Tragedy Strikes Moi University: Two Students Drown in Quarry

The tranquil waters of an open quarry near Moi University in Eldoret turned deadly on Monday afternoon, claiming the lives of two students. The young men, identified as Wycliffe Machuki (left), a third-year student, and Chris Otieno (right), a second-year student, were reportedly enjoying a swim in the quarry located in the Kesses area of Uasin Gishu County when tragedy struck.

The circumstances surrounding the drowning remain unclear, but initial reports suggest that the students may have encountered difficulties while swimming. A somber mood descended upon the university community as news of the tragedy spread, with students and faculty alike expressing their shock and grief.

Confirming the incident, Police Chief Charles Chacha of the Kesses area stated that the bodies of the two students were recovered from the quarry and transported to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Eldoret mortuary. Authorities are currently investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the drownings.

Two bodies of the drowned students retrieved from a quary.

The loss of these two young lives serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with open water, even in seemingly calm environments. As the university community mourns the loss of their fellow students, it is a time for reflection and a renewed emphasis on water safety awareness.

Rest in Peace comrades🕊️

The Balancing Act: Public Interest vs. National Interest

Author: Jemedari Mwanawakiume

 The terms "public interest" and "national interest" are often thrown around in political discourse, sometimes interchangeably. While they share a common goal of benefiting society, they represent distinct perspectives, often leading to a complex balancing act.

The public interest focuses on the well-being of the general public, prioritizing issues like social welfare, environmental protection, and individual rights. It champions policies that directly benefit citizens, ensuring access to healthcare, education, and a safe environment. For example, advocating for stricter environmental regulations to protect public health falls under the public interest.

The national interest, on the other hand, encompasses a broader perspective, encompassing the nation's security, economic prosperity, and international standing. It considers policies that benefit the nation as a whole, even if they might not directly impact individual citizens. For instance, a trade agreement that strengthens the economy, even if it leads to job losses in specific sectors, could be deemed in the national interest.

The crux of the issue lies in the potential for conflict between these two perspectives. A policy that benefits the national economy might negatively impact a specific community, leading to a clash between public and national interest. For instance, building a new airport that boosts tourism and economic growth could displace residents and damage the environment, raising concerns about the public interest.

Navigating this conflict requires a delicate balance. While prioritizing national interest might seem advantageous in the long run, neglecting the public interest can lead to social unrest and undermine the legitimacy of the government. Similarly, solely focusing on the public interest might hinder national progress and limit opportunities for growth.

The solution lies in finding policies that serve both the national and public interest. This requires a comprehensive approach that considers the needs of all citizens while also ensuring the nation's overall well-being. This can be achieved through:

Transparency and accountability: Openly communicating the rationale behind policies and ensuring that decision-making processes are transparent can build trust and address public concerns.

Effective communication: Engaging with the public and understanding their concerns is crucial for finding solutions that address both public and national interests.

Long-term vision: Policies should be designed with a long-term perspective, considering their impact on future generations and the sustainability of the nation.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create a society where the public interest and national interest are not seen as opposing forces but rather as complementary goals, working in tandem to create a better future for all. This requires constant dialogue, a willingness to compromise, and a shared commitment to building a nation that prioritizes both its people and its progress.

"I have had to ask myself whether the highest interest is the public interest or there is a higher interest called the national iinterest, because the public itself could hurt the national interests - DP Kithure Kindiki

Moi University: Back to the Books, But What About the Issues?

Author: Jemedari Mwanawakiume

Get ready to hit the books, Moi University students! After a month of campus closures and student unrest, the university is finally reopening its doors on Friday, November 8th. The decision came after a series of meetings between university management, staff, and student representatives, aiming to address the issues that sparked the protests.

But hold up, what exactly happened? Students were furious about the VC's decision to close the university, claiming it violated their right to education. They also accused the VC of poor management and ignoring their concerns about staff issues.

So what's next? The university is promising a fresh start. The management board and student representatives are finalizing a "return to work" agreement, and the Higher Education PS will be on campus to welcome students back.

