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As former President Uhuru Kenyatta returns to Jubilee Party’s leadership and makes public appearances with Fred Matiang’i, debates swirl over whether this is a pursuit of political vengeance, a legacy project, or a backstage maneuver ahead of the 2027 election.
Nairobi, Kenya — September 27, 2025 (EAT).
As former President Uhuru Kenyatta returns to Jubilee Party’s leadership and makes public appearances with Fred Matiang’i, debates swirl over whether this is a pursuit of political vengeance, a legacy project, or a backstage maneuver ahead of the 2027 election.
Uhuru’s comeback is not just symbolic. It signals a renewed attempt to stay relevant in Kenya’s fractious political landscape. With Jubilee reactivated and key figures like Matiang’i by his side, the stakes are high: does Uhuru aim to resurrect his influence, secure a legacy, or position allies for 2027?
Leadership at Jubilee NDC: On September 26, 2025, Uhuru presided over a Jubilee Special National Delegates Conference (NDC) at Ngong Racecourse, formally reclaiming leadership of the party.
Matiang’i in the Fold: Former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, long seen as strong state operator, has been closely associated with Jubilee’s troops, raising speculation about his role in the resurgence.
Messaging & Narrative: Jubilee’s framing in media and speeches emphasizes “renewal,” “reform,” and “national cohesion”—themes consistent with a legacy project.
Strategic timing: Jubilee’s energised return comes at a time when opposition parties are realigning and inner struggles are becoming public, opening space for Kingmakers or spoilers.
|
Driver |
What It Looks Like |
Risks / Challenges |
|---|---|---|
|
Revenge / Political Payback |
A bid to regain influence after being pushed out of national politics, settling scores with rivals |
Appearance of vindictiveness, deterring coalition partners, fatigue among party base |
|
Legacy Project |
A genuine attempt to consolidate Jubilee’s ethos and strengthen institutions beyond his term |
Could be cast as nostalgia or reminiscent of antecedent power politics |
|
2027 Power Play |
Deploying allies (e.g. Matiang’i) as kingmakers or parallel power centres in coalition or opposition races |
Internal rivalry, being seen as non-player or puppet master, backlash from rival elites |
Coalition dynamics: Jubilee’s reactivation complicates arrangements between major blocs. Could be swing factor or destabilizer.
Opposition fragmentation: Uhuru’s resurgence may fuel splits, especially in parties that once courted him.
Institutional influence: He may push for policy levers, party machinery control, or patronage networks leveraged via Jubilee’s apparatus.
Narrative shift: His reemergence changes how media and voters frame the 2027 battleground—not just a contest among new faces, but a clash of old beasts.
Will Uhuru run again (directly or via proxies)?
What role Matiang’i will play — contender, strategist, or party leader?
How other opposition and ruling party figures will respond or align.
Whether Jubilee can rebuild a grassroots base or appeal beyond its legacy following.
