The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has handed over the leadership of the Jubilee Party to his deputy, Fred Matiang’i, as the party prepares for its National Delegates Convention (NDC).
Despite stepping aside from the party’s top leadership position, Uhuru said he has no intention of leaving Jubilee, which he described as his political home.
Uhuru asked party members to support Matiang’i as he takes over the leadership ahead of the NDC.
He said he intends to remain active in Jubilee by taking up a senior advisory position, allowing him to continue offering guidance to party leaders and contributing to political discussions.
Uhuru questioned where he would go if he left Jubilee, noting that the party was a political home built collectively by its members.
He also urged Jubilee to begin preparations for the 2027 General Election, including developing its leadership and political strategy.
The leadership transition follows a High Court ruling barring retired presidents from holding formal leadership positions in political parties more than six months after leaving office.
During the handover ceremony, Uhuru also criticised President William Ruto over what he described as continued references to his administration several years after Ruto took office.
Uhuru questioned why Ruto continued to mention him instead of focusing on governing the country and addressing the concerns of Kenyans.
He recalled peacefully handing over power after the 2022 election and said his administration had transferred power without conflict.
Uhuru argued that leaders sometimes look for people to blame when their administration faces challenges, but said Kenyans are capable of distinguishing between explanations and the realities they experience.
The former president’s remarks come as Jubilee reorganises its leadership and prepares for the 2027 political contest.
