“A Retired President Shouldn’t Run a Party” – Makau Mutua Tells Off Uhuru Kenyatta

Renowned legal scholar Professor Makau Mutua has faulted former President Uhuru Kenyatta for refusing to relinquish leadership of the Jubilee Party. He argued that Uhuru’s continued stay at the top goes against Kenya’s democratic spirit and constitutional values.

Mutua took to his social media accounts to voice his disapproval, saying retired presidents should stay away from political party leadership. He noted that Uhuru can freely express his opinions like any citizen but should not hold a formal political role. “In a democracy, a retired President shouldn’t head or run a political party. This doesn’t fit with the constitutional culture Kenya must build. A retired President can speak freely without being part of party structures,” Mutua said.

His criticism came shortly after the Jubilee Party held its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Thursday, October 30. During the session, Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni announced key leadership changes that placed former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i at the centre of the party’s future.

Kioni confirmed that the NEC had accepted Matiang’i’s application to run for president under the Jubilee ticket. “We have formally received and approved Fred Matiang’i’s application for the presidential bid. The NEC has agreed that he will carry our flag,” Kioni declared.

The move signals a major political comeback for Jubilee as it seeks to reclaim its influence ahead of the next general election. However, the decision has also sparked questions about the party’s leadership structure, as Uhuru remains listed as the party leader. No official announcement has been made on whether he plans to step down.

Mutua’s statement has since triggered heated political debate. Many Kenyans supported his call, saying it was time for the former president to let go and allow new leaders to shape the future. Others defended Uhuru, insisting he has the right to guide the party he founded.

Still, Mutua’s words have added fuel to ongoing discussions about political transition and accountability in Kenya. As Jubilee reorganizes its ranks, all eyes remain on Uhuru Kenyatta – waiting to see if he will finally hand over the reins or continue steering the party from behind the scenes.