THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016 | www.x254.CO
3
HIRING OF NEW IEBC BOSSES SUFFERS FURTHER DELAY HINDU REPRESENTATIVE TO THE TEAM’S SELECTION PANEL QUITS FORCING MEMBERS TO WAIT FOR A NEW APPOINTEE BEFORE INTERVIEWS CAN BEGIN
14
NEWS
MESSI HAT-TRICK RUINS PEP GUARDIOLA’S RETURN TO BARCELONA WITH MAN CITY
MAN UNITED TO FIELD A STRONG SQUAD IN CLASH WITH VAN PERSIE’S FERNABACHE
President Kenyatta calls for peace ahead of Election
P
resident Uhuru Kenyatta has called on Kenyans to embrace peace and unity as the country heads for the general elections next year. Speaking during this year’s Mashujaa Day at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos county, President Kenyatta urged the public to remain united saying elections are always very delicate period for every country. The Head of State lead thousands of Kenyans in celebrating this year’s Mashujaa day said its okay for politicians for to differ in terms of ideologies and that should not be a case for division among Kenyans. “As we prepare to elect our leaders next year, let’s not be persuaded by the loud noises by the leaders to divide us,” President Kenyatta said. President Kenyatta urged Kenyans to be careful on the people they celebrate as heroes and they should shun those who use ethnic diversity to sow seeds of hatred among Kenyans. The Head of State also cautioned leaders that as they campaign to be elected in various positions they should be careful CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
P.2
Senator and MPs renew tussles over who controls Equalisation Fund P.4
President Uhuru Kenyatta with Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua meets a section of leaders from Machakos County earlier today.
ICC convicts Congo warlod Bemba afetr he is found guilty of bribing witnesses
2
NEWS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
Showdown looms between Senators and MPs over control of Equalization Fund
Senators have expressed their displeasure with an amendment fronted by their colleagues in the National Assembly which is passed which deny them a chance to have control over Equalization Fund. A written communication presented by West Pokot Senator Prof. John Lonyangapuo to the Senate on Tuesday asks the House to shoot down, the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) bill 2013 from National Assembly amending Article 204 (3) to effect the disbursement proposal. “The Senate as the protector of the interests of the counties should oppose this amendment,” the communication reads. Senators are angry that MPs are contemplating excluding overseeing the multibillion-shilling equalization fund meet to address inequity in at least 14 marginalised counties. “The end result of passing the bill, the result would be channeling monies that should have gone to the counties as conditional grants to constituencies and managed under the national government CDF.” It further adds. The Equalization Fund is pegged at 0.5 per cent of the last audited national revenue, in this case the Sh831 billion
collected in the 2010/2011 financial year. Out of the 47 counties Only 14 will benefit from the Sh3 billion Equalization Fund for the next three years. The money is allocated to counties needing extra resources to provide basic services like water, roads, health and electricity until they are close to those of other counties. Under the criteria released by Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) , Turkana County will take the lion’s share of Sh271 million while Lamu County will receive the least amount of Sh186 million Mandera, Wajir, Marsabit, Samburu, West Pokot, Tana River, Narok, Kwale, Garissa, Kilifi, Taita Taveta and Isiolo would receive between Sh249 million and Sh192 million each annually before the formula is reviewed in 2016. Senators from the marginalised want the equalization fund under the National government disbursed either directly or indirectly through conditional grants to their counties. Under the law, the Equalisation Fund should be used to the extent necessary to bring the quality of services in marginalised areas to the level generally enjoyed by the rest of the nation. hillary_x254
West Pokot Senator John Lonyangapuo at a past press conference.The senator wants any ammendments that will deny them control of Equalization Fund quashed.
Be Wary of divsive leaders,President Kenyatta cautions Kenyans From Page 1
President Uhuru Kenyatta greets Gitu Kahengeri one of the Kenya’s freedom fighters in Machakos County earlier today during the Mashujaa Day celebration.
on their utterances to the electorates. “Campaign delicate period for every country and urged leaders to be careful during this period,” President Kenyatta. Kenyatta avoided politics in his speech and instead concentrated in his celebrating the heroes of this country whom in one way or the way have made a major difference. Opposition leader Raila Odinga however skipped this year’s Mashujaa Day. “Happy Mashujaa Day fellow Kenyans. I will not be able to join you in Mashujaa Day celebrations today for I have had to travel to the United Kingdom this morning,” Odinga said in the statement. “I am scheduled to address students, scholars, public service officials and political leaders at the London Metropolitan University tomorrow during the opening session of the London Political Summit 2016.” Odinga added. Cord’s co-Principal and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and his Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetangula however attended the event. Kalonzo sat next to
Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery. This year’s Mashujaa Day became the second National Holiday to be held outside Nairobi a major departure from holding national celebrations in the capital city. The first national holiday this year Madaraka Day on June 1, 2016 was held at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru. Thousands of Kenyans thronged started streaming into the stadium as ear as 6am with tight security witnessed in and outside the stadium. Deputy President William Ruto and his wife Rachel Ruto arrived at Kenyatta stadium at 11:02 with President Kenyatta arriving eight minutes later with a thunderous welcome from members of the public. Machakos Governor told President Kenyatta not to listen to his critics but work towards serving Kenyans. “Do not listen to those people who are making noise, they will always there, work towards serving as people want development and not endless talk,” Mutua said. Deputy President William Ruto said the government has so far given County Government Sh 1 trillion for development. Ruto said the move is aimed at
promoting equal development and bringing at par marginalized counties with others. Ruto defended the merger of 13 parties to form the Jubilee Party saying it’s solely aimed at bringing unity across all ethnic groups. The Deputy President said the move is also aimed at bridging the gap of ethnicity. The Deputy President upon concluding his speech did not invite the President directly as has been the norm but instead invited Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Musyoka urged President Uhuru Kenyatta to merge Mashujaa Day and constutional day saying the two events are critical in the Kenyan history. Musyoka told the President that the Mps who decamped to join Jubilee Party to stop giving him ultimatums as they no longer belong to his party. “The Mps that moved to your party including my Governor and Mps, I give them to you and they should stop giving me ultimatums,” Musyoka said. Musyoka told the President not to be surprised if all the Mps that decamped to join Jubilee are all sent home in the forthcoming general elections. @sam_x254
NEWS 3 THURSDAY,OCTOBER 20, 2016
Hiring of new IEBC bosses suffers delay The recruitment of new Commissioners of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission will be delayed after the Hindu Council representative resigned on Wednesday afternoon from the IEBC Selection Panel. Speaker of the National Assembly Justin Muturi said he has already written to the council requiring them to submit another nominee to the Parliamentary Service Commission for appointment by the President. “We believe that this process is so dear and important to Kenyans that it should not be delayed even for a single day but we have to go with the desires of various nominating bodies to exercise their rights as given under the enabling legislation,” he stated. Eight other nominees including NCCK Secretary General Canon Peter Karanja and Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims chairman Abdulghafur El-Busaidy have in the meantime been sworn into office but cannot carry on with the duty of electing a chairperson until they are fully constituted. The nine-member committee comprises five nominees from religious organisations and four from the Parliamentary Service Commission. Newly appointed Chief Justice David Maraga urged the committee to pick IEBC Commissioners who will be beyond reproach in a bid to restore confidence on the electoral process in the country. “We all look upon you to give us commissioners, men and women of integrity who will run the electoral process in our country in a fair and a transparent as well as verifiable manner,” the CJ asserted. “It is as a result of that process that we will have a credible and an accountable government.” Others members of the selection panel are Bishop
Belgian trampled to death by elephant in Maasai Mara A Belgian was trampled to death by an elephant near Kenya’s famed Maasai Mara wildlife reserve, police said Wednesday, the second such incident in a month. “He was badly injured by the rogue elephant and succumbed to injuries at the Talek Health Centre,” a police officer in the area said on condition of anonymity. The death of the Belgian man on Monday in circumstances that remain unclear comes a month after an Italian man was trampled in the Tsavo National Park, southeast Kenya, while trying to take a photograph of an elephant. In a separate incident on Tuesday, a Kenyan secondary school student was killed by an elephant on the way to school. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) warned in a statement Wednesday that a fierce drought gripping the country was pushing wildlife further from their traditional habitats in search of food and water, increasingly bringing them into contact with humans. “From the cases recorded by KWS, it is evident that there has been an increase in reported incidents of conflicts compared to past years; the notable ones being attacks on people, property destruction, livestock predation and crop raiding,” said the statement. KWS warned that such interactions were likely to increase and urged caution in high-risk areas.
