TUESday JANUARY 13, 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke
4
security laws fate of security laws to be known in a week’s time
13
7
baggage drop things you should not be caught doing in 2015
8
our very own michelangelo adrian nduma
NEWS
Foreign athletes to take part in IAAF X-Country Permit
West Indies beat South Africa in record Twenty20 run chase
Ezra Simiyu replaces Oswago as IEBC boss NYS graduates set for road construction duties
T
he Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has appointed Ezra Chiloba Simiyu to replace James Oswago as the body’s chief executive officer. The commission made the announcement last night following a rigorous recruitment exercise by a consulting company. “Following a thorough recruitment process the IEBC has today, January 12, 2015 appointed Ezra Chiloba Simiyu as the Commission Secretary/CEO of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) having emerged as the most successful candidate in the interviews,” Chairman Issack Hassan said in a statement. Prior to his appointment, Simiyu had been serving as Deputy Team Leader, DAI (Drivers of Accountability). He has also served as Governance Analyst/Project Manager for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Kenya. He was picked from a shortlist of four candidates, including Beatrice Nyabuto, who has been acting IEBC chief executive since Oswago’s sacking 13 months ago. Others are Dickson Omondi of the National Democratic Institute and Erastus Ethekon of UNDP. IEBC invited applications for the job in August last year. Simiyu, who turned 36 on Tuesday, joins the electoral body at a time it is facing corruptions allegations in the infamous “chicken scandal” as was claimed by a UK court.
P2
P.9
Loss and grief ready for service: National Youth Service recruits during a passing out parade. The officers are expected to boost road construction efforts in areas affected by insecurity, such as Mandera. STORY PAGE 3
What you can do to help your child deal with loss of a loved one
2
NEWS TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
Ezra Simiyu new IEBC supremo From Page 1
Top officials at the commission are among those to be investigated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) for their role in the multi-million-shilling corruption scam. Simiyu’s first task is expected to be overseeing by-elections in Homa Bay and Kajiado Central due in a month’s time. Voters in Homa Bay will go to the ballot to elect a new senator following the death of Otieno Kajwang in November. In Kajiado Central, the by-election will seek to fill the gap left by former MP Joseph Nkaissery who quit last month to become the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government. The by-elections are scheduled for February 12 and March 16 respectively. The main task that awaits the new electoral boss, however, is the 2017 General Election. He will also take charge should the referendum quests driven by the opposition and governors come to fruition. Simiyu holds a Master of Arts degree in Public Policy from the Central European University and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi. He is also a senior fellow at the Policy House and a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).
the task ahead: New IEBC boss Ezra Simiyu’s first task is expected to be presiding over by-elections in Homa Bay and Kajiado Central due in a month’s time. The Homa Bay mini poll to pick a new senator following Otieno Kajwang’s death in November has been characterised by chaotic scenes.
Woman happily married to 2 cats
FRIENDS OF CONVENIENCE: A Knut member demonstrates along Harambee Avenue, Nairobi. Traditional sworn enemies Knut and Kuppet have closed ranks in their push for higher remuneration from Treasury.
Fat pay rise push unites rival teachers unions The two main teachers’ unions, Knut and Kuppet, which have usually been at loggerheads with each other on Monday joined hands in what they termed a “marriage of convenience” to push for higher salary. As they chanted “a people united shall never be defeated”, the unionists drew parallels with MPs whom they claimed put aside political differences to unite while advocating for their rights. “We are united…we saw the game in Parliament. You unite when you are advocating for your rights,” said Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) chairman Mudzo Musili. The unions which have in the past traded bitter words over claims of betrayal held a meeting in Nairobi and agreed to unite to pursue more money from Treasury. Knut chairman Mudzo Nzili told journalists
they will not be intimidated by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) which has threatened to withhold salary for striking teachers. They also told off the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) which has declared that teachers’ salaries will not be reviewed until job evaluations are carried out on individual teachers. Kuppet Secretary General Akelo Misori said the Government will not divide them in the quest for higher salaries and allowances. “We don’t need to have a fire brigade to handle teachers’ issues. We all need sufficient amount of time, collected minds to brainstorm on the issue of teachers and little resources so that the teachers who are being down trodden can get the best out of their sweat,” he said. He accused the Government of insincerity,
saying it has only offered Sh5.5 billion against the stated figure of Sh9.3 billion Knut has agreed to participate in court-led talks with the Government on Wednesday to work out a solution after the strike entered the second week. Knut Secretary General Wilson Sossion faulted a recent proposal by National Assembly Majority leader Aden Duale for the decentralisation of education services to regions, says resources are not evenly spread. “Anybody dreaming and imagining that education can be devolved will leave this country before that is done. We will not allow devolution whatsoever,” he said. He said unlike in past strikes, “we are not going to sign a return to work formula so that we are going back to class. We must sign a Collective Bargaining Agreement.”
People love their pets, but few love them in a manner that is giddily reported on by the British tabloids. “Barbarella Buchner: Woman celebrates 10-year anniversary after MARRYING her two pet cats” reads a headline that ran last week in the Mirror UK -- and which Buchner tells The Huffington Post is mostly accurate. “They are two tabby brothers, Lugosi and Spider, who are now 15 years old, and they are the loves of my life,” she says. “But actually, it’s 11 years this January, not 10.” Indeed, on January 9, 2004, Buchner married her two cats. She’d adopted the pair from a London animal shelter in 2000. Four years later, after a breakup with a long-term human companion, Buchner realised the kitties were her “soul mates.” “They’re the loves of my life,” she told The Mirror. And with that, Buchner decided
to make it official -- or as official as a human/two-cat marriage can be: She ordered a marriage certificate from a website that facilitates inter-species nuptials. “It it was all done online. No ceremony, no wacky outfits,” she says. “I did, however, tell Lugosi and Spider before marrying them, that I was going to do it. Bribed with a tin of tuna, they didn’t object.” Now living on the Spanish island of Lanzarote with her furry husbands -- as well as another kitty named Ruby Akasha, “a ginger female whom I am not married to,” she says -- the 48-year-old web designer, photographer, musician and self-described “Mad Cat Lady” says she is happy, with her feline family. The Huffington Post recently caught up with Buchner by email, to find out more about what that surprisingly normal life is like:
NEWS 3 TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
NEWS BRIEFS
CARTOONSPEAK
NYS set for construction of roads
Could a sixth mass extinction hit Earth in the year 2200? Human activity is set to wipe out 41 per cent of amphibians and 25 per cent of mammals and 13 per cent of birds over the next few decades, a new study has claimed. Experts say that mankind is to blame in what is set to be the sixth ‘great extinction’ in recorded history. Many creatures are currently at risk of going extinct, including the Magellanic penguin, the Sumatran elephant and the Amur leopard. Scientists say more familiar animals could soon be added to that list and their estimates will be confirmed within the
The National Youth Service could be involved in road construction in insecurity-prone areas. Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Michael Kamau says this is one option that the government is considering as the bid to tarmac 10,000 kilometers of roads in five years gathers momentum. A case in point is the Mandera–Madogashu road that only attracted one bidder due to insecurity concerns.
next 185 years (before the year 2200). This is according to an analysis carried out by scientific journal known as ‘Nature’. A separate study has found that humans are causing animal species to die off up to 1,000 times faster than they did 60 million years ago. Derek Tittensor, a marine ecologist with the United Nations Environment Programme’s World Conservation Monitoring Centre in Cambridge, has cited habitat destruction from man-made activities like over-fishing and pollution as the root cause of the ongoing crisis.
