Jubilee Party Chairperson Jeremiah Kioni has made it clear that the party will not align itself with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza government despite the recent agreement between Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Kioni emphasized that Jubilee remains committed to staying in the opposition and keeping the government in check until the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, March 15, Kioni reassured party supporters that Jubilee is focused on strengthening its grassroots structures and preparing for the upcoming elections. He also hinted at the possibility of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i emerging as a strong presidential contender.
Jubilee’s Strategy for 2027 Elections
Kioni outlined the party’s strategy, stressing that while different political factions are already working on forming coalitions for 2027, Jubilee will not rush into any alliances.
Instead, the party aims to rebuild its structures and establish a solid presence in all regions before making any political moves.
“Many political parties are already talking about forming coalitions ahead of 2027. However, as Jubilee, our priority is to ensure that we have active party branches at all levels before considering any alliances. We want to strengthen our base first,” Kioni stated.
He also revealed that within Jubilee, there are growing discussions about fielding a strong presidential candidate, with Fred Matiang’i being one of the top names being considered.
“You have probably heard the rumors that we have our own presidential candidate, Fred Matiang’i. These discussions are part of our wider preparations to ensure the party is functioning effectively.
We will stay in the opposition and work towards forming the next government through the leaders that Kenyans will elect,” he added.
Kioni expressed confidence that when the time comes for coalition-building, Matiang’i’s name will be among those seriously considered for the presidency.
Kioni Dismisses Ruto-Raila Agreement
The Jubilee Party chair downplayed the agreement between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, insisting that it would not change how Kenyans perceive the current government.
He dismissed the notion that Raila’s involvement with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) would sway public opinion in favor of the ruling party.
“UDA is like a sinking ship, and anyone who joins it risks sinking along with it. Raila is a seasoned politician, but sometimes, what you expect and what you actually experience can be very different. I think he realized this when he visited the Kisii region,” Kioni remarked.
Matiang’i’s Chances Against Ruto in 2027
Kioni reiterated that Jubilee is fully backing Fred Matiang’i as a strong contender to challenge Ruto in the next general elections. According to him, Matiang’i stands a high chance of defeating the incumbent president if the opposition remains united.
“As the Jubilee Party, we have our candidate, Fred Matiang’i. He will go head-to-head with Ruto and other contenders, and we are confident that he has what it takes to send Ruto home in 2027,” Kioni declared.
He further argued that Ruto’s efforts to influence the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) by appointing people like Kimani Ichung’wah or William Kamket as chairpersons would not be enough to secure his victory.
“If we all come together and vote strategically, Ruto will not win, regardless of whom he appoints as the IEBC chair. His administration has surrounded itself with individuals who are not the right leaders for this country,” Kioni added.
Jubilee Calls for Inclusivity in Leadership
The party chairman also urged Kenyans to support leaders from minority communities, suggesting that it was time for a new region to take the helm of power. He encouraged Mount Kenya politicians to consider stepping aside and allowing leaders from other communities to take center stage.
Criticism of Ruto’s Development Tours
Kioni took issue with President Ruto’s frequent nationwide tours, which he described as early campaign tactics rather than genuine development initiatives.
He accused the president of focusing more on political mobilization rather than addressing the pressing issues affecting Kenyans.
“Ruto has never stopped campaigning since he took office. He is always on the move, standing through the sunroof of his car, making political statements instead of focusing on governance. Now, he has intensified these tours, but instead of bringing development, they are causing more harm than good,” Kioni argued.
He also claimed that Ruto’s style of leadership had led to an increase in lawlessness, particularly in Nairobi, where criminal activities have reportedly surged.
“Unlike past presidents, Ruto is openly using hired goons to intimidate opponents. His leadership style has emboldened criminals in Nairobi, leading to a rise in thuggery at levels we have not seen before,” Kioni warned.
Conclusion
Jubilee Party remains firm in its opposition stance, refusing to align with Kenya Kwanza despite the recent political realignments. With plans to strengthen its structures and prepare for the 2027 elections, the party is positioning itself as a key player in the next government.
As Kioni puts it, their goal is to field strong candidates, including Fred Matiang’i, and ensure that Kenyans have alternative leadership options when the time comes to vote.
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