Adani Group is under scrutiny for alleged violations of disclosure norms concerning a US bribery case and the subsequent cancellation of major deals by Kenya. While the conglomerate has denied any involvement in the case, stock exchanges have sought explanations and experts believe that the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) may launch an investigation. The allegations, which include a criminal indictment and a civil complaint, could have significant consequences for Adani Group's reputation and access to international markets.
In a state of the nation address, Kenya's President announced the cancellation of major deals with Indian tycoon Gautam Adani, including an airport expansion project and power transmission lines. This decision was made in light of U.S. bribery and fraud indictments against Adani, who has been charged with securities fraud and conspiracy. The controversial deals had faced backlash from Kenyan protesters and airport workers concerned about potential job losses. Despite claims from Kenya's Energy Minister that no corruption was involved on their part, the country has now severed ties with Adani's conglomerate.
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has come out to oppose the move by Senator Samson Cherargei to amend the Constitution to extend the term of elected leaders in Kenya from five to seven years. Mwangangi argues that instead of extending their term limits, the current five-year term should be reduced by one year to hold leaders accountable for their actions. He also urges the clergy to pray for the country amidst the ongoing political turmoil caused by the push for term extension.
French second-tier league forward Rafiki Said scored the only goal of the match to lift Comoros to a shocking 1-0 victory over Tunisia in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Friday. This is Tunisia's first home defeat in 16 consecutive AFCON qualifiers and Comoros' second time causing an upset, after defeating Ghana in the 2022 qualifiers. The other matchday 3 qualifiers saw Premier League sharpshooters Mohamed Salah and Bryan Mbeumo scoring key goals, South Africa breaking a record with five goals, and Nigeria snatching a late win. Meanwhile, record seven-time champions Egypt maintained their perfect record with a 2-0 win over Mauritania. The AFCON qualifying action continues next week with Comoros hosting Tunisia and Egypt facing Kenya.
Workers at a Samsung factory in Chennai, India, have gone on strike to demand higher wages, which has caused a significant impact on production. The Indian government has been called on to intervene and help resolve the situation. In a similar incident in Kenya, airport workers are also protesting a deal with Adani Group, leading to flight disruptions. Similarly, in the USA, Boeing workers are threatening to go on strike if their wages are not increased, which could jeopardize the production of 737 Max airplanes. However, there is a glimmer of hope as port workers in the US have reached an agreement with their unions, and a strike has been postponed for now.
Morara Kebaso, the leader of the Inject Kenya ni Home movement, was arrested by men believed to be police officers at his offices in Kahawa Sukari. Witnesses say the officers, some wearing masks, refused to reveal their identities and confiscated Kebaso's electronic devices. His lawyer, Pareno Solonka, posted on social media that they have been denied access to their client, who has been taken to Nairobi Area Police. The arrest sparked a social media campaign calling for his release and criticism of the government's attempts to silence activists pushing for accountability.
The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League 2 is coming to a close with the last game between Namibia and the United Arab Emirates. Despite being the hosts, Namibia has not fared well in this phase with 3 consecutive losses. Meanwhile, UAE has managed a single win out of 3 games. In the meantime, other countries, such as Kuwait and Kenya, have already shown success in the new Cricket World Cup Challenge League cycle.
On Thursday, India commissioned its second nuclear submarine, INS Arighaat, into the Navy. The 6,000-tonne submarine will join its predecessor, INS Arihant, and bolster India's nuclear triad capabilities. This development further strengthens India's deterrence capabilities and its "No first-use" policy, with a nuclear-powered submarine serving as a strong deterrent to potential hostile nations. The construction of INS Arighaat involved advanced technology and materials, with indigenous systems and equipment developed by Indian scientists, industry, and naval personnel.
Just a month after his appointment as the head coach of Cricket Kenya's men's team, former Indian cricketer Dodda Ganesh has been sacked. The CK executive board explained their decision to not ratify the appointment, citing their constitution. Ganesh, who was announced as the head coach in August, has been directed to cease any engagements with the team with immediate effect.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has introduced a new bill in the Senate to extend the term of the President and all elected leaders in Kenya from five to seven years. The proposed law also includes an amendment to remove the presidential term limit and replace it with an age limit of 75 years. This news has sparked discussions among Kenyans as they prepare for the next elections in 2022.