Aspirants planning to run under the Jubilee Party in the 2027 General Election are increasingly worried that the party may be slowly giving political ground to other parties without openly telling its members. Many of them fear they could spend years campaigning only to discover later that the party had no intention of fielding candidates in their areas.
For months now, some aspirants and grassroots supporters have noticed what they believe are worrying signs. In several political events associated with the party, Jubilee branding has been missing or very limited. The absence of party merchandise such as caps, t-shirts and banners has raised uncomfortable questions among members on the ground.
To many aspirants, political branding is not a small matter. It is a signal that the party is active, confident and ready to compete. When that presence disappears, it creates the impression that the party may be stepping back or quietly allowing another political formation to dominate certain regions.
This fear is especially serious for aspirants who are already investing time, energy and money preparing for the elections. Running for ward representative, MP, senator or governor requires years of planning and heavy financial commitment. No serious candidate wants to campaign under a party only to realize later that the party had already made political arrangements that prevent them from running competitively.
The biggest concern, however, revolves around the growing perception that the party is reorganizing itself around the possible presidential bid of Fred Matiang’i. While many members respect Matiang’i and acknowledge his national profile, some aspirants worry that Jubilee may be positioning itself mainly as a vehicle for his presidential ambitions while neglecting its grassroots candidates.
Aspirants argue that if Matiang’i is indeed the preferred presidential candidate of the party, the leadership should say so openly and explain the strategy. They also want to know whether other party members are allowed to challenge for the presidential ticket or if the decision has already been made.
Without such clarity, confusion will continue to grow within the party.
Aspirants say transparency is important not only for their own planning but also for maintaining trust in the party’s internal democracy.
That is why they are now calling on party leader Uhuru Kenyatta and the Jubilee leadership to clearly explain the party’s alliances, strategy and candidate plans ahead of 2027.
Their message is simple: Jubilee must reassure its aspirants that it still intends to compete fully in the elections. Otherwise, many could find themselves investing in a political vehicle that may not carry them to the ballot.
