This archive report was first published on 22 June 2020.
On Monday, President Uhuru Kenyatta chaired a crucial meeting of Jubilee MPs at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, marking a significant shift in the party's leadership dynamics.
According to sources, the meeting lasted approximately 30 minutes, during which President Kenyatta unveiled a series of changes aimed at consolidating his power and eliminating perceived threats to his leadership.
Garissa Township MP Aden Duale, a key ally of Deputy President William Ruto, was ousted as Majority Leader in the National Assembly and replaced by Kipipiri MP Amos Kimunya.
Additionally, Eldas MP Adan Keynan was appointed as the Secretary to the Jubilee Coalition Parliamentary Group, a position previously held by Kimunya.
The changes are seen as a continuation of the purge on rebels allied to Deputy President Ruto, who has been facing increasing pressure from President Kenyatta.
President Kenyatta's decision to attend the meeting in person, despite initial reports that he would address the lawmakers via video link, was seen as a demonstration of his authority and control over the party.
Deputy President Ruto, who has been at the centre of the purge, was also present at the meeting, despite his allies in the Senate and National Assembly being the main targets of the purge.
Only three individuals spoke during the meeting: the person who conducted the opening prayer, Secretary-General Raphael Tuju, and President Kenyatta, who read out the affected changes and closed the meeting.
The lawmakers present quickly agreed to the proposed changes, underscoring the party's commitment to President Kenyatta's leadership.
On Sunday, Jubilee Party Vice Chairman David Murathe had warned members of dire consequences if they failed to attend the meeting, stating that 'Missing the PG meeting should not come to anyone's mind.'
Members who missed a previous PG at State House had faced disciplinary action, and it is likely that those who failed to attend this meeting will also face consequences.
President Kenyatta's actions are seen as a move to consolidate his power ahead of the 2022 presidential election, which could potentially see him face a challenge from Deputy President Ruto.