Mpesa agent wounded in gang attack
Fate of security laws to be determined next week
The Court of Appeal is set to determine an application by the State challenging the suspension of eight clauses of the Security Laws (Amendment) Act by High Court judge George Odunga. While presenting his argument before a three-judge bench comprising Justices Patrick Kiage, Agnes Murgor and Daniel Musinga, Attorney General Githu Muigai proposed stay of orders by Justice Odunga saying the ruling would affect the dispensation of Justice and that the Judge failed to consider the terrorist threat the country was facing and which the new law was meant to contain. “My Lords, we must remain focused–that is why the public have a healthy contempt of the courts, because when the village is burning, lawyers are busy arguing which bucket will be used to put water to put out the fire,” the Attorney General quipped. While dismissing some of the arguments brought forward by lawyers representing the CORD coalition led by Senior Counsel
James Orengo, Muigai urged the Court of Appeal to deal with the substance of the case as opposed to technicalities as presented by CORD. In his argument, Orengo had termed the appeal defective because it was filed out of time and served on them late in contravention of the law. The Senior Counsel had also stated that the appeal was also improperly filed adding that the Attorney General had failed to demonstrate what prejudice the State would suffer if the suspension was upheld, and issue the AG later responded to. In Orengo’s defence, Senior Counsel John Khaminwa urged the three judges to uphold the ruling by Judge Odunga saying the country did not need any additional law as the current was sufficient. “We are under mandatory duties to uphold the Bill of Rights, the courts must move to ensure this is done, and this what Odunga had done,” added Khaminwa. Justice Odunga had early this
MORE ON THIS STORY www.capitalfm.co.ke
A woman was Monday night attacked and seriously wounded before being robbed of Sh300, 000 near Mater Hospital, Nairobi. Police say the woman operates an Mpesa shop in the area and was walking home when she was attacked by three men. The gang cut her in the head with a machete before they grabbed the cash that was in a paper bag and escaped on foot. Police say they suspect the gang had prior information regarding the woman’s movements before they attacked her. She was later taken to hospital as the gang escaped on foot.
Cuba frees 53 political prisoners
PRESSING THE POINT: High Court Judge George Odunga. The Court of Appeal will determine an application by the State challenging the suspension of eight clauses of the Security Laws on January 23. month suspended eight sections (12, 16, 26, 29, 48, 56, 58, and 64) of the Security Act pending a determination on their
constitutionality after the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights
(KNCHR) filed a petition seeking the annulment of the law in its entirety. The Court of Appeal will issue its ruling on January 23.
Cuba has freed all 53 political prisoners it had promised to release as part as an historic rapprochement with the United States, a U.S. official said Monday. The names of the prisoners were not given. The move comes as part of a deal announced December 17 to normalize relations between the United States and Cuba. Both nations have previously released political prisoners in a show of goodwill.
WHAT OTHERS SAID TODAY...
“Jubilee buying Cord referendum register’: Cord has accused the state of frustrating efforts of collecting signatures for the rferendum. A senior official at the Cord Secretariat told the Star yesterday government has deployed chiefs and their assistants across the country to buy up its referendum signature books so that the oppositiondoes not reach the targeted one million signatures. The official said many areas are yet to return the books after the agents handed them over to the chiefs. He cited Migori, Mandera, Bungoma and Kakamega.
Serem warns of crisis over pay for teacers: Teachers said yesterday that they will only return to the classroom after the government gives in to their demands, even as the Education ministry ruled out closing schools due to the strike that entered its second week. And the Salaries and Remuneration Commission warned that the public wage bill would rise to Sh823 billion — a Sh255 billion increase — unless demands for higher salaries and allowances are moderated...
New man at helm of IEBC to oversee election logistics: The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission ( IEBC) has appointed Mr Ezra Chiloba Simiyu as the Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer. A statement by IEBC chairman Ahmed Issack Hassan to all newsrooms yesterday said that Chiloba was “the most successful candidate in the interviews.” The new CEO who will steer the commission through the next General Election in 2017 is currently the Deputy Team Leader, DAI (Drivers of Accountability). ..
Mob factor haunts ODM: The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) was yesterday still reeling from the shame of embarrassing scenes of heckling witnessed on Saturday in Bondo at the funeral of Fidel Castro Odinga, as the display of intolerance by party supporters against rival political views continued to be a subject of heated debate. Political analysts, politicians and commentators on social media sites gave views over violence and harassment...
4
NEWS TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
City MCAs recalled to pass laws on demolition of illegal buildings
NEW LAWS: The Nairobi County Assembly. Nairobi Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) have been recalled for a special sitting on Tuesday next week so as to pass into law a bill that will pave the way for the county government to demolish all unauthorised buildings and structures.
Nairobi Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) have been recalled for a special sitting on Tuesday next week so as to pass into law a bill that will pave the way for the county government to demolish all unauthorised buildings and structures. Assembly Speaker Alex Magelo disclosed that the county government had last week through the majority leader requested for the special session which he subsequently approved. “Dr Kidero’s government filed the request last week and I approved it,” he said. The county government is expected to lobby the MCAs to use the sitting to pass the Nairobi City County Regularisation of Developments Bill that will see buildings constructed on river banks, railway and road reserves demolished. The Bill is also targeting buildings that do not meet standards approved by City Hall as well as those on public land. The county government is already rushing to re-publish the Bill and beat the Friday deadline to enable the local lawmakers who are currently on recess, revisit it. The Bill meant to reg-
ularize constructions within the city lapsed last year before being read for the second time. The Assembly’s Planning and Housing committee is already working on the proposed Bill to have a report on hand to enable the MCAs pass the law in the same day. The rush in passing the Bill was prompted by the recent collapse of two residential buildings in Kaloleni and Huruma in which 12 people lost their lives and scores others injured. Developers could face a wave of demolitions if the Bill is passed as City Hall seeks to remedy the recurrent problem of collapsing buildings. On Sunday, the county government issued a 30 days’ notice for the owners of existing and on-going structures that have not been approved to self-declare the status of their buildings. Those who fail to meet the deadline risk demolitions while those who will comply with the directive will have Dr Evans Kidero’s government support according to the notice. Only 40 per cent of buildings in the city meet the required standards according to City Hall.
Police officer wounded in slum robbery shootout dies while in hospital One of the two police officers who were Sunday night shot and seriously wounded in a robbery incident in Mukuru slums, Nairobi has succumbed to his injuries. The officer died last night at a Nairobi hospital where he had been admitted for attention after a shootout with thugs. He had been injured in the stomach. Police say the second officer is still in hospital but in a stable condition. Police shot and killed one of the attackers after a chase and recovered a pistol from him. The slain gunman is said to have been part of a gang that had raided an Mpesa shop and taken off with unknown amount of money before the officers unleashed
a chase. This ended in Mukuru slums where the officers were shot by one of the gunmen. The other suspects managed to escape on foot with the loot after injuring the two, one of whom died later in hospital. Cases of armed robberies are on the rise and police are struggling to contain them. Most thugs use illegal guns to terrorise the city residents. Authorities believe some of the guns are robbed from licensed gun holders while others are leased out by both police and the holders at a fee. There are 6,000 licensed gun holders in the country. A new punitive law on those who misuse the weapons is in place to help curb such incidences.
