“Going Forward, Moving Forward” – Jeremiah Kioni Refutes Demotion Claims, Vows Stronger Jubilee Leadership Ahead of 2027 Elections

Jubilee Party deputy leader Jeremiah Kioni has dismissed claims that he was demoted during the party’s recent leadership shake-up. He said the restructuring was meant to maximise talent and strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Under the new structure, Kioni exited the Secretary General’s office after nearly four years. He assumed the newly created role of Deputy Party Leader (Operations). The position puts him at the centre of party coordination, grassroots mobilisation, policy compliance, and alliance-building with political and societal stakeholders.

During an interview with TV47, Kioni rejected suggestions that the move was a demotion. “Going forward. Moving forward. In moving forward, if you pay attention to a lot of the things people say, you could easily be swallowed by negative energy,” he said. He added that the role gives him more freedom to engage in politics than the Secretary General position allowed.

Kioni said the changes aim to incorporate new talent and ideas, restore discipline, and sharpen Jubilee’s policy and electoral readiness. He reflected on his time as Secretary General, describing it as a period of legal and political battles to keep the party intact amid internal divisions. He said Jubilee remains a national party capable of mobilising support beyond regional strongholds.

The restructuring followed a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting chaired by party leader and retired President Uhuru Kenyatta. Alongside Kioni, Moitalel Ole Kenta was named Secretary General, Zack Kinuthia as Deputy Secretary General, Yassin Noor Haji as National Organising Secretary, and Vincent Mogaka Kimoki as Chairperson. Other appointments included Dan Mwangi as Executive Director, Kiembi Gitura as Director of Elections, Peter Kados as Chair of the MCA Caucus, and Saitoti Torome as head of the Jubilee Foundation.

Kioni urged party members to focus on Jubilee’s future and avoid distractions. He said he is committed to promoting the party’s presidential candidate and agenda while engaging directly with voters. “We have work to do. We must reclaim our rightful position in 2027,” he stated.

The leadership overhaul is one of the most significant for Jubilee since losing power in 2022. Party officials say it will strengthen internal structures, improve policy focus, and prepare the party for electoral success.