Uhuru challenges ‘sponsor’ claims as he backs Matiang’i

Nairobi, Kenya - Former President Uhuru Kenyatta dismissed claims that he is the political "sponsor" of opposition activities, asserting that Kenyans have the right to choose their own leaders. Addressing the Jubilee Party leadership handover on Tuesday, Uhuru seemed to criticize President William Ruto over the ongoing allegations, stating that political leaders should present their plans to voters rather than resorting to attacks.

"Even if you call me a 'sponsor' (sponyo), I don't have…" Uhuru remarked, eliciting laughter from the audience. He emphasized the importance of appealing to Kenyans with respect and outlining what they would accomplish as leaders, stating, "A vote is not a marketplace. A vote is a vision." Ruto has frequently accused Uhuru of backing opposition forces seeking to challenge his administration before the 2027 General Election.

However, Uhuru firmly rejected these allegations, insisting that voters hold the power to choose their leaders. He also criticized politicians for resorting to threats, intimidation, and bribery to secure support. "There’s no need to constantly threaten someone, take photos to intimidate someone, or pay people off," Uhuru asserted.

The former President further dismissed references to his administration, noting that he and his team peacefully ceded power after the 2022 election, following court confirmation of the election results. He questioned why his name continued to be invoked in political attacks four years after leaving office, asking, "Did we hand over power so that they could continue talking about Uhuru here?

Or did we hand over power so they could go and build?" Uhuru urged political leaders to concentrate on delivering services rather than seeking blame. He formally indicated his backing for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i to assume the party leadership role he has held. Uhuru expressed confidence in Matiang’i’s leadership qualities, describing him as wise, hardworking, and genuinely loving Kenyans.

He asked Jubilee delegates to support Matiang’i as the party prepares for the 2027 election, while clarifying that his stepping down from formal party leadership does not mean he is leaving Jubilee politics. "Even now, me as I am, over there, and I’m going nowhere. I am still a Jubilee member," Uhuru affirmed. He urged young Kenyans to avoid being manipulated by politicians and to focus on uniting with others to advance Kenya. "Let us unite with all those others and organise ourselves to push Kenya forward," Uhuru concluded.