DANGEROUS SHANTY: A section of the Mukuru S;ums in Nairobi.
TRAGIC PINTS: A victim of the toxic liquor in a hospital. At least 14 people have been killed after consuming the toxic alcohol in India’s Uttar Pradesh state.
14 die in India after consuming toxic liquor, 100 others left hospitalised At least 14 people have been killed after consuming toxic alcohol in India’s Uttar Pradesh state, police said. Residents of a number of villages in Lucknow and Unnao districts fell ill after drinking the alcohol. More than 100 people are being treated in hospital, with fears the death toll could rise. Toxic alcohol deaths are a regular occurrence in India, where people often drink cheap coun-
try liquor. The victims were rushed to various hospitals in the state after the first cases of poisoning were reported in Kharta village near Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. The Press Trust of India quoted the state’s chief medical officer SNS Yadav as saying that 123 people have been admitted to at least two hospitals. Authorities have begun an investigation into the incident, but no arrests have yet been
made. Government spokesman Rajendra Chaudhary told the AFP news agency that a dozen officials had been suspended from different local departments over negligence. “The guilty will not be spared,” he said. India has witnessed many incidents of toxic alcohol deaths in the past. Nearly 170 people died in 2011 in the eastern state of West Bengal. Another 30 people were killed in Uttar Pradesh,
the area of the current tragedy, in September 2009. In July the same year, some 107 people died in Gujarat in similar circumstances. Cases of alcohol killing people are not new even here in Kenya where close to 150 people died last year across the counties of Machakos, Kiambu, Embu, Nairobi, Narok, Uasin Gishu, Muranga among others after consuming liquor thought to have been laced with methanol.
BUSINESS 5
President urges China to strengthen economic ties President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged China to strengthen economic ties with Kenya for the mutual benefit of the two countries. Speaking during a visit to State House, Nairobi, by China Foreign Minister Affairs Minister Wang Yi, the President said Kenya has made progress over the past decade due to close ties with China.
He said Beijing has facilitated exchange of technological ideas, especially in ICT, roads and railway sectors. “Our relationship is built on the principle of partnership. This is a partnership I want to see increased and cemented to bring mutual benefits,” said the President. He called for more support from
China. “We need you to work with us to link the Eastern Africa region by extending the railway to our neighboring countries including Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi and even the DRC to open up the regional economy,” he said. Wang said Kenya is at the stage of industrial take-off and China is ready to provide experience in
successful industrialisation. “China stands ready to share its experiences on industrial zoning and special economic zones and we are ready for more cooperation in these fields,” said Wang. The meeting was attended by Deputy President William Ruto, ICT Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and Internal Security Principal Secretary Monica Juma.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
Business tool
Boomerang Since only a few spend 24 hours a day in front of a computer, many fail to see vital emails and only respond to them the next time they log onto their accounts. In light of the challenges, a group of software developers have developed an e-mail service known as ‘Boomerang’. Boomerang is an app that helps Gmail account holders write an email and schedule for sending at their convenient time or that of the recipient. Using a ‘Send Later’ button, Boomerang users ensure messages reach receivers at the appointed time. The app offers users a basic
plan, which is free. Premium plans, however, start at Sh450 per month. It can be found by visiting ‘boomeranggmail.com’. What’s more, Boomerang offers reminders to senders the email if they don’t hear from the recipient. “There are times you need to make sure you follow up within a specific time frame after sending a message. You can select to only be reminded if nobody replies, or regardless,” says a statement from the developers. “This way you won’t let messages slip through the crack and will never forget to follow up with people.”
STATE VISIT: China’s Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi delivered a special message to President Uhuru Kenyatta at State House, Nairobi.
US lender plans Sh228,000 fund programme for NGOs Kosmos, a US based NGO, plans a new grant-giving initiative dubbed ‘Kosmos Seed Grants for 2015’. The grant offers individuals and organisations funding worth $2500 (Sh228,000). The group is receiving applications from individuals and organisations around the world, including Kenya, that focus on economics, governance, law, media, business, education, science and spirituality. Kosmos is an ancient Greek term that
means the harmony and beauty of the universe. Two Kosmos Seed Grants worth $2500 (Sh228,000) each will be awarded in 2015. Any individual or organisation working towards social change can apply for the cash. “The applicant’s projects should have a stated duration, with clear objectives and expected outcomes,” says Rashmi Kanti, a spokesperson for the group. “Applicants should describe a clear
CITY pLANS
and direct use of the funds and the impact it will have.” Interested applicants can submit applications online through a link available on website, ‘kosmosjournal. org’. Applicants have to indicate project details, location, personal data and address in the application form. Deadline for submissions is February 14, 2015 before awards are announced in early March
CAPITAL ALERT
AWAKENING THE SPIRIT: Kosmos believes in the awakening the divine spark in the spirit of humanity.
NSSF Hazina Trade Centre to dwarf city’s tallest buildings
LAYING THE GROUND: Labour Cabinet Secretary Kazungu Kambi and NSSF senior officials during the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Hazina Trade Centre.
Nairobi’s tallest buildings will soon be dwarfed by the Hazina Trade Centre which is construction. The construction which is due for completion later this year is underway for what is scheduled to be Nairobi’s tallest building. Standing at 607 feet and hosting 40 floors, the Centre is set to be 2015’s highest rising tower. While other buildings which have not been constructed are expected to eventually dethrone Hazina in 2016, the structure will hold the title for at least a few months. The building has been designed by local consultants Mruttu and Salmann Associates. Its construction will be
undertaken by China Jiangxi International Kenya Limited, a locally incorporated international construction firm. The structure, which will cost Sh6.7 billion, will make for another cash cow for the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). Officials from the fund say they expect to collect up to Sh100 million in monthly rent. The parastatal plans to sell some of the floor space to local investors. The building will contain special features, including fritted glazing to cut the amount of heat it conducts, roof terraces with vegetation to give it a natural look and a Helipad for helicopters to land on. A Nairobi City skyline viewing gallery will also make for some of the landmark features.
6
NEWS TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
EXPORT OPP Earnings from coffee exports jump 17 pc
INNOVATION 101: A close up of a CoolBot system. Through the help of USAID grants, CoolBot will help provide cold storage to small-scale farmers in order to help extend the shelf life of their crops and thus captialise on better prices and less fluctuations in the market.