www.capitalfm.co.ke
Members of the IEBC Selection Panel in a group photo with Chief Justice David Maraga after they were sworn in yesterday at Supreme Court building. PHOTO: COURTESY
David Oginde representing the Evangelical Churches of Kenya (EAK) and Bernadette Musundi to represent the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB). The Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) forwarded the names of Evans Monari and Mary Kigen to represent the ruling Jubilee Coalition and while CORD will be represented by Justice (Rtd) Tom Mbaluto and Ogla Chepkemoi Karani. National Assembly Speaker Muturi said PSC will provide the secretariat to the panel once it is fully
constituted. “I would like to pledge my support and to ensure the selection panel is supported and facilitated to effectively and efficiently execute its duties,” he assured. The panel will be required to invite applications of qualified people and publish the names of all applicants within the first seven days of appointment. “The process that you are about to engage in will be geared to addressing one of the country’s
political and legal crisis bearing in mind that this process will deliver to Kenyans the next electoral commission ahead of August 2017 General Election,” he cautioned. “The country eyes and expectations shall therefore be trained on the members of the selection panel.” The interviews shall be conducted in public. After conducting interviews, the Selection Panel shall select two persons qualified to be appointed as chairperson and nine persons qualified to be appointed as members of the commission and shall forward the names to President Uhuru Kenyatta for nomination of one person for appointment as the chairperson and six persons for appointment as members. President Kenyatta shall, within seven days of receipt of the names forward the list of nominees to the National Assembly for approval in accordance with the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act. He shall, within seven days of receipt of the names approved by the National Assembly, by notice in the Gazette, appoint the chairperson and the members of the commission. The Election Laws (Amendment) Act 2016, is instructive that in short listing, nominating or appointing persons as chairperson and members of the commission, the Selection Panel, the National Assembly and the President shall ensure that no more than two-thirds of the members are of the same gender and shall ensure regional balance. The Selection Panel shall stand dissolved upon the requisite appointments being made. MORE ON THIS STORY
www.capitalfm.co.ke
4
NEWS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
Kiir: Machar has no role in South Sudan
South Sudan’s sacked Vice-President Riek Machar no longer has a role to play as a political leader in the country, the presidency says. President Salva Kiir’s spokesman told the BBC Mr Machar “has no space here”, and should not return to the country before elections in 2018. Mr Machar, who had become vice president as But on Monday he vowed to return. Speaking to the BBC from South Africa, Mr Machar said his rebel faction could still negotiate a peace deal with President Kiir. In July, Mr Machar’s bodyguards and President Salva Kiir’s presidential guards fought each other, sparking days of violence. Hundreds of people died and more than 100,000 a unity government and end the civil war. On Tuesday, President Kiir’s spokesman Ateny Wek Ateny told the BBC that Mr Machar “will look for his space as a citizen of South Sudan, but not as a political leader”. Referring to the elections planned for 2018, Mr Wek said: “I don’t think that he (Riek Machar) can even think to come (back) before that.” “It is better that Riek Machar stays away from South Sudan political scenes,” the spokesman added. Both President Kiir’s and Riek Machar’s followers have been accused of perpetrating atrocities during the country’s bitter
ICC convicts Congo warlord Bemba for bribing witnesses Former Congolese Vice President JeanPierre Bemba has been found guilty by the International Criminal Court (ICC) of bribing witnesses. Bemba was found guilty earlier this year of war crimes and crimes against humanity, and jailed for 18 years. On Wednesday he was convicted of corruptly
Aime Kilolo; his legal case manager Jean-Jacques Mangenda; Congolese politician Fidele Babala and Narcisse Arido, who had been a witness for the defence.
in that trial. Four close aides were also found guilty.
both. Kilolo was found guilty of telling witnesses exactly what to say in return for money. Mangenda played the role of messenger and tried to conceal the plan while Babala - a member of Bemba’s MLC party - handled money transfers, the court heard. Arido, who was an expert on military Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo of the Democratic Republic operations, was found guilty of getting of the Congo while in the courtroom of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, The Netherlands, witnesses to pose as soldiers, even on June 21, 2016. He has been convicted after being providing them with fake military found guilty of witness bribery. insignia. PHOTO: MICHAEL KOOREN/EPA Bemba was convicted in March of crimes committed in the neighbouring Central African Republic (CAR) in witnesses to lie or the coaching of witnesses. Today’s judgement sends a clear message that 2002-2003. He was accused of failing to stop the court is not willing to allow its proceedings his rebel forces from killing and raping people. He was jailed in June and is appealing against to be hampered or destroyed,” he said. Also found guilty were Bemba’s lawyer his conviction.
masterminded a witness corruption network from inside his prison cell during his original trial. His team used secret phones and coded language to bribe, coach and manipulate at least 14 key witnesses who came to give evidence. Delivering the verdict, Judge Bertram Schmitt said the case was “about clear, and downright administration of justice”. “No legal system in the world can accept the bribing of witnesses, the inducement of
be sentenced at a later date and face
NEWS PICTORIAL NEWS PICTORIAL SHIPBUILDERS CONFERENCE: CEOs from shipbuilders around the world attend a JECKU conference in Gyeongju, 371 kilometers southeast of Seoul, South Korea, today. JECKU stands for Japan, Europe, China, Korea and the United States, whose industry leaders meet annually to discuss the global market. Participants this year pressed for a solution to overcapacity in the industry. PHOTO: EPA
PEACE IN UKRAIN: German Chancellor Angela Merkel (not in picture) greets the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin for the Ukraine summit in front of the German Federal Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, 19 October 2016. Leaders of Germany, France, Russia and Ukraine are meeting in Berlin to discuss the way ahead for the peace plan that was agreed by the four nations in 2015. PHOTO: WOLFGANG KUMM/EPA
NEWS 5
Donald Trump ducks election result pledge THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
Republican Donald Trump has refused to commit to accepting the election result if he loses, in the final TV debate against Hillary Clinton. “I will tell you at the time,” he told moderator Chris Wallace. For days he has claimed the election is “rigged”. The Las Vegas debate continued the campaign’s bitter tone, with Mr Trump calling Mrs Clinton a “nasty woman”. Polls show Mr Trump is losing in key battleground states after facing a slew of sexual assault allegations. The final battle of the wits came less than three weeks before election day on 8 November, when most Americans will cast their vote. The candidates declined to shake hands before and after the political sparring, setting the tone for what would later become yet another debate marked by shouting and interrupting. Mr Trump appealed to the Republican establishment by vowing to appoint Supreme Court justices with a “conservative bent” who would overturn a key ruling that made abortion legal in the US and protect gun rights. He also stuck to his pledge to deport undocumented immigrants and secure US borders.
