Uhuru lashes out at Kioni for constantly attacking Gachagua

By Newsflash Writer

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has reprimanded Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni for persistently attacking former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, warning that such behavior is tarnishing the image of the party.

Speaking during a Jubilee Party meeting held at Thika Greens Resort in Kiambu County on Friday, November 7, 2025, Uhuru expressed his disappointment over Kioni’s repeated online jabs at Gachagua, saying that while party leaders are free to defend Jubilee, it should not be done by hurling insults or undermining other political figures.

“Something else I would like to state, let’s stop abusing each other. Even if you don’t like me, there is no need to attack me. Listen to me, but leave with your own opinions,” said Uhuru.

He went on to urge party members to show restraint and focus on selling their agenda instead of engaging in unnecessary political feuds. “Attacks will not take you anywhere. Respect is what lasts. Are we together? And I won’t lie to you, sometimes I’m usually very angry when I read different posts online. What angers me is some people defend our party while attacking others. Why are you attacking them? Just sell your agenda.”

Uhuru calls for political maturity and respect

Uhuru’s remarks appeared to be directed primarily at Kioni, who has frequently criticized Gachagua in media interviews and on social media platforms. In his address, the former Head of State did not mince words, calling out the Jubilee Secretary-General by name and warning that he would not tolerate internal discord disguised as party defense.

“And you, Kioni, our Secretary-General, I’ll tell you, to me, all those things I read online… one time you are purporting to defend Jubilee… then you are attacking Gachagua, I don’t want those things!” said Uhuru amid applause from the crowd.

He stressed that Jubilee should not be reduced to a platform for personal vendettas or political score-settling. “We are not a party of insults. Every leader should be respected. Let him give his opinion, as well as you. The masses will decide. I don’t want those petty fights. It’s nonsense,” Uhuru added.

Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni. Photo/Jeremiah Kioni/X

The retired president further cautioned that he would not hesitate to take disciplinary action against anyone who continued fueling unnecessary divisions within the party. “If anyone continues with that trend, I won’t hesitate to kick him out,” Uhuru warned, his tone firm and commanding.

Jubilee grapples with internal rifts

Uhuru’s stern warning comes against a backdrop of growing discontent within the Jubilee Party, which has been struggling to define its political direction since the former president left office. Kioni, who has been at the helm as Secretary-General, has often positioned himself as a fierce defender of the party, but his confrontational approach toward Gachagua has not sat well with some members.

In recent months, Kioni has repeatedly accused the former Deputy President of being a divisive figure in the Mount Kenya region. His remarks have drawn both criticism and praise, depending on political allegiance.

Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has also been on the offensive against Gachagua, claiming that he played a key role in orchestrating the March 2023 invasion of Uhuru’s Northlands Farm in Ruiru — an incident that shocked the nation and symbolized the deepening rift between allies-turned-rivals in the former Jubilee administration.

However, Kioni has brushed off suggestions that his attacks on Gachagua are politically motivated or influenced by external forces.

In an earlier interview with Newsflash, he dismissed allegations that he was acting as President William Ruto’s mole within the Opposition, insisting that his loyalty lies squarely with the Jubilee Party and its members.

Political observers note that Uhuru’s latest remarks signal an attempt to restore order and unity within the party, which has been weakened by internal squabbles and defections.

They also interpret his comments as an olive branch toward former adversaries like Gachagua, who has in recent months sought to consolidate his influence in Mt Kenya politics.

The meeting was also attended by Jubilee’s Deputy Party leader, Fred Matiang’i, who is also its 2027 presidential candidate.