New innovation could help move needle on food security Kenya’s new crop of innovators is moving the needle on foo security. A newly invented low cost storage facility is helping small scale farmers preserve food for about two weeks and minimize post-harvest losses. The technology dubbed CoolBot system is an innovation by University of Nairobi researcher, Dr. Jane Ambuko, after she saw the need to come up with a solution to curb the numerous losses
small-scale farmers incur in their quest to store their produce. “Post-harvest losses in Kenya can range from 10 to 50 percent, depending on the type of produce. Cold storage can preserve produce for at least two weeks compared to two days for highly perishable fruits and vegetables exposed to room temperature,” said Ambuko. She explained how the facility works and said that the sys-
tem costs between Sh200, 000 to Sh300, 000 which is less than what a normal commercial store costs. “The technology uses a standard domestic air conditioner equipped with a control mechanism to maintain a room at the desired low temperature depending on the produce being stored,” she said. Ambuko said that the technology has been successful in countries like Bangladesh,
PRICE DRIVER
India and the United States and that so far it has been installed in the country. “We are installing CoolBot cold rooms in three locations and have recruited about 600 farmers, more than half of whom are women, to test them,” she said. Ambuko is one of 390 outstanding women agricultural scientists who have won prestigious fellowships from African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD).
Barely two weeks into the New Year and experts are reporting that Kenya’s earnings from the export of coffee have risen 17 per cent. Some of the latest Reuters reports say that earnings jumped to $254.2 million (Sh23.2 billion) during the 2013/14 (October to September) crop season due to improved production and higher prices. This presents an opportunity for farmers planning to branch into the industry, assuming that it will continue on an upward trend. Analysts from Reuters even say that though Kenya is “a relatively small coffee grower compared with other producers”, its coffee beans are “known for their quality, attracting demand from roasters.”
Officials from the Coffee Directorate said that over the period, local farmers benefited from more affordable fertiliser supplied by the government, helping them to raise production by a about 25 per cent to 49,475 metric tonnes. Local coffee farmers also benefited from better prices after the average auction price of the commodity increased to about Sh19,400 per 50-kg bag over the same period from roughly Sh15,200 a year earlier. According to the Directorate, Kenya also managed to secure four new export markets for its coffee during the season, Local growers are expected to produce 45,000 metric tonnes of coffee in 2014/15, fetching about Sh13.7 billion from an estimated average price of Sh18,200 per bag.
CAFFEINATED HARVEST: A famer picking ripe coffee berries. Barely two weeks into the New Year and experts are reporting that Kenya’s earnings from coffee exports have risen 17 per cent.
Fuel prices likely to fall in the face of excess oil reserves The cost of fuel is expected to fall following speculation that the Energy Regulatory Commission will cut down the cost of oil this week. Major oil producers across the globe have reported excess supplies of oil and basic market principles imply that the more oil there is, the less consumers will be expected to pay for fuel.
Some experts are estimating a drop of up to 10 per cent in petrol stations due to “World oil prices were heading for a seventh weekly loss on Friday,” said experts from Reuters. They added that key producers were “showing no signs of cutting output” despite the fact that they are facing a situation where there
will be an oversupply of oil in many parts of the world. An earlier report warned that world oil prices had remained low for nearly five-and-a-half years and analysts said an oversupply means that the price falls were likely to continue before a rebound.
GM’s new Volt will go 50 miles on full charge General Motors is unveiling two new plug-in cars at the Detroit Auto Show. One is the new, improved version of the Chevrolet Volt. The other is a small all-electric car called the Chevrolet Bolt. The Bolt, which at this point is a concept vehicle, offers a preview of a car that GM expects to begin selling in 2017, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal. It will have a 200-mile driving range on a full charge and a sticker price of around $30,000, according to the report.
The price of the Bolt is right in line with the average amount consumers spend on cars today, said Akshay Anand, an analyst with the auto Web site KBB. com. “So long as the product is done properly, GM should see some serious benefits,” he said. GM (GM) also unveiled the second generation Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid. The new Volt had appeared briefly in front of journalists at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas but no
details about the car were revealed at that time. Besides a softer and more conventional look, the new Volt has an improved drive system that combines an improved battery pack with a more efficient gasoline engine. Today’s Chevrolet Volt can go about 35 miles on a full charge, according to EPA estimates, but the new Volt will go roughly 50 miles, according to GM.
QUICKER AND QUIETER: 2016 Chevrolet Volt. With a total of 149 horsepower, the new Volt is quicker going from zero to 60 miles per hour, according to GM, reaching highway speeds in 8.4 seconds.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
ACCESS topstory
CATTLE IS THEIR GOLD
8
We are obliged to remind all and sundry that there are things we do not want to see in 2015…
BAGGAGE:
THINGS TO LEAVE IN
2014
2
014 was a drama-packed year. It is the year gender battles escalated to almost nuclear levels. Women had enough of being disrespected and stood up to fight for their rights. Remember the stripping menace which had hit the country and led to the famous march of women around the CBD carrying placards written my dress my choice. How about the nanny from hell story which saw the sale of CCTV cameras sky rocket and every home owning the device. Who can also forget how our parliamentarians embarrassed us during the security bill debate in parliament. As we scribble down our new year
oMG
resolutions we should leave the negatives behind and carry on with the positives. On that note, there are things which must be left behind and buried deep in 2014. The selfie trend is a must go. At the beginning, selfies were cute but the more people got into the trend the cuteness started disappearing and was replaced with a monster. Still on social media, people should just stop posting everything they do on social media pages. Nobody wants to know your every move in life—where you have been, who you are hanging out with, what you are doing every second of the day et-cetera. Stop filling our pages with timelines stuff. We do not
really care! One final thing on social media. Stop playing those social media games. Yes they are addictive and fun. Ok if you really must play them please do not send anybody requests for you to progress in the game. Nobody really cares if you are in level 1 million. Silly twerk videos from our so called socialites. They should focus their energy on getting real money like their Ugandan counterparts, who instead of launching twerk videos and sharing nude, are involved in real hustles. Duck faces. This is for the ladies. Enough with the pouts when posing for pictures. The trend was once cute
PREZZO’S NEW SQUEEZE Forgive him for all his sins, the self-proclaimed king of bling is back in the dating game. Fresh from mourning his friend Fidel, Prezzo unveiled his latest squeeze for all to see and yes it was all blinged up! He shared photos of his new found love, Naz Nassir online finally ending rumours that he was getting back together with his baby mama.
but not anymore. Indulge your inner creativity and get another pose which we will bash next year. And for the men… enough with gym pictures. We already know you have a six pack and for heaven’s sake it is January, some of us are struggling with weight issues which we gained during the holidays. Let’s leave behind some trending words which have become cliché. For example words like bae, xaxa, and especially acronyms. Why torture somebody into researching the meaning of the acronym so as to get what you are trying to communicate? How on earth do you expect one to know what you mean when you write something
like AFAICT meaning As far as I can tell? Beats logic. Stop tattooing your boyfriend or girlfriends name or picture on your body. You never know what the future holds. There are other ways you can show your love without making permanent incisions into your body. On men’s fashion… Harem pants are a big no. they make you look like you are wearing diapers and please stop sagging skinny jean! Women, please ditch the American flag leggings, leopard print dresses, boot leg Versace clothes and extremely low shorts. Two weeks too late but happy New Year 2015!
FREE RIDES ALA SONKO! Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko is known for his flamboyant and generous nature. He recently launched a service delivery that gives Nairobi residents a slew of services for free. What caught the eye of many is that Sonko offered his personal cars and a fleet of limousines for free to couples who are tying the knot. He announced the news on Facebook in a post, which read in part, “And for those tying the knot (wedding), we have Free Wedding Limousines with a fleet comprising of 3 H2 Hummers and 4 Mercedes Benzes (New S Class Model) and My Personal BLING Plated Land Cruiser.” Rides any one?