But will this be enough to address the underlying problems? Students are hoping this reopening marks a real change, not just a temporary fix. The upcoming weeks will be crucial to see if the university can truly address the issues that led to the closure and create a more supportive learning environment for everyone.

Beyond the Headlines: A Critical Thinker's Guide to News Verification

By Jemedari Mwanawakiume

 It's important to be critical of the information you encounter online, especially when it comes to news articles. Here are some tips to help you determine if a news story is reliable:

Checking the Source:

Reputable Sources: Look for news organizations known for accurate reporting. Be cautious of websites with unusual domain names or missing contact information.

Beyond the Headlines: Headlines can be catchy but misleading. Read the entire article to understand the full context.

Author Expertise: Check if the author is an expert on the topic and if they have any biases that might influence their reporting.

Supporting Evidence: Look for links to credible sources that back up the claims made in the article.

Other Signs: Be wary of articles with excessive capitalization, poor grammar, or a lack of evidence.

Send message to VERIFY NEWS INFORMATION

Verifying Information:

Fact-Checking Websites: Websites like FactCheck.org and Snopes.com can help you determine the accuracy of news stories.

Multiple Sources: Compare information from different sources to see if there are any inconsistencies.

Reverse Image Search: If a photo seems suspicious, use a reverse image search to see where it originated and if it has been used in other contexts.

AIESEC In Moi Dinner

By Bungei

On the 10^th of February, the AIESEC in MOI were privileged to hold their annual Gala which was a success. This evening was filled with utter excitement as the Alumni, the Juniors alumni, the recent graduates and the current students reunited. Sharing stories of success and mentorship to these young Souls that thirst for that success.

 

Boma Inn where the event happened was a magnificent place to hold such a luxurious event. The Sophistication with which the event was planned and the dishes served was spectacular, congratulations to the organizing committee.

 

The head of AIESEC in Kenya graced the meeting with elegance, While the patron Mr. Musakali brought charm as the most supportive Alumni Duncan Huba danced the night away celebrating a good year while awarding the best performed AIESECer.

 

A detailed road map was laid out by the incoming President Aston Mboto and Outgoing President Mishley Otiende. With a target of engaging over 10,000 youths by 2027 ,20 SDG projects and 300stories told seems to be achievable Goal.

 

The dinner was fun, with keynote speakers young and thriving in the Tech industry burned hearts with desires to be successful. Magdaline chepkemboi who is the founder of Eldo hub and Steve Biko who is transformin lives using tech spoke how they have gone out of their way to achieve their goals.

 

AIESEC is a wonderful organization where you make an impact in the world starting with where you are. It gives opportunities that shape you up ready for the outside world.

If you are not in AIESC then what are you doing with your life? Join AIESEC and get the experience of a life time.

 

 

 

RESPECT THE HUSTLE

 

 

 

 By Chloe Odhiambo.

“Mandazi 5 Chapo 10...” That is what will wake up a comrade from their beauty sleep. Some will use that as their alarm to remind them to get up and start their day. Doors banging left and right as people want to catch the attention of the sellers. I can only imagine what the student who woke up to make those mandazis in their bedsitter went through. The nice aroma and stuffiness all in the same room.

Deciding on a business as a student is as problematic as it sounds. Thinking of a niche and how you’ll manage to sell as you’re studying, needs one with multiple thought streams. The lecturer might be speaking but that one comrade is thinking of how much profit will be made from selling just five of their products. Having a name on the streets of the university and outside about the business also counts. It’s never the same struggle for everyone in this race.

The HELB loan given to students has many uses. From the minute it lands in the students’ mpesa and respective bank accounts, it’s already over as they speak. An upcoming entrepreneur has already thought of investing and others will save and wait for accumulation to start their own ‘empires’. I can’t really say they enjoy it as their fellows

There are also the silent freelancers. Those who work online remotely earning their own income without anyone having to know about their sources. It’s not as easy as it sounds as well. Lacking sleep to make sure an international agent gets his work on time and in perfect condition, is not a walk in the park. That dollar earned goes a long way.

