Matiang’i: I have no problem with anyone defecting from Jubilee

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has expressed no concern over members leaving his Jubilee Party to join other parties within the opposition. In an interview on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, the presidential flag bearer of the Jubilee Party stated that they all share the common goal of removing President William Ruto from power in 2027.

Matiang’i emphasized that this is the transfer season and the window is open, allowing anyone to defect from Jubilee while adhering to the law and maintaining respect for each other. "I have no problem with anyone defecting from Jubilee and joining other parties within the united opposition. We are all fighting for the same cause," he added.

Recent defections from the Jubilee Party, such as Kamkunji Member of Parliament (MP) Hassan Yusuf joining Rigathi Gachagua's DCP and Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje also defecting to the DCP, have raised concerns. The party's secretary-general, Montalel ole Kenta, disagreed with Matiang'ĩ's stance, accusing the DCP of weakening opposition parties by poaching members from Jubilee.

Kenta suggested that parties defecting members from Jubilee could be collaborating with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). He also expressed doubt about the popularity of some current MPs who have defected from the Jubilee Party, stating that 95% of them may not be re-elected in 2027.