8
ACCESS
WEDNESDAY TUESDAY JANUARY 26th NOVEMBER 13, 2015 2014
a true work of art is but a shadow of divine perfection.
Colour Pencil Sculptures
artshock
ARTWORLD
Lionel Bawdenv is an Australian artist who uses coloured pencils as a medium to create sculptures. His sculptures are fluid and arranged in diamond shapes that seem to melt and morph. The sculptures explore themes such as desire, longing and connection. The pencils act as a representation of the physical human body through which these themes are expressed. The artist exploits the hexagonal shapes of the pencils to create the masterpieces that have been displayed in art exhibitions world over.
OUR R00TS
kenya's
Cattle is their gold
F
ish to the Luo is gold as land is to the Kikuyu. The Turkanas, on the other hand, have a special attachment with cattle. Harm any Turkana in any way and they will forgive you, but never touch or steal their cattle; they could kill you. The Turkana tribe is a nomadic pastoralist people that inhabit the Turkana district in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province. Turkana is part of the Nilotic tribes and constitutes the second largest pastoralist community in Kenya after the Maasai. As with all other pastoralist tribes in Kenya, livestock, especially cattle, are at the core of Turkana culture. The Turkana place such a high value on cattle that they often raid other tribes to acquire more animals. This may be seen as theft, but to the Turkana and other pastoralist tribes in Northern Kenya, it is a perfectly acceptable custom. Cattle raids are common between Turkanas and their neighboring tribes, especially the Karamoja of Uganda, and the Pokot and Marakwet of Southern Kenya. Unfortunately, these cattle raids have increasingly become more dangerous due to an upsurge in the use of small firearms by Turkanas and their neighboring tribes. Today, many people in the region own unlicensed firearms for their own protection. The sight of a Turkana herdsman holding an AK47 rifle while herding his animals is not strange in this region.
MiChelangelO T ‘I do not have any specific technique that I can say defines me. I tend to mix everything up until something good comes out of it’
President Kenyatta receives a painting from Adrian Nduma.
en years of determination is how long it took to turn Adrian Nduma into one of the finest and most sought-after painter in Kenya. After years in the teaching, advertising and banking industries, Adrian decided to call it quits and follow his heart. He has since not looked back or regretted the move. While many around him where wondering why he would leave a stable and well paying job to venture into art, of all professions, he simply brushed them aside and let his fingers and imagination do the talking. He has no specific technique and he merges everything to come up with bursts of vibrant colors and strokes. “I do not have any specific technique that I can say defines me. I tend to mix everything up until something good comes out of it,” said Nduma. His paintings have opened big doors for him and he says he will forever be thankful to have taken that uncertain road down the art world otherwise he would never have achieved what he has so far. Those who thought artists are poor souls who have no
alternative in life would choke when they see the price tags on some of his works. His pieces range from Sh50, 000 to millions of shillings. Despite the blinding price tags, his pieces are hot cakes in any exhibition. One of his pieces sold for a whooping Sh2.1 million in 2012. He is also privileged to have not one, but two abstract paintings hanging neatly in State House Nairobi. Despite all these fetes, his greatest achievement is when he sees his art moving somebody and speaking to them individually, that he says is payment enough and all the incentive he needs to achieve greater heights. He nostalgically reveals how one of his artwork touched the lives of one of his clients who had lost their baby and needed something to remind them and console them on their loss. “The look on their faces when they saw the painting was priceless and I was happy to meet them at their darkest moment in life. It is rare to find art which moves people to such levels,” he said. Nduma is a text book example that art is indeed a viable occupation and proof that the art scene in Kenya has come of age.
ACCESS
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
aboutLove
9
To avoid confusing Them, They should undersTand ThaT The deceased is noT coming back.
Omg
PHOTO: Daily mail online
Children are different when it comes to expressing their grief, they may not know how to deal with their feelings
HELPiNg yOUR CHiLD gRiEVE H elping children cope with the death of a loved one can be tough, especially when one is also trying to get through the loss themselves. Children’s understanding of death varies with age, life experiences and personality, which is why it is essential to help them understand the cloud of emotions that come with the loss of a loved one. Death should be explained in basic terms which they can easily comprehend. Euphemisms such as the deceased has been “lost”, “went away” or “went to sleep” must be shunned. Children below the age of six may take this literally and may hold on to false hope that the loved one will return. Others will get scared of sleeping thinking that they might also not wake up. To avoid confusing them, they should understand that the deceased is not coming back because his or her body stopped working. This will be very scary and painful for them to take in but it is better to deal with it than beat around the bush with distractions. They will need comfort, love, honesty, and understanding as they deal with grief. They should
ask dr X
feel safe by being reassured that they are not alone and will be taken care of and routines like sleepovers, playing with friends and going out on family fun days will be maintained. A publication produced by National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) says “Talking to children about death must be geared to their developmental level, respectful of their cultural norms, and sensitive to their capacity to understand the situation. Children will be aware of the reactions of significant adults as they interpret and react to information about death and tragedy.” Children are different when it comes to expressing their grief, they may not know how to deal with their feelings and this may be overwhelming for them. Some may change their behavioral tendencies by isolating themselves, anxiety, crying, withdrawal, bedwetting or unusual acts such as physical altercations with their friends. As they are guided in working through their sadness, they should know there is no right or wrong way of grieving. They can let out their frustration and pain by singing,
itumbi to host victoria beckham
drawing, poetry or storytelling. And when they are done with either, let them interpret their own work. While doing so, they should know that it is allowed to talk about their pain and ask questions. Although they may keep saying the same things, patience is a virtue here. Adults must be consistent in their responses and this will make them feel comfortable when opening up. Because psychological healing takes time, they should not be rushed, forced to resume normal activities like school or show them how to grieve. Time will heal all wounds, let the child be. Teach the child that it is okay to smile again and play with others or even love other people (in places where it is a partner who is dead and you are dating again). It is alright to accept that life goes on in the absence of a loved one. So is it to remember and miss them but move on and keep their memory alive without feeling the initial pang of pain they had. Children must be under constant observatiion for signs of depression, traumatic stress, depression or even suicide where necessary solicit professional counselling.
