Ben Okita, the director of Wyss Academy for Nature East Africa Hub (centre), addressing conservationists and community member during a field visit to wildlife corridors in Laikipia on October 30, 2026/ ALICE WAITHERA

We are in the season of moles, and the label is being applied liberally. A senior political figure, once a regular at opposition meetings, is now being supposedly whispered about as a possible mole. The suspicion is that the politician has been allegedly holding nocturnal meetings with State agents. Curiously, the familiar face is said to have lately been missing from opposition gatherings, including events organised by the political outfit they previously identified with. A simmering rivalry with a local opponent has deepened the whispers. In these corridors, absence can sometimes speak louder than attendance, especially when loyalties are under scrutiny.

A vocal legislator is reportedly stranded in political no-man’s-land. For years, the lawmaker built a reputation by holding the government to account, earning public admiration. But the tide is said to have possibly turned after the politician bought into a promise that never materialised. Disappointed by the unfulfilled deal, the legislator has since trained their fire on the government and its allies. The trouble is that the politician may have squandered goodwill built over the years and is no longer welcome in the camp that once offered a home. A deal that never happens can prove costly.

Just how many advisers does this administration need? That was reportedly the question posed by a diplomat during a recent engagement, after a panelist introduced themselves as an adviser to a ministry. The appointment, quietly made and unknown to the public, is said to be one of a growing number of advisory roles. More intriguing, however, is the alleged adviser's reported links to a controversial deal during the previous administration. With so many advisers operating beyond the public spotlight, questions increasingly arise over who is advising whom, what expertise they bring and whose interests they ultimately serve.

A former elected leader has seemingly spotted a business opportunity in a slogan associated with a senior politician. The operator is reportedly giving their party a makeover, from sprucing up its offices to launching a marketing campaign. The timing has raised eyebrows, with whispers that the rebranding is purportedly designed to ride the slogan’s popularity while pitching the party as an attractive vehicle for political aspirants. There may also be money to be made from those seeking party tickets ahead of the next electoral contest. Talk of political entrepreneurship: sharp positioning, a makeover and an eye for opportunity.