The high cost of living that is spiraling unusually is giving students sleepless nights compelling them to be lucrative by any means possible. It reaches a certain age where one can’t be asking for money from their parents. Modern day adulting. Mboka ni mboka is the defense statement used by those who get caught by the law for doing illegal works in the name of getting cash. Worst of all as a student. The hard-earned earned money will be the one used to bail you out.

Backgrounds are never similar. Any student trying to make ends meet must never forget their core business that brought them to university. With money comes great power that requires knowledge to keep it and make it multiply, as once professed. To anyone in school and still making a living, the pressure is real but always worth it. Respect the hustle!

 

MY STONE CRUSH

 

 By Maloba Titus

Best may be worst,

Love, so complicated always,

Contain everything, but curtained,

Sad.

 

Her Fanta figure bottle,

Brown skin undying,

Her smile of everything,

Her shy eyes covered in arms,

Innocent, showing no harm.

 

Ooh, she would be mine,

I went down times nine,

Got up ten she wasn't,

Her height just perfect,

I couldn't earn.

 

I was willing to be true,

Even at my worst flaw,

Couldn't promise the world,

Royalty but loyalty,

I am just from the humble.

 

In you I found love,

The best I thought better,

Turns out bitter.

 Let me dig butter, first.

  

In you I found peace,

The best that there is,

Turns out better,   

In my next life.                                                   

 

Highlights Of Recent Events

 

 By Bungei Brenda

Young Marathoner Dies

The Tragic Death of the young Kiptum has taken the whole world with a storm. He has been mourned for his life has been snatched away just as he had his hands on the trophy. He had a whole life ahead of him that was shattered at a glimpse.

The young marathon world record holder,24 years died on Sunday night at around 11pm, alongside his 36-year-old coach Gervais who Is a Rwandan. The accident happened along the Eldoret – Kaptagat highway. Authorities claim that he may have lost control of his car, veered 60 meters away before hitting a tree

His death comes exactly five days after the World athletics ratified his world record time of 2:00.35 which he set with uttermost victory in Chicago’s marathon last year.

Many people came to know about Kelvin Kiptum last year after he Broke Eliud Kipchoge’s world record with only 35 seconds. Not only the World of Athletics Mourn him, the world at large feels the pain of his life been snatched away. This Terrible death has robbed the Athletics world of an extra Ordinary talent.

Maribe’s Joy Cut Short

Close to 7 years now, the case of a business Woman Monica Kimani has been doing rounds of Trials in the High court. Late last week, a verdict was reached and the High court came to a ruling that found Joseph Irungu alias ‘jowie’ guilty and former news anchor Jackie Maribe was acquitted.

Maribe’s acquittal may be cut short due to the notice of appeal that has been filled with the Director of Public Prosecution. The DPP sates that the republic is dissatisfied with the decision of the High court in Kenya and appeals to the court of appeal against that judgement where Jackie Maribe gets acquitted.

Jackie was acquitted through the ruling of the High court Judge Grace Nzioka after the prosecution failed to provide enough evidence linking Maribe to the murder that had occurred in 19^th of September 2019.Maribe might have provided false information to the police but there was no proper chare against her and so called out to the Director of Public Prosecution for they know their mandate.

Maribe has been charged jointly with his ex-fiancé Joseph Irungu who was found guilty and his sentence will be delivered on the 15^th of March 2023.

 

Last Minute Semester

 

 

 

 By Faith Onyango.

In the final year of study ,many students find themselves at a crossroads, torn between embracing the future or succumbing to uncertainty. For some, this final year is a flurry of job applications as they strive to overcome their apprehensions about post-graduate life. Meanwhile, others have already secured positions or are diligently planning their next steps.

However, amidst the excitement and anticipation, there are also feelings of confusion and apprehension. Some students are unsure of where to even begin their journey beyond academia. They lament the lack of practical skills or talents horned during their four years on campus, realizing that they may not be adequately prepared for the demands of the real world.

