2015011023 xnews

MONday, NOVEMBER 23, 2015 | www.x254.co

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president told to constitute a full cabinet cord leader raila odinga says operating without substantive ministers in key dockets is hurting service delivery to kenyans, Wants Uhuru to decide fate of those suspended

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NEWS

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Athletes storm Riadha house in protest over doping claims

This man Pope Francis P

Pope Francis

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ope Francis is expected in Nairobi this Wednesday on the first leg of his papal tour of Africa. According to the itinerary released by Catholic bishops making preparations for his visit, the Pope is expected to land at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 5pm where a brief welcome ceremony will take place before he heads to State House for talks with President Uhuu Kenyatta.

His visit comes amid growing enthusiasm that it will help Kenyans reconcile and get renewed hope to march ahead.

In his video message to Kenyans yesterday, the Pope said he will be visiting as a messenger of the gospel and that his visit should help bring hope, reconciliation and forgiveness to all.

Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet said security arrangements have been put in place right from his arrival to coverage of all the roads he will be using, the venue and residences.

But who is this man Pope Francis?

Born in Argentina, Pope Francis is the first Latin American - and the first Jesuit - to lead the Roman Catholic Church.

Until 13 March 2013, he was Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires.

Analysts did not see him as a favourite for the job of succeeding Benedict XVI, and his advanced age - at 76, he was just two years younger than Benedict at the time of his election in 2005 - may have surprised those expecting a younger man as the 266th Pope.

However, he appeals to both Church conservatives and reformers, being seen as orthodox on sexual matters, for instance, but liberal on social justice - though far from being a “liberation theologist�.

He was born on December,17 1936 in Buenos Aires, of Italian descent.

According to his official Vatican biography, he was ordained as a Jesuit in 1969 and went on to study in Argentina and Germany.

As a young man, he had a lung removed because of an infection, but his health is currently said to be good.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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NEWS MONDAY,NOVEMBER 23, 2015

Kenyans want Pope to speak on corruption Majority of Kenyans want the pope to specifically address the issues of corruption with leaders when he lands in the country on Wednesday.

According to Infotrak Research & Consulting survey, 45 per cent of the respondents want the Pope to deal with immorality and peaceful co-existence among religious leaders.

In order of priority, the poll indicates that peaceful coexistence is the top of the list at 65 per cent among the issues the pope should address.

Corruption comes in second at 24 per cent, Tribalism 19.9 per cent, respect for human rights 13.8 per cent, immorality at 5.8 per cent and social justice at 5.5 per cent.

The Infotrak poll whose results were released yesterday indicates that almost all Kenyans at 93 per cent expressed excitement towards the Pope’s visit.

More encouragingly, the excitement cuts across religious denominations, regions, age and gender.

Amongst the Catholics interviewed, 98 per cent are

extremely excited about the visit whilst 91per cent of non-Catholics are excited about the Pope’s visit.

This being Pope Francis’ maiden visit to Africa, Infotrak chief executive Angela Ambitho said Kenyans generally approve of him and his role in making the world a better place explaining the reason why Kenyan Catholics approve of him overwhelmingly.

Pope Francis is admired

by Kenyan Catholics and non-Catholics, who have embraced his optimism, humility and more inclusive tone.

Indeed the Pope’s likeability seems to have rubbed onto the Catholic Church which despite being caught up in negative scandals globally has a high approval rating in Kenya.

Kenyans generally approve of Pope Francis and his role in making the world a better place, and Kenyan Catholics approve of him overwhelmingly.

Since his election as Pope, 79 per cent of Kenyans generally indicate that they have been more inclined

Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa greets Pope Francis at the Vatican, Rome last August. Kenyans are enthusiastic about this week’s papal visit.

to giving more importance to their family and treating others with kindness.

The Pope also seems to have had a positive influence on prayer as 74 per cent of the respondents indicated that they pray more regularly since the Pope’s election.

Majority of the Kenyans at 85 per cent agree that Pope Francis represents a major positive change for the

direction of Christianity and 97 of Catholics also think the same.

The survey was conducted in all the 47 counties between October 3 and November 20.

A sample of 777 respondents was interviewed to represent the Kenyan adult population of 19,462,358 translating into a minimum margin of error of -/+ 2.53 at 95 per cent degree of confidence.

A look into Pope Francis profile From Page 1

He became a bishop in 1992 and Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998. At the 2005 conclave, he was seen as a contender for the papacy.

His election took many by surprise in his home city, where many had thought his age ruled him out. But any surprise soon gave way to the jubilant blaring of car horns on the streets.

As Cardinal Bergoglio, his sermons always had an impact in Argentina and he often stressed social inclusion, indirectly criticising governments that did not pay attention to those on the margins of society, our correspondent says.

Francesca Ambrogetti, who coauthored a biography of him, told Reuters news agency that part of his public appeal lay in his “sober and austere” humble lifestyle.

In Buenos Aires, he lived in a simple flat. When in Rome, he often preferred to keep his black robe on and is also said to have reused the cardinal’s vest used by his

No public holiday during papal visit

predecessor.

Since becoming pope, he has continued to put his concern about economic inequality at the forefront of his message. In Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), the first major work he has written since he became Pope, he says “the worship of the ancient golden calf... has returned in a new and ruthless guise in the idolatry of money and the dictatorship of an impersonal economy”.

The document also suggests Pope Francis is planning radical reforms to the Vatican bureaucracy, another theme that has gained prominence in his papacy.

He has put together a team of eight cardinals from outside the Holy See’s administration who will look at ways to reshape the bureaucracy.

He has also adopted a markedly less formal tone than his predecessor, underlining his reputation for simplicity and humility.

Unlike other recent pontiffs -John Paul II, Benedict XVI -- Pope

Francis doesn’t have a numeral after his name. That’s because he’s the first to take the name Francis.

He wanted to honour St Francis of Assisi, an admirer of nature and a servant to the poor and destitute.

St. Francis of Assisi was born the son of a rich cloth merchant. But he lived in rags among beggars at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Those close to Pope Francis see similarities between the two men.

“Francis of Assisi is ... someone who turned his back on the wealth of his family and the lifestyle he had, and bonded with lepers and the poor,” said the Rev. Thomas Rosica, the Vatican’s deputy spokesman. “Here’s this pope known for his care for AIDS patients and people who are very sick. Who is known for his concern with single mothers whose babies were refused to be baptized by priests in his diocese.

“He scolded those priests last year and said, ‘How can you turn these people away when they belong to us?”

There will be no public holiday during Pope Francis three-day visit to Kenya this week, the government announced yesterday.

State House Spokesman Manoah Esipisu has instead urged employers to create flexible hours for their staff to attend the Pope’s events.

“It is not envisaged that there will be a public holiday on either of the days and instead, the government would like to encourage the employers to work out flexible hours for their staff to ensure they join in celebrating the mass,” he said.

The Pope’s visit secretariat chairman Bishop Alfred Rotich joined Esipisu in appealing to employers to consider the historic event that many people are eagerly waiting to witness.

“I appeal to private sector employers and government institutions to allow their staff members to be part of this cardinal and enriching assemblage in our country. Let us come together and pray together,” he urged.

The ruling out of a possible day off for faithful to join in the celebration of the Papal mass came only day after National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi allowed MPs to take a twoday break to give them the opportunity to join the nation in marking Pope Francis maiden visit to the country.

Muturi informed MPs that they will not hold sittings on Tuesday and Wednesday.

“The Majority Whip may have to have a motion on Tuesday, to exclude the House from sitting on Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26, for purposes of allowing members to go and welcome the Pope who will be visiting. The House will then meet on December 1, if the House so resolves,” the Speaker directed.

During the joint briefing by State House, the Catholic Church and the office of the Inspector General of Police, it was apparent that Kenya is indeed excited to welcome the Pontiff.

Elaborate measures had been put in place to ensure as many Kenyans travel to Nairobi to share the memorable moments with the Holy Father. According to Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet, measures have been put in place to ensure ample security during the historic visit by the pope.

“We are ready to receive the Pope and his entourage. Security arrangements have been put in place right from his arrival to coverage of all the roads he will be using, the venue, residences including providing security for the visitors who will be coming to this city,” said Boinnet.

Reconciliation tops Pope’s Kenya agenda Pope Francis has called on Kenyans to embrace reconciliation and forgiveness ahead of his visit to the country.

The pontiff in a video message to Kenyans said hope, forgiveness and reconciliation tops his agenda as a messenger of the gospel to Africa.

The Pope said he is visiting Kenya as a minister of the gospel, and that he is bringing a message of reconciliation, forgiveness and peace. He said people should pray for his visit to the two countries.

In his message, Pope called for mutual understanding across all religions and for believers to support each other as members of one human family.

“We live in a time where religious people and people of goodwill everywhere are called to foster mutual understanding and respect and to support each other as members of one human family, for all of us are God’s children,” the Pope said on his special message ahead of his arrival.

“My visit is meant to confirm the Catholic community in its worship of God and its witness to the gospel which teaches the dignity of every man and woman and commands to open our hearts to poor and those in need,” he said.

As he showered Kenyans with blessings, Pope Francis expressed his wish to meet with Kenyans of all walks and spread message of encouragement and love.

“A highlight of my visit will be my meetings with the young people who are your greatest resource and our most promising hope for a future of solidarity, peace and progress,” said the pontiff.

NEWS 3

President Uhuru told to constitute full Cabinet Cord leader Raila Odinga (pictured) has asked President Uhuru Kenyatta to constitute a new Cabinet or reinstate ministers who are currently suspended.