In a video for Vogue’s 73 questions segment, fashion guru and former Spice girl, Victoria Beckham revealed that she would love to visit Kenya. The mother of four caught the attention of the Presidential Strategic Communications Unit (PSCU) led by Denis Itumbi, who through a t weet told the beauty that Kenya would love to host her. Will she take the bait?
sabby angel relocates to kenya
moved up front cncnc and seized the big ball
Tanzanian actress, model and film producer Salma Tamim, popularly known as Sabby Angel, has relocated to Nairobi. The actress is set to launch her new film Sio Riziki in Mombasa next month. She promises greater acts in the industry with local and foreign film companies since some of them have shown interest in her work.
am i gay? Send your agonising queries to news@x-news.co.ke
Dear Dr X,
I’m 15 years old and think I might be gay because Im not as excited about boys like my friends. Whenever they see a hot guy either pass, in magazines or movies, they get so dramatic that it makes me worried. I am just not interested in such drama and they say am so weird if I do not find Justin Bieber, Daniel Peter and August Alsina hot. I know it when someone looks good but I just don’t dwell on it like
they do. Most of the time I am always busy doing stuff like cycling, reading novels or other interesting things, hanging out with friends or helping out at home so I just don’t give much thought about how cute boys are. Does this make me gay? Worried. —Meghan
Dear Meghan,
Being composed and different from your friends does
not tag you gay. In fact, at 15 one is not even supposed to be drooling and going gaga over boys or girls, no matter how good looking they are. Sure it is okay to appreciate beauty and give credit where it’s due but it should not become an obsession. Spending time doing what you do is healthy and exemplary. You are just not into your friends’ craziness because you are different and unique, which is very good. There is a time for
everything and obsessing over boys or girls at such a tender age is not necessary. So relax and keep doing your thing. Tell your friends to stay away from boys. They are too young for that. You are a good girl and no doubt your parents are proud of you. When the right time comes and you are mature enough to appreciate sexuality, you will know. Dr X.
10
ACCESS
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
FASHIONScoop
THE GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS.
HEIDI KLUM
MARIA MENOUNOS
LUPITA NYONG’O JESSICA CHASTAIN
ROLL out THE
rEd carpET
T
he haute-couture gowns designed by the best in the world, were finally out last Sunday as Hollywood’s biggest stars strutted the red carpet for the 72nd Golden Globes in Los Angeles. There were plunging necklines, high slits, glamorous jewellery and everything elegant that comes with a star-studded red carpet. Strong and bold colours dominated the red carpet with Purple, red and blue taking centre stage Neutral, off-white and muted tones also made it to the red carpet with metallic gowns also being a hit. Favourite actresses pushed the boundaries most departing from their usual style stories. Most outstanding were Lupita Nyong’o, Jennifer Lopez, Heidi Klum and Kate Hudson.
KATE HUDSON
J-LO
filmlab
BEST...
Selma
Rating: PG 13 Time: 1hr 33min Genre: Action &Adventure Cast: Liam Neeson, Forest Whitaker and Maggie Grace
T
he third sequel of the Taken series falls short. The third series is a clear sign that it is time to retire it. Ex-government operative Bryan Mills is accused of a ruthless murder he never committed. He is tracked and pursued
evading capture while trying to find the true killer and clear his name. OUR RATING H HH
Rating: PG 13 Time: 2hr 7min Genre: Drama Cast: Oprah Winfrey, Cuba Gooding Jr, David Oyelowo
T
he movie is watchable and entertaining. With a star studded cast, the musical by Disney is a real treat. A witch makes a childless baker and his wife a
Rating: PG Time: 2hr 5min Genre: Musical Cast: Meryl Streep, James Corden and Emily Blunt
T Taken 3
he film is gripping and achieves in showing the most intimate and private moments of Martin Luther King Jr. The movie chronicles the life of Martin Luther King’s campaign to secure equal voting rights using an epic march from Selma to Montgomery. OUR RATING H H
proposition. They help her procure magical items and then she can reverse the curse put on their family tree. OUR RATING H H
Into the woods
PLAY 11 TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
WEATHERFORECAST
DAILYHOROSCOPES CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan19 A rush of activity at home is probably going to involve preparations for a journey or event. More than one visitor could arrive during the course of the day. Your mind may be going in several different directions, and this could prove a bit disconcerting. AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 Perhaps you will have to do a lot of reading or writing very quickly, make a number of phone calls, or run more errands than you have time for. This can prove frustrating and overwhelming, but if you plan carefully, Aquarius, you should be able to get it all done on schedule. Get busy and go to it. PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 You might discover a hidden talent for writing, or if you already know this, you may find that your skill is greater than you suspected. You might have to execute some paperwork regarding money, Pisces, but you will get this done quickly and efficiently.
TUESday 13/01/2015
sunny
26
26ºC 46%
WEDNEsday 14/01/2015
More sun than clouds
27 6:36 am 6:47 pm
26ºC 36%
6:36 am 6:47 pm
THURSday
28
Fill in the blanks with the numbers 1-9. every row, column and 3x3 box must contain all nine digits with no repeated number. Friday’s Solution
ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 19 You might feel on edge today but not know why. You may jump at unexpected noises or think you see or hear things that aren’t there. You aren’t going crazy. The best way to relieve the jumpiness is to get some exercise - at least take a walk. In the evening, read an engrossing book.
Sudoku
TAURUS Apr 20 - May 20 You may wonder if you’re losing your memory today. You might have the strange feeling that there was something you had to do but can’t quite remember what. Your imagination could come up with ideas for stories and poems. Write them down. You will want to remember them. GEMINI May 21 - Jun 21 Today you might have to do a lot of communicating with friends. Perhaps you need to make phone calls or catch up on correspondence. You may be on the verge of attaining a goal. Consider giving it that last little spurt of energy to complete. CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 21 You may consider doing some writing of your own, particularly if you have a story to tell. On a more mundane level, your day could require that you spend a lot of time in the car or on the phone when you’d rather be reading. Be sure to schedule time to relax in the evening. LEO Jul 23- Aug 22 Good news regarding writing, speaking, or publishing could come your way today. You might feel terribly bored with life and suddenly have the urge to get away for a while. This isn’t a bad idea, Leo. Make a few phone calls. Invite a friend over and discuss it with him or her. VIRGO Aug 23- Sep 22 Paperwork regarding a bonus, settlement, or dividend of some kind might need to be executed today. It will probably be boring. You will get it done. Sudden insights, revelations, or flights of fancy might provide fodder for creative activities, particularly writing or speaking.
MUSTREAD Her – by Harriet Lane Emma and Nina are different and have formed the most unlikely friendship. They have nothing in common, Emma is an exhausted and overwhelmed new mom while Nina is a controlled and sophisticated woman, who is not easily frazzled. Nina is always in control of everything and has the confidence to face anything. She always seems to have all the answers. Emma is drawn to Nina but why is Nina drawn to Emma? An innocent friendship turns dangerous when Nina takes over every aspect of Emma’s life. Will Emma ever be able to get her life back?
LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 Strained nerves and trepidation about unpleasant tasks could have you on edge and likely to take your stress out on those closest to you. Communicate your feelings to friends and assure them you aren’t upset with them. In this way, you will get through the day with little damage. SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 You might feel overworked today. Your energy could be flagging, and you may even feel feverish. This is probably nothing more than stress, Scorpio. Most likely you should take time out from your busy life and relax. Spend the afternoon at the movies. Treat yourself to dinner out. SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21 Today you’re apt to feel especially romantic. Novels, movies, and poetry about love will be appealing. If you’re currently romantically involved, consider planning a special evening with your partner. If you aren’t involved, you might want to attend a sporting event.
INSTAMOMENTS 1
3
2
4
Vote for winning pick of today’s top three instamoments (below) by sending an email with the picture number to: play@x-news.com
winning captions
Friday’s winning photo
YOURSAY
Send a caption for the photo above with your name and location to: play@x-news.co.ke .The winning caption gets published on this page.