Republican candidate Donald Trump during the final Presidential Debate at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas in Las Vegas, USA, early today. Mr Trump refused to commit to accepting the election results if he loses. PHOTO: JIM LO SCALZO/EPA
Meanwhile, Mrs Clinton firmly declared she would stand up for the LGBT community, defend abortion rights, focus on restoring the middle class and equal pay for women. “The government has no business in the decisions that women make,” she said. Other highlights from the debate at the University of Nevada, included Clinton’s claims that Russian
President Vladimir Putin wants Mr Trump elected because he wants a puppet as US president. “You’re the puppet!” Mr Trump fired back, adding that Mr Putin had “outsmarted” and “outplayed” the former secretary of state. Mrs Clinton said Mr Trump “choked” when he met with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto about his plan to build the wall, but he insisted it would
Top stories from X News global partners Donald Trump refuses to say if he will accept election result in final debate:
Donald Trump Won’t Say if He’ll Accept Result of Election: In a remarkable
Hillary Clinton calls Republican nominee’s unprecedented refusal ‘horrifying’ in debate that saw heated clashes over abortion, immigration and gun rights. Donald Trump used the final presidential debate with Hillary Clinton to declare he would keep the country “in suspense” over whether he would accept the outcome of November’s election. The Republican nominee’s refusal to endorse the results of the election is unheard of in American history.
statement that seemed to cast doubt on American democracy, Donald J. Trump said Wednesday that he might not accept the results of next month’s election if he felt it was rigged against him, a stand that Hillary Clinton blasted as “horrifying” at their final and caustic debate on Wednesday. Mr. Trump, came across as repeatedly frustrated as he tried to rally conservative voters with hard-line stands. www.nytimes
China’s uncannily stable growth versus the price of reform: IN THE pantheon of economic
US earnings boost hopes that profit recession is ending: US earnings season is off
www.the guardian.com
clichés, the concept of “short-term pain for longterm gain” is surely a contender for top spot. It is trotted out again and again when discussing why Country X must undertake such and such difficult reforms to reap untold benefits down the road. For those analysing or reporting on the Chinese economy, it has become a familiar refrain. This does not mean it is wrong; China’s old growth model of credit-fuelled investment has led to a vast accumulation of debt and a big drop in productivity. Change is needed, even though there will be costs. www.economist.com
to a bullish start as results from large US lenders have sparked fresh optimism over the sector and inspired hopes that America’s longest profit recession since the Great Recession may be coming to a close. The financials sector has risen by 1.8 per cent this month after several of the biggest US banks revealed a rebound in their Wall Street-focused businesses. The advance has left financials as the top performer on the S&P 500 index, and the only group besides energy in the black in October. www.ft.com
happen under his presidency. “We have some bad hombres and we are going to get them out,” he said Mr Trump also suggested Mrs Clinton and President Barack Obama coordinated the violence at his rally in Chicago earlier this year When asked about her paid speech to a Brazilian bank in which she spoke of her dream of open trade and open borders, Mrs Clinton said she was
talking about energy policy. In one key exchange, he attacked her 30 years of “very bad experience” and she responded by going through her timeline, comparing where she was to where Trump was. While she was in the Situation Room helping to take out Osama Bin Laden, “he was hosting the Celebrity Apprentice”, she said. Mr Trump has faced damaging fallout after a video emerged of him making obscene comments about groping women, with senior Republicans deserting him. When pressed about sexual assault allegations made against him by several women in the wake of the video, Mr Trump said the claims had been “largely debunked”. In addressing the groping accusations, Mrs Clinton said: “Donald thinks belittling women makes him bigger”. “Nobody has more respect for women than I do,” Trump said as the crowd was heard scoffing. He also blamed Mrs Clinton, whose campaign he said was responsible for drumming up the allegations. In recent days Mr Trump has railed against the election process itself, warning the vote is “absolutely rigged” with “large-scale voter fraud” taking place.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016 | www.x254.co
BUSINESS
CBK EXCHANGE RATES 1 US DOLLAR 1 UK POUND 1 EURO 1 S.A RAND 1 KSH/USH 1 KSH/TSH
KEPSA helps streamline 105 Bills to improve business environment Regular engagement between the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and the Legislature has seen KEPSA provide feedback and input on 105 Bills by highlighting areas of proposed amendments with an aim of improving the country’s business environment in the last 7 years. Speaking at the recently concluded Speakers Roundtable, KEPSA CEO Carole Kariuki says the partnership established between Kenya’s private sector and the Legislature remained focused on Nills that bear on the country’s business environment. Ms. Kariuki said the Speaker’s Roundtable remained an important platform for interrogating legislation and ensuring that it supports Kenya’s economic development and transformation. “Last year was significant following the enactment of four key business reform bills namely the Special Economic Zones Act; Companies Act; Business Registration Service Act; and, the Insolvency Act. On each of these bills, there was a healthy interaction and exchange with the National Assembly over a significant period of time. This would not have been so if we didn’t have unanimity of mind with the National Assembly on the need to secure and promote Kenya’s competitiveness,” she said
Kenya Private Sector Alliance CEO Carol Kariuki with Gender and Youth Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hon. Sicily Kariuki at a past event. Photo: Gitobu/X-news She said KEPSA recognizes the important role that the National Assembly has played in passing key business reform legislation that has improved Kenya’s competitiveness as an investment destination. “We believe that Kenya’s upward economic trajectory in recent years, is a
Resolution Insurance unveils plans to expand branch network
Resolution Insurance has re-affirmed its commitment to expanding its branch network in a bid to avail its services to more customers by opening a regional branch in Thika, Kiambu County. The facility, which represents Resolution Insurance’s 10th branch, will be housed at Zuri Centre, 5th Floor, Kenyatta Highway in Thika town. The expansion is part of the firm’s growth strategy that is hinged on growing its footprint across all the counties in the country. It also supports efforts to enhance penetration while providing affordable insurance products. Speaking during the opening ceremony Resolution Insurance Managing Director, Alice Mwai noted that the insurer is currently developing new products to meet insurance customers’ tastes that have changed over the years. “The opening of the Thika branch, will see more Kenyans access our insurance products and solutions at an affordable price tailor made to suit their needs,” she added. The insurance sector in Kenya experiences low penetration of about 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but has opportunities for growth given the uptake
reflection of the pursuit of an enabling policy and regulatory framework which has continued to attract investment and support economic expansion,” she said While officially opening the forum, Speaker of the National Assembly Hon Justin Muturi noted that dialogue between the private sector and parliament
of policies by the expanding middle class and increased public education. “We have a total of 49 insurance firms, which equates to about 1.1 insurance company for every one million Kenyans – a similar ratio to Kenya’s banking sector. However, penetration still remains lower than the average of 3.8 per cent in Africa,” she added. Resolution Insurance has contributed significantly to the growth and development of the insurance industry in East Africa. In November 2014, Resolution Insurance announced a major deal worth Sh1.67 billion for a majority stake by LeapFrog Investments. “Resolution Insurance assures financial security and comfort by offering comprehensive insurance solutions in a dependable, reliable, and transparent manner. Today, Resolution Insurance offers a number of products namely Medical Plans, Travel Plans, Liability Plans, Property Covers, Motor Covers and all other classes of General Insurance,” the service provider said in a statement. @Dennis_x254
promotes values of good business ethics and practices, innovation, hard work, goodwill and collective responsibility, promoting action-based best practices like corporate social responsibility, conservation and protection through prudent use of the country’s natural @enock_x254 resources.