Raila says to keep Cabinet Secretaries out of office for eight months paints a bad picture and that it is time the President makes up his mind on the fate of his suspended ministers.

“The country currently lacks a properly constituted Cabinet.

It’s a bad picture for Cabinet Secretaries to be out of office for eight months,” he said.

Six Cabinet Secretaries are now out of office following Anne Waiguru’s exit over the weekend as Devolution and Planning CS. Five others; Felix Koskei (Agriculture), Charity Ngilu (Land), Davis Chirchir (Energy), Michael Kamau (Transport) and Kazungu Kambi

(Labour) were all suspended in March over corruption allegations.

“The President should draw the lines and tell us about the fate of the suspended Cabinet Secretaries, he should sack them and appoint new ones if they are guilty or allow them to report back to work if they are innocent,” said Raila in Kisumu yesterday.

Last month Baringo Senator

Gideon Moi also called on President Kenyatta to reinstate the CSs that have been cleared by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.

“Lack of Cabinet Secretaries in key dockets like Agriculture and Lands slows down service delivery and effective service.

There has been no tangible evidence of delinquency by suspended ministers and they need to be allowed to contin-

THE NATIONAL TREASURY

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

EACC wants Waikenda, Shollei charged

ue serving Kenyans,” Moi said in quotes carried by the Standard.

President Kenyatta may be forced to make Cabinet changes with a constitutional provision stipulating that the Cabinet consists of the President, Deputy President, Attorney General and not fewer than 14 and not more than 22 Cabinet secretaries.

With Ms Waiguru exit, there are only 13 Cabinet secretaries remaining in office.

Last week during an interview on Citizen TV, State House spokesman Manoah Esipisu said it’s the prerogative of the President to either appoint new people in the Cabinet or reinstate those suspended and that in due time, he will make a decision. “It’s the president decision and be sure that he will express himself on the matter soon when that time comes,” Esipisu said.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) wants former acting immigration director Jane Waikenda and former Judiciary registrar Gladys Shollei charged with abuse of office and related charges.

Waikenda faces allegations of irregular issues of permits during her tenure at the immigration department.

Shollei had been grilled

by EACC in April this year for alleged irregularities in procurement of Judiciary property including the residence of the Chief Justice, issues about direct procurement of goods and services for repair works at the CJ’s parking lot and kitchen refurbishment for the Supreme Court at Sh9.7 million. She also faces allegations into irregular procurement in

the acquisition of Elgon Place office apartments for the Judiciary and the Mavoko Law Courts.

Shollei was dismissed as in October 2013 after a myriad of allegations which she has since challenged in court.

The Anti-graft body has also recommended to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Keriako Tobiko that action be taken against former National Social Security Fund (NSSF) managing trustee Richard Langat for exposing the NSSF to contractual obligations when all the funds to finance the project had not been collected from the tenants.

Tobiko has said the files will be independently reviewed and decision made based on evidence and law.

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REPUBLIC OF KENYA

ENHANCING FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN THE NATIONAL TREASURY To enhance Financial Management in the National Treasury, the following Social Media Accounts and HOT LINES have now been operationalized: i) A specific site (Ethics) has been created at the National Treasury official platform/website ii) Email address – integrity@treasury.go.ke iii) GSM/Wireless line – 0771448232 iv) Landline - 3340949 v) Facebook and Twitter accounts are also live in the website The members of the public are encouraged to use these communication channels to report on governance issues pertaining to Public Financial Management in the National Treasury, Kenya Revenue Authority and Central Bank of Kenya for further necessary action.

DR. KAMAU THUGGE, EBS PRINCIPAL SECRETARY/ THE NATIONAL TREASURY

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NEWS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

NEWS BRIEFS

Three new Ebola cases reported in Liberia Three new cases of Ebola have been confirmed in Liberia less than three months after the country was declared free of the virus, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said. The three patients include a 10-year-old boy from Paynesville, a suburb of the capital Monrovia. All people with the symptom have been isolated, WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris told the BBC. Liberia has seen more than 10,000 Ebola cases and more than 4,000 deaths.

Health Minister Bernice Dahn said six of the boy’s relatives and other high-risk contacts have been taken to an Ebola Treatment Unit in Paynesville.

“The hospital is currently decontaminating the unit.

All of the healthcare workers who came in contact with the patient have been notified,” she said.

Seven aliens arrested in Eastleigh Seven Somali men who had arrived in Nairobi were arrested by police as they were being dropped off a car in Eastleigh. The seven did not have documents to justify their stay in the country. Police say they were alerted that the men had been dropped off a car and were seeking direction.

When the officers arrived and interrogated them, they could not communicate in English or Swahili and did not have papers. The men are in police custody and would appear in court later. In the past weeks, up to 200 aliens have been arrested in police operations in the city ahead of the arrival of the pope on Wednesday.

Police arrest 16 suspects in Belgium anti-terror raids Belgian police have made 16 arrests in anti-terror raids, but suspected Paris attacks gunman Salah Abdeslam remains at large, the authorities have said.

Some 22 raids were carried out Sunday across Brussels and Charleroi, the federal prosecutor’s spokesman said. Brussels remains on the highest level of terror alert. Universities, schools and the metro system will stay closed on Monday.

More than 130 died and 350 were injured in the Paris attacks 10 days ago.

Police fired two shots at a car during an operation in the Brussels district of Molenbeek, injuring one suspect who was later arrested. No weapons or explosives were found during the searches on Sunday, spokesman Eric Van Der Sypt told a news conference. UK Prime Minister David Cameron is in Paris for talks with French President Francois Hollande on co-operation in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) group.

They visited the Bataclan concert hall where at least 89 people were killed.

LAST RESPECTS: British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Francois Hollande pay their last respects to victims of Paris attack at the Bataclan concert hall where at least 89 people were killed. The two leaders were met today on how to coperate in the war against Jihadists.

The French government says the aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle, will be operational in the Mediterranean on Monday and ready to act against IS militants in Syria. Brussels has been on lockdown all weekend amid a manhunt for Abdeslam, who is suspected of being among the assailants who killed 130 people in Paris on Friday.

Mr Michel told reporters that authorities feared “an attack similar to the one in Paris, with several individuals who could also possibly launch several

attacks at the same time in multiple locations”.

Meanwhile, the BBC understands that another of the suspected attackers - pictured in a new French police appeal issued on Sunday - arrived in Greece under the name of M al-Mahmod. The image released by French police has been matched with a photo on the arrival papers of a man who reached the Greek island of Leros on 3 October. French police have asked for more information about the man, who they say was the third suicide

bomber to strike the Stade de France on 13 November.

Earlier, Belgian Interior Minister Jan Jambon said the danger to Belgium was not tied to Abdeslam alone.

“The threat is broader than the one suspected terrorist,” he told Flemish broadcaster VRT. It was not clear if Mr Jambon was referring to those involved in the Paris attacks, or others who might be planning attacks in Belgium. Soldiers joined police officers on patrols in Brussels over the weekend.

Many public spaces in the usually bustling capital

were deserted, as people heeded official warnings to avoid crowds. Mohammed Abdeslam, the brother of Brahim Abdeslam who blew himself up in Paris and Salah Abdeslam, spoke to Belgian TV on Sunday to urge his fugitive brother to hand himself in. The Belgian authorities have so far charged three people with involvement in the Paris attacks, claimed by Islamic State militants.

French media have reported that nine militants carried out the attacks, and seven died on Friday night.

Mali begins three days of national mourning

Mali has begun three days of national mourning following Friday’s Islamist militants’ attack on a hotel in the capital, Bamako, in which 19 people were killed.

Malian and international troops stormed the Radisson Blu hotel to free guests and staff being held hostage. Two gunmen were killed.

Two separate Islamist groups have said they carried out the attack.

Investigators have yet to determine the number and nationality of the gunmen.

However, one security source in

Mali told the BBC officials believed that the two dead gunmen had been speaking English during the attack.

The source said six of the dead were Malian, including one gendarme.

Thirteen foreign nationals are confirmed dead.

Ahead of the three days of national mourning, the chairman of the West African regional bloc Ecowas, Senegal’s President Macky Sall, visited Bamako to show support.

He said on Sunday: “Mali will never be alone in this fight, we are all committed because we are

all involved.” Senegal, Mauritania and Guinea are also observing the mourning.

Two militant Islamist groups have said they carried out the attack.

Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and its affiliate, al-Murabitoun, said they were responsible. A spokesman told al-Jazeera two Malian gunmen had carried out the attack. However, the Macina Liberation Front, which has been blamed for attacks in southern Mali, also claimed responsibility.

Security remains tight around

major hotels in Bamako.

Gunmen entered the hotel on Friday morning, shooting and driving their vehicle through a security barrier, one eyewitness said.

Most of the hotel guests and staff were freed hours later when Malian special forces, French special forces and off-duty US servicemen stormed the hotel to end the siege.

Six Malians, a similar number of Russians, three Chinese, Two Belgians and a US national were killed in the attack.

Experts criticise WHO for slow Ebola response A panel of global health experts has strongly criticised the World Health Organisation, saying it mishandled the response to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa.

The panel, convened by Harvard Global Health Institute and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, called for extensive reform in the way infectious diseases are managed

around the world, but singled out the WHO in particular for criticism.

“The most egregious failure was

by WHO in the delay in sounding the alarm,” said Ashish K. Jha, Director of the Harvard Global Health Institute. “People at WHO were aware that there was an Ebola outbreak that was getting out of control by spring...and yet, it took until August to declare a public

health emergency. The cost of the delay was enormous,” Jha said.

