Kioni slams opposition and government over petty politics

Jubilee’s Jeremiah Kioni Blasts Both Ruling and Opposition for Petty Politics
Jubilee Party Secretary‑General Jeremiah Kioni has sharply criticised both the government and the opposition, accusing them of diverting attention from Kenya’s key challenges by engaging in personal attacks and superficial rhetoric. Speaking on Spice FM, Kioni argued that instead of addressing serious issues such as education, unemployment and corruption, political actors have resorted to slogans and vilification, leaving the public stuck in the middle.
Kioni singled out the opposition for what he described as an exclusionary leadership style, pointing to the sidelining of figures like Fred Matiang’i as evidence of internal intolerance. If all other leaders can contest the presidency, why not Matiang’i? he questioned, denouncing the politic of gate‑keeping. On the government’s side, he accused the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) of selective justice, citing the alleged soft‑handling of cases involving Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi. He also defended former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s borrowing record, arguing that infrastructure delivered under his term contrasted with the current administration’s performance.The responses from political analysts have been mixed. Supporters of Kioni’s message view it as a timely call for mature, issue‑based politics ahead of the 2027 elections. At the same time, some critics suggest that Jubilee’s critique may also serve as a strategic repositioning amid shifting alliances and the party’s changing role. As Kenya heads into a pivotal election year, many observers believe that unless political parties embrace more substance over spectacle, voter fatigue and disengagement could deepen.
Looking ahead, the call from Kioni places a spotlight on whether Kenya’s political class is willing to shift from partisanship to performance. He warned that selfish ambitions could hand an advantage to incumbents if opposition groups fail to present clear alternatives. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the fracturing of meaningful debate and growing cynicism among voters may hinge on whether leaders heed his warning and focus more on policy than personality.