Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni has come out strongly in defense of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i, warning of alleged plans to sabotage his political future through legal intimidation.
Speaking on Friday during a party delegates meeting held in Keumbu, Kisii County, Kioni alleged that a section of political operatives was working behind the scenes to block Matiang’i’s rise, especially as 2027 draws closer. According to Kioni, however, such efforts are futile.
He stated that the Jubilee Party has already endorsed Matiang’i as its 2027 presidential candidate and no amount of court cases or character assassination will change that.
“Watasema Matiang’i ako na makosa sijui 28 ama 44—whatever number he is given hiyo ni yao. Lakini hata wamueke jela, tutachagua yeye,” Kioni said, affirming unwavering support for the former CS.
The outspoken SG also called out certain leaders whom he accused of secretly sowing division under the guise of preaching unity in the Gusii region.
“Nimeskia mambo hapa watu wanakuja kusema ‘unity, unity’ na wao ndio wanaleta disunity, sababu wametumwa hapa kuchukua kundi fulani waitowe kwa hawa wengi,” he cautioned.
Kioni’s remarks come amid growing speculation about Matiang’i’s political comeback, following a period of silence after the 2022 elections and his exit from government. His name has increasingly been mentioned in opposition circles as a potential flagbearer, especially in a post-Raila Odinga scenario.
