Nobody can stand against Jubilee Party's might, says senator

Meru Senator Kiraitu Murungi has said rebellious politicians from Mt Kenya region will not stand against the Jubilee Party wave once it is launched next month.

Mr Murungi downplayed Meru Governor Peter Munya’s plans to launch his party and use it to vie for the presidency in 2022.

The Meru governor, who fell out with Mr Murungi about the folding up of Alliance Party of Kenya, has been the region’s leading voice against merger of parties to form JP.

Speaking at Katheri Girls High School during a fundraiser, Mr Murungi - who wants to contest for governorship - said they will embark on a vigorous party popularization campaign next month.

“Governor Munya’s party is not known and is yet to be launched. It cannot take this region anywhere because it has been formed to serve selfish interests,” Mr Murungi said.

He urged residents and political aspirants to support JP because it can unite the country.

Mr Murungi said there was no need for politicians to fear seeking elective positions under Jubilee since nominations will be free and fair.

“I urge all the people in this region to ignore any other party including Mr Munya’s political vehicle. All aspirants eyeing elective posts in Mt Kenya East should consider contesting on JP ticket because we have put watertight measures in place to ensure a free and fair nomination process,” he said.

The Senator said, just like the opposition leaders have been fighting to consolidate the western Kenya vote, Jubilee would be keen to preserve its backing in Mt Kenya region.

“We want this region to fully support the Jubilee Party. Cord and other parties should not be given room in the region,” he said.

He hit out at Mr Munya saying his 2022 presidential bid would not see the light of day since he has no national following.

“The governor cannot draw the attention of voters even in the neighbouring Isiolo or Tharaka-Nithi counties,” he charged.

Imenti Central MP Mwiti Irea, who had accompanied the Senator, said since the governor has failed to unite Meru leaders, he cannot unite the country.

“The Meru MPs decided to support Mr Murungi for governor because he knows how to work with other leaders,” Mr Mwiti said.

Mr Munya has maintained the formation of Jubilee Party is killing democracy.

The council of governor’s chairman has said he will unveil his new outfit once JP is launched.

By Philip Momanyi