Matiang’i grateful after Jubilee endorses him as presidential flagbearer

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i at Jubilee Party headquarters in Nairobi/HANDOUT

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has expressed deep gratitude to the Jubilee Party following its unanimous decision to endorse him as the party’s presidential candidate and Deputy Party Leader.

In a statement posted on X, Matiang’i thanked the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) for the confidence placed in his leadership and pledged to uphold the values and principles that the party stands for.

“I am deeply honoured by the Jubilee Party National Executive Committee’s unanimous acceptance of my formal application to be the Party’s presidential nominee,” Matiang’i wrote.

“I am also profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve as Deputy Party Leader and to represent the Party within the United Opposition.”

The announcement followed a high-level NEC meeting held on Thursday at the Jubilee Party headquarters in Nairobi, chaired by Party Leader Uhuru Kenyatta.

During the session, the NEC resolved to appoint Matiang’i to the second-most senior position in the party and to formally back his presidential bid, marking a defining moment in Jubilee’s political renewal.

In addition to his endorsement, Matiang’i was nominated to represent Jubilee in the United Opposition Movement, a coalition of political parties seeking to provide a united front against the ruling administration in the next general election.

He is expected to lead the party’s nationwide mobilisation and champion a message of integrity, progressive leadership, and national unity.

The NEC also approved several key appointments as part of a broader effort to rejuvenate the party’s structures.

Kagwe Gichohi was named Executive Director, while Ekomwa James Lomenen and Samwel Arama were appointed as the Senate and National Assembly Whips, respectively.

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i addresses Jubilee members at party headquarters in Nairobi/HANDOUT

To strengthen its grassroots presence, the NEC unveiled a comprehensive revitalisation plan, including a mass membership registration and mobilisation campaign aimed at rebuilding networks and re-establishing Jubilee as a formidable political force.

“This initiative will focus on strengthening the party’s grassroots networks, rebuilding public confidence, and reaffirming Jubilee’s commitment to the values of unity, development, and democracy,” said Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni.

Kioni reaffirmed Jubilee’s focus on democratic renewal and institutional strengthening, adding that the party remains committed to playing an active role in shaping Kenya’s socio-economic and political future.

“The party continues to stand for the ideals of peace, inclusivity, and transformative governance for all Kenyans,” he said.

During the meeting, the NEC also took time to extend condolences to the Odinga family following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, expressing solidarity with Mama Ida Odinga, her children, and the ODM fraternity during this period of mourning.

The NEC’s decisions mark a strategic turning point for Jubilee, signalling both a revival of its political machinery and a renewed commitment to opposition unity.