Kenyan newspapers on June 1 reported major developments in the ongoing investigation into the tragic Utumishi Girls Academy dormitory fire in Gilgil, which left 16 students dead and 79 others injured.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), forensic analysis of CCTV footage has enabled detectives to identify seven students believed to have been involved in starting the fire.

The footage allegedly shows the students moving quietly into the dormitory around 12:10 AM, checking whether other students were asleep before setting the blaze and fleeing the scene.

Six of the identified suspects are reportedly already in custody, while one was earlier released to her parents but is now being sought by authorities.Investigations are still ongoing as police continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the deadly incident.In addition to the fire tragedy, newspapers also highlighted political and public policy developments.

Reports indicated that the Kenyan government is moving forward with plans to establish an Ebola quarantine and treatment facility in partnership with the United States, despite a court order and public opposition.

Concerns have been raised by health professionals and residents in Laikipia over Kenya’s preparedness to handle such a high-risk facility, with questions about transparency and the involvement of foreign military personnel in setting it up.

Separately, political activity dominated headlines as ODM party leaders, led by Oburu Oginga and Gladys Wanga, publicly endorsed President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid during a major rally in Kisumu.

The endorsement marked a significant political shift, with ODM affirming its cooperation with the ruling UDA party and dismissing internal opposition factions.

Together, these stories reflect a mix of security investigations, health policy debates, and evolving political alliances shaping Kenya’s current affairs landscape.