MEAN 101.3528 123.8769 111.6247 7.1986 34.1876 21.5190
BUY SELL 101.2528 101.4528 123.7350 124.0189 111.5039 111.7456 7.18900 7.2082 34.1045 34.2707 21.4484 21.5895
KRC boss defends SGR route as state launches Sh152 bn railway project The government has officially launched the construction of the $1.5 billion (Sh152 billion) Standard Gauge Railway project that will connect Nairobi to Naivasha. President Uhuru Kenyatta has assured those whose land will be occupied by the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) that they will be compensated. Speaking while he launched construction of Phase 2A of the project, he urged Kenyans to cooperate with the contractors in a bid for them to finish their job in time. “The first phase of the project created about 40, 000 jobs,” said the Head of State. The launch comes amid opposition from conservation groups protesting the railway line’s planned route, which is set to passe through the National Park. Kenya Railways Corporation Managing Director Atanas Maina has defended the route saying that it was the cheapest and most commercial viable option. Speaking on the sidelines of the launch, Maina said the route was among the seven routes surveyed as viable. He said the corporation is in discussions with conservationists in a bid to help them understand the viability of the project. “The Savannah route was considered to be the most viable after a rigorous social economic review that included human settlements, public facilities and commercial activities” he stated.
KRA partners with Countys to help strengthen property tax compliance The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has unveiled plans to strengthen compliance in the remission of property rates by partnering with County governments. The Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) has stated that property rates remain the greatest challenge in county revenue collection with most county governments issuing biannual amnesties to property owners to encourage them to comply with the law. Speaking during the 2nd Annual Tax Summit, CRA Chairman Micah Cheserem said County revenues have grown to over Sh35 billion annually but Counties are still highly dependent on the revenue share from the national government. “KRA has been talking about transforming into the Kenya Revenue Service, part of this transformation should be collaboration with county governments. KRA’s mandate
is not only to serve the national government by to also enable counties meet their own revenue targets,” said Cheserem. KRA Commissioner for Domestic Taxes Mr. Benson Korongo says KRA is already working with some county governments to integrate the iTax System with county revenue collection systems and enable them generate billing slips through the system. Taxpayers will also be able to make payments and generate e-slips through iTax. “Once fully implemented, taxpayers will not be expected to visit county revenue offices for billing slips or to make payments for property rates. They will be able to carry out this task from their place of comfort using the iTax system,” explained Korongo. County governments say additional legislation is needed to enhance revenue collection at county level, with additional resources needed to
develop databases on taxpayers at county level through the automation of fees and levies. Wycliffe Oparanya, Kakamega’s Governor and his Laikipia counterpart, Governor Joshua Irungu said that Counties need additional support to automate their revenue collection and monitoring systems. “KRA has been developing a model which has been adopted by some counties in order to harmonize revenue collection through the formation of regional blocks which have uniform legislation. For the model to be affective counties need to develop harmonized legislation,” said Governor Oparanya. The development of harmonized legislation across all counties has also been identified by the private sector as the key to addressing double taxation and ensuring that the overall cost doing of business does not go up.
New projects, initiatives help lift KenGen’s profit up to Sh11 billion
BUSINESS 7
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has posted a FY pre-tax profit of Sh11.26 billion, driven by a growth in sales in both its geothermal and hydro power segments. The growth arose from the completion of projects and favourable hydrological conditions, the company said in a statement released hours ago. KenGen also reported that its electricity sales volumes increased by 11 per cent to 7,819Gwh in 2016 from 7,027Gwh in 2015. KenGen is now seeking ways to increase geothermal power development and has started work on a preliminary study. KenGen’s Managing Director, Albert Mugo said that the cost of geothermal exploration has been the biggest hurdle for the country to not see more development. “So far we have only tapped 650MW of geothermal energy and we are working with other partners so we can increase geothermal power,” he said. Working together with Kenya Wildlife Service on conservation and protecting the ecosystem of Hell’s Gate National Park in Naivasha, KenGen is also seeking to appease environmentalists. In June of this year, KenGen announced plans to add some 2.5 Gigawatts (GW) of clean, affordable and environmentally-friendly energy to the national grid over the next 10 years. At the time, KenGen Chairman Joshua Choge said the move is in line with country’s vision 2030 initiative, where Kenya seeks to produce over 5GW of energy. The move would cost the firm close to Sh1 trillion. Choge has long sought to free the
government from the yoke of sovereign guarantees by identifying other financing options such as the public infrastructure bond, funding projects and most recently, an ongoing Rights Issue. KenGen plans to commission an additional installed capacity of about 720 Megawatts (MW) mainly from affordable, clean and environmental friendly sources. At the moment, the power generator’s installed capacity is
1,618MW (1.6GW). Among the projects lined up is a drilling programme for a 140MW plant dubbed Olkaria VII, which is scheduled for delivery by 2020. KenGen is also working on a drilling programme for a 140MW plant dubbed Olkaria VII, which is scheduled for delivery by 2020. Meanwhile, two projects, dubbed 140MW Olkaria V and 80MW Meru Wind phase I, are expected to come
on stream in 2018 and have already attracted funding from a number of partners, including the French Development Agency (AFD). “I must admit that our appetite has been whetted and we cannot wait to power up another 430MW in the next three years, we want to assure the nation that KenGen is up to the task and using avenues such as this to deliver that promise,” Choge said. @Dennis_x254
KenGen’s Managing Director, Albert Mugo.
