Uhuru Steps Aside as Jubilee Party Leader

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta announced that he would step aside as Jubilee Party leader and hand over the position to his deputy, Fred Matiang’i.

Speaking on Tuesday, September 22, Uhuru said the decision would pave the way for Matiang’i to take charge of the party as members await the National Delegates Convention (NDC). 

He asked Jubilee members to accept the former Interior Cabinet Secretary as the party’s new leader.

"While we wait for NDC, I have decided to let my deputy take over the party leadership. I want to ask you respectfully to accept Fred Matiang’i to take the position of Jubilee party leader," he said.

Uhuru, however, clarified that his decision did not mean he was leaving the party, saying he would assume a senior advisory role and continue serving within Jubilee.

"I cannot leave Jubilee; instead, I will take up the position above and serve as a senior adviser," he added.

Matiang’i, who is Uhuru’s deputy at the party, described the transition as an emotional moment, saying he had not expected to assume the leadership at this point.

"This is a very emotional time for me because I never thought in my life that this moment would come today, but God knows. Jubilee was founded basically to bring the Kenyan people together," he said.

The former Cabinet Secretary said Jubilee would remain focused on inclusion and urged party members to work together as the party prepares for the next political phase.

"Jubilee is a party of inclusion for everyone, and I want to tell you, my brothers and sisters, come now, let us reason, work together, build a strong party and continue to move forward. 2027 is going to be a year of inclusion," he added.

At the same time, Uhuru has responded to President William Ruto over labelling him a 'sponsor' of the Opposition and terming him a rebel leader.

He said that he will not be cowed into keeping quiet about his political views, adding that it was his democratic right.

Uhuru added that his opinions remained his own and that he had not forced any Kenyan to adopt his school of thought. Uhuru demanded respect from those dragging his name during rallies.

"I am not afraid. I will speak my truth. They can abuse me or do whatever they please. They are calling me sponyo, AKA rebel leader. Is it wrong to speak my mind in a democratic country?

"Have I forced anyone to adopt my opinions? They are just my personal opinions, and everyone will make their own decision. Tuheshimiane!" he reiterated.

Uhuru slammed Ruto over accusations that he sabotaged the Kenya Kwanza administration and funded rebellion against him.

He maintained that he had no intention of doing so, and reminded the Head of State that he handed over power to him peacefully despite not agreeing with the results of the election and the presidential election petition.

"We handed over to them all instruments of power in broad daylight, yet after four years they are still dragging my name everywhere.

"Were you given power to speak about the people or blame Uhuru? You know, when something is not working, people give excuses, but Kenyans are bright; they know," he added.