By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, May 04, 2026 - Jubilee deputy party leader Fred Matiang’i has come out strongly in defence of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, saying retired heads of state deserve dignity, respect and the benefits guaranteed to them under the Constitution.
Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, Matiang’i criticised growing political attacks targeting Uhuru’s retirement package, insisting the matter should not be turned into a political contest.
“The Constitution says what he should get and how he should be treated,” Matiang’i said.
His remarks come amid a push by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei to review or reduce Uhuru’s retirement benefits through a motion before the Senate.
But Matiang’i said the former President had handled the matter with restraint despite concerns over some of the benefits.
“The President has been receiving some of his benefits. He is a gentleman. There are some things that we do not want to play up, as someone who served at a senior level,” he stated.
Without directly naming political rivals, Matiang’i suggested that leaders should reflect on how the country treats those who have previously occupied the highest office in the land.
“When the President cannot even be given basic benefits, he is a gentleman and does not want to focus on them. It is upon the conscience of those in leadership to respond to the question,” he added.
The debate over Uhuru’s retirement perks has intensified in recent weeks following criticism from some allies of President William Ruto over the former Head of State’s continued involvement in politics.
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Cherargei’s motion seeks to revoke, vary or reallocate part of the budget set aside for Uhuru’s retirement benefits, arguing that public resources should instead be redirected to support ordinary Kenyans.
The senator has also proposed an audit of all public funds allocated to the retired President within 60 days.
The growing political storm follows Uhuru’s recent remarks during a Jubilee Party event in Narok, where he endorsed Matiang’i’s political future and defended his own right to remain active in national conversations.
Matiang’i, however, appeared keen to shift focus back to national issues, urging leaders to prioritise governance over political fights.
In a statement shared later, he said: “Kenyans deserve a government focused on building the nation, not caught up in politics of distraction.”
“There are urgent challenges facing our country that require focus, seriousness, and decisive action. Let us come together to build a modern, inclusive, and prosperous Kenya,” he added.