Uhuru Warns Jubilee Leaders Against Insulting Mt. Kenya Politicians, Urges Respect for Gachagua

 

By Brian 

 Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has issued a strong warning to Jubilee Party leaders and members against insulting or undermining Mt. Kenya politicians, emphasizing that Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua deserves respect despite past political differences.

Speaking on Friday during a Jubilee grassroots leaders’ meeting in Murang’a County, Uhuru condemned party officials who use social media to attack leaders, saying such behaviour has no place in the party.

“Sometimes I am saddened to see people on social media pretending to defend the party by insulting Rigathi Gachagua and others. I do not want that nonsense in my party. Politics must be done respectfully,” Uhuru said.

“Before I hand over this party, if such behaviour continues, I will not hesitate to call them out and send them packing. I do not want to hear that ever again.”

Uhuru’s remarks come amid Gachagua’s growing political resurgence following his impeachment as Deputy President over his “murima-only” (Mt. Kenya–centric) political stance. Now leading the Democratic Congress Party (DCP), Gachagua has emerged as a formidable force in the Mt. Kenya region, coining the slogan “wantam” to rally support for limiting President William Ruto to a single term.

Despite years of tension between the two leaders, Gachagua has in recent months apologized for past insults and aligned himself politically with Uhuru—a move analysts view as part of a broader Mt. Kenya political realignment.

During the meeting, Uhuru reaffirmed that Jubilee remains a national party, not a regional outfit, stressing its founding vision of inclusivity and unity.

“Jubilee has been founded on a national outlook. We have always had the interests of the entire nation at our hearts,” he said, recalling his administration’s development record from 2013 to 2022.

He also underscored the need to nurture young leaders and promote national cohesion, referencing his past collaboration with Raila Odinga under the “handshake” initiative as a model for reducing divisive politics.

“All that vile will not take us anywhere,” he noted. “We must focus on mentoring the youth and leading with integrity.”

The meeting, attended by Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni and Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i, focused on revitalizing grassroots structures and preparing for future elections. Uhuru urged party officials to consult grassroots leaders before making decisions, warning against unilateral actions.

The Murang’a gathering comes after a turbulent period in Jubilee’s leadership, marked by internal wrangles and a failed takeover attempt by EALA MP Kanini Kega and nominated MP Sabina Chege. A court ruling later restored Uhuru’s control over the party, cementing his continued influence in shaping its direction.

As the Mt. Kenya political landscape continues to shift, Uhuru’s message appeared aimed at restoring discipline within Jubilee while signaling openness to reconciliation and regional unity ahead of future political realignments.