Investors to cash in on Sh6Tn Ethiopian economy The African Trade Insurance Agency (ATI) has welcomed Ethiopia into its fold following a year-long process that was supported with funds from the African Development Bank. The move was announced in Nairobi by African Trade Insurance Agency Chief Executive Officer, George Otieno and Ethiopian Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Dina Mufti and witnessed by African Development Bank Regional Director, Gabriel Negatu. The announcement now gives investors crucial comfort to start or continue investing in Ethiopia, one of Africa’s fastest growing economies. “I believe our entry into Ethiopia, particularly at this time, sends a powerful message to investors. Our presence signals that Ethiopia is open for business because we are standing beside them as a credible and internationally-respected insurer with an ‘A’ rating from S&P,” said Mr. Otieno. Ambassador Mufti said his
Government had put in place attractive investment opportunities and incentives including recently concluded bilateral investment and double taxation avoidance agreements with major countries in order to give the appropriate guarantees that meet international standards to foreign investors. “Ethiopia is fast becoming one of the best investment destinations in our region and our membership in ATI is an additional support and protection to the stakeholders involved in our economic growth,” noted Ambassador Mufti. With this membership secured, ATI hopes to help Ethiopia maintain its status as one of Africa’s biggest success stories. The $66 billion (Sh6.7 trillion) economy has been expanding as much as 10.3 percent annually over recent years, according to the International Monetary Fund, with a dip to 6.5 per cent last year due to drought. The country has also been successful in
attracting large manufacturers such as Unilever NV, Diageo Plc and Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) in recent years and has taken the lead in export of agricultural products. The African Development Bank provided $7.5 million (Sh760.5 million) to Ethiopian Government as seed capital, which was paid as membership fees, with a promise to boost the country’s membership stake in ATI. “The African Development Bank is pleased to have financed Ethiopia’s membership into ATI,” mr. Negatu said “The affiliation with ATI will attract prospective investors with additional guarantees to participate in the priority areas of powering & lighting, feeding, industrializing and integrating Ethiopia. It will also help improve the livelihood of millions of Ethiopians,” he added. ATI has a current project pipeline estimated at half a billion USD, which
is expected to double in the shortterm based on existing demand for its products. Prospective projects include a-400 MW solar energy plant that would contribute to the country’s carbon neutral growth plan to improve the living conditions of its citizens. ATI member countries include Benin, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Non country shareholders include African Development Bank, African Reinsurance Corporation, Atradius Group, SACE, The Common Market of Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), The Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank (PTA Bank), and The PTA Re Insurance Company (Zep Re) ATI provides political, investment and trade credit risk insurance and surety bonds to clients doing business in its member countries. @Dennis_x254
Capping law now prompts creditors to focus on mobile banking
Local lenders have opted to focus on mobile banking to lower costs and build new revenue streams after the government capped commercial lending rates last month. The cap has limited commercial rates to 400 basis points above the central bank’s main rate, which now stands at 10 per cent. Banks previously charged as high as 20 per cent or more on loans, a move that was viewed as detrimental to many consumers but beneficial o the lenders. The cap dealt a major blow to bank shares. Since its implementation, executives have been scrambling to find new strategies to mitigate losses. Many institutions have focused on mobile banking. “We must go digital and deliver products more cheaply,” said NIC Bank CEO, John Gachora, His comments were reiterated by other lending institutions. Research from financial servicesgroup, Standard Investment Bank (SIB) estimates that following the cap, bank returns are likely to fall to 16 to 18 per cent. The average return on equity for listed banks was 21 per cent in 2015. Currently, just 2 per cent of loans offered by Kenya’s 11 listed banks are issued via mobile platforms. As such, experts warn that it will take time to make up losses from the more traditional loan market, SIB said. “That is not a two-, three-year process but a longer process,” explained SIB Analyst, Francis Mwangi. The moves comes about a month after the Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek) ordered all lending institutions offering mobile-based credit to cut their interest rates payable on such loans to a maximum of not more than 14.5 per cent per annum. Both KCB M-Pesa and Equity Bank have already lowered their interest rates on mobile based loan services. President Uhuru Kenyatta signed into law the Bill capping bank interest rates about two months ago. The law sought to regulate applicable rates to bank loans and deposits thereby capping the interest that banks can charge on loans and deposits. In August, pressure mounted on Kenyatta to signthe Bill. At the time, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) said the would lead to; inefficiencies in the credit market, credit rationing, promotion of informal lending channels hence undermining the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission. “While appreciating the underlying sentiments about the need to lower the overall cost of credit, we continue to express concern on the adverse consequences of capping interest rates,” warned the regulator in a past statement.
8
NEWS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
NEWS 9
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016
ACCESS topstory
How to pamper your
12
12
HAND
THE CHIEF GUEST WILL BE; H.E HON. WILLIAM RUTO E.G.H DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA.
Contestants during the competition’s auditions.
Mr & Miss
Hon. Mwaura and other models interacting.
P Kenya
Male models lining up during the auditions.
changing the face of Albinism in the country FOR MORE INFORMATION: please check www.albinismsocietyofkenya.org
ersons Living with Albinism in society face a fair amount of discrimination. They are ostracized and many times perceived as ‘others’. Albinism is characterised by a lack of melanin in the skin, hair and eyes. It is caused by a gene defect although in African society the condition is sometimes pegged on familial curses and witchcraft. This has then created a vicious cycle in the treatment of Persons Living with Albinism. In certain areas of the continent such as Zimbabwe superstition surrounds Persons Living with Albinism; it is believed that sleeping with a person living with the condition can cure an individual of HIV/ AIDS. While in Tanzania, Mozambique and Malawi international headlines are made now and again about Persons Living with Albinism being hunted and murdered for their body parts. The Albinism Society of Kenya (ASK), formed in 2006, seeks social inclusion for persons with Albinism. The association addresses violations of their human rights, as well as champions for better medical services. This is in light of the challenges faced by PLAs that are characteristic of the condition. In Kenya, babies born with albinism are
sometimes killed to stop the discrimination that would inevitably follow them throughout their lives. As a way of broadening their reach, the first-ever Mr. & Miss. Albinism event will take place on 21st October, 2016. The main agenda of the pageant will be to champion for inclusion of Persons with Albinism under the “Niko na Haki” campaign. The theme being “Nikubali Nijumuishe”, under the banner “Beauty Beyond The Skin.” The chief guest will be H.E Hon. William Ruto E.G.H Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, among other dignitaries. They are committed in ensuring inclusion and integration of Persons with Albinism in the society. Through this charity event, the organisation intends to raise money geared towards supporting currently existing programs that support Persons Living with Albinism in Kenya. Some of these programs include; Imarisha Masomo, an education support program which is currently educating 40 pupils and students across the country from kindergarten to university level. Miwani Mashinani eye care program which has provided for over 1,000 children with prescription glasses and other optical devises. Linda Ngozi Sunscreen program which has distributed over 10,000 bottles of sunscreen lotion to Persons with Albinism across various counties. Cancer treatment program which has facilitated the treatment of over 20 Persons with Albinism in various hospitals. Niko na haki campaign; a program that creates awareness about the condition to the public through media, publications, workshops and seminars. The campaign has been able to do so in many places across the country having been to over half the counties so far. Mr. & Miss Albinism Kenya is taking place this Friday, 21st October at the Carnivore Simba Salon from 5pm.
ACCESS
ACCESS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016
11
EVENT REVIEW
PATRIOTISM PAGEANT 2nd Runner up MERCY PATRICIA OCHUPE.
