Jeremiah Kioni, the Jubilee deputy party leader, has clarified why former President Uhuru Kenyatta maintains an active presence in the political arena despite completing his final term. During a recent interview with a local FM station on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, Kioni explained that Uhuru originally envisioned a quiet retirement as a national statesman following the 2022 transition.
According to Kioni, the former head of state intended to pass the Jubilee Party leadership to a younger generation, allowing him to focus on his role as an elder advisor. However, Kioni claims that aggressive attempts by figures allied with the current administration to seize control of the party derailed these plans. This perceived hostile takeover forced Uhuru to step back into the fray to protect the party from disintegration.
Kioni argued that persistent political interference and internal conflicts, which he insists were fueled by outside interests, left the retired president with no choice but to remain at the helm. He suggested that Uhuru’s continued involvement is a defensive necessity rather than a personal ambition.
“If Jubilee was not in court for those three years, we would not be discussing Uhuru being in politics today,” Kioni remarked. He reiterated that the former president still desires to transition into a mentorship role, stating, “He has always had the mind of retiring from an active role in a political party so that he can become the elder the country wants to see.”
According to Kioni, the actions of political players across the spectrum effectively blocked the former leader’s planned departure from the spotlight.
“Uhuru continues being in politics because those who are in government, and those who were in government and are now in the opposition, did not allow him to execute his political agenda within the last three years,” Kioni stated.
“We Were Fighting Riggy G – Now He’s With Us”
Kioni also addressed the perceived hostility toward Rigathi Gachagua, clarifying that he has no reason to oppose a man he now considers a political ally. He noted that the absence of personal animosity allows for a unified front against common challenges.
Reflecting on the shifting landscape of Kenyan politics, Kioni pointed out that individuals who once clashed during the Jubilee administration now find themselves on the same side, sharing a critical view of the current government. This realignment has turned former rivals into partners in dissent.
“We have come a long way, and in that time, those who were in government, including Mheshimiwa Riggy G, we were fighting them, and they were fighting us. Now they are with us. I want to say it here on air that I cannot be the one fighting those that are on our side, including Riggy G, Kalonzo Musyoka, Matiang’i, Wamalwa, and the rest. We have a course for those who believe the fact that this government has failed,” Kioni said.
Kioni maintained that his primary focus remains on building alliances rather than deepening divisions.