CNN has reached out to the WHO for comment and is awaiting response. But the organisation told the wall Street Journal, “A number of its (the panel’s) recommendations cover work that is already being done -- including steps set in place by WHO in early 2015. It is gratifying to see that there

is consensus of thought on many of these key issues, but some will need further review and discussion.” The Ebola outbreak created “immense human suffering, fear and chaos, largely unchecked by high-level political leadership or reliable and rapid institutional responses,” the panel said in a poignantly worded report published in the renowned medical journal, “The Lancet.”

NEWS 5

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

Morning newspaper summaries Uhuru pleaded with CS Pope Francis; My Why Cabinet reshuffle Delayed laws saves Waiguru to stay: President message to Kenya: Pope will follow Waiguru exit: consumers higher Uhuru Kenyatta spent hours pleading with Francis has sent a goodwill message to The resignation of Anne Waiguru as water and juice prices: Anne Waiguru not to quit as Minister for Kenyans, just three days ahead of his Devolution Cabinet Secretary has raised Devolution and Planning. Multiple State House sources told the Star yesterday that Waiguru went to see the President on Friday afternoon and remained in a meeting with the head of state for several hours. “The President was not aware that Waiguru was coming to tender her resignation, and was shocked and very disappointed,” a source said.

arrival in the country, as an opinion poll indicated that there was widespread enthusiasm for his visit. Kenya will be the first stop in Africa when the Pope comes calling this week and he has expressed optimism that his visit will bring hope to man. “Dear friends,” he said. “I send a word of greeting and friendship to you and your families.” He said he will be visiting as a minister of the gospel.

speculation that major changes in the Cabinet are looming. This is because of a constitutional provision stipulating that the Cabinet consists of the President, Deputy President, Attorney General, not fewer than 14 and not more than 22 Cabinet secretaries. Currently, there are only 13 Cabinet secretaries left in office.

Cabinet Secretary to protect her children from social media, according to her staff.

Publication of her family’s photos on social media platforms was the last straw that led her to ask the President to relieve her of her duties as the CS for Devolution and Planning, according to ministry staff who asked not to be named because they are not authorised to speak on her behalf.

want Pope Francis to use his visit to advise the government on governance and social justice. According to a poll released by Infotrak yesterday, over 75 percent of Kenyans, both Catholics and non-Catholics, want the Pope to use his three-day visit to address peaceful coexistence, corruption and accountability among Kenyan leaders.

Ruto: ICC bureau to Social media pressure Poll: Kenyans want decide fate: Deputy President ‘led Waiguru to quit top Pope to advise State William Ruto is keeping his fingers on graft: A majority of Kenyans crossed as the Assembly of States Parties job’: Ms Anne Waiguru resigned as Bureau makes a critical decision regarding his crimes against humanity charges at the ICC. However, ahead of the big decision, there are already concerns about why Attorney General Githu Muigai did not travel to The Hague – as the State sponsored several politicians to the weeklong ASP meeting. Kenya is pushing for the withdrawal of recanted testimony against Ruto.

Kenyan consumers have been spared higher prices of beers, juices, kerosene, water and second-hand cars after Parliament delayed the enforcement of a new law that empowers the taxman to charge new taxes Treasury CS Henry Rotich introduced in his June budget.

The Exercise Duty Bill, which increased levies on the items, was to take effect two weeks ago.

Mastermind’s with KRA production:

wars stalls

Cigarette manufacture Masterminds Tobacco has temporarily stopped producing for the domestic market pending the resolution of its long-running excise tax licence row with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). Mastermind is among score of companies that failed to secure the KRA’s excise tax licence and was shut down last week.

Kenyatta calls for unity Debate on ICC rule Shock, grief as groom Thousands face SIM ahead of Pope’s arrival: enters critical stage: set himself a blaze just de-activation: Thousands of President Kenyatta yesterday called on Kenya’s effort to block the application of and Airtel subscribers have hours to his wedding: Safaricom Kenyans to reinforce their unity as the a controversial rule in the case against less than a month to register their country prepares to host Pope Francis this week. The President said Kenyans should reconcile with one another and work for peace in the country as well as the whole of Africa. “Kenya is a country that has strong faith and it is God who guides as,” said the President, speaking at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, in Karen, Nairobi.

William Ruto enters a crucial stage today at the Assembly of State Parties meeting in The Hague. Yesterday, National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale said the motion seeking to reverse the retroactive use of Rule 68 had been sent for redrafting by the ASP bureau and will today be discussed before being taken to the plenary of the meeting tomorrow.

There were just hours to go before the solemnising of his marriage to a woman he had been living with for six years when the worst happened. Bernard Chemweno, a 33-year-old secondary school teacher at Maraba Secondary School in Nandi County, set himself ablaze. The nasty turn of events has left his spouse, Mercy Chebichii, in shock and grief.

SIM cards afresh or face de-activation after it emerged that the details they used to register their mobile numbers do not match those at the Integrated Population Registration System (IPS).

Safaricom and Airtel have in the past two weeks asked their customers to visit the firms’ shops with their original ID and a copy to register again.

Top stories from X News global partners Paris suspect Salah Attacks Show Evolution Terror in Mali; How Brussels face third day Abdeslam still on the run in ISIS Targets, Officials to respond to the new of lockdown: The city of will endure a third day under after evading Belgian Say: The recent attacks in Paris and tactics of terrorism: A Brussels a security lockdown today, after the and the downing of a Russian week after the carnage in Paris, terrorists police raids: Suspected Paris Beirut prime minister said that the risk of a airliner in Egypt were the first results of a struck again, this time in an attack on attacker Salah Abdelslam is still on the run after he evaded a series of late-night police raids in Belgium and the country headed into a third day of lockdown. Officials said they arrested at least 16 suspects in 19 raids late on Sunday night aimed at rolling up a terrorist network which authorities believe is planning an attack similar to the one which left 130 people dead in Paris 10 days ago. No weapons or explosives were found during the raids, and the failure to capture Abdeslam will further undermine wavering confidence in the competence of Belgium’s counterterrorist agencies. www.theguardian.com

centrally planned terrorism campaign by a wing of the IS leadership that oversees “external” targets, according to American and European intelligence officials.

Carrying out attacks far from the Islamic State’s base in Iraq and Syria represents an evolution of the group’s previous model of exhorting followers to take up arms wherever they live, but without significant help from the group. And it upends the view held by the US and its allies of the Islamic State as a regional threat, with a new assessment that the group poses a whole new set of risks. www.nytimes.com

a hotel in Bamako, the capital of Mali.

There were no immediate indications that attacks in Mali and France were directly linked, but both incidents underscore the spread of a deadly style of attack that came to prominence in a jihadist assault on Mumbai seven years ago. The first characteristic of this form of terrorism is that the main weapon used is guns, rather than bombs. This is partly because assault weapons are relatively easy to obtain. East Africa is awash with guns that have come down from Somalia. www.economist.com

Paris-style attack remained “serious and imminent”. Charles Michel said authorities had credible intelligence that several jihadis were planning an assault in the city, possibly using guns and explosives in simultaneous attacks.

He announced the closure of schools and the metro system. “What we fear is an attack similar to what happened in Paris, with multiple individuals,” said Mr Michel, noting that authorities were “particularly attentive” to the public transport system.

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xnews | MONday, NOVEMBER 23, 2015 | www.x254.co

BUSINESS

CBK EXCHANGE RATES

(AS OF 20/11/2015)

1 US DOLLAR 1 UK POUND 1 EURO 1 S.A RAND 1 KSH/USH 1 KSH/TSH

MEAN 102.1859 155.4642 108.9906 7.1982 32.8128 21.2956

BUY SELL 102.0878 102.2841 155.2906 155.6378 108.8722 109.1089 7.1900 7.2064 33.7324 32.8933 21.2347 21.3564

Electricity consumers set for slight bill reprieve driven by fuel price cut Electricity bills are set to fall slightly this month following a reduction of the variable components of the bills, slight strengthening of the shilling against the dollar and a decline in fuel prices, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has said.

ERC subjected this month’s bills to Sh2.51 and Sh1.06 per unit of electricity for fuel cost charge and forex adjustment respectively.

“Notice is given that all prices for electrical energy will be liable to a fuel cost charge of plus 251 cents per kWh and a foreign exchange fluctuation adjustment of plus 106 cents per kWh for all meter readings taken in November,” ERC said in a gazette notice published on Friday.

Earlier this month, ERC reduced fuel prices during this month’s fuel preview where the price of diesel was reduced by Sh2.77 to Sh79.66 per litre in Nairobi. The prices of super petrol and kerosene also went down by Sh2.83 and Sh1.23 per litre respectively.

The two components are monthly revised to recover money spent by generating companies to purchase diesel to run thermal machines and importation of equipment for production of power. The energy regulator also noted that despite increased investment in geothermal generation, the country is still reliant on diesel-driven generators to curb

existing power deficits, a factor that still sours the bills.

Data from the ERC indicates that 101 million units of thermal electricity were consumed last month, accounting for 12 per cent of the country’s total electricity consumption during the period. High energy costs have in the past been linked to inflation as manufacturers adjust prices of goods to absorb high charges of operation.

These developments come just as the Germanbacked GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit)Renewable Energy Project Development Programme (PDP) moves to hold a four-day training programme to equip Kenyan renewable energy technicians, financial institutions and the public sector with in-depth knowledge to efficiently respond to the rising demand for connectivity.

