Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has stepped down as Chairperson of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition, effective immediately. In a letter dated October 5, Kenyatta stated that his decision to resign was a necessary step in the continuous renewal of democratic institutions. He emphasized that his resignation should not be interpreted as an end to his association with the coalition.
Kenyatta's resignation comes weeks after he relinquished his leadership of the Jubilee Party to Dr. Fred Matiang'i. The transition was a result of a High Court ruling upholding Section 6 of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act, which bars retired presidents from holding political party office for more than six months after leaving State House. The court clarified that the law does not prevent retired presidents from remaining members of political parties or participating in political activities.
In his resignation letter, Kenyatta expressed confidence in the coalition's ability to continue its political journey under new leadership. He described Azimio as a permanent covenant of conviction, formed around the principle of bringing together Kenya's diverse political voices to protect democracy and advance national development. Kenyatta emphasized that political parties within a coalition could retain their individual identities while working towards a common objective.
Kenyatta assured that he would continue supporting the coalition despite stepping down from its leadership. He stated that he remained a committed member of the Azimio family, ready to support the institution from the ranks, and always available to offer counsel when called upon. The former President handed over the leadership of Jubilee Party to former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, who vowed to work with other like-minded leaders and focus on rebuilding Jubilee ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Azimio coalition party leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, noted that the High Court ruling specifically addressed leadership positions in political parties and did not affect Kenyatta's membership or participation in political activities. Kalonzo stated that the Azimio Council would consider the judgment and determine the way forward in accordance with the coalition's constitution and the law. The coalition subsequently rebranded as The Ukombozi Alliance (TUA) in September.
Kenyatta's resignation and the rebranding of Azimio to TUA signify a new chapter in the coalition's journey. The Ukombozi Alliance aims to continue promoting democratic values and national development. As a respected leader, Kenyatta's endorsement and continued support are expected to have a positive impact on the coalition's future endeavors.
The developments within Azimio and Jubilee Party have significant implications for Kenya's political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election. The changing dynamics within the coalition and the party will likely influence the strategies and alliances formed by various political stakeholders. Key players will be watching closely to see how these changes unfold and shape the country's political future.
Key points
- Uhuru Kenyatta resigns as Azimio Chairperson amid changes in Jubilee Party leadership.
- The resignation follows a High Court ruling on retired presidents' involvement in politics.
- Kenyatta reaffirms commitment to Azimio despite stepping down as Chairperson.