1st Runner up BETTY MBURU.
DIANA Warindah, the winner.
Ambassador FELISTUS NYONGESA.
FACE OF I
GERMANY 2016
n the presence of the 1st Councillor Kenya Embassy Germany, Betty Cherwon, the honorary ambassadors at Face of Kenya Germany 2016 portrayed their patriotism and love for Kenya in an outstanding parade. Diana Warindah emerged the winner thanks to her fantastic community outreach for the last 4 months. She raised 800 Euros for the Mathare Sports association to support football equipment for girls. Her role now, with the support of other ambassadors will involve representing Kenya in ofďŹ cial events. She will also be involved in working with diaspora youth and assisting in community projects. She will visit Kenya to engage in philanthropic and branding activities.
Ambassador ANZYLENE SHIDESHE.
Ambassador JACINTA MUHEHE.
Ambassador PAULINE LINDA MWIKALI.
12
ACCESS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2016 WEDNESDAY THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26th 6, 2016 WEDNESDAY THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26th NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 20, 20162014 2014
PARIS FASHION WEEK 2016 BFI LONDON FILM FESTIVAL
JESSICA OYELOWO looked majestic in metallic.
Bringing out the inner Cinderella.
FLOELLA BENJAMIN kept us glued to her statement necklace.
ROSAMUND PIKE teased in this feathery ensemble.
GUGU MBATHA RAW kept it simple and classy. Minis go back to back with heels.
LONDON TV FACES
Cutoff pants, anyone?
T
TERRY PHETO was all layers and flairs.
Purple always gives off a royal look.
How to slay leather neutrally.
TOP
he final quarter of the year is filled with film festivals and fashion weeks, and for us any event is a fashion event. Last week London came alive painted red by our favorite TV faces during the annual BFI London Film Festival which combined dozens of premieres, photo calls, uring fashion shows gatherings, screenings andand award shows. it Asis not uncommon to spotusual, absurdthe outfi ts, didn’t footwear and hairdos on catwalks, stars disappoint red carpeton and onred thecarpet. streets.Sample This issome why those the of of us used to a toned down environment were more than grateful to ourfashion favorite looks: see a few ‘sane’ looks on the streets of Paris during the Paris @mercy_x254 Fashion Week which is the mother of all fashion weeks. Delight in these ensembles: @mercy_x254
D
Off-shoulder, peplum and flare glory.
STRANGEST PHOBIAS
F
ear of the sun is as strange as it is hard to get away from. Especially if you live in a country located near or at the tropics, this phobia must be the absolute hardest to get around. The sun is almost in a literal sense, everywhere. The sun is a big fiery ball in the sky, which might explode in a few billion years, so this fear does have some basis in that sense, but it is still strange. It can be sparked by a traumatic experience and can actually affect a sufferer’s life to great extent. They would fear going outside without being completely covered up. Heliophobia can also encompass the fear of bright lights.
T
OMPHALOPHOBIA
his phobia is the fear of navels. Bellybuttons, almost everybody has them. Unlike heliphobia, which is almost impossible to forget about during the day, people are not usually inundated with bellybuttons in their day to day activities. This does not mean that this phobia is not aggravating considering navels are found on most people’s bodies, which means walking around with your fear as part of your body. The sight of a navel to people suffering from omphalophobia can cause nausea, crying and even trembling.
P
apyrophobia is the irrational fear of paper. This phobia must be a little easier to handle with the digital world that we live in but it is apparent that some processes are still done on paper making it tricky to navigate. The fear of paper comes out in the form of being too scared to write on or touch the crinkly stuff. As with most other phobias papyrophobia could be brought on by a traumatic childhood experience although it can be hard to determine the source of the fear. The phobia can affect a sufferer’s life in the way that he/she might not be able to maintain a job because of an expansive paper environment.
CLASSIFIED 13
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
Due to the relocation of our warehouse, our company is selling cargos with a surprising price. Time is limited, first come first served.
concrete mixer
PRICEUSD Quantity Conditions Capacity Used
180 litre
3000 USD 10
Brand new
350 litre
5000 USD 10
Brand new
350 litre
500 USD
Name Duvet
Mattress
10
Price USD
Configuring the vertical lift system. The railway can rise to 10-floor high, 30 meters height.
Duvet and mattress Quantity
size
Photos
20 USD
300
2.3m*2.5m
200 USD
200
1.5m * 2m
Do not accept the bargain Retail does not accept
double-sided mattress with heating and cooling function, Composite with coconut palm mattress and spring
Contact: Mr. Lin: 0710578076
FIND THE KEYWORD IN RED AND SMS IT TO 22333 RINGTONES: 30 KSHS PER DAY You will receive a sms “2 download. . . ”Go to this link using GPRS or WAP & download your content. KENYAN HITS! Dumbala Remix Msaidizi Fundamentals Mungu Baba Uwepo Wako Milele Dongo Dongo Ulibeba Sobei Cheiso Worship You Sambaza Defender Tosheka Kereka Ningwendete Queen Ahuirania Ti Mundu Ndirakurekie
KENRAZY Visita, Madtraxx, DNA & Jay A
GLORIA MULIRO KEN WAMARIA RUFFTONE & GSU MERCYLINAH MARION SHAKO GERALDINE ODUOR EUNICE NJERI EMMY KOSGEI BMF FT MERCY WAIREGI ALICE KAMANDE DADDY OWEN MOG DK KWENYE BEAT JOAN WAIRIMU LOISE KIM N.D GITHUKA BETTY BAYO & MR SEED SIMON
KEN4 GM4 KT4 RUFF4 LIN4 SHA4 GER4 EN4 KOS4 BMF4 KAM4 DAD4 MOG4 DK4 VAN4 LK4 GAK4 BET4 SIM4
Kinyukia Kahora
JOAN WAIRIMU
VAN4
Photos
Barua Muganga Nipe Nafasi Glory to Glory Nanena Adonai Zawadi Sitalia Tena Bongo Lala Sitalia Tena Hatarudi Nyuma Mapenzi Solo Penzi Langu Matokeo Born Again Lingala Ya Yesu Fanya Kitendo Muziki Ni Dawa Makeke Kitanzi Miss Hizo Naona Mbali Nime Wasamehe Hakuna Silaha
Ex: HC4 to 22333
BAHATI DJ LAPOZE JEMMO & DENNO BEN GITHAE HADASSAH PAUL EMMA OMONGE MASSMASILYA LAURENT MUGISHO MR. BISCUIT SIMON KIDUM & JULIANI KIDUM NGANGALITO KIDIS GLORIA MULIRO EKO DYDDA PITSON BEN GITHAE RINGTONE JIMMY GAIT GLORIA M & WILLY P ALA C DENNO SOLOMON MUKUBWA SARAH KIARIE
TIB4 HC4 GON4 GIT4 WT4 JC4 HOB4 HOK4 JAG4 SIM4 DUM4 DUM4 LIT4 PIG4 GM4 KEB4 BOM4 GIT4 RING4 JG4 GM4 ALA4 GON4 SOL4 SK4
This is a subscription service. Cost per message is KSH30. Content Delivered daily. A Joining fee of KSH30 applies. Phone must be WAP/GPRS ENABLED to download ringtones. Errors will be billed. To DEACTIVATE OR UNSUBSCRIBE, SMS STOP followed by the keyword i.e. STOP HC4 to 22333 or *100#. A deactivation fee of KES 30 will be charged unless passive deactivation is requested.Customer Support: 0711035333 or 0734488668 , SUN - FRI, 8:30AM - 6pm, SAT 9am - 5pm. or email: ke@smshelp.info.