The event, dubbed the 2nd German Solar Training Week, is being held in close cooperation with the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Kenya (AHK) in Nairobi from November 23 to November 26.

It will cover technical and economic aspects of grid connected photovoltaic (PV) systems, professional PV off-grid systems and PVdiesel hybrid systems.

Earlier this month, ERC reduced fuel prices during this period’s fuel review where the price of diesel was reduced by Sh2.77 to Sh79.66 per litre in Nairobi.

BuSINESS DIARY Lamudi’s growth as Internet reach hits 70 pc

Investors’ Forum with EveryLayer at iHub The iHub will on Saturday, November 28, host the November Entrepreneurs Forum from 10:00 am to 12:00pm.

The event will serve as a platform for EveryLayer CEO and co-founder, Mark Summer and Chief Marketing Officer and cofounder, Kristin Peterson to

share some ideas on how to deliver radically lower cost Internet to consumers in Kenya. iHub’s monthly entrepreneurs forums are hosted by Prof Bitange Ndemo, former Information and Communication Permanent Secretary.

Kenya’s property portal, Lamudi has announced that the online real estate market is growing at an unprecedented rate as internet penetration nears 70 per cent.

The group made the announcement as it marked its second anniversary at a celebratory event at PrideInn Hotel, in Westlands, Nairobi.

The event was attended by key stakeholders in the Kenyan real estate market where Lamudi shared some of its key insights and achievements of 2015, as well as the outlook for the company for 2016.

For a second year in a row, Lamudi has awarded other key players in the industry with various honours.

Companies recognised for their outstanding achievement include: Pam Golding Properties, which scooped the Best Large Estate Agency 2015 award and Royal Properties Market, which received the Best Customer Service 2015 award, among other firms.

“Over the past two years, Lamudi has grown to offer much more than just property listings. We also share knowledge, offer market insights and analyze key trends as they occur,” said Dan Karua, Managing Director of Lamudi Kenya.

“We have continually evolved and developed our business to cater to Kenyan house-hunters. With the Internet penetration in Kenya standing

Kenya’s life insurance sector has the potential to mobilise large domestic savings for long term local investment but is too expensive for common consumers, a new report by the Overseas Development Institute and Prudential Life.

The report rates Kenya as the most developed among lower middle-income economies in sub-Saharan Africa in life insurance with long-term underwriting assets in Kenya accounting for 8.8 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) compared to 3.5 per cent for an average

lower-middle-income country.

According to the report, this offers an opportunity to create high and low skill employment especially with Kenya’s vibrant agent distribution, complimented by mobile services.

“The success of Mobile Money and agent distribution in the country could be used to increase penetration of Life Insurance in the country that could be used for development” said Research Analyst at Oversees Development Institute Judith Tyson. Tyson explains that savings from households provide

at 67 per cent, we need to reach out to all property seekers, including those who do not have regular web access.”

With the housing deficit standing at around 90 per cent, the demand for property is at an all time high in Kenya.

Lamudi’s onsite search data reveals that the demand for property to rent stands at 66 per cent compared to 34 per cent for buying. Furthermore, the data shows that renters are more likely to look for apartments, with 81 per cent of renters searching for property type. On the other hand, houses are more preferable as a purchase option, with 54 per cent of buyers seeking stand-alone homes.

15th edition of Young Life insurance too expensive for ‘commoners’ Entrepreneurs Corner The 15th edition of the Young Entrepreneurs Corner will be held at the Tin Tin Restaurant in Nairobi on Thursday November 26, 2015 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Young Entrepreneurs Corner is a monthly networking event organised by Ideas Spot in partnership with Afrom Media for aspiring young entrepreneurs, young

business owners, business mentors, investors, financiers and business professionals.

The affair aims to promote and encourage youth enterprises and entrepreneurship in Kenya. The evening event is an informal affair where participants meet peers and friends, build contacts, share success stories and strike business partnerships.

a stable, low cost and low risk source of financing compared to international private capital flows.

“However, savings mobilisation is constrained; sub-Saharan Africa savings rates remain low with a median savings rate for Africa of 10.2 per cent of GDP, the lowest for any region globally. The main important constrains including low income and financial access to formal financial services,” the report states. It says supportive policy is needed to achieve these goals that include optimising market structure

BUSINESS 7

Diamond Trust Bank posts Sh6b profit MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

Diamond Trust Bank Kenya Ltd has posted a pre-tax profit of Sh6.91 billion for the months ended September 30, up from Sh6.24 billion last year.

The group also posted a total interest income of Sh18.39 billion versus Sh15.14 billion during the same period last year.

Diamond trust posted a profit after tax of Sh4.76 billion up from

therise Athi River Mining Athi Riving Mining Limited (ARM) was the week’s top gainer after it announced it plans to raise $90 milion in a medium term note with a $15 million green shoe option by way of a private placement. Proceeds of the issue will be mainly be used in retirement of short-term liabilities and match long-term assets with long-term liabilities.

The share price was up 14.69 per cent to Sh41.00 from the previous week’s Sh35.75. ARM posted a Sh469 million loss in the third quarter of 2015 largely due to a rise in financing costs which went up to Sh 1.1 billion from Sh330 million in 2014.Restructuring of their debt is expected to ease pressure on interest expenses. Year to date, ARM shares have come under pressure and have shed 52.3 per cent of their value due to operating a net loss.

thefall East Africa Portland Cement Company East Africa Portland Cement Company (EAPCC) took this week’s position of top losing stock following a 12.07 per cent slide in its share price over the course of the week’s trading.

EAPCC shares ended the week at a price of Sh38.25 from their previous closing price of Sh43.50.

EAPCC is expected publish its results for the full year ended June which were delayed by a month following a significant jump in the value of its property assets after a revaluation. Year-to-date EAPCC has shed 34.1 per cent of its value.

Analysis by Amana Capital info@amanacapital.co.ke

Sh3.19 billion a year ago. The announcement follows recent moves by profit-making lenders to lower their interest rates, which had reached unprecedented highs.

However, Diamond Trust has not announced whether it will follow suit.

Equity bank last week announced the withdrawal of a month notice to increase interest rates on loans.

Speaking during a media briefing, Equity Group Chief Executive Dr James Mwangi said their customers will maintain their old interest rates on loans. Dr Mwangi had predicted that the high interest rates regime would be short lived and would be over by the first quarter of 2016.

KCB followed suit days later when KCB Group said that it would not increase its interest rates which

were scheduled to come into effect early December 2015.The bank cited favourable market conditions as the reason for its decision, among other factors.

Barclays Bank of Kenya also announced a profit after tax of Sh6.4 billion for the nine month period ended 30 September 2015.

The growth was driven by a 10 per cent Year on Year increase on net

customer assets with growth mainly coming from the Retail and SME bank segments. Many lenders are yet to reduce their lending rates despite a warning from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), stating that Kenya’s government needs to consider budget cuts to counter the high interest and exchange rates that are hurting consumers, businesses and the economy.

8

BUSINESS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

Report predicts ‘permanent recession’ in continent A report filed by the Institute for Public Policy Research has indicated that the recession in Europe could be a permanent situation. The IPPR’s latest report pointed to the high level of unemployment and underemployment across the continent and said the chances of these becoming entrenched is “deeply alarming”.The worst effects of the European recession risk becoming permanent in places, according to a left-leaning think tank.

It said there was 10 per cent unemployment and a 5 per cent underemployment rate in Europe.

The UK’s main problem was low productivity, the IPPR said.The official unemployment rate for the 28 countries in the EU stood at 9.3 per cent in September, down from 9.4 per cent the previous month.

The rate in the 19 countries that use the euro stood at 10.8 per cent, down from 10.9 per cent in August.

The IPPR said unemployed workers risked being left behind as globalisation and technological progress lead to changes in the skills that employers require.

The report suggested that European countries look to Germany as a good example of maintaining workplace skills and high productivity rates.

KRA in taxpayer recruitment drive after scooping award Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced plans for a taxpayer recruitment programme after receiving a mark of endorsement from the umbrella marketing professionals’ society.

The Authority was recognised by the Marketing Society of Kenya (MSK) for its efforts to transform its domestic tax service provision capacity through the iTax online platform during a Gala event,

held at the Carnivore Grounds in Nairobi.

In line with the government’s efforts to automate its services, KRA is in the process of modernising and automating its operations. This is expected to simplify revenue collection as well as enhance service delivery.

As part of the organisational transformation agenda, underpinned in the recently-

unveiled KRA 6th Corporate Plan, the Authority has formulated robust taxpayer service delivery strategies, geared at broadening the tax base.

The corporate plan, now adopted by the Authority, seeks to facilitate the collection of more than Sh5.2 trillion by 2018 to enable the government plug its revenue deficit.

The programme will also focus on a recruitment programme to

KRA MSK Award winners. The Authority was recognised by the Marketing Society of Kenya (MSK) for its efforts to transform its domestic tax service provision capacity through the iTax online platform.

boost the active tax payer base to 4 million active taxpayers within the next 3 years.

Meanwhile, the Authority’s marketing communication campaign, developed by Ogilvy Africa, picked the MSK awards in five categories and went on to claim the overall award.

Speaking moments after receiving the MSK Award, KRA Deputy Director of Marketing, Grace Wandera, said KRA is commitment to transforming tax payment solutions through technology.

She said the Authority is heavily banking on ICT to seal existing revenue collection loopholes.

The new iTax platform by KRA is an online secure application system that was first piloted two years ago and commissioned mid last year to provide a fully-integrated and automated solution for administration of domestic taxes.

