Jubilee Party has unveiled a new leadership configuration that signals a strategic shift as it seeks to stabilise its structures and regain political relevance ahead of the 2027 General Election.
At the centre of the changes is the elevation of Jeremiah Kioni to Deputy Party Leader, a move approved by the National Executive Committee (NEC) on Thursday, January 22, and pending ratification by the National Delegates Convention.
The reshuffle also saw former Narok North Member of Parliament Richard Ole Kenta named the party’s new Secretary General, replacing Kioni.
Party officials said the changes are part of a broader effort to streamline leadership, draw from seasoned political hands, and close a chapter marked by protracted internal wrangles and legal battles.
In a statement, Jubilee urged party members and supporters to rally behind Ole Kenta as he assumes the powerful administrative role that oversees the party’s day-to-day operations and election preparedness.
“The party calls upon all members, supporters, partners, and Kenyans of goodwill to accord Hon Kenta full cooperation and support as he undertakes this important and demanding responsibility,” the statement read.
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, who joined Jubilee’s top leadership in October 2025, confirmed that the NEC unanimously endorsed the changes.
He said Ole Kenta’s political experience and networks would be instrumental as the party prepares to re-enter competitive national politics.
“The NEC decided this morning to approve the proposal and appoint Ole Kenta as our new Secretary General. Ole Kenta is a very solid and respected political player, and we are very grateful for the work that he has done,” Matiang’i said.
Ole Kenta brings with him nearly a decade of parliamentary experience, having served as Narok North MP from 2013 to 2022 on a TNA ticket.
He later contested the Narok governorship in 2022 under the ODM Party banner, losing narrowly to Patrick Ole Ntutu. His subsequent election petition was dismissed by the courts.
The leadership shake-up comes against the backdrop of years of instability within Jubilee following its loss of power in the 2022 elections.
The party was further weakened by the resignation of former Secretary General Raphael Tuju and a contested leadership takeover involving Sabina Chege and Kanini Kega, which was later nullified by the courts.
Kioni’s move to the deputy party leader position is viewed by insiders as an attempt to retain institutional memory while redistributing responsibilities at the top.
Analysts say the new structure reflects Jubilee’s desire to project unity and readiness after a prolonged period of factional disputes.
The infighting only eased in mid-2025 after the High Court upheld the validity of the May 2023 National Delegates Convention, effectively settling leadership disputes.
With legal clarity restored, Jubilee now appears focused on rebuilding its grassroots networks and redefining its role in Kenya’s shifting political landscape ahead of 2027.
