December 17, 2024: Top news events to look out for today

Here is what you need to know to keep up to speed with today’s happenings.

EAC Games end

The East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games will come to a close on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, in a statement shared via his official X account on Monday, December 16, 2024, stated that the games, which began on December 7, 2024, have been a powerful reminder of the region’s collective mission to strengthen ties and promote development.

Wetang’ula further lauded the football match pitting Kenya and Tanzania that was played on Monday, saying that it was more than just a game as it was a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the shared values that bring the EAC nations together.

“Football is a unifying force that transcends borders, and today, we enjoyed an unforgettable match between members of Parliament from Kenya and Tanzania. It was more than just a game; it was a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the shared values that bring our nations together. The match ended with Tanzania securing a well-deserved 2:0 victory.

“However, this was not just about the scoreline; it was about the camaraderie and mutual respect displayed on the field. We weren’t merely opponents; we were brothers united by a common vision of fostering unity and understanding within our region.

“As the EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games, which began on December 7, 2024, come to an end tomorrow, December 17, these games have been a powerful reminder of our collective mission to strengthen regional ties and promote development. Together, we are shaping a more united and prosperous East Africa,” Wetang’ula stated.

Football is a unifying force that transcends borders, and today, we enjoyed unforgettable match between Members of Parliament from Kenya and Tanzania. It was more than just a game, it was a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the shared values that bring our nations… pic.twitter.com/afxLyA5CGW

— Rt.Hon.Dr.Moses Wetang'ula (@HonWetangula) December 16, 2024

Kayole demolitions

Kenyans and various leaders have continued to express mixed reactions after dozens of families in Nyamavilla, a settlement in Nairobi’s Kayole estate, were left homeless following a series of demolitions that began on Monday, December 16, 2024.

The demolitions stem from a long-standing land dispute, dating back to 2002, between a real estate company and individuals who are alleged to be occupying the land illegally.

The operation unfolded swiftly, with bulldozers tearing through stone walls and pillars, leaving residents helpless and unable to salvage their belongings. 

Many families were caught off guard, witnessing the destruction in despair.

Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba is among the leaders that have condemned the incident.

“Reclaiming Private or public land citizens don’t have to lose their livelihoods to bulldozers. Watching an elderly crying is so disturbing. I condemn the inhumane way of eviction.

“Thank you MCA Joy for standing in the Gap. Arresting and apprehending the MCA holding a court order to stop. The unjust process just shows how impunity is entrenched in our security systems. This shall one day come to pass,” Wamuchomba stated in a post shared via her official X account on Monday evening.

Reclaiming Private or public land citizens don’t have to lose their livelihoods to bulldozers. Watching an elderly crying is so disturbing.
I condemn the inhumane way of eviction.Thank you MCA Joy for standing in the Gap 🤝
Arresting and apprehending the MCA holding a court… pic.twitter.com/EwxQeqa1F5

— Hon.Gathoni Wamuchomba, HSC, MP (@hon_wamuchomba) December 16, 2024