Presidential hopeful and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has formally joined the Jubilee Party, ending weeks of speculation over his political direction and marking his return to active politics ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Dr. Matiang’i announced his decision while addressing members of the Abagusii community residing in Mavoko, Machakos County, on Sunday, revealing that he had accepted an invitation from former President Uhuru Kenyatta to join and help revitalize the once-dominant party.
“I am declaring openly that I have joined Jubilee. As we said during the NDC, it’s time to join the Jubilee Party,” Matiang’i said to applause from the gathering.
Although he kept a low profile during the Jubilee National Delegates Conference (NDC) held last month, the former minister said he was now ready to take charge of the party’s revival, promising to rebuild it into a national movement capable of challenging the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Rebuilding the Party Structure
Dr. Matiang’i outlined an ambitious plan to rejuvenate Jubilee’s grassroots structures, starting with the opening of new offices in Embakasi and Kitengela, before expanding to other regions across the country.
“We will soon meet to announce grassroots elections as we seek to rejuvenate the party,” he said. “All aspirants should now proudly wear Jubilee Party colours. I have my Jubilee hat ready.”
He likened his decision to a traditional initiation ceremony, saying joining Jubilee was not just a political move but a symbolic return to his political roots under Uhuru Kenyatta’s leadership.
Matiang’i was flanked by Nyamira Senator Okongo Omogeni, Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi, and Githunguri MP Muthoni Wamuchomba, who pledged their support for the former CS’s plan to re-energize the party.
Political Reactions
Dr. Matiang’i’s decision has drawn varied reactions from across the political divide. Speaking during a televised interview on KTN, Deputy Council of Patriots (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua welcomed the move, saying the time had come for the opposition to unite under a common front to unseat President William Ruto in 2027.
“The next election will be a two-horse race, like in 2002. It will be the United Opposition versus William Ruto, and we will win by 70 plus one per cent,” Gachagua said, adding that Matiang’i would be one of the “key pillars” in the united opposition.
Last weekend in Nakuru, Matiang’i defended his decision to align with Jubilee, saying no one should dictate his political choices in a democratic country.
“Kenya is a democracy. Leaders must respect the rights of others to choose where they belong,” he said.
Matiang’i’s entry into Jubilee is widely seen as an attempt to reclaim the party’s lost glory and position himself as a central figure in the broader opposition coalition expected to take shape ahead of the next elections.
Political analysts note that his strong administrative record, especially during his tenure at the Interior Ministry, could bolster Jubilee’s appeal among reform-minded voters seeking stability and discipline in governance.
However, the task ahead remains daunting. The party, once the ruling vehicle under President Kenyatta, has struggled with internal divisions and dwindling influence since the 2022 elections.
Still, with Matiang’i’s entry and growing calls for opposition unity, Jubilee could once again become a key player in shaping the country’s political future.
Leave a Reply