Rate of suicide alarming It was unfortunate to read that three people committed suicide in Nairobi during the weekend. This is by any measures a startling number and I am left wondering what drove
them to give up on life. Could it be the pressures of life, high societal expectations or just the fear of the future? In days gone, people used to do everything in their capacity to deal with challenging
situations. Support systems were also well established with relatives and friends coming out to help whenever one needed advice. The world will live in today encourages individualism and you will
be shocked to find out that most people do not even know the names of their immediate neighbours. How I wish we could go back to the old days
1. What? You’ver never seen horns before? Jagem Ngala, Nairobi 2. Tools for marking the territory -Betty Sankale, CBD 3. I only have issues in narrow alleys - John Mark, Nairobi
Sport TUESday, JANUARY 13, 2015
Cold weather forces ‘You Tube athlete’ to train in SA
Commonwealth Javelin champion Julius Yego will train in South Africa instead of his traditional venue Finland from next month. The switch, Yego says, is a result of the relatively warmer summer climate instead of winter being experienced in Finland and parts of Europe. “It’s is summer in South Africa unlike Finland which is in winter. That is not conducive for me,” said
Yego. The CID officer targets improvement to his personal best 85.40 as he targets a medal bracket at the 15th World Championship set for August 20-30 in Beijing, China. “I am planning for a two-week training camp in Potchefstroom ,South Africa. This will help my preparations for the Diamond League in May and World
Championships later in the year. “Training in a cold weather can constrict the blood vessel limiting the oxygen intake due to low heart rate,” he said. He won the African Championships title last year with a 84.72m in Marrakech, Morocco. Yego plans to defend his All Africa Games title he picked in Maputo, Mozambique, in 2011.
WARMER OPTION: Commonwealth javelin champion Julius Yego has switched his training base from Finland to South Africa due to the warmer weather in Johannesburg.
Inaugural SportPesa festival to celebrate music, sports and art Kenya’s Premier sports betting firm SportPesa will on Saturday, January 31 launch a one-ofa-kind festival to celebrate African Music, Sports, Art and Culture in a day of good music, good food, fashion and dancing. By all indications this will be done in style. The event, dubbed SportPesa festival, is organized by Soundset Africa Creative and
will be held at the Carnivore grounds. Performing on the day will be a barrage of local and international artistes, among them Norway-based Stella Mwangi, Wyre, Juacali, Nameless, Bahati, Size 8, Khaligraph Jones and Kristoff. On the decks will be DJ Pierra, DJ Joe Mfalme, DJ Crème de la Crème and DJ Mo, while Kenya’s
Kings of comedy, Jalang’o and Eric Omondi, play the MCs. There will be lots of fashion, dance where patrons will be highly engaged in a themed mood dubbed - Add a happy beat to your days. SMS the word “FESTIVAL” to 79079 and follow instructions to enrol. No tickets will be sold anywhere.
14
SPORT TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
Foreign athletes to take part in IAAF Cross Country Permit Athletes from Eritrea, Uganda, Mauritius, Ghana and Gambia have already confirmed taking part in February’s IAAF Cross Country Permit meet set to take place on February 14 at Uhuru Gardens. The event will also serve as the National Cross Country to be used to select the
Kenya team for the World Cross Country Championship to be staged in Guiyang, China on March 28th 2015. Commonwealth Games 1,500m champion, Faith Chepngetich, wants to get better in 2015 and apart from competing at the World Cross, she also plans to return to China in summer and try her
luck in the four-lap race. “The world cross is still three months away and running here was meant to gauge my fitness and see where I rank in the competition. “There is still a lot to be done and I hope to get better as we progress,” said Faith Faith holds a personal best time of
3:56.98, which she got last year in Doha. However, on her planned second appearance at the world championships, she will be eyeing to improve on both her time and the position after finishing fifth in Moscow in 2013. Meanwhile the annual AK Gala will be staged on January 31 at the Nairobi
Club. This year’s event that will award 2014 performers will be different from the previous edition, with the media and the public being involved for the first time to nominate and vote for Kenya best athletes of the year.
FAITHFUL STRIDING: Faith Chepngetich Kipyegon of Kenya and Zoe Buckman of Australia lead the field in the Women’s 1500 metres semifinal during Day Four of the 14th IAAF World Athletics Championships on August 13, 2013 in Moscow, Russia. Faith wants to get better in 2015 and apart from competing at the World Cross, she also plans to return to China in summer and try her luck in the four-lap race.
West Indies beat South Africa in record Twenty20 run chase
INSIDE OUT: Chris Gayle smashed 90 off 41 balls as the West Indies chased down South Africa’s total of 231 - a record T20 run chase.
West Indies completed the highest run chase in Twenty20 history as they beat South Africa by four wickets in a thrilling game in Johannesburg. Skipper Faf du Plessis’s 119 from 56 balls helped the hosts to 231-7, the fourth highest T20 international score. Chris Gayle led the reply with 90 from 41 balls, smashing seven sixes and adding 152 with Marlon Samuels (60). Gayle departed with 61 needed from 38 balls but skipper Darren Sammy saw the Windies home with four balls to spare. Victory gave West Indies an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, with the final game in Durban on Wednesday. Gayle’s powerful hitting took the tourists to 86-1 after the six-over power play after
Sammy won the toss. The left-hander also moved level with New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum’s record of 87 sixes in T20 internationals With West Indies needing 21 off 12 balls, South Africa retained hope of victory. But Sammy hit Kyle Abbott for successive fours to leave only three required from the final over, and completed victory with a six over wide long-on. It surpassed the previous highest successful Twenty20 run chase, which was Sussex’s 226-3 against Essex at Chelmsford last summer. Earlier, Du Plessis hit 11 fours and five sixes in his brilliant innings, while David Miller made 47 from 26 balls. The Wanderers has been the venue for several international batting records.
Debuchy dislocates shoulder Arsenal defender Mathieu Debuchy dislocated a shoulder during the 3-0 Premier League win against Stoke on Sunday. The Frenchman, 29, landed heavily after colliding with Stoke’s Marko Arnautovic and was replaced by Hector Bellerin in the 13th minute at Emirates Stadium. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said: “It’s dislocated so it will take a while. He will have to see a specialist.” Debuchy has missed three months of the season with an ankle injury. During that absence Calum
Chambers and Bellerin deputised at right-back. Speaking after the game, Wenger confirmed Debuchy would not be fit by next week. An ongoing ankle injury to left-back Kieran Gibbs may influence his activity in the January transfer window. “Nacho Monreal and Debuchy can play centreback. But if Gibbs is not here, Monreal cannot play centre-back and if Debuchy is not here, he cannot play centre-back. “This is a position where we are short.” Chambers was also absent .
A STINGING CRAMP: Debuchy writhes in pain after colliding heavily with the advertising boards during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Stoke City on Sunday.
SPORT 15 TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
Selfie Totti way of celebrating goal against Lazio
Gor’s Situma, Oboya switch to beer maker Former champions Tusker have completed signings of former defender James Situma (above left) and midfielder Patrick Oboya from Gor Mahia. Situma, a former AFC Leopards and Sofapaka player, and Oboya join the Ruaraka-based side after Situma asked the club to release him. Oboya
was a free agent. Coach Francis Kimanzi declined to disclose details of the contracts but confirmed the two have joined Tusker. “The two are our players. They are good with good knowledge of the Kenyan premier league. We welcome them to our club and look forward to working with them,” he said.
