KANU declared its support for President Uhuru Kenyatta's re-election bid during its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Thursday, February 23.
The party stated it has no issues with President Uhuru Kenyatta but expressed concerns regarding his deputy, William Ruto. According to KANU, their problem lies with Ruto's aggressive policies against the party, particularly his attempts to undermine retired President Daniel arap Moi and his son, Baringo Senator Gideon Moi.
A KANU member, as quoted by the Standard, stated, "In the end, although Ruto was a big issue for members, NEC decided the discussions will be between Gideon and Uhuru, and not the DP, who is not party to the deal."
Context and Background ¶
The decision by KANU to support Jubilee Party came after a meeting between President Uhuru Kenyatta and retired President Moi earlier in February 2017. In this meeting, Moi pledged KANU's support for Uhuru's re-election bid.
KANU's decision to back the Jubilee Party is seen as a significant blow to the National Super Alliance (NASA), which had hoped to secure KANU's support in the August 2017 General Election.
Response and Consequences ¶
KANU's stance on the Jubilee Party and Deputy President William Ruto may have implications for the upcoming election, as it could potentially shift the balance of power in favor of the Jubilee Party.
The recovered account cited reporting by Tuko.