Political and Regulatory Affairs Round-Up: Issue No. 35 of 2025
Kenya
DPP the Weakest Link in Graft War, Senators Say
Senators want to strip the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of absolute powers, saying the office has become the weakest link in the fight against corruption. They plan to amend Article 157 of the Constitution to give the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) prosecutorial powers as well. Lawmakers expressed frustration after hearing how the DPP has repeatedly withdrawn corruption cases, often without consulting the commission, despite evidence and witnesses being ready. EACC officials cited examples including the Tharaka-Nithi incinerator tender and the case against former Migori Governor Okoth Obado. They argued that their thorough investigations are wasted when cases are dropped midway. Senators said Kenya should consider abolishing the separation of investigation and prosecution roles and allowing one body to hold both powers if the fight against corruption is to be successful.
(Source: Daily Nation)
Uganda
Uganda Welcomes ICC War Crimes Hearing Against Rebel Leader Kony
Uganda has welcomed the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) hearing of evidence against rebel leader Joseph Kony but insists justice will only be achieved when he is apprehended, tried, and punished. The hearing in The Hague covers 39 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity allegedly committed by Kony between 2003 and 2004 in northern Uganda. These include murder, rape, forced marriage, the use of child soldiers, and attacks on civilians. The government states that while confirming charges is important, it remains symbolic unless Kony is arrested and compelled to answer in court.
(Source: The Independent)
Tanzania
PCCB empowers PWDs in Singida to Fight Graft During Elections
PCCB in Singida has urged people with disabilities (PWDs) to help identify and report corruption, especially during this election season. A seminar was organised to equip them with anti-corruption knowledge as the country approaches the general elections on October 29. They were told that their input is vital because corruption must be tackled not only during elections but also in daily life within their communities. Some PWDs said they feel overlooked by election campaigns and sometimes exploited by dishonest politicians for political gain. The training was welcomed by disability organisations, which emphasise the need for more sessions like this to enable PWDs to contribute meaningfully to fighting corruption.
(Source: The Daily News)
Rwanda
Rwanda Condemns Israeli Strike in Doha
Rwanda has strongly condemned the Israeli airstrike in Doha, describing it as a blatant breach of international norms. The government expressed solidarity with Qatar and offered condolences to the families of those killed, including Qatari personnel. Kigali warned that such strikes risk creating a world without rules, where powerful states act unchecked. It called the escalation senseless and criticised the global response, particularly from powerful nations, as hypocritical and complacent. Rwanda urged a principled, pragmatic, and swift resolution to the conflict in the region.
(Source: The New Times)
Ethiopia
PM Abiy’s Africa Climate Innovation Compact, African Climate Facility Established at Conclusion of ACS2
At the second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, leaders adopted the Addis Ababa Declaration on Climate Change and a Call to Action, placing Africa at the forefront of global climate efforts. The theme was accelerating global climate solutions through finance for Africa’s resilient and green development. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched two initiatives ‒ the Africa Climate Innovation Compact and the African Climate Facility ‒ aimed at raising USD 50 billion annually to scale up home-grown climate solutions. The goal is to deliver 1,000 African-led solutions by 2030 in key sectors, including energy, agriculture, water, transport, and resilience. They emphasise that Africa must be regarded not only as suffering the effects of climate change but also as offering solutions.
(Source: ENA)
Sudan
Sudanese Army Recaptures Bara in North Kordofan from RSF
Sudan’s army states it has recaptured the town of Bara in North Kordofan from the RSF after intense fighting. Bara had been controlled by the RSF since the early months of the conflict and served as a base for attacks on El-Obeid and as a supply route from western Sudan. The army claims it has killed or captured dozens of RSF fighters and displayed destroyed vehicles, while pro-army sources shared videos from within the town. Civilians incurred casualties, with three dead and 14 wounded in shelling. The Sudan Doctors’ Network condemned the targeting of residential areas as a violation of international law. In El-Obeid, residents celebrated the victory, which the state governor described as a gift to the people of Sudan. Locals accuse the RSF and allied mercenaries of abuses, including looting, forced home seizures, and displacements.
(Source: The Sudan Tribune)
Somalia
Somalia Receives Counter-IED Equipment from the UK to Combat Terrorism
Somalia has received counter-IED equipment from the United Kingdom (UK) to assist in the fight against terrorism. The donation includes vehicles and specialised equipment to detect and defuse roadside bombs and improvised explosive devices. The support aims to strengthen the capability of Somali security forces to protect civilians and enhance safety along key routes used for travel and humanitarian work. UK involvement is part of broader efforts to support Somalia in its stabilisation and counter-terrorism operations.
(Source: SONNA)
