Jubilee Party presidential candidate Dr. Fred Matiang’i has declared that he will not accept any decision by the opposition coalition on its presidential flag bearer unless the process is free, transparent, and inclusive.
Coalition Dynamics
Matiang’i’s bid for State House received a significant boost after the Party of National Unity (PNU) formally resolved not to field a presidential candidate in 2027, instead pledging full support for his candidature.
“In my view, it has to be a transparent and inclusive process, as in alliance building…the process is as key as the end result,” Matiang’i stated.
Both Jubilee and PNU emphasized that the coalition’s candidate selection must inspire confidence among Kenyans, assuring them that the chosen flag bearer will reflect their aspirations.
Calls for Credibility
Matiang’i stressed that the coalition cannot operate “on the basis of conspiracy,” insisting that unity requires openness and credibility.
PNU party leader Peter Munya echoed this sentiment:
“We will participate in the process of choosing the presidential candidate, but we must sit down and agree on the guiding conditions. There must be transparency.”
Jubilee Secretary General Moitalel Ole Kenta confirmed the party’s endorsement of Matiang’i, while PNU Secretary General John Okemwa Anunda clarified that the arrangement is bilateral and does not undermine cooperation with other like-minded parties in the United Opposition coalition.
Conclusion
As the 2027 elections draw closer, Matiang’i’s insistence on a transparent and inclusive process highlights the growing importance of credibility in coalition politics. With Jubilee and PNU now aligned, the broader opposition faces the challenge of ensuring unity while maintaining public trust in its candidate selection process.