Leopards were forced to release Situma after being prevailed upon by Football Kenya Federation (FKF). The player wrote to the federation demanding release for alleged nonpayment of salary for three months. Situma will replace defender Martin Kiiza whose contract has expired. The 10-time Kenyan Premier League
Roma captain Francesco Totti (below) took a selfie of himself to celebrate becoming the joint top scorer in the capital derby with an equaliser in a 2-2 draw against Lazio. The Italy forward scored the two goals in the second-half for second-placed Roma. He won a mobile phone from one of the coaching staff to mark the leveller. The 38-year-old held the phone up and took a photo with the Roma fans behind him as his side recovered from 2-0 down. Lazio led after Stefano Mauri converted Felipe Anderson’s cross, before the latter doubled the lead from 20 yards. Totti said: “I thought about it during the week. Although it’s in fashion, I don’t usually take them because I want my private life to stay that way, but this was a special occasion, something to be remembered for a long time.” Lazio opened up a 2-0 half-time lead before Totti reduced the arrears with a fine angled strike three minutes after restart. He claimed the second from close range just after the hour to set up a tense finale. It was his 239th goal in Serie A. Silvio Piola holds the record with 274.
(KPL) champions have not been busy in the transfer window. They released custodian and skipper Samuel Odhiambo on disciplinary grounds. Centre back Donald Mosoti from Tanzanian giants Simba and Nakuru All Stars midfielder Cersidy Lumumba are their other notable incomings.
Rangers snub Sarver 2.9b takeover wish Rangers have rejected Robert Sarver’s proposed takeover of the Ibrox club. American Sarver, who owns the Phoenix Suns basketball team, had Sh2.92billion for a majority stake in the Championship club. But Rangers rejected the deal on the basis that they did not believe it would receive the backing of enough of the club’s shareholders. His original Sh2.63billion offer was turned down early this month, with the Rangers board insisting the bid undervalued the club. Rangers statement to the Stock Exchange read: “The revised proposal by Sarver was similar to his first proposal in the respect that it sought a placing of 100 million shares which would require the approval of shareholders at a general meeting. “The board of Rangers rejected the first proposal from Sarver on the basis that the board felt it
unlikely that the approval of shareholders holding sufficient shares would be forthcoming.” “Following receipt of the revised proposal from Sarver, the board has sought the views of a number of major shareholders on this revised proposal and has reached the same conclusion, namely that the resolution to approve the placing is unlikely to achieve the 75 per cent majority required.” As part of Sarver’s Sh2.9billion offer, the 53-year-old was willing to hand the club an emergency Sh949million loan to help alleviate their cash-flow problems. Sarver has owned the Phoenix Suns since 2004 and is chief executive officer of the Western Alliance Bancorporation. He is reported to have been alerted to the situation at Ibrox by former Rangers left-back David Robertson, who now coaches his three sons
HEAD TO HEAD: Palestine’s Mural Said (left) and Japan’s Shinji Kagawa view for a header when the two teams clashed in an Asia Cup tie in Newcastle, Australia
Palestine fall 4-0 to Japan in maiden Asian Cup tie Palestine lost the first Asian Cup match 4-0 to Japan in Newcastle, Australia. Yasuhito Endo, Shinji Okazaki and Keisuke Honda scored before in the opening 45 minutes, with Southampton’s Maya Yoshida heading in the fourth. Despite the score line, a small contingent of Palestinian fans in the
15,497-strong crowd waved flags and beat drums throughout the match. Palestine’s next game is against Jordan in Melbourne on Friday. Palestine qualified for the tournament for the first time by winning the Asian Football Confederation’s Challenge Cup in May.
Defender Tamer Salah said that their participation is as much about politics as it is about sport. “Our people they just want to send a message for all over the world; we are human beings. It is our right to play football and we are not terrorists,” he told said. Efforts to create a Palestinian state on the West Bank of River Jordan
and Gaza on the Mediterranean coast have been frustrated by the raging conflict with Israel. Palestine are 115th in Fifa’s world rankings, 61 places below Japan. Fellow Group D rivals Jordan and Iraq are 93rd and 114th respectively
16
sport
tUEsDAY, JANUArY 13, 2015
Cristiano Ronaldo wins third Fifa Ballon d’Or For the second year in a row, Cristiano Ronaldo trounced Lionel Messi in the Ballon d’Or ballot on a day used by Barcelona’s beaten megastar to cast fresh doubt on his future in Catalonia. Also beaten to the award was Bayern Munich’s goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Wolfsburg and Germany midfielder Nadine Kessler was named women’s player of the year, while Colombia’s James Rodriguez won goal of the year. Germany’s World Cup winner Joachim Low won men’s coach of the year. Wolfsburg boss Ralf Kellermann was named women’s football coach of the year after a successful defence of the Champions League. The three candidates for the Ballon d’Or were all picked in the team of the year, along with defenders Philipp Lahm, David Luiz, Thiago Silva and Sergio Ramos, midfielders Andres Iniesta, Toni Kroos and Angel Di Maria and forward Arjen Robben. Ronaldo successfully defended his world player of the year status convincingly with 37.66% of all votes, winning for a third time. Barcelona and Argentina counterpart Messi - who won four years in a row until Ronaldo beat him last year, was second on 15.76%. He was narrowly ahead of Bayern Munich and Germany keeper Neuer, who had 15.72%. Ronaldo, who scored 52 goals in 43 games during 2014, looked emotional when collecting the award from former France, Barcelona and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry. The 29-year-old said: “I would like to thank all of those who voted for me, my president, my coach and Real Madrid. It has been an unforgettable year. To win this trophy at the end of it is something incredibly unique.”
Wolfsburg and Germany midfielder Kessler was named women’s player of the year. The 26-year-old beat Brazil’s Marta and United States international Abby Wambach. Kessler said: “My heart is beating madly at the moment. I don’t think I ever thought in my life I would achieve this moment. “Without my team-mates and my coach, this would never have been possible. I have a great degree of gratitude that I must give to my family. They have seen me through all the difficult times.” Colombia’s Rodriguez , 23, won the Fifa goal of the year award for his World Cup strike against Uruguay, beating Irishwoman Stephanie Roche. Roche, who scored a stunner for Peamount against Wexford in the Irish top flight, had hoped to be the first female winner of the Puskas Award. She landed 33% of the public vote to Rodriguez’s 42%. Manchester United striker Robin van Persie - the third nominee - earned just 11% for his diving header against Spain in the World Cup. Low beat Diego Simeone, who led Atletico Madrid to the Spanish title and Champions League final, and Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti, whose side beat their city rivals to become European champions for a record 10th time. The Presidential Award was picked by Fifa president Sepp Blatter for “a person that has made a superlative contribution to football without seeking to monopolise the limelight”. The winner was Japanese journalist Hiroshi Kagawa, who covered his 10th World Cup last summer at the age of 89.
KAIZEN! Ronaldo shows his emotions after beating Lionel Messi and Manuel Neuer to the coveted gong.
Published by Xtra Publishing Limited, Chancery Building, Valley Road. Printed by the Star, Lion Place, Waiyaki Way.