From a low of 5,000 users in January 2013, KRA, has rapidly enrolled more than 2 million iTax platform users this year.

“The MSK Award, is dedicated to all domestic Taxpayers, who have embraced the iTax solution as part of the Authority’s effort to transform its customer service delivery capacity and experience,” said Wandera.

Terror attacks scaring away Nakumatt’s Yako investors, warns Siemens boss takeover to push foray in region

The Paris terrorist attacks and political influx in Europe are making companies more reluctant to invest, Siemens chief executive has warned. ‘’Investment is about believing the future and when events like that happen, people will wait,’’ Joe Kaeser told the Financial Times.

Siemens is Europe’s leading industrial conglomerate with 350,000 employees.

Keaser comments were also echoed

by Italy’s Finance minister Pier Carlo Padoan who said the 13 November attacks, which claimed 130 lives, has threatened the Eurozone’s economic recovery.

“The biggest economic damage from these attacks is on confidence and confidence is a crucial element in this phase,” said Padoan.

“It is indispensable to help countries exit the crisis. Any elements that undermine confidence are very dangerous,” he added.

Although Eurozone’s economic sentiment had rose slightly to 105.9 per cent in October compared to the previous month, the impact of the terrorist attacks in Paris and the heightened security in Brussels this weekend could cut the November figure during its release by the European Commission next week.

Economic growth in the eurozone slowed to 0.3 per cent for the three months to September, official figures released earlier this month showed.

That was lower than expected, and worse than the 0.4 per cent expansion recorded for the previous quarter.

Siemens said earlier this month that it expected moderate revenue growth despite continuing complexity in the geopolitical environment in the 2016

financial year.

Eurozone Finance ministers will go ahead with an extraordinary meeting in Brussels on Monday afternoon despite an ongoing high security alert in the Belgian capital.

The ministers will review national budgets, the impact of the refugee crisis on public finances and a bailout payment to Greece.

Regional retailer, Nakumatt Holdings, has closed a business acquisition deal, setting the stage for its enhanced expansion in Western Kenya.

In the deal, announced at the weekend, Nakumatt has acquired Yako Supermarkets Ltd assets in Kakamega, Bungoma and Busia at an undisclosed financial consideration.

The acquisition, following the recent regulatory approval by the Competition Authority of Kenya, will allow Nakumatt to make a fresh entry into Busia and Bungoma towns, while counting its second store in Kakamega town.

According to Nakumatt Holdings Regional Operations and Strategy Director, Mr. Thiagarajan Ramamurthy, the retailer has already embarked on the refurbishment of the three stores to bring them up to par with the its brand standards.

The new stores, to be reopened early next month, under the

branch names; Nakumatt Bungoma, Nakumatt Busia and Nakumatt Mid-Point, in Kakamega, are expected to further enhance the retailer’s market presence in the Western Kenya.

“The acquisition of Yako Supermarket outlets is fundamentally aligned to our commitment to enhance our local and regional footprint,” said Ramamurthy.

“We have proceeded to temporarily close down the stores in Kakamega, Busia and Bungoma to facilitate their remodeling, staff training and in store branding,” he added.

Alongside the acquisition, Nakumatt, is now set to close its trading year (ending February 2015) on a 60 branch position, up from its current 55 branch status.

Plans, for the opening of new Nakumatt stores before the end of the trading year, in Kericho, Emali, Kampala and Kigali, are already in high gear.

fashion Parad e

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

ACCESS

10

new acT Evans Masinde is a traffic marshal but he is sure his real calling is music. He has released two songs so far and would like to claim the Luhya rap throne.

Get ready for

fActfiLe Age 23 Years.

Favorite Artiste: Wyre.

Quote: Never Give Up.

original

LUHYA RAP

W

ho is Fastbon?

Hehehe, I am the first born in my family and the first Luhya rap artiste. Apart from the two firsts I am God fearing and down to earth.

What inspired you to get into rap?

I was singing since I was in primary school. After completing high school I decided to get professional.

What is your genre of choice?

I like Luhya rap. I consider Western Kenya to be my domain. However, I am based in Nairobi. My first song is titled Form One Week One. I also have another cong called Bedroom Bully.

Did you lift the second song from the version we know?

A little. It has the same beats but different vocals and words but the same idea. It was received nicely in Luhya land.

Is music your full time hustle?

No. I work with the National Transport and Safety Board.

I am a traffic

marshal along Mombasa road.

What’s your view of the music industry?

There is potential for growth. The quality of production is also good compared to five years ago and there is hope of hitting the international standards.

What are your future plans?

I wish to push Luhya rap to a different level.

It’s a unique culture and it needs to be heard internationally.

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THE DESIGN AND GLOBAL AFFAIRS MAGAZINE OF THE FUTURE

10

ACCESS

MONDAY, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 26th NOVEMBER 23, 2015 2014

FASHIONparade

@The 2015 AMAs

HOT AND HEAVY…

MeGhAn TrAinor: Black works for any size.

ennifer Lopez was hosting one of the biggest annual entertainment events, the American JMusic Awards, last night in California.

As expected, only the best of the best were in attendance and they were all gussied up for the glam occasion. This year, flowing gowns, see through and lace seems to have been the official dress code and most of the stars cam in hot and heavy to impress on the red carpet.

CArrie unDerwooD: Silver and gold were her trademarks.

CiArA: She covered up just enough.

KAT GrAhAM: She teased white with all colors of the rainbow.

DeMi lovATo: Fashion meets old school.

GiuliAnA rAnCiC: She looked as stylish as ever.

lyriclab MI CASA FT SAUTI SOL

AVRIL FT AY

JOH MAKINI FT AKA DON BOTHER

TULALE FOFOFO

ATulale fofofo

nother great hit is out. is a sure big party record. MI CASA is a South African house band trio its members J, Dr Duda and Mo –t. When two award winning bands come together we all know what to expect! The song has some pretty fast beats that you will surely enjoy dancing to.

NO STRESS

J

oh Makini is on a musical fire! This latest offering, he teams up with South Africa’s finest rapper AKA for the record, Don’t bother. Makini raps in Swahili with killer punchlines making his records stand out. This one is a hit.

K

enyan songstress Avril and Tanzanian musician AY have produced yet another collabo after Leo dubbed No Stress. It is a good track and the video is catchy too. Rumors have had it for some time that Avril is about to get hitched to her tycoon boyfriend, maybe that is why she has no stress!

11

ACCESS

MONDAY, NOVEMVER 23 2015

review of top weekend gigs

Jalang’o, DJ Joe Mfalme and Nonini at the event.

Katika crew are 2015 dance festival champions The first ever Katika dance festival staged at the Arboretum grounds yesterday showcased a rare dance marathon dubbed ‘dance-athon’ that lasted over ten hours, and with the last dance crew standing clinching the 2015 Katika dance festival championship. Hosted by comedian and self-proclaimed king of Katumbo dance Jalango, the dance marathon was an ultimate show of resilience, perseverance and talent on the floor.

With teams each consisting of four dancers taking to the stage early morning, an elimination ensued with teams tiring and bowing out of the competition. Referees from internationally recognized Sarakasi dancers officiated the battle disqualifying one team after another on a set of criteria.

The dance group that was deemed by the referees to have exhausted their dance moves, their coordination was no longer uniform and showing fatigue were immediately eliminated.

The battle was fierce with the final three teams unwilling to voluntarily bow out. Top DJs Bash, Joe Mfalme and the ever blazing Kris Darling graced the decks with great music keeping both the contestants and the fans on their feet. In the end, only two teams were left prompting the referees to give a final verdict based on their professional judgement. A unanimous decision was finally made handing the Katika dance crew victory walking away with the grand prize of Sh 50,000 plus a host of other goodies from the sponsors.

the BIGKNOT

CENTRESTAGE

SautI Sol will live and die in Africa

HOT topics

wario

KoT demand Wario’s arrest Sports, Culture and Arts CS Hassan Wario is not having a great Monday.

The CS woke up trending on twitter with #ArrestWario for the better part of the morning. Wario is alleged to have “eaten” 17 Million shillings that was part of Harambee Stars’s transport to Cape Verde!

Did Charlie Sheen infect 700 people with HIv?

willis chimano

brian baraza

B

delvin mudigi

eloved all boy band Sauti Sol released their third 15 track Live and Die in Afrika album last Friday at an exclusive listening party in Spring Valley.

To live through their musical journey listening, the band booked the humongous Springet complex turning it into a musical Titanic.

With sufficient space, each of the fifteen tracks was played in a different room. Willis Austin Chimano, Bein Baraza, Delvin Mudigi and Polycarp Otieno, mingled with fans freely as the rooms played their lyrics. The album includes Sauti Sol mega hits, Sura Yako, Shake Yo Bam Bam and Isabella had earlier on caused a storm of social media given that the cover picture mimics African Kings. Live and Die in Afrika is Sauti Sol’s first selfproduced album, with the expert co-production of renowned

Kenyan producers like Kagwe Mungai, Cedric Kadenyi and Ulopa Ngoma.

Copies of the new album were given out for free over the internet as a small token of appreciation to their fans. Compact disc copies will be available at selected outlets while limited editions of leather covered albums will be available on order. And to sum it all up wooden covered casing with personalized engraving will be sent out to a select few.

The cover song live and die in Africa has already received over 20,000 views on U- Tube.

