Tensions are mounting within the Opposition coalition as frustrated Jubilee Party aspirants threaten to organise parallel rallies, citing alleged marginalisation during joint Opposition events. According to Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Jeremiah Kioni, the aspirants feel sidelined and denied opportunities to address supporters, with platforms allegedly dominated by candidates from the Democratic Change Party (DCP).
“I was denied a chance to speak to the people of Ndaragwa, whom I have represented for over a decade. The microphone is always handed to Gachagua, who then invites DCP candidates instead of those from other parties,” Kioni said.
Kioni noted that discontent among Jubilee aspirants, particularly in the Mt Kenya region, has been growing steadily. However, he maintained that despite the frustrations, Jubilee remains committed to the broader Opposition alliance.
Meanwhile, former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu criticised Opposition Chief Coordinator Fred Matiang’i for what he described as neglect of the Jubilee Party. Wambugu accused Matiang’i of failing to address Deputy Opposition Leader Rigathi Gachagua’s alleged bias against Jubilee members.
“Has Matiang’i abandoned Jubilee? That would explain his silence as Gachagua continues to welcome defectors from our party into DCP. At this rate, we might soon find that Matiang’i himself has crossed over,” Wambugu remarked.
Wambugu’s comments followed a wave of defections by former Jubilee legislators to DCP during Gachagua’s recent tour of the Mt Kenya region. Among those who joined DCP are former MPs Kibinga Wathayu (Mwea), Munene Wambugu (Kirinyaga Central), Gichuki Mugambi (Othaya), Gichuhu Mwangi (Tetu), Anthony Kiai (Mukurweini), Peter Mwathi (Limuru), and Wainaina Jungle (Thika Town).
He accused Gachagua of systematically weakening Jubilee by recruiting its aspirants in Mt Kenya, warning that the party’s influence could diminish further unless Matiang’i intervenes decisively.
The growing rift threatens to destabilise the Opposition coalition ahead of the upcoming elections, with Jubilee members demanding fair representation and equal opportunity within the alliance’s campaign structures.
