Fred Matiang’i
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The Jubilee Party has officially endorsed Fred Matiang’i as its presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.
This decision was announced on February 5th by Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni. This strategic move stems from Matiang’i’s significant role as a close ally of former President Uhuru Kenyatta during his administration. Kioni articulates the rationale behind the endorsement, highlighting Matiang’i’s in-depth knowledge of key national initiatives, drawn from his experience as a deputy to Kenyatta.
"When William decided to go and do campaigns, the person who was left deputizing or helping Uhuru was Fred Matiang’i," Kioni notes, underscoring Matiang’i’s direct involvement in pivotal projects such as Huduma Number, HELB, and the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Kioni emphasizes the importance of having a leader able to navigate these areas to bring about immediate change. The endorsement follows a critical meeting that included influential figures from Kenyatta's inner circle, such as Karanja Kibicho, Joe Mucheru, Andrew Wakahiu, and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka. During this gathering, Kenyatta reportedly encouraged Matiang’i to form a coalition with other opposition leaders, including Rigathi Gachagua, to mount a challenge against President William Ruto’s administration.
Kioni also praises Gachagua's efforts to hold the current government accountable, suggesting that collaboration could enhance the opposition’s campaign effectiveness. In his guidance to opposition members, Kenyatta stresses the need for establishing strong political parties before initiating coalition discussions, proposing this approach as a means to foster robust future alliances.
"Rigathi is doing some commendable work. I do not know if anyone has the capacity to do what he has done since his exit," Kioni remarked.
This endorsement by the Jubilee Party marks a significant reorganization ahead of the 2027 General Elections and indicates a potential reconciliation between Kenyatta and Gachagua, who had exchanged criticisms during the 2022 campaign, but have since shown signs of rapprochement.
At the same time, political figures such as Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and Martha Karua are reportedly consolidating efforts to challenge Ruto's presidency.
However, the formation of a formal alliance remains uncertain, as these leaders appear focused on preventing Ruto from securing a second term.
In response, President Ruto has expressed confidence in his prospects for re-election, emphasizing developmental achievements as the cornerstone of his campaign strategy. He is also working in tandem with Raila Odinga, aiming for a decisive victory in the upcoming election.