BIG BLOW TO MATIANG’I AS UHURU PICKS RAILA FOR 2027, SETS TOUGH CONDITIONS FOR HIS BACKING

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has once again thrown his political weight behind ODM leader Raila Odinga ahead of the 2027 General Election. The Jubilee Party leader, speaking during the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Tuesday, August 5, made it clear that his support hinges on Raila cutting ties with President William Ruto’s administration.

Jubilee deputy chairman David Murathe, while confirming the development, insisted that the Azimio La Umoja Coalition remains intact, with Raila still recognised as its legitimate leader. He also hinted at the possibility of a broader political alliance emerging ahead of the next polls.

“We are still with Tinga. Raila remains the Azimio leader, and Uhuru is our chairman. Unless something drastic changes, that’s the direction,” said Murathe, as quoted by Taifa Leo.

Murathe went on to shower Raila with praise, lauding his strategic silence and political mastery. According to him, Raila’s decision to keep his 2027 cards close to his chest is part of a larger game plan.

“You can tell by how Raila talks and carries himself, he’s not with this government. Even Sifuna’s recent boldness can only come with Raila’s blessings,” Murathe added, alluding to ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna's vocal criticism of the Kenya Kwanza regime.

As rumours swirl about former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i eyeing the presidency on a Jubilee ticket, Murathe dismissed such reports, clarifying that no official discussion had been held to endorse his candidature.However, Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni has publicly floated Matiang’i’s name before, fuelling speculation of internal alignments within the party.The new twist now re-energises the Azimio axis, with Uhuru's comeback expected to shake up the political chessboard just months after reports of deep cracks within the coalition.