The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i and the Jubilee Party have come out strongly in defence of former President Uhuru Kenyatta over ongoing political criticism from leaders aligned to the government.
Matiang’i condemned recent attacks on the former Head of State, accusing some leaders of lowering the standards of public debate and using Uhuru as a distraction from pressing national issues. He described the criticism as petty and disrespectful to a retired president.
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He argued that Uhuru, like other former world leaders, has a constitutional right to express himself, participate in public discussions, and engage politically without interference. He pointed to examples from other democracies where former presidents remain active in public life.
The Jubilee deputy party leader also questioned the reaction from government leaders after Uhuru made a phone call during a party event in Narok, saying the response was exaggerated and unnecessary.
Matiang’i further criticised the current administration, suggesting that it is overly focused on attacking predecessors instead of addressing governance challenges. He claimed such behaviour reflects political insecurity.
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Over the weekend, some leaders from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) urged Uhuru to stay out of politics and even suggested reviewing his retirement benefits. This sparked a sharp response from Jubilee, which insisted that those benefits are legally guaranteed and cannot be withdrawn for political reasons.
Jubilee secretary general Moitalel Ole Kenta dismissed threats against the former president as unlawful, stressing that retirement benefits are protected by law and meant to safeguard the dignity of former Heads of State.
Other leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, have also criticised Uhuru’s continued political involvement, arguing that past presidents have traditionally maintained a quieter retirement.
Meanwhile, Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku urged Uhuru to avoid public criticism of the current administration, suggesting that respect between successive leaders should be mutual.
Jubilee Party, however, accused the government of repeatedly blaming Uhuru for its own shortcomings, saying this narrative is politically motivated and meant to deflect attention from governance failures.
