The Jubilee Party has come out strongly in defence of its leader, Uhuru Kenyatta, amid escalating political tensions following his recent address to party delegates in Narok County.
In a statement read by Secretary General Moitalel Ole Kenta, the party accused sections of the current administration of attempting to silence the former Head of State and politicise his remarks, which were delivered via phone during a delegates’ forum held on May 1, 2026.
Ole Kenta said the former president’s comments had been misrepresented, insisting they were reflective of the challenges facing ordinary Kenyans rather than provocative political attacks. He questioned why Uhuru’s voice continued to generate discomfort within government ranks, noting that his contribution to national discourse is both legitimate and necessary.
The party maintained that Uhuru’s right to speak on national matters is constitutionally protected and should not be subjected to political intimidation. It warned against attempts by some political actors to threaten the withdrawal of his retirement benefits, terming such proposals as unlawful and a dangerous precedent that undermines the dignity of the presidency.
“Retirement benefits for former presidents are legal entitlements, not political favours,” Ole Kenta stated, adding that any move to weaponise them would erode democratic principles and respect for public office.
The Jubilee leadership also criticised what it described as a pattern by the current administration to blame past leadership for present challenges, instead of addressing pressing issues such as the rising cost of living, unemployment, and economic uncertainty.
At the same time, the party challenged President William Ruto to directly address concerns surrounding Uhuru Kenyatta rather than relying on allies to respond on his behalf.
During the press briefing, Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the Constitution clearly outlines how former presidents should be treated, including their benefits and privileges.
Matiang’i warned that politicising such matters risks undermining national unity and called on leaders to focus on governance rather than political disputes.
Youth leaders within the party also voiced frustration over the state of the economy, accusing the government of neglecting the needs of young people. They cited rising public expenditure and shrinking opportunities as key concerns affecting the country’s future.
Representatives of persons with disabilities and other party officials further urged the government to prioritise service delivery, including funding for education, healthcare, and county governments, instead of engaging in political confrontations.
The Jubilee Party reiterated that former presidents globally continue to participate in political and public affairs, arguing that Kenya should not deviate from democratic norms by restricting Uhuru’s involvement.
The statement comes amid a growing national debate over the role of retired leaders in politics and proposals by some lawmakers to review benefits allocated to former presidents.
As political temperatures rise, Jubilee leaders insisted that they will continue to defend Uhuru Kenyatta’s constitutional rights and called for a more respectful and issue-based political discourse in the country.
