This week’s Kenyan newspapers focused on President William Ruto’s evolving political and development agenda.During Madaraka Day celebrations, Ruto highlighted plans to reform education, especially in Northern Kenya, by integrating Madrassa, Duksi, and pastoral learning programmes into the national system.The aim is to provide recognised academic pathways for learners previously outside formal schooling.

Initiatives to boost school retention, such as feeding programmes, teacher deployment, infrastructure improvement, and digital connectivity, were also emphasised.

Politically, Ruto seems to be changing strategy ahead of the 2027 elections, shifting from relying on governors and regional kingpins to directly engaging grassroots leaders, elders, professionals, clergy, and local communities.

This move has sparked some regional realignments, with Western Kenya leaders openly supporting his re-election bid and calling for deputy representation in 2027.However, critics argue economic frustrations and public dissatisfaction may not be solved by political visits alone.

Other news included a missing Nakuru tech entrepreneur found dead under mysterious circumstances and ODM internal tensions in Kisumu, with some leaders absent from key meetings.Overall, the papers show a mix of political manoeuvres, community engagement, and ongoing national issues shaping Kenya’s current affairs landscape.