The success of their peers only adds to the pressure. While some have already found employment and are thriving in their careers, others are left grappling with feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty about their own prospects.

 

In addition to the career-related stress, some final-year students feel the weight of choosing life partners. The fear of not finding genuine companions outside the academic bubble adds another layer of concern.

 

Amid these pressures, it is essential for final-year students to stay grounded and trust that everything will fall into place. Worrying excessively is counterproductive; instead, recognizing that there is a plan and taking proactive steps will pave the way for a smoother transition into the next chapter of their lives.

 

Indeed, the final semester serves as a pivotal moment for many students as they navigate the transition from college to career. It is a time for reflection, planning, and perhaps most importantly, taking proactive steps to carve out a path towards a fulfilling and successful future.

 

THE UNPRESIDENTAL TONGUE

 By Ibran Nabungolo

The president ushered the new year of 2024 with a sustained attacks on Judiciary, an arm of the government, that he was once a darling to until the legal sword struck their relationship on issues regarding the Affordable housing levy and Recruitment of our police forces to the Republic of Haiti.

The President tongue has since become a tongue of vengeance, threats, coercive and to add to the list lies as the norm to the symbol of national unity and high status the name has had post Nyayo regime.

Today, every Kenyan has become accustomed to His Excellency's lies even in villages like Taptangelei. Whenever the President moves from one pillar to another and from one post to another, high on the fueled government car, raising his Kaunda, there are high chances of him vilifying the Judiciary and proposing new tax measures that are obviously chocking the hustling nation to its core, however to him, we're building a new "Singapore" in African with our own taxes under his hands.

 

The Presidency arrogance of defying court orders does not only show how "the son of a chicken seller" supremacy but send a resounding warning of an emerging regime that smell and stink like Nyayo era.

Yes, we understand that the Presidential president is a student of science and has absolutely little knowledge on matters to do with governance, however the existence of three arms of the government: the Judiciary, executive and legislature are not flower girl institutions but are core hands that helps in the running of the government. The existence of doctrine of separation of power by scholars was not a mere work but paramount that helps in running of a democratic government.

The president is obligated to respect the rule of law regardless of how many cries and intimidation he directs to the Judiciary while on top of public acquired vehicle. Currently, his utterance and defiance resemble the famous King in the Bible who shrugged off the advice of elders and the cleric can explain well the ending of that King.

Instead of the president protesting against the court at least he should be a leader and avoid embarrassments of quoting the constitution he raised in Kasarani wrongly. The president should be presidential enough to listen at least to the cleric who stood with his ambitions in the altar, their cries at Ufungamano House represent the cries against the God chosen regime the president is driving. To do that, the president should face the facts and avoid communication that wage arrogance because the president is a symbol of national unity and the nation cannot be united with his words.

 

WHAT IS LOVE

 

By Lucas Kimeu                        

Daily, the topic of love has been finding new descriptions with new words to describe it. But will we ever get to know what it really means? I guess you have your own answer. What do we mean when we talk about love actually? Love encompasses a range of strong and positive emotional and mental states, from the most sublime virtue or good habit, the deepest interpersonal affection, to the simplest pleasure. Here, we are talking about the love in romantic relationships. With love, everyone always has a different kind of story to offer. Some have some gone under very touching heartbreaks even their stories leave you crying but do we really know if we are supposed to love or live and die single. A lot of phrases have been made saying that love is a scam and stuff.

One has to distinguish between love and fantasy of which has been a challenge in our today life. Fantasy may come clothed in love rags but it really is different from genuine love. In fantasy, one sees it fit to be in a relationship with someone but after getting into the relationship, everything changes and they end up loosing respect for each other hence breaking up. As people our love life is often destroyed during our childhood when we form different forms of fantasies in our minds of a perfect partner which is not exactly what we desire as adults but due to our formed versions of our partners we end up loosing it all because we do not get what we desire.

