A significant reshuffling has swept through the Jubilee Party, with former vice-chairman David Murathe and deputy party leader Jeremiah Kioni receiving their official notice of expulsion. A move that throws into question the party’s strategic alignment, notably former president Uhuru Kenyatta’s influence, ahead of the upcoming general elections.
In a letter dated Friday, May 19, Registrar of Political Parties, Anne Nderitu, confirmed the ouster of the aforementioned leaders, declaring the appointment of Kanini Kega as the new secretary general and Sabina Chege as the acting party leader. Nderitu went on to assert that the steps taken by the party’s disciplinary committee were procedurally sound and met all legal requirements, thus reinforcing the validity of the expulsions.
The move to oust David Murathe, a close ally of Kenyatta and outspoken figure in Jubilee Party politics, signals a shifting power structure within the party. Murathe’s role in the party has been under scrutiny for some time, with critics arguing that his controversial remarks were damaging the party’s image and prospects in the next general elections.
Jeremiah Kioni’s removal, however, has raised eyebrows. Known for his moderate stance and diplomatic rhetoric, Kioni’s exit represents a dramatic shift in Jubilee’s political posture. Some political pundits suggest this may represent the party’s move towards a more radical political agenda in an effort to bolster its voter base.
While the upheaval is notable, Nderitu’s endorsement of Kanini Kega and Sabina Chege could offer the Jubilee Party a fresh start. Kega, a respected lawmaker, is seen as a principled leader who is willing to make tough calls, while Chege, a woman of substantial political clout, has been hailed as a capable leader who could potentially steer the party in a new direction.
However, these changes do not come without challenges. Kenyatta’s reduced influence in Jubilee’s inner circle could destabilize the party’s unity, as the former president had acted as a unifying figure in spite of the internal ideological differences. His inability to prevent the expulsion of his allies might also be perceived as a diminishing of his political capital.
As the dust begins to settle following this significant reshuffle, the focus will be on how the Jubilee Party navigates the new political terrain and whether the new leadership can pull together a fractured party towards a united front for the forthcoming general elections.
This development also sets the stage for an intense political contest as the Jubilee Party grapples with these changes while preparing for an election that is set to be fiercely competitive. The party’s ability to adapt and rally behind the new leadership could determine its future, but for now, it remains to be seen whether these changes will invigorate the party or further exacerbate its internal divisions.