WEATHERFORECAST SUNNY
24
25ºC 48%
FRIDAY 21/10/2016
MORE SUN THAN CLOUDS
26 6:13 AM 6:22 PM
26ºC 41%
6:13 AM 6:22 PM
SATURDAY
26
Fill in the blanks with the numbers 1-9. every row, column and 3x3 box must contain all nine digits with no repeated number. Yesterday’s Solution
SUDOKU
THURSDAY 20/10/2016
14
SPORT
Lio Messi hat-trick ruins Guardiola’s Barca return THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
Lionel Messi scored a hattrick as Barcelona punished 10-man Manchester City in the Champions League on Pep Guardiola’s return to his old club. City were competitive in the first half, but made far too many errors against a ruthless Barcelona revelling in Messi’s return from injury. A Fernandinho slip inside his own box put Messi clear for his first, then Kevin de Bruyne lost possession allowing Andres Iniesta to set up the Argentine for a leftfooted strike into the bottom corner. The evening got worse for the visitors when goalkeeper Claudio Bravo was sent off for handling outside the box and minutes later Messi struck again. Barcelona were also reduced to 10 men in the last 15 minutes as substitute Jeremy Mathieu was shown a second yellow card for a foul on Raheem Sterling, but by then the damage had been done. Willy Caballero saved a late Neymar penalty - but the Brazilian scored from open play minutes later to complete a comprehensive win for the La Liga side. The victory maintained Barcelona’s 100% start in Group C and extended their lead over City to five points. It was the first time City had conceded four times in the competition and another miserable return to the Nou Camp for Guardiola. During his celebrated four-year tenure as Barcelona manager the Catalan won 14 trophies, but he has now twice lost heavily to the Spaniards - the other being a 3-0 first-leg semi-final defeat with Bayern Munich. Messi’s compatriot Sergio Aguero was only named on the substitutes’ bench for City as Guardiola chose De Bruyne in the ‘false nine’ position, with Sterling, David Silva and Nolito in support. If it was a surprising decision,
the tactics were largely effective in the first half as City, crowding the midfield and pressing high, proved Barcelona’s equal in terms of possession and passes and were undone by the sort of mistake it is impossible to protect against. The visitors had chances of their own too. Nolito forced Marc-Andre ter Stegen into action, while John Stones should have headed home a wonderful Silva free-kick. But City’s fate was sealed before the hour when Bravo clumsily passed to Luis Suarez and, despite being outside the box, instinctively saved the striker’s chip, leaving referee Milorad Mazic with little option but to send him off. To add to City’s woes Pablo Zabaleta was forced from the field, the captain injured in the build-up to Bravo’s sending-off and replaced by Gael Clichy. City reverted to a three-man defence, but more goals followed. The defeat adds to the team’s first wobble of the Guardiola era with the Premier League leaders now without a victory in four matches and ahead of Arsenal in the league on only goal difference. Barcelona had yet to hit the heights of last season so far this term, but one reason for that was the recent absence of Messi with a groin injury. The Argentine scored within three minutes of his La Liga return at the weekend, and in front of his old boss proved again what a magical player he is. He ruthlessly took advantage of Fernandinho’s slip and revelled in the space created by Bravo’s sending-off. He scored from three of his four shots and also created chances for others. It was Messi’s weaving run that forced a panicked Aleksandar Kolarov to concede the penalty and then the Argentine put Neymar through for Barca’s fourth.
Barcelona’s Lionel Messi celebrates scoring his third goal during their UEFA Champions League Group C match againstManchester City at Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona last night. PHOTO: QUIQUE GARCIA/EPA
Ivory Coast drawn with Morocco in Africa Cup of Nations, Uganda face Egypt vory Coast will face former coach Herve Renard again after being drawn against Morocco in the group stage of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations. Renard led the Ivorians to the 2015 title but will stand in their way in Gabon - just as he also faces them in a 2018 World Cup qualifying group. Egypt, Ghana and Uganda have also been drawn together for the Nations Cup as well as a World Cup qualifying group. Gabon kick off the tournament on 14 January, with the final on 5 February. The hosts appear to have been fortunate in the draw, pitched in Group A alongside debutants Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon and Burkina Faso. And they could also be buoyed by newly elected Prime Minister Emmanuel Issoze-Ngondet’s insistence that the country is in good shape to put on the 31st edition of the finals. Speaking at Wednesday’s draw in Libreville Issoze-Ngondet dismissed speculation that recent political instability in Gabon could force the Confederation of African Football to relocate the tournament. “We will not back away from the tournament, We are ready and we will organize an exceptional tournament,” he said. Gabon, who co-hosted the event with Equatorial Guinea in 2012, will need strong support within their country both on and off the field if they are to progress to the latter stages. Morocco coach Renard is aiming for a hat-trick of success, having also won the Nations Cup with Zambia in 2012. He will know the Ivorians well, although the so-called ‘golden generation’ of players he guided to glory in Equatorial Guinea will not be present in Gabon. Long-time talisman Yaya Toure has retired from internationals, along with brother Kolo. But forward Gervinho is still a key part of the team and he will lead the new generation that includes Manchester United defender Eric Bailly and Paris St Germain full-back Serge Aurier. Egypt, Ghana and Uganda will also soon be tired of the sight of each other having been drawn together in Group D only four months after they were placed in the same group for 2018 World Cup qualifying. Seven-time African champions Egypt will be eager to revive their dominance after some years of under-performing, while Ghana are desperate to win their first title since 1982 and go one better than the runners-up spot they achieved last time out and in 2012 and 1992. Uganda’s last appearance at the tournament was in 1978, when they lost in the final to Ghana. Group B pits together fierce north African rivals Algeria, the second highest ranked team on the continent, and Tunisia. And with Senegal, the third highest ranked team in Africa, also in the group, there are some very tough encounters expected. The line-up for next year’s finals is very strong, with eight previous winners and only Zimbabwe having failed to reach the quarter-finals in previous appearances.
Van Persie to face a strong United side in Europa clash
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says he will field a “strong” side as a “difficult week” continues with a Europa League match against Fenerbahce. Thursday’s Group A fixture is United’s second of three matches in six days. They drew 0-0 at Liverpool on Monday, and play Mourinho’s old team Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. “It’s a very difficult week for us. Monday, Thursday, Sunday; Liverpool, Fenerbahce, Chelsea. It’s a special week. We have to be ready,” he said. The Portuguese would not be drawn on his line-up - or whether forward Wayne Rooney would start the game at Old Trafford. The England captain, 30, has been a substitute for United’s past three matches. “I don’t want to give you the team,” said Mourinho. “Sometimes I do, but this time, no. “Wayne is working well, he is positive. We count on him - to start or to be on the bench. “If we play with a team that is not good and strong, we won’t have a chance. We will play a really good team knowing two days later we have to play again.” Mourinho did confirm attacking midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is available after recovering from a thigh injury that has kept him out since mid-September. Tonight’s game will pit United against their former striker Robin van Persie.
