Jubilee Party Challenges Ruto to Address Uhuru Directly Amid Escalating Political Tensions

The Jubilee Party has publicly challenged President William Ruto to personally address his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, amid growing political tensions between allies of the two leaders.
Speaking during a press briefing held at the party headquarters on Monday, May 4, 2026, Jubilee Party Secretary General Montalel Ole Kenta accused the President of allegedly allowing his allies to criticize the retired Head of State instead of addressing any concerns directly.
The briefing, attended by senior party officials, focused on the party’s preparedness for upcoming political contests as well as the current political environment in the country.
Ole Kenta did not hold back in his remarks, calling on President Ruto to take personal responsibility in responding to issues concerning Uhuru Kenyatta’s recent public engagements.
“I would like to challenge President William Ruto to come out himself and address this issue instead of using sidekicks. If he has any issue with Uhuru’s activities, let him come out and address it directly,” Ole Kenta stated.
He further emphasized that political differences between leaders should be handled openly and respectfully, rather than through intermediaries. According to him, the use of proxies to attack a retired president undermines the dignity of leadership and risks deepening political divisions in the country.
The Jubilee Secretary General also argued that President Ruto owes his predecessor a level of respect and protection, especially in the face of sustained criticism from politicians perceived to be aligned with the current administration.
Ole Kenta noted that such protection is not merely a matter of courtesy but also one of principle, adding that the same standard should apply when President Ruto eventually leaves office.
“He should not allow people around him to attack a retired president. Tomorrow, he will also leave office and would expect the same protection and respect,” Ole Kenta added.
The remarks come in the wake of renewed political tensions that began on Friday, May 1, 2026, after Uhuru Kenyatta addressed Jubilee Party members in Narok County. The meeting took place during a homecoming event for Ole Kenta, who is also positioning himself for the Narok gubernatorial seat.
During the event, Uhuru spoke on various national issues, remarks that have since drawn criticism from a section of leaders allied to the government. However, the Jubilee Party has strongly defended the former president, maintaining that his comments were not offensive.
Ole Kenta insisted that Uhuru’s remarks reflected the realities facing many Kenyans and should not be misconstrued as political attacks.
“There was nothing offensive in what the former president said. He was simply speaking about the issues affecting Kenyans today,” he said.
He further argued that Uhuru Kenyatta, like any other citizen, has the constitutional right to express his views on matters of national importance.
According to the Jubilee Party, freedom of expression is a fundamental right that should be protected, regardless of an individual’s previous position in government.
“He has every right to speak to the public about what is happening in the country. That is his freedom, not a favour from anyone,” Ole Kenta emphasized.
The party also took issue with reports that some politicians have threatened to push for the withdrawal of Uhuru Kenyatta’s retirement benefits if he continues to engage in political discourse.
In a strongly worded response, Jubilee leaders described such threats as unconstitutional and politically motivated.
They maintained that the retirement benefits accorded to former presidents are anchored in law and cannot be withdrawn based on political considerations.
“These are constitutional rights, not privileges that can be taken away at will. Those issuing such threats should understand that they are going against the law,” Ole Kenta said.
He went further to challenge those behind the threats, warning them against attempting to undermine constitutional provisions for political convenience.
“We dare them to act,” he added.
The Jubilee Party reiterated that Uhuru Kenyatta’s continued engagement in public discourse should not be seen as a threat but rather as a contribution to national dialogue.
Party officials present at the briefing echoed Ole Kenta’s sentiments, calling for tolerance and respect for differing political views.
They warned that attempts to silence former leaders could set a dangerous precedent and weaken democratic principles in the country.
Political analysts have observed that the latest exchange signals a widening rift between factions aligned with President Ruto and those loyal to the Jubilee Party.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions over the role of retired leaders in active politics, a debate that continues to shape Kenya’s political landscape.
As the political temperature rises, Jubilee leaders have called for restraint and urged all parties to prioritize national unity over political rivalry.
They maintained that constructive engagement and respect for constitutional rights remain key to fostering a stable and inclusive political environment.