Fielding Mt Kenya Candidate Could Hand Ruto Another Term, Says Kioni

Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni has warned opposition leaders against repeating the strategic errors of the 2022 elections.

He cautions that a closed decision-making process could weaken their chances in the 2027 presidential race. In an interview with Spice FM, Kioni criticised the proposal to allow a small group to select the opposition’s presidential candidate, warning that this approach risks alienating voters and causing internal divisions. 

He argued that the top-down strategy used by the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition in the previous election contributed to its defeat, citing a lack of broad consultation as a key factor behind Raila Odinga and Martha Karua’s unsuccessful bid.

“In this united opposition, some want six people to decide the flag bearer. I disagree. That will take us back to where we were with Azimio, where they chose without involving Kenyans. Repeating that mistake will only benefit Ruto in State House,” Kioni said.

He also advised against fielding a presidential candidate from the Mt Kenya region, warning that doing so could strengthen President William Ruto’s position in the area. According to Kioni, Mt Kenya’s political landscape remains sensitive, and splitting the region’s vote could give Ruto an advantage.

“If we make the mistake of fielding a candidate from Mt Kenya, we play straight into Ruto’s hands. That is what is making Gachagua very uncomfortable. Splitting that block, as Ruto is already doing, gives him a clear path to another 15 years in State House,” he said.

Kioni’s remarks come amid rising tensions within the opposition over leadership and strategy ahead of 2027. Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has emerged as a potential contender, following his attendance at the Jubilee Party’s recent National Delegates Congress. 

His presence has fuelled speculation that he may seek the presidency under the Jubilee ticket. Party insiders have identified Matiang’i as one of the leading figures likely to be considered for the nomination, signalling Jubilee’s intention to re-establish a strong national presence. 

During the congress, former President Uhuru Kenyatta reaffirmed the party’s commitment to fielding candidates across all elective positions and announced a countrywide recruitment drive aimed at strengthening its grassroots base. Kioni defended Matiang’i’s involvement, stating that he had been unfairly excluded from the wider opposition agenda. 

He said Jubilee’s support for Matiang’i reflects a broader effort to promote inclusion and revitalise the opposition’s political strategy.