This archive report was first published on 15 July 2019.
Raphael Tuju Denies William Ruto's Allegations, Continues Advising Raila ¶
July 14, 2019, marked the beginning of the end for the unity within the Jubilee Party, as reports emerged that Raphael Tuju, the party's Secretary-General, was secretly working with Raila Odinga, the leader of the opposition party, ODM.
According to sources, Tuju's decision to work with Odinga has left William Ruto, the Deputy President, feeling betrayed and has sparked a heated debate within the party.
Speaking to the Standard, Tuju denied Ruto's allegations, stating that he cannot engage in public discussions with the Deputy President due to their professional relationship.
"I do not engage in public discussions with the Deputy President because he is my boss, and it is my stance to support the President's efforts to unite the country through initiatives like the 'handshake' and the fight against corruption," Tuju said.
The Jubilee Party has been plagued by internal conflicts since President Uhuru Kenyatta formed an alliance with Raila Odinga in March 2018, known as the 'handshake.'
Supporters of Ruto have been vocal in their criticism of the alliance, claiming that it is a ploy to undermine the Deputy President's chances of succeeding Kenyatta in 2022.
As a result, factions have emerged within the party, with some members supporting Ruto and others opposing him.
Moses Kuria, a member of the party, came to Ruto's defense, stating that the Jubilee Party had lost its direction after the 'handshake.'
"Rafiki yangu William Ruto. Chama cha Jubilee kiliisha kisiasa mnamo Machi 9, 2018... Raphael Tuju tu ni meneja wa kushikilia. Usimshambulie mtumwa," Kuria said.