Charlie Sheen, might be sued by over 700 ex-lovers. The Two and a Half Men star recently confessed to have known he had HIV for four years sending Hollywood into hysterical distress Charlies is said to have slept with over 500 sex workers and call girls and more than two dozen men and transgenders. They are all suing apparently.

Tina Kagia has nanny drama

Classic 105’s Mid-Morning presenter Tina Kagia was spewing flames on her social media page over her house help.

Tina cautioned everyone not to hire her house help from Mumias because allegedly she is a cold blood murderer.

The house help is said to have threatened Tina’s son saying’ “Siku moja mamayako atakupata kwa kiti kama umefkungiliwa na hausongi kwa sababu umedie.” Tina has since fired the nanny and circulated her pictures. She cautioned working mothers to never take such threats casually.

polycarp otieno tina kagia

True love waits: Joseph weds Beatrice

B

eatrice Wangari Mwangi and Joseph Karani Kabochi met seven years ago when they were both fresh men in college. Theirs is a romance that stood both the test of time and obstacles in an urban-based campus.

The two first started dating as classmates in the first semester of campus before Joseph decided to switch courses, which was a good thing for their relationship because the awkwardness of dating a classmate was getting to them.

As Beatrice tells X Access, they dated for the better four year period in campus only breaking up for about three months over reasons they both laugh off as “petty”. “I’m glad we didn’t let the small issues here and there tear us apart because we wouldn’t be here right now,” says Joseph holding Beatrice’s hand firmly.

So how did the two eventually end up hand in hand, Beatrice dressed in a pearl layered white gown with silver embellishments, matching silver strap wedges, red bouquet in hand, and Joseph

in a navy blue suit with a red bow tie to match Beatrice’ bouquet?

“By the time we were completing our studies in campus, we both knew we wanted to be together for the rest of our lives but we couldn’t jump into marriage before establishing a solid future for ourselves, career wise that is. We therefore continued dating while seeking employment. Immediately I knew I was in a position to start a family, I proposed, she said yes, and this is it!” exclaims a jubilated Joseph.

“That was in 2014. I did most of the planning including picking the colors which were navy blue for the men and baby blue and red for the girls,” adds Beatrice.

The couple was wedded at Nairobi West Central Cathedral and they held their reception at Lang’ata Primary School after a colorful photo session at the Blixen in Karen. After the wedding festivities, the newly weds jetted off for their two week honeymoon in Dubai.

Congratulations to Beatrice and Joseph.

12

CLASSIFIED MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

Farm Concern International (FCI) is an Africa-wide Market and Trade Development Organization focused on commercialization of smallholder farmers and agro-pastoral communities. FCI seeks to recruit a Human Resource Manager.

Job Summary Together with other departmental staff, responsible for development, implementation and review of HR Strategies, Policies and Procedures for the Organization so as to achieve efficiency and optimal application of the human resource, He/she will implement innovative strategies for timely acquisition of talent to support service delivery Job Requirements 1. Must possess a first Degree in Human Resources/Business Related from a recognized University and Professional qualification in Human Resources. An advanced degree is an added advantage.

2. Over 7 years’ experience of which 3 should be in Senior Management position in main stream HRM in a reputable establishment is expected.

3. Proficiency in Human Resource Management Information Systems as well as experience in Project Based Organizations/Development Agencies will be a definite advantage 4. Exposure to Global HR management trends and systems is an added advantage 5. Strong planning & organizing skills, Value based lifestyle with excellent documentation capacity is absolutely requisite Applications should be sent to hr@farmconcern.org by 19th August 2015.

Corporate Services Division lAfrica Office Farm Concern International Tel: +254-20-262 6017 l +254-20-262 6018 Mobile: +254725 495819 KAlRO Campus, Waiyaki Way l P.O Box 15185-00100, Nairobi, Kenya. corporateservices@farmconcern.org www.farmconcern.org

●Burundi●DRC●Ethiopia●Ghana●Kenya●Sudan●Tanzania● ●Malawi● Mozambique ●Rwanda●Uganda● Zambia● cid:image002.jpg@01D0867C.D69107C0

House Of Glamour

l Asset Financing Loans

The loan is meant to assist U & I existing clients to acquire business assets like motorbikes,Laundry Machines e.t.c

We offer products that promote health and economy at very affordable prices, our product portfolio includes; i Air fryers, double pans and pressure cookers i Cookware sets i Cutlery i Storage jars i Food containers for the fridge i Utensil sets i Spice sets i Cups and Plates i Other kitchen accesories

i i i i i i i i i

FEATURES

Duvets and duvet covers sets Pillows Bedsheet sets Towels Toilet and bathroom accessories Spa products Massage oils Essential oils Body scrubs and masks

Loan Balance 5,000 - 100,000 Loan Term Maximum 1 Year Repayment frequency: Weekly/Bi-Weekly/ Monthly

Minimum Requirements 1. Bank statement for the last six months 2. U&I Microfinance Bank Account 3. Proforma invoice from the dealer l Imarisha Loan Targets medium entrepreneurs to assist them in accessing working capital or capital expenditure for their business 1st Loan Kshs.150,000 Repayment period maximum 24 months.

T-Mall 3rd Floor, Langata Road Nairobi Kenya Email: info@houseofglamour.co.ke Web: www.houseofglamour.co.ke FB: www.facebook.com/hseofgla, Twitter: @hogsenseCell +254-722-522119/0724950423

DAILYHOROSCOPES CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan19 Movies that involve a lot of special effects might be especially appealing to you now. You may decide to learn more about how such effects are produced. You might also want to try your hand at computer graphics. The far reaches of your imagination might surprise you. Have fun with this.

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 Life is an adventure. At least, that’s the attitude you take today. Flush with past success and basking in the affection of friends, you’re feeling especially confident and enthusiastic. You’ll consider if not adopt any possible option for your future, even if it involves taking off for an exotic land!

Contacts:1st Floor Asili Complex, RiverRoad Tel 020 2367288 Cell 0713 112 791 Email: info@uni-microfinance.co.ke

WEATHERFORECAST Monday 23/11/2015

sunny

24

24ºC 65%

TUEday 24/11/2015

More sun than clouds

24 6:14 am 6:25pm

24ºC 64%

6:14am 6:25pm

Wednesday

24

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

PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 A new unity and purpose could create a more positive atmosphere regarding your career.

Recognition and an increased income are just over the horizon. Don’t be surprised if changes lie in store. You could end up in an entirely different profession!

Sudoku

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 19 You and those around you tend to see only positive trends for the future - success with few obstacles. You need to hang onto that attitude because there are always obstacles. You might forge a new support group with some of these upbeat individuals. Make the most of it!

TAURUS Apr 20 - May 20 Today you might be in the right mood to organize. High-tech equipment may be of help in this project, and so could the help of friends. An optimistic, enthusiastic attitude will sustain you through any tasks. You will be more than happy with what you’ve accomplished by day’s end. Treat yourself.

GEMINI May 21 - Jun 21 You could feel especially amorous today. If you’re romantically involved, you could have an overwhelming urge for an intimate dinner with your significant other. If you’re uninvolved, expect that status to change shortly. A new person could cross your path and sweep you off your feet.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 21 Necessary cleaning or repairs in the home could inspire you to go a bit further and do some redecorating. Get rid of old furniture or other castoffs to make room for new objects that make your home look more attractive. Friends and your special someone could volunteer to help you.

LEO Jul 23- Aug 22 Important new information could come your way, perhaps through classes, books, or conversations with friends. This might open new personal and professional doors for you. You could learn new skills with technology, enhance your artistic ability, or both.

VIRGO Aug 23-Sep 21 New learning and improved communication with friends and family add greatly to your sense of self-esteem. A task into which you’ve put some effort over the past several weeks has been completed successfully. You’re now basking in the glow of others’ admiration.

LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 An improvement in your relations with a love partner or close friend has you feeling optimistic about the future and even more so about the present. Your sense of self-worth is strong and you’re formulating positive ideas about your life in the months ahead. Don’t make any definite plans now.

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 Your gifts will be appreciated, but take care that you don’t wipe out all you’ve gained. Romantic ideals could permeate your consciousness, and you’ll be thinking wonderful thoughts about a passionate encounter with your love partner. Go for it.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 21 A romantic involvement may follow or not, but the high you get from meeting a new person will make you feel better about yourself and life. A sense of adventure may have you longing to take a trip to a distant land. If you’ve wanted to plan a vacation, do it today.

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13

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

CROSSWORD Across 1. Judith of “Down Home” 5. Baker’s quantity 10. Egg, classically 14. Greeting from Giuseppe 15. Writer Zola 16. ____ Le Pew 17. “Not only that...”

18. ___ league baseball 20. Neighbor of Belg.

21. Sphere starter 22. “____ be true!” (cry of disbelief) 23. Fabulous, to a theater critic 25. 90 degrees from vert.

26. Fade away 28. Grave warning 33. Middle pt.

34. Roadside stopover 36. Arouse interest 37. Ooh or tra follower 39. Give up 41. Asleep, as a foot 42. Gershwin’s “Of Thee ____” 44. Caribbean fruit 46. Bond-girl Maryam d’___ 47. “Hot for Teacher” band 49. Regulations for nature lovers (abbr.)

