Jubilee top official explains party’s quiet stance amid opposition flagbearer talks
By Luke Oluoch, January 7, 2026Jubilee Party Deputy Leader Joseph Manje has explained why the party has taken a back seat in the ongoing discussions on naming the flagbearer for the united Opposition.
Speaking on a local radio station on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, Manje stated that the party believes that such discussions ought to be approached soberly.
The Kajiado North parliamentary hopeful also refuted assertions that the party had been sidelined from the discussions, with Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper Party and Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) appearing to overshadow the talks.
Personal opinions
“We are a party that believes in credibility and decorum. Our candidate cannot speak on what has not been agreed upon. As a party, we have given them time to sit down and agree, and that is why we have not spoken of it. What Kalonzo and Rigathi Gachagua have been saying are personal opinions. and we wait for what the official position will be collectively,” he stated.
The deputy leader also weighed in on the apparent rivalry between the Jubilee party and Gachagua’s DCP in the Mt. Kenya region, terming the presence of the two parties as a good thing for democracy.
“Both parties enjoy good support there. It’s good if they compete politically, depending on who will bring forth leaders who are competent enough. So long as there is competition, then it gives citizens a chance to exercise their democratic rights and select better leaders,” he added.
His remarks follow after the party reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, unity, and healthy political competition within the political landscape.
In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, Fred Matiang’i said the party respects the autonomy of other political formations and warned against using unverified controversies to distract the public.
“As the Jubilee Party, we stand committed to peace and unity in our nation’s political landscape. We extend our sincere well-wishes to all fellow political actors as we advance together toward a stronger Kenya,” Matiang’i stated.
He also clarified that the party had no involvement or interest whatsoever in the internal affairs of any rival party, including the ongoing ones within the ODM party.
“Any discussions, be they internal, external, or international, within other parties, remain solely their prerogative. We respect their autonomy and wish them success in their endeavours.” he added.