5 Things You Must Know This Morning — Friday, September 18, 2026

18, Sep 2026 / 2 min read / By Livenow Africa

President William Ruto’s escalating political differences with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, a High Court order concerning access to IEBC electoral records, Kenya’s passport ranking, new financing for Kenyan businesses and global oil prices are among the key stories to watch this Friday morning. Together, the developments span politics, the 2027 election environment, business, travel and the cost-of-living outlook.

1. Ruto accuses Uhuru Kenyatta of sabotaging his government
President William Ruto has accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of undermining his administration, escalating tensions between the two leaders. Ruto said a former head of state should not work against the government he previously led.

2. High Court grants access to key IEBC election records
The High Court has granted orders allowing lawful access to key IEBC electoral records, including the Register of Voters, databases, servers and audit logs. The orders arose from a petition by Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi’s legal team seeking greater scrutiny of Kenya’s electoral systems.

3. Kenya passport drops to 120th in latest ranking
Kenya’s passport has fallen from 109th position in 2025 to 120th in the 2026 Passport Reports ranking. A separate Henley Passport Index uses a different methodology and ranking, so claims comparing positions across the two indexes should be treated cautiously.

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5 Things You Must Know This Morning — Friday, September 18, 2026

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4. Co-op Bank secures Sh12.9 billion financing programme
Co-operative Bank has secured a $100 million (about Sh12.9 billion) financing programme with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to expand longer-term foreign-currency financing for Kenyan businesses, including companies involved in manufacturing, agriculture and international trade.

5. Middle East conflict keeps oil above $100 despite price decline
Global oil prices fell about 1% on Friday but remained above $100 a barrel amid continuing Middle East tensions. Reuters reported Brent at about $103.77 a barrel as markets assessed disruption risks following attacks affecting Saudi oil infrastructure and escalating Saudi-Houthi hostilities.

These are strong morning-brief stories because they combine Kenyan politics, elections, consumer/travel interest, business and a global development with direct implications for fuel and living costs.

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