By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, May 25, 2026 - Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has defended retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s continued involvement in national politics, warning against what he described as growing attacks and disrespect directed at the former Head of State.
Speaking during a Jubilee Party delegates meeting at Kiambu Golf Club on Monday, Matiang’i said Uhuru had every right to express his views on national issues despite leaving office.
“Retirement is not imprisonment,” Matiang’i said, insisting that former presidents should not be barred from participating in public discourse.
The Jubilee deputy party leader accused some Kenya Kwanza politicians of trying to silence Uhuru over his recent political engagements and criticism of the government.
“Uhuru must be respected, and we will not allow him to be abused,” Matiang’i said as party supporters cheered.
The meeting, co-chaired by Uhuru and Matiang’i, signalled Jubilee’s renewed political activity ahead of the next General Election, with the party positioning itself closer to the opposition alliance.
Matiang’i, who is increasingly being viewed as a possible presidential contender, said Jubilee would continue working with the United Opposition Coalition while focusing on issues affecting ordinary Kenyans.
“I will step up to the responsibilities, and I will not let you down, and I will humbly work with everybody, among them united opposition and the wananchi,” he said.
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He also announced that Jubilee would closely scrutinise the Finance Bill 2026, saying the party would resist policies that burden Kenyans.
Uhuru’s appearance at the Kiambu meeting comes amid rising political tension over his growing public involvement after retirement.
The former president has recently defended his decision to remain active in Jubilee affairs, dismissing calls by allies of President William Ruto for him to step away from politics.
“I have the right to defend my party. I am not seeking any position, but I am a Jubilee member in every sense, by circumstance, by resources, and by blood,” Uhuru said earlier this month during the homecoming ceremony of Jubilee Secretary General Moitalel Ole Kenta.
Drawing comparisons with former US presidents, Uhuru added: “If you go to America, people like Obama still defend their parties. Why should I be told that I cannot speak or contribute anything?”
His renewed visibility has unsettled sections of Kenya Kwanza leaders, especially in the Mt Kenya region, where succession politics are beginning to shape new alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
While Ruto’s allies accuse Uhuru of quietly backing anti-government mobilisation, Jubilee leaders insist the former president is simply exercising his democratic rights and advocating peace and unity.
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