David Murathe, a close ally of Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Vice-chairperson of Jubilee party, has maintained his support for the Azimio la Umoja faction despite his suspension by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
In an interview with The Standard, Murathe dared President William Ruto’s allies to take over the Jubilee party and its activities, and said he would proceed with the Azimio la Umoja rallies on Friday, February 17, and Saturday, February 18.
“If they are men enough, let them take over the party. We will continue with our agenda. This Friday we will be in Kisii and Kisumu on Saturday (for the Azimio la Umoja rallies),” he told The Standard.
Murathe’s sentiments were echoed by former Jubilee Secretary-General, Jeremiah Kioni, who stated that Jubilee party was still supporting Azimio, and that the move was aimed at weakening the opposition.
“Those at State House and elsewhere began a very dangerous plan affecting Kenyans. That is the plan to ensure opposition parties have been bought and broken up to make sure no leaders remain to represent Kenyan citizens.
“I hear that some people met in Nakuru led by those who went to State House recently and claimed that Jubilee is leaving Azimio.
“That is a lie. Jubilee will be in Azimio to the end. Uhuru will be in Azimio to the end,” Kioni stated on Friday, February 10, at Mavoko, Machakos County.
Jubilee chairman Nelson Dzuya had recently announced changes within the Jubilee leadership, with EALA Member of Parliament (MP) Kanini Kega assuming the role of Secretary-General, and National Treasurer and Eldas MP Adan Keynan replacing Murathe as the party’s Vice Chairperson.