As a youth you have to distinguish your feelings. To prevent future regrets and disappointments in your love life. When getting into relationships, avoid expectations because these expectations are the biggest cause of disappointments and even huge break ups leading to suicides and untimely deaths. Before you fall in love be extra cautious of what you are actually getting yourself into. This is because that might be you digging your own grave. It is one of the most dangerous addictions in someone’s life as its effect is mostly associated with hard drugs such as cocaine. Love occurs as an attraction which is caused by a hormone released at the left side of the brains and it affects the same way as the hard drugs.

Each one of us has a different opinion about love. Some will tell you not to dare fall in love because of their terrible pasts with their terrible partners. For me I could tell you to try and fall in love for you to taste the better part it while still young and vigorous. Still when choosing the one to fall for, be careful ‘kisikurambe’ as they say it because we will laugh as you cry but then help you if you decide to die. Now the baton is yours its either you decide to run and fall in love carelessly or fall in love cautiously. Now go.

 

Love For Sexual Luck And Financial Gain

 By Francis Mweteeli

“The higher you climb, the cooler the clime becomes.” This old adage comes to me when I think about campus romance. There is a reality in this phrase when comparing love though used in uplifting experiences. Every individual joins university of their choice with a diverse perception and notion about this big ‘tittle’. I can say that, the outlook depends on your high school teacher. But the big question is; “Did you know that you cannot swallow while vomiting?”

Yesterday night, I was lucky to make my way to one of the illustrious halls of residents, just to be shocked. Before I entered one of the mighty hostels of capacities, I was welcomed by soft whispers and covet gazes. I could compare the girls to the light of the full moon. Half-dressed to empress the ready to mingle. The whole situation reminded me of the biblical story of the daughters of Bethsheba, ‘with these young women excluding a similar seductive allure!’ Their beauty could rush you inside there even cause downfall to the servants of Yahweh. To my big surprise, the two I met yesterday together, today they had split, each quenching to a new conquest. So, what does it mean? Here comes a pertinent question; What is the meaning of frequent partner swapping when it comes to campus dating? So, it closely relates with a game, with each player trying to overcome each other in terms of sexual luck and financial gain. The biggest rat here is sex and money! Full stop.  Many are referring to the animosity as a scum. 

Most students join university with an age of 17-20 years, simply teenagers. Their minds are swayed and their hearts are impressionable. They fall victims to the demon of ‘testing the waters’ This comes as a result of the navigation of their unfamiliar environment. What do you think their intentions are? Every individual is desperately trying to unlock their highly coveted asset of sexual and financial luck. My biggest fear is everyday witnessing the commodification of Sex in campus and students fornicating and ignoring the gravity of their actions.

I am not imposing any kind of a belief or standards to you, but am raising awareness about this issue at hand. Sex before marriage is fornication! Let it be known. Where is our sense of restrain? This contentious issue was once a taboo. It hearts to know the sense that the sacred and sanctimonious role of education has now become a hotbed for fornication.

Am I wrong? “Evil deeds bear bitter fruits.”  Let me get you aware of the complexities and nuances surrounding this phenomenon. Pervasive pressure and scrutiny amongst students are a big reason, someone is fearing to be seen as prudish. Media is fueling this CAPITAL hence compelling students to engage in it as a way of being fit. No one is ready for the heavy consequences. No comrade is ready to suffer for a brighter future. They are carried by a recent hit, ‘bora nienjoy’

It has come to my senses that financial constrains and promise of quick cash is driving this issue to growth. High cost of living and tuition often blinds the desperate comrades to sex exploitation. Students are trading sexual pleasures for material gains. For heavens sake! Who will solve this big deal? Experience is teaching lovers every day. The big animals; HIV, STIs, early pregnancies are knocking on the door. Who is ready to welcome them dear comrades?

