Political Parties Tribunal reinstates Kioni and Murathe to Jubilee posts

NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 16 – Embattled Jubilee Party officials Jeremiah Kioni and David Murathe can now breathe a sigh of relief after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) temporarily set aside the resolution of the party’s national executive committee to suspend them as Secretary-General and National Vice-Chairman.

The tribunal’s Chairperson Desma Nungo said the stay order shall remain in place until the 24th of February when the matter shall be heard to confirm compliance and for further directions.

“Pending inter partes hearing and determination of the application, interim conservatory orders are hereby issued staying the Respondent’s decision communicated vide the letter dated 13th February 2023 to the effect that the (Jubilee Party NEC) meeting (held on 10th February 2023) was properly convened per the party constitution and further staying any consequential action by the Respondent towards effecting, adopting or ratifying the resolutions of the subject meeting,” read the Order.

The move comes a day after the Registrar of Political Parties ratified the Jubilee Party National Executive Committee (NEC) changes that kicked out Murathe, Kioni, and National Treasurer Kagwe Gichohi.

The new officials as a result appointed Eldas MP Adan Keynan as the acting Vice Chairperson, EALA MP Kanini Kega as the acting Secretary General, and Kitui Woman Representative Rachael Nyamai as the National Treasurer.

The 32 Jubilee leaders who sanctioned the ouster of the Kioni-led faction met with President William Ruto and pledged their allegiance to his administration.