Jubilee plans parallel rallies with opposition, Kioni says

Jubilee Party Deputy Party Leader Jeremiah Kioni has said his party plans to hold parallel rallies alongside those organised by the joint United Alternative Government.

Kioni claimed the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has reportedly been receiving more prominence during joint rallies, which he said overshadows other parties, including Jubilee.

Speaking to journalists in Nyahururu town last evening, Kioni expressed concerns that coalition meetings often favour DCP, which he said reportedly limits other parties from presenting their agenda and promoting their candidates.

“You know the person who has the microphone at those meetings is Gachagua; he naturally favours DCP people. The rest of us are not given a chance,” Kioni claimed.

Despite raising concerns about DCP sidelining Jubilee aspirants, particularly in the Mt. Kenya region, Kioni emphasised that his reservations should not be interpreted as divisions within the opposition.

The former Ndaragwa MP said Jubilee candidates will continue organising meetings across the region to promote the party and its candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.

Kioni argued that while Jubilee remains an integral part of the opposition, it must also actively engage with the public to advance its own manifesto.

“We are happy with how Gachagua is 'dealing' with Ruto, but being in a coalition does not mean we should not promote our candidates to the people. Mt. Kenya is our stronghold, and we will do everything possible to ensure it supports Jubilee,” Kioni stated.

The Jubilee leader expressed optimism that the opposition will eventually select a joint presidential candidate to challenge President William Ruto next year, even as each party continues building its individual presence.

Over the past two weeks, opposition leaders have held joint rallies in Nyamira, Kisii, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Muranga, Machakos, and other regions to demonstrate unity.

“Last week and the week before, we witnessed joint meetings addressed by those eyeing the presidency. We appreciate the way they are working, and a joint candidate may emerge. However, the podium does not give aspirants seeking other positions a fair chance,” Kioni remarked.