Jubilee Party Secretary-General, Jeremiah Kioni, came out clean regarding plans by former President Uhuru Kenyatta to resign as Azimio la Umoja Council Chairman.
Speaking during an interview with K24 TV on the evening of Tuesday, December 20, Kioni maintained that there were no plans for the former Head of State to quit the party.
He further termed media speculations over Uhuru's intended departure as propaganda explaining that official communication would only emanate from the party or the former President himself through his own channels
“We have not had a debate with the former President about him leaving the party. When that decision is made, it will be communicated to the public with the channels we choose.
"What we see in the media is more speculation than anything that has come from him. I want to respectfully leave it to him to inform the public when it is necessary to do so,” he explained.
He further explained that he was not in a position to give any information regarding the planned departure despite being Jubilee’s official.
“I wouldn't sit here and give Kenyans information that I am not certain about,” he added.
Kioni made it clear that Azimio was not facing any wrangles and that what was being interpreted as issues were healthy disputes that would occur in any party.
“We are in a coalition of almost twenty-seven political parties and in any relationship of that nature, there would be issues that will need to be sorted out and I can assure you that we are happy in the coalition. We will be in that coalition
"The coalition is firm, you will see more activities in that coalition in the coming years,” he explained.
Despite being in the opposition, Kioni further stated that the issues within Azimio would still be experienced even if the coalition won the election.
"Even if we had won as per the institution that declares the winner, you would still see those issues you describe as cracks. For as long as we are able to sit and solve an issue that is a healthy thing," he added.
Should the former President not vacate his position, he will not be able to enjoy his Presidential retirement benefits.
This is with respect to the Presidential Retirements Benefits Act of 2003 which states, “A retired president shall not hold office in any political party for more than six months after ceasing to hold office as President.”