Fenerbahce’s Robin Van Persie in action during a past the Turkish Super League match. He leads his team to the Europa league clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford tonight. PHOTO: SEDAT SUNA/EPA
The Dutchman, now 33, was signed from Arsenal in 2012 by Sir Alex Ferguson, but the Scot retired at the end of Van Persie’s first season. The former Arsenal forward was sold to Fenerbahce by Louis van Gaal in 2015. Asked if he thought he would still be at United had Ferguson stayed, Van Persie said: “When I signed that was the idea, that Sir
Alex would stay on for a few more years. “What happened, happened. I don’t think you have to make it bigger than it is. You shake hands and move on to the next chapter.” Fenerbahce’s arrival in Manchester was delayed when the plane carrying the team was forced to make an emergency landing after it was hit by a bird.
955700
SPORT 15 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016
Gor Mahia all but concede league title
Gor Mahia have all but concede their league title after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Western Stima at the Nyayo National Stadium last evening. The result means Tusker FC remain on top ahead of K’Ogallo who are six points adrift in second place with just four games to go. Ze Maria’s side were all set for a win until injury time when Benard Indie powered in a bullet header to break the hearts of the Green Army. K’Ogalo came from a goal behind on the stroke of half-time to a Kennedy Otieno goal to level through an Enock Agwanda 52nd minute penalty before Ugandan midfielder, Godfrey Walusimbi struck what would have been the winner in the 79th. It was not over yet with Ondiek silencing the crowd with a stoppage time equalizer. If Tusker beat Sony Sugar and AFC Leopards, the Brewers will be crowned champions with two games to spare. However they need Gor to again falter in those two weeks. Gor Mahia goalkeeper Boniface Oluoch shields Brian Arita from the ball during their KPL clash last evening. The match ended in a 2-2 draw. PHOTO: Wambugu Maina
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016 | WWW.X254.CO
UGANDA PAIRED WITH GHANA AND EGYPT IN 2017 AFCON, IVORY COAST TO FACE MOROCCO
Boufal to make Saints debut against Inter
Southampton’s record signing Sofiane Boufal could make his debut for the club in the Europa League against Inter Milan tonight. The attacking midfielder, 23, joined the Saints for £16m in the summer but is yet to play due to a knee injury. Midfielder Nathan Redmond plus defensive pair Cedric Soares and Matt Targett have not travelled to Italy. The Saints are seven games unbeaten in all competitions and have four points from two Europa League games. The match at the San Siro will be the first meeting between the two clubs and comes six years after Inter last won the Champions League. That same season Southampton, then managed by Alan Pardew, won the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and finished seventh in League One. Inter have lost their opening two games in Group K, have lost three in a row in all competitions and are currently 11th in Serie A.
INSIDE
p
14
Messi ruins Pep’s Barca return
p
15
Stima hold Gor in four goal thriller
Superb Ozil grabs first career hat-trick M
esut Ozil scored a hat-trick after stunning goals from Alexis Sanchez and Theo Walcott as Arsenal dismantled Ludogorets Razgrad in a ruthless Champions League display. Sanchez got the first with a masterful chip from just inside the box. Walcott powered a curling shot home after Ludogorets’ Wanderson hit a post. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain smashed a loose ball into the corner for the third, before Ozil scored three times in a game for the first time in his career. The Gunners have won seven games in a row in all competitions - scoring 23 goals - and are undefeated in 11 matches. Their last defeat was at home to Liverpool on the opening day of the Premier League season. Victory over Bulgarian champions Ludogorets means Arsenal top Group A ahead of Paris StGermain, who beat Basel 3-0, on goal difference. As Sanchez’s drifting lob settled in the Ludogorets net, gleeful manager Arsene Wenger leapt from the bench in celebration. It was just the beginning. The Frenchman’s side were so dominant and so full of confidence they perhaps should even have won by a greater margin. Oxlade-Chamberlain certainly might have provided a better finish to Sanchez’s beautifully disguised chipped through pass - the Chilean’s second moment of genius on a night his hard running and quick mind came to the fore. But the player who most obviously embodies Arsenal’s new dynamic mood is Walcott. He impressively put two earlier missed chances out of mind when doubling the lead with a powerful strike that signalled the away side’s slide towards heavy defeat. It was the 27-year-old’s seventh goal in his past six Arsenal games, having scored the same amount in his previous 42. For 60 minutes, he and Sanchez terrified the
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho shake hand with City’s Pep Guardiola before their Premier leagiue clash on September 10, 2016. PHOTO: EPA
opposition backline with their pace, and when he was replaced by Lucas Perez he went off to huge round of applause. There were big smiles as he took up a seat on the bench - from both Walcott and Wenger. In each of the past six seasons, Arsenal have fallen at the first knockout stage, the last 16. In all but one of those seasons, they finished second in their group. With Swiss club Basel and Ludogorets six points adrift with three matches to play, Group A will surely be won by Arsenal or French champions PSG. The Gunners began their Champions League campaign with a battling point in Paris, and the two teams meet in north London on 23 November. Wenger, though clearly delighted with his side’s performance, was at pains to stress his players have work to do. “Let’s qualify first,” he told BT Sport. “We go to Ludogorets in two weeks and they will want to show us they are better than 6-0, but if we win there it would come down to the game against PSG.”
P14
Bayern end winless run, Atletico win Bayern Munich ended a threegame winless run by hitting four past Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven. Thomas Muller and Joshua Kimmich scored in the first half before PSV’s Luciano Narsingh pulled a goal back shortly before half-time. Robert Lewandowski and Arjen Robben both found the net in the second half to stretch Bayern’s Champions League record to 14 successive home wins. Bayern remain three points behind Group D leaders Atletico Madrid, who won 1-0. Atletico beat Russian side Rostov and remain one of three sides with a 100% record in this year’s Champions League - along with Barcelona and Leicester City. Yannick Carrasco scored the only goal of the game for last season’s runners-up. Napoli suffered a surprise defeat at home to Bestikas as their perfect start in Group B came to an end. The Turkish side’s striker Vincent Aboubakar scored twice, including an 86th-minute winner, to seal a 3-2 victory and move one point behind the Italians. Benfica are another point behind in third following a 2-0 away win against Dynamo Kiev. Two second-half mistakes from Kolo Toure gifted Borussia Monchengladbach a Champions League victory at Celtic. The visitors dominated the first half but Celtic held firm, and even passed up a good chance when Scott Sinclair sliced over from close range.However, Lars Stindl drove in the visitors’ first goal after Andre Hahn robbed Toure of possession.
Published By Xtra Publishing Limited, Chancery Building, Valley Road, Nairobi | Printed at The Standard Group Centre, Mombasa Road, Nairobi. Paul Marshall-CEO, Fred Bunei-Finance Manager, Josiah Musee-Advertising Manager, Peter Obuya-Editor