiCRISPR Biotechnologies. Kariuki, currently President of Endeavor BioMedicines, has participated in over ten billion dollars in strategic financings and mergers. His journey from Loitokitok, Kenya, to the boardrooms of American biotech began with a full scholarship to Texas Southern University. EpiCRISPR seeks to advance its lead treatment candidate, EPI-321, toward clinical development. CEO Amber Salzman praised Kariuki's leadership and strategic expertise, highlighting his Kenyan roots and personal motivations, including witnessing his aunt's battle with HIV.

Turning to immigration news, a proposed US bill could significantly impact Kenyan and African professionals. The bill suggests raising the H-1B visa salary threshold to about one hundred forty thousand dollars, up from the current level. This change affects many Kenyan professionals in technology and engineering sectors, possibly limiting employment opportunities. Proponents argue it prioritizes American workers. However, critics warn it may restrict international talent flow and affect US companies relying on foreign expertise. For Kenyan professionals, this bill could mean reassessing career plans or negotiating higher salaries.

Staying with immigration, the US Department of State has launched an online portal for reporting suspected visa fraud. Announced on the nineteenth of October, the platform allows public submissions about unlawful visa use. Reports can be anonymous and include details like names and passport numbers. This system may influence visa reviews, including those for Kenyans visiting the US. While legitimate applicants aren't direct targets, credible reports could trigger further checks. The launch is part of broader US efforts to enhance immigration enforcement and safeguard visa integrity.

Also in immigration, Kenyan content creator Terry Clarice warns Green Card Lottery winners against common pitfalls. Clarice advises against prematurely selling property, delaying document preparation, and lack of planning. She emphasizes that selection in the lottery is not a visa guarantee, requiring further stages like interviews and document checks. Selling assets too soon can lead to financial troubles if issues arise during the visa process. Missing documents and unresolved paperwork can cause delays. Clarice's guidance aims to prepare applicants for a smoother immigration journey to the US.

In Kenya news, tensions rise between President William Ruto and former Governor George Natembeya as the 2027 elections approach. The conflict centers on development projects and political influence, drawing significant attention. Both leaders accuse each other of stalled initiatives, with each seeking to secure support. The rivalry reflects broader political dynamics and raises concerns about critical regional development projects. Observers are closely watching as this feud could impact the political landscape in 2027. As elections near, the intensity of this political drama is expected to increase.

Also from Kenya, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua returns from the US and meets opposition figures, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, to strategize for the 2027 election. Hosting the meeting at his Nyeri home, Gachagua emphasized the need for a united front against President Ruto. The gathering included notable leaders like Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi. The discussions highlighted a growing relationship between Gachagua and Sifuna, focusing on preventing Ruto’s second term. Despite ideological differences, there's a shared objective to form a credible opposition alliance.

Staying with Kenya, President Ruto has proposed exempting workers earning up to thirty-two thousand eight hundred shillings monthly from PAYE tax. Announced during Mashujaa Day, the plan aims to ease financial pressure on low-income workers. The proposal includes reducing land transaction costs and removing import duties on mobile phones. The tax exemption would increase disposable income, helping households with expenses. The plan requires legislative approval but promises significant relief if enacted. Ruto’s measures target economic opportunities for workers, farmers, and land buyers, reflecting a commitment to improving living standards.

Also on Mashujaa Day, several individuals, including Raila Odinga and Cecilia Wanjiku, were honored for their national contributions. Celebrated for their dedication, they join the late Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee and former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga in being recognized. Wanjiku was commended for her bravery during a fire at Utumishi Academy, while Odinga's political service was acknowledged. The event highlighted their achievements and commitment to Kenya. These honors reflect a collective appreciation of exceptional courage and service, inspiring future generations to contribute positively to the nation.

In world news, the Kenya cult case involving Paul Nthenge Mackenzie continues to unfold. All twenty-nine individuals in the Shakahola starvation case were convicted of murder, involving one hundred ninety-one victims. Sentencing is set for November sixth. Mackenzie's son revealed ongoing child starvation within the cult, indicating deep familial strife. This case has sparked international attention, highlighting the dangers of extremist ideologies and the need for regulatory oversight of religious groups. As legal proceedings continue, the world watches Kenya's response to this tragic and complex situation.

Finally, the International Monetary Fund projects Ghana will surpass Ethiopia as Africa's eighth-largest economy by twenty twenty-six. Ghana's GDP is expected to reach about one hundred twenty-eight billion dollars, outpacing Ethiopia by one point four nine billion dollars. This shift is attributed to Ghana's diversified economy and stable policies, while Ethiopia faces challenges like political instability. The economic rankings highlight sound fiscal policies and stability's role in growth. Ghana's rise could attract more foreign investments, influencing its regional and international economic standing.

And that is your midday edition. The next bulletin is at 6 o'clock this evening. You can read every one of these stories in full, and much more besides, at Mwakilishi.com.

Have a good afternoon.

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