To conclude, "A stitch in time saves nine." When we will focus on our education which is the key to success, we will overcome the consequences of this great crime. There is time for everything if there is time for anything. I am fostering this healthy attitude and behavior to make you condemn the sin. Remember, ‘patience is blessing in waiting’

 

END OF AN ERA

By:Mwende Mercy

smitten, conscience smitten, love smitten,

blinded I was, couldn't put up with anyone pointing his mistakes,

how dare they talk ill of my man, of course I was in love,

you know that feeling of rising goosebumps upon his touch,

weird shallow breath as he blows airy kisses on my neck,

trip to the moon as he caresses my body

gosh! so wonderful, amazing.

 

 

like a drug, I was drawn to him, intoxicated to point of no return,

trying to flee as I could, but it could be useless,

still finding a way back, back to my man, my addiction,

wine-like taste was his lips, as he devoured mine,

damn! so hard to forget the crazy euphoria when we merged,

I think it was lust? or maybe it wasn't.

 

 

how could I forget the lingering cologne on his body?

makes me not to let go of his pleasuring memories,

got illusions of his shadows in my room, my bed,

whispers of naughty, nasty words in my dreams,

No! there it goes, the massacred pleasure, digging into my deeper lengths,

repeated strokes then culmination of speaking in tongues as volcanoes erupt.

the grand finale came as a surprise, didn't expect it to be so quick,

all became stories, building up to our past,

ooh! what transpired between us? I don't have a clue about it,

just woke up one day "let's call it quits" informed the note.

 

now I'm overwhelmed with emotions of love and disgust to him,

how could he just let me taste the meal without eating it?

he was my possession, I owned him,

dude just left me flabbergasted, maybe it was sort of wicked love,

bro's memories marked the end of our love era.

 

THE PRODIGAL GOVERNMENT

 

By Francis Masai

Email: francismasai526@gmail.com

In an era defined by financial prudence and accountability, the actions of excessive spending by government stands as stark anomaly. There is clearly excessive spending, uncontrolled borrowing leading to high debt levels and mismanagement of public funds by some government officials.

‘Empty coffers’ statement by the Deputy President is still a question to many Kenyans whereas according to the controller of budget review for the financial year 2022/2023 released in May showed that the president Ruto’s administration spends over Ksh.14 billion on domestic and foreign travel alone. The office of the president spends over Ksh 681 million on travel indicating a 113% increase compared to the year before that. This raised questions among Citizens that is the government extravagantly spending on trips which most citizen felt that maybe they could be of no benefit to the economy as a nation. Kenyans took it on social media platforms claiming that the economic constraints they are experiencing is as a result of high government expenditure on areas that can not even be identified or felt.

High taxation, high expenditure by the government and at the same time high cost of fuel and commodities raises eyebrows for  many Kenyans who feel that the government is becoming reckless on how they source and spend the finances they have. Some  UDA members of parliament have even come out to plead with the president to lower the cost of living because they feel that they are losing popularity at the areas they represent yet they are the same people who passed the finance bill in parliament which saw the increase of taxes making pay slips of Kenyans to shrink. This made most Kenyans to conclude that the  government is no longer for the hustlers as  promised. Unbearable taxes, levies and recent increase in cost of government services including application for National IDs and passport stirs up the reaction of Kenyans. Debt continues to accrue as Kenyan shilling day by day continues to depreciate.

Members of National assembly voted to approve the deployment of 1000 police officers in Haiti for a peace keeping mission that will cost Ksh. 36.5 billion. Kenyans on the other hand feel that they are still struggling to satisfy their physiological needs such as adequate food, clean water and affordable primary health care and the government peace keeping mission in a foreign land is a mismatched priority for them. They suggest that the government could have first prioritized stabilizing the economy before extending their hand to a foreign land although covering it up, the CS for interior explained that the money to be spent on that mission will be obtained from the UN state members.

Subjectively, Kenyans should not just talk in silence but they should come out and give the government a cautionary reminder on the importance of prudence, fiscal responsibility and accountability in leadership. The government also need to listen to its citizens’ views before making decisions which will affect the public. It should understand that its only through thoughtful, disciplined and inclusive decision making can government ensure stability and fulfillment of their societal responsibilities.