Uhuru Hands Jubilee to Matiang’i, Reignites 2022 Election Debate With Raila Victory Claim

The handing of Jubilee Party leadership to Fred Matiang'i opens a new chapter for the party as it prepares for the 2027 General Election. The handover took place on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, ahead of Jubilee’s National Delegates Convention.

Uhuru asked party officials to accept Matiang’i as their new leader. Matiang’i had been serving as Jubilee’s deputy party leader and has emerged as one of the party’s leading figures in its preparations for the next election.

The former president made clear that the handover does not mark his departure from Jubilee. He said he intends to remain in the party as a senior adviser, offering guidance while Matiang’i takes responsibility for its leadership and day-to-day political direction.

Uhuru described Jubilee as a political home he helped build. His decision to stay involved gives Matiang’i access to his experience, but also places the former Interior Cabinet Secretary at the centre of decisions about the party’s future.

Matiang’i accepted the leadership in what he described as an emotional moment. Having served in senior positions during Uhuru’s presidency, he now faces the task of strengthening Jubilee’s organisation and building support ahead of 2027.

The handover drew further attention when Uhuru returned to the disputed 2022 presidential election. He said he still believes the late Raila Odinga won the vote, reviving the position he held after backing Raila’s campaign against William Ruto.

Uhuru’s statement reflects his personal belief; it does not alter the official result. Ruto was declared the winner of the 2022 presidential election, and the Supreme Court dismissed the petition challenging his victory.

The remarks bring the political contest of 2022 back into Jubilee’s leadership transition. They also underline the close political relationship Uhuru maintained with Raila after the two leaders set aside their earlier rivalry.

Jubilee’s next test will be its National Delegates Convention, where the party is expected to shape its leadership and strategy for the election ahead. Matiang’i takes over with Uhuru’s public backing, while questions remain about how the party will position itself in the wider opposition.