Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i has come out strongly in defence of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, amid growing criticism from leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza administration over his continued involvement in politics.
In a firm statement, Matiang’i said the party stands solidly behind its leader, dismissing attempts to pressure Uhuru into silence as politically motivated.
He described the former president as a unifying figure whose leadership remains central to Jubilee’s direction and future.
“We stand firmly with our Party Leader, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta. Jubilee believes in his leadership, his courage, and his unwavering commitment to the progress and unity of our party,” said Fred Matiang’i.
The remarks come against the backdrop of escalating attacks from Kenya Kwanza leaders who have accused Uhuru of breaching the expectations of a retired head of state by engaging in partisan politics.
Some leaders have argued that his public statements and political engagements undermine the neutrality required of former presidents.
The dispute has taken a legislative turn after Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei tabled a motion seeking to review or withdraw Uhuru’s retirement benefits.
The proposal cites alleged violations of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act, claiming that Uhuru’s political activities are inconsistent with the privileges accorded to former presidents.
Matiang’i, however, rejected what he termed as intimidation tactics, insisting that Jubilee would not be cowed. He emphasized the party’s commitment to maintaining civility despite sharp political differences with the current administration.
“We respect the different views of those in government, and we will be civil about it because we believe in the decency of difference,” he said.
He further warned that efforts to silence Uhuru would not weaken the party’s resolve, framing the ongoing standoff as a broader struggle over political space and freedom of expression.
“Attempts to intimidate or silence him for expressing his support will not shake our resolve. We remain united, we remain focused, and together, we will work to fix and move Kenya forward,” Matiang’i added.
The Jubilee Party has also accused government allies of reviving the benefits debate as a diversion from pressing national issues, escalating an already tense political environment.
The developments highlight deepening divisions within Kenya’s political landscape, with Uhuru’s post-presidency role increasingly becoming a flashpoint as the country edges closer to the next electoral cycle.