51. Lightweight mammal 52. Dental films 53. Pear variety 57. ___ in Karen 58. “Eyes Wide ___” (1999 movie)

61. Happening 63. Hawaiian starch source 64. Xanadu name 65. Overplay onstage 66. Hence 67. Brontë’s Jane 68. 1995 Oliver Stone biopic 69. Film spool Down 1. Empowering motto 2. Abhorrent 3. Soviet section of a German capital, formerly 4. Chocolaty drink brand 5. Lacking 6. Merged gas company 7. Marshal ___, Yugoslavian hero 8. Nero’s 151 9. Early Greek poet 10. Oil acronym 11. Miles from Hollywood 12. ___ arms (very angry) 13. Convene 19. Purse part 24. “Fee, fi, fo ___” 25. Hägar’s comics wife 26. 654, in Ancient Rome 27. Take ___ sign 28. Print again 29. Vietnam Memorial architect Maya 30. Amount that doesn’t show favoritism 31. Rhythmic Cuban dance

32. Jets QB Tim 35. Hard ___ (rare) 38. Vietnam’s Le Duc ___ 40. Managed 43. Actress Eva 45. Here, in Hidalgo 48. Fashion’s Ralph 50. Starfish’s prey 52. Hobby knife brand 53. “Okey-___!”

54. Down with the flu, say 55. Va. neighbor 56. Father’s Day month 57. James ____ Polk 59. Craving 60. Awl, for one 62. Brit. record label

Thursday’s answers

YOURSAY Mali hotel attack reverses gains in fight against terror The terrorists chose carefully: There are always French, Russian and even a few American visitors to be found in the hotel restaurant, around the pool, in the health club or on the thin blackleather sofas of the glassfronted lobby, now shattered by gunfire.

With its marble floors, open atrium and lipstick-red lounge, the Radisson Blu Hotel served as a lifeline to the world, a gathering place where diplomats, contractors and others doing business in Mali could all be found.

The hotel, once a symbol of the international presence in a country trying to emerge from years of upheaval, is the site of a massacre in which terrorists killed 19 people, storming in at breakfast on Friday as terrified diners sprinted into an elevator

The brutal attacks in Paris this month were a strike against France’s joie de vivre. The siege of Kenya’s gleaming Westgate mall two years ago was an assault on that country’s rising prosperity, modernity and stability. The terrifying attack on the Radisson Blu here in Mali’s capital was a strike on this nation’s fragile efforts to restore peace after years of fighting.

But in all of these places, the same fundamental question applies: How does a democratic society protect itself from a few determined extremists who can upend an entire nation with a single devastating strike?

Even in Iraq and Afghanistan, where thousands of lives and billions of dollars have been spent trying to wrest those countries from chaos, extremist forces are

flourishing.

It is a lesson that Mali knows only too well.

Before the Islamic State, also known as ISIS or ISIL, swept across wide stretches of Syria and Iraq, establishing a selfproclaimed caliphate, black flags flew in Mali.

After a rebellion and military coup plunged the country into disarray, jihadists from across the Sahel charged through northern Mali.

They abducted girls and raped them, imposed their harsh version of Islam on the towns they took over, carried out summary executions and destroyed ancient Sufi shrines. They drove out tens of thousands of Malians from their homes, and ruled the northern half of the country for months in 2012 while the rest of the country could do little more than watch — NYT

Proposed death penalty for graft offenders timely The proposed death penalty for corruption and trade in narcotics is welcome as this will deter people from engaging in the vices. This proposal should also be included as one of the sentences for those individuals accused of poaching. The individuals found guilty should also have their property and money

attached by the government.

These practices are robbing Kenya of her revenue and her natural endowments.

However, the accused persons should be given a fair trial and an opportunity defend themselves before a court of law. We hope the law will also not be used by people in power to settle political scores case, but if property implemented,

it will curb some of these vices. M only worry is whether those prosing it are genuine. Coming from Jubilee leaders who have opposed a referendum push by the Opposition and governors, Kenyans should not have a lot of expectation, because this could be another fodder for politicians to flex their muscles.

— Anne, Uthiru

Kudos Stars for beating Cranes in Migingo derby After exiting the 2018 World Cup qualifying preliminaries, Kenya national team Harambee Stars did the unimaginable in the ongoing CECAFA senior challenge tournament in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

After Football Kenya Federation (FKF) bungled the team’s trip to Cape Verde that saw soccer lovers train

their guns on FKF boss Sam Nyamweya, no one expected Stars to beat Uganda, a team that just qualified to the World Cup group stages after thumping Togo 4-0 in aggregate. With little preparation and the Cape Verde defeat still hanging in their necks, Star rallied to beat Uganda cranes 2-0 in a match dubbed Migingo

derby. Praise goes to the players who despite poor organisation and very little motivation have continued to do their best. They have also shown the world that Kenya’s is a land of talents, our only undoing is sound management.

— Otieno Nyakrathia, South B

Is Kenya headed in the right direction?

Kenya’s biggest problem is that no one stands for or believe in truth anymore. Even leaders elected to represent the masses have perfected the art of sycophancy and lying for their political survival.

It is only in Kenya where an elected leader will take a stance on a particular issue in the morning and by evening, he or she has changed his stance, further confusing the masses.

One such typical example is the referendum debate, after campaigning against plebiscite push by the Opposition, Jubilee leaders latest referendum push is laughable and leaves voters

confused.

The church too has not helped the society, it no longer condemn evil, instead pray and bless evil. Money craze has hit even the clergy, with everyone after money and flatulence and not the country’s interest. Hope as we know it is reserved to one’s personal dreams and moderate ambitions. Kenyans have lost focus and must wake up and smell the coffee, fight in unison for justice and prosperity regardless of tribe, condemn evil and atrocities and correct and shame leaders who are misleading the country.

— Otieno H.D- Nairobi

MP should now lead stripping after Waiguru exit Women from Central region and Embu County, who threatened to strip in public if former Devolution and Planning Cabinet Secretary Anne Waiguru was booted out, we can now dare them to go ahead and do the unthinkable.

Kenyans want to see how the bold women led

by Ruiru MP Esther Kathogo will show their bums to protest the recent stepping aside of Waiguru.

It is saddening to see an elected MP inciting

the masses and trivialising war on corruption.

It is simply bad for an MP, a female one for that matter to threaten to strip in public over none issues, it paints a bad picture on women and project a bad example for our youth. If the Cabinet Secretary herself realised that her ministry had been adversely mentioned and that it would only be fair to step aside for investigations, why would others oppose?

Stupid loyalty I call it.

— Sherryl Mbogo, Embakasi East

Send your letters to news@x254.co | Letters will be edited for summary and clarity

14

SPORT MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015

SPORTS BRIEFS

Winner Patrick Mungai guides Spring Run (4) in a neck-to-neck finish at the Geoffrey Griffins Trophy win over Grand Slam (James Muhindi) at Ngong Race Course yesterday.

Djokovic beats Federer for fourth world title

Novak Djokovic capped a remarkable season with victory over Roger Federer to claim a record fourth straight ATP World Tour Finals title. The world number one broke serve three times to win 6-3 6-4 in 80 minutes at London’s O2 Arena. Djokovic also made amends for defeat by six-time champions, Federer in the group stage on Tuesday. “I am enjoying every moment on the court, I cherish every moment after dreaming of it as a kid,” he said. He ends the year with 11 titles including three Grand Slams, taking his total to 10 majors.

The 28-year-old has now won the season finale five times and surpasses Ivan Lendl’s 1987 achievement, when he won his third straight Tour Finals title in New York. “It is never fun on the not winning side, but it is better than not playing at all like last year. This week was great, there were some crazy points tonight, but like plenty of times this year Novak deserved it,” he said.

McIlroy finishes season top after Dubai victory Rory McIlroy won the World Tour Championship in Dubai to finish the season as Europe’s number one golfer. The Northern Irish former world number one shot a six-under-par final round of 66 to finish on 21 under, one clear of England’s Andy Sullivan. Victory means 26-yearold McIlroy retains his Race to Dubai title, the third time he has won it in four years. England’s Danny Willett finished tied for fourth in Dubai, and second to McIlroy in the season-long standings.

“It’s the best way to finish 2015 and I can’t wait for next year.” McIlroy said after the win. The four-time major winner carded eight birdies in Sunday’s first 15 holes to open a two-shot lead over Sullivan, only to find the water with his tee shot on the 17th. McIlroy missed three tournaments this summer, including the defence of his Open title at St Andrews, because of an ankle injury sustained while playing football. That meant he needed an exemption to compete in the European Tour’s season finale, having not played in enough events.

Hazard denies strained relation with Mourinho Eden Hazard has denied having a strained relationship with Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho and suggested he wants to stay at the Premier League champions.

The Belgium midfielder was one of a handful of players Mourinho had deemed to have underperformed this season. Mourinho has also been under scrutiny, with the champions 15th in the league, 14 points behind leaders Leicester. “I don’t have a problem with him. We hope we can win a lot of trophies together,” said Hazard, 24.

Maybe not this season because it will be difficult, but next season and on,” said the Professional Footballers’ Association and Football Writers’ Association player of the year winner. The Blues moved above Norwich into 15th with a 1-0 win over Canaries on Saturday, their fourth victory in 13 league games this season.

Spring Run beats Grand Slam at Race Course

Jockey Patrick Mungai on top of Spring Run won the Geoffrey Griffin Trophy yesterday evening at Ngong Race Course when he beat James Muhindi riding on Grand Slam.

Spring Run snatched the 37,000 winner’s prize from the mouth of Grand Slum, who boasts of three wins in the past two months by a neck when the two horses produced a steller run in the last​ 50 metres to finish ahead of Their First Song who lead the race from start until the last 50 metre of 1,800 metres.

Spring Run, racing on the inner lane won the race by a neck, a result that disappointed majority of investors, who had placed their money on Grand Slum.

