Former Jubilee Vice-chairperson David Murathe maintained his stance that he would still support the Azimio faction despite his suspension by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
In an interview with The Standard, Murathe, a close ally of the retired head of state, Uhuru Kenyatta, dared President William Ruto's allies to take over the Jubilee party and all its activities.
Without mincing his words, Murathe added that he is not bothered by the suspension and would proceed with the rallies to be held on Friday, February 17, and Saturday, February 18.
"If they are men enough, let them take over the party. We will continue with our agenda. This Friday we will be in Kisii and Kisumu on Saturday (for the Azimio la Umoja rallies)," he told The Standard.
Murathe's sentiments echo the recent remarks made by former Jubilee Secretary-General, Jeremiah Kioni, who dispelled the allegations of Jubilee leaving Azimio.
He added that the move was aimed at weakening the opposition which subsequently deterred them from effectively carrying out their oversight mandate.
"Those at State House and elsewhere began a very dangerous plan affecting Kenyans. That is the plan to ensure opposition parties have been bought and broken up to make sure no leaders remain to represent Kenyan citizens.
"I hear that some people met in Nakuru led by those who went to State House recently and claimed that Jubilee is leaving Azimio.
"That is a lie. Jubilee will be in Azimio to the end. Uhuru will be in Azimio to the end," Kioni stated on Friday, February 10, at Mavoko, Machakos County.
This came on the backdrop of Jubilee chairman Nelson Dzuya announcing changes within the Jubilee leadership; pointing out that East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament (MP) Kanini Kega would assume the role of Secretary-General.
In addition, National Treasurer and Eldas Member of Parliament Adan Keynan replaced Murathe as the party's Vice Chairperson.
Kitui South legislator Rachel Nyamai replaced Kagwe Gichohi as the party's National Treasurer. The suspensions came after rebel Jubilee MPs pledged allegiance to President Ruto's administration during a visit to State House.
