Political Observers Explain How Endorsing Matiang'i In Jubilee Party Could Divide The Opposition Unity

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is preparing a political comeback of sorts by supporting Fred Matiang’i to take over the Jubilee Party leadership. 

The move, insiders say, could spark new divisions within the opposition as it gears up for the 2027 general elections.

Jubilee has organized a delegates’ convention later this month in Nairobi. 

Although the official program has not been released, those close to the party reveal that the event will mark the transition of leadership from Kenyatta to Matiang’i. 

While Kenyatta will remain as patron, it is Matiang’i who is expected to carry the party’s flag into the future.

Matiang’i has already made public his desire to contest the presidency. 

His entry, however, puts him on a collision course with other opposition leaders who had hoped to secure support from Kenyatta’s circle. 

Among those unsettled is Rigathi Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for Citizens Party. 

Despite facing legal barriers after his removal from office in 2024, Gachagua has been working to rally Mount Kenya behind him. 

Kenyatta’s backing of Matiang’i is seen by some of his allies as a direct attempt to undercut that effort.

The cracks within the opposition are also showing in the Mbeere North by-election. 

While parties such as Wiper, DAP-K, PLP, and DCP have agreed to support Newton Kariuki of the Democratic Party, Jubilee has chosen to field its own candidate, Jacob Ireri Mbao. 

The decision has raised eyebrows, with analysts warning that rival campaigns could hand an easy victory to the ruling UDA.

In response, Gachagua has argued that stepping aside for DP’s candidate was a sign of respect for the region’s political history. 

Other parties agreed, framing the move as a way of maintaining unity. But Jubilee’s stand has complicated the narrative.

Meanwhile, Matiang’i has already started outreach meetings, particularly in Embu County, signaling that he intends to be hands-on both in the by-election and in shaping his wider presidential bid. 

His presence has energized Jubilee supporters but also revived old tensions between Kenyatta and Gachagua.