The first two horses beat Peter Ngugi, who came third on top of Their First Song by four length of a metre. Richard Kibet ridding the Nut Cracker, who set the pace in the first 600m, were separated by two-quarter of a length on fourth place while James Karanja owned Usurper controlled by Mungai came a short head behind Nut Cracker.

In the three-year-old rated race, Free Handicap, Western Ballad beat Red Raider with an eighth-tenth of a length to claim The Bilesha Plains Handicap in the sixth race of the day.

The Horses took one minute, 30 second in the distance with Davano staple Anjoli being separated by one-quarter of a length with the first runners up.

Harton Gardens and Autofocus, who claimed fourth and fifth places respectively, were separated by four and a quarter of a length.

In the fourth race of the day,

War Horse claimed Ngaso Plains handicap race after out sprinting Murrayfield and African Song navigated by experienced J. Lokorian who had a bad day and P. Mungai who started the day on a rather slow note.

War Horse clinch the title two and a quarter of a length ahead of Murrayfield, who was separated by three quarter of a length with third placed African Song. Simply Ravishing closed the fourth place position with a short hand.

Sliders back to second spot after Strathmore win Sliders beat Strathmore University 1-0 at City Park Stadium yesterday to move back to second spot on the Kenya Hockey Union women’s National table.

Nancy Jepchumba scored in the 13th minute to help Sliders cut league leaders, Telkom Orange’s point deficit to just seven.

Orange had earlier thumped Vikings 5-0 in a one-sided clash to extend their unbeaten run to 11 matches.

Orange, who used the match as a built up for the forthcoming Africa Club championship also extended their point tally to 33 while Sliders took their point top to 25.

Audrey Oumado brace, a goal each

by Jane Alula, Captain Betsy Omalla and an effort by goal poacher Jaqueline Jow were enough to help the 17- time national champions subject Vikings to their second loss of the campaign. The loss piled more pressure on Strathmore, two points ahead of fourth placed United States International UniversityAfrica (USIU)-A. In another women’s match, Daystar recorded

their second win of the season Kimathi University played a 1-1 Sailors has only dropped two points with a slim 1-0 win over Mount draw with Technical University in from a possible 27 in their first Kenya University (MKU). That was a late kick-off in the national men’s season into the league which leaves MKU’s 11 out of 12 matches lost so league. them perched top of the table with Meanwhile, Debutants Chase 25 points, eight clear of second far this season.

Wazalendo moved three places up Sailors finished the first leg of the placed Park Road. after sneaking past 2012 champions men’s national group (A) league Kisumu sides, Bay Club, who Nairobi Simba with a 3-2 win. in style when they registered their are playing their second season Wazalendo needed a late goal to eighth win with a 3-1 win over hard and debutant Kisumu Younstars fighting Karate controls Pool B with 17 and 15 subject Simba to their seventh loss of the season after former Axiom on Saturday. points respectively. champions scared their patriots with two goals in two minutes to level things up. Nelson Shilaku and Elly Mwanzia had given Wazalendo a two-goal lead in the fifth and 41st minutes respectively, but Simba who sits a distant fourth with 25 points from 16 matches levelled the scores through Ali Shbaz 47th and Harvi Ghatheure’s strike in the 48th Simba looked set for a draw until Isaac Owino stepped forward with his 55th strike that put the last nail Lion’s coffin. The win helped Wazalendo to sixth Chase Sailors player Felix Opola challenges Karate Axiom’s Sylvester Obanyo with 24 points. during the two teams match at City Park hockey ground on Saturday.

SPORT 15

Van Gaal now hints Ronaldo’s Old Trafford return

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has given strong indication yet that he would want to sign Cristiano Ronaldo should the player decide to leave Real Madrid.

Ronaldo, 30, has been regularly linked with a return to Old Trafford in the past two years and it is strongly felt he will be allowed to leave the Bernabeu next summer as manager Rafa Benitez looks to build a team around Gareth Bale.

United tried to sign the three-time world player of the year in 2013 and with Van Gaal complaining his current squad doesn’t have enough pace in wide areas, he confirmed Ronaldo is in his thoughts.

The Portugal forward left United for Real Madrid in 2009 for a then world record Sh124 billion and d has become the Spanish side’s top goalscorer.

However, speculation persists that the

30-year-old is set to leave Madrid.

“We are looking at all players, not just Ronaldo. But these players are mostly ungettable,” said Van Gaal. “With Ronaldo, let’s wait and hope.”

Ronaldo, a three-time Fifa world player of the year, broke Raul’s record of 323 goals for Real earlier this season.

He has won one La Liga title, a Champions League crown and two Spanish Cup titles in just over six years in the Spanish capital.

Before moving to Madrid, he won three Premier League titles, one Champions League, one FA Cup and two League Cups in six seasons at United.

He moved to Old Trafford for Sh1.9 billion from sporting Lisbon in 2003 and scored 118 goals in 292 appearances for the Red Devils.

Meanwhile, Fernando Koke converted

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2015 HEART ELSEWHERE? Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo in action during a past match. Differences between him and new Real coach Rafa Benitez has fuelled speculation of his Real exit.

Torres’ parried shot to help Atletico Madrid move above city rivals Real into second place in La Liga with victory at Real Betis.

The 2013-14 champions took advantage of Real’s 4-0 defeat by Barcelona on Saturday just after seven minutes when keeper Adan, whom Betis later lost to injury, parried, Torres effort before Koke stepped forward to slot home.

Atletico should have doubled their lead in the final minutes but Antoine Griezmann hit the post.

Villarreal moved to fourth after drawing 1-1 with. Granada moved out of the relegation zone with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao, and Deyverson scored twice as Levante beat fellow strugglers​ Sporting Gijon 3-0 away from home

Local athletes storm AK’s Riadha House over doping allegations

Local athletes today morning stormed Athletics Kenya (AK) secretariat to protest what they termed lack of commitment by the federation to fight doping allegations in the sport.

Professional Athletes Association of Kenya (PAAK) which is chaired by former world marathon record holder, Wilson Kipsang stormed Riadha House accusing AK of poor leadership.

Police had to be called in to restore order after the group blocked the AK officials and staff from accessing the premises.

They accused the federation currently in its death bed following corruption allegations and leadership wrangles of ‘laxity’ in the anti-doping war, adding that bad publicity endangers their

participation in major international events.

They locked the officials out in a siege that started in the early morning, before police were called in to restore order.

Tension was high after the runners declined to leave the secretariat, maintaining that AK officials must quit.

The World Athletics Doping Agency (Wada) has warned Kenya could be banned if action is not taken on claims of doping.

AK and Kipsang have not been in good books after the former published classified information about the 2012 Olympic medallist and New York marathon champion last December accusing the latter of missing doping

test. Kipsnag had threatened legal action, forcing AK to apologise last week, almost a year after the publication of the said information.

“The panel of IAAF Ethics Commission has since determined that whereas AK had no malicious intent in publishing that information, the publication nonetheless was in violation of AK confidentiality obligation under article C7 of the IAAF code of ethics which prohibit persons subject to the code from “at any time disclosing information entrusted to them in confidence in connection with their role in Athletics unless required to do so by the code or law…” ” read part of the apology to Kipsang.

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united coach hints at cRistiano RonaLdo’s oLd tRaffoRd RetuRn

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Stars now eye Burundi scalp C

ecafa Senior Challenge defending champions, Harambee Stars eyes Burundi scalp in the second match of the tournament on Wednesday after beating Uganda Cranes 2-0 in the opening match yesterday in Ethiopia.

Stars head coach Bobby Williamson, who knows the tournament well after winning four titles with Uganda yesterday put a break on Cranes opening campaign at the Addis Ababa Stadium thanks to goals from Jacob Keli and Michael Olunga. His last triumph at the regional torney came in 2012, ironically against Kenya. Speaking after the win, Williamson dismissed Cranes tactician Mulitin Sredojevic claims of fielding an inexperience side after the loss, saying Kenya was the better side.

“Kenya had most of their players who featured in the World Cup qualifiers compared to us where a majority are from the Under-23 side,” said Micho after the loss. Williamson won the trophy four times between 2008 and 2012 crossed the border to Kenya for a stint with Gor Mahia before Football Kenya Federation lured him with national team job.

He will intensifies his search for a fifth Cecafa title when he plays Burundi on Wednesday in his second match. The group also has Zanzi-

bar who lost their opening match to Burundi. The Scot, however will have to play h i s

cards well in the remaining matches where defenders will be targeting Keli after a good game against Uganda.

Keli gave Kenya the lead in the 28th minute, racing past sluggish Uganda defenders to chip over custodian James Alitho who charged forward leaving his post unattended. Substitute Olunga, who came in for Keli connected a Clifford Miheso’s cutback, just five minutes into the pitch to extend Stars lead. Burundi began their campaign on equally good note following a 1-0 win over group minnows, Zanzibar who will face Uganda tomorrow as Rwanda clash with Tanzania in a potential mouth-watering fixture. The two teams won their opening matches with Rwanda easing past Ethiopia with a slim 1-0 win, while Tanzania extended the North African nations poor start with a 4-0 win over Somalia.

Host Ethiopia and Somalia faces each other tomorrow.

Burundi have a poor record in these games with their best success being the 2004 final appearance where they lost to Ethiopia 3-0. A win for Kenya will secure them a place in to the next round.

Harambee Stars striker Michael Olunga celebrates a goal during a past match.

Kenya yesterday beat Uganda 2-0 in the Cecafa Senior Challenge match in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

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