Former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jubilee Party has invited the Linda Mwananchi team to join forces with it after the group’s reported rejection by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, signalling fresh efforts to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general election.

Jubilee Party Secretary-General Moitalel ole Kenta said the party was ready to work with the movement, which includes Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, as part of a wider push to unite leaders seeking political and economic change in the country.

Speaking in Narok County, Kenta said opposition leaders must put aside their differences and work together for the benefit of Kenyans.

“There is a need for us to join hands so that we can build a better and more prosperous Kenya,” Kenta said.

He said Jubilee’s doors remained open to the Linda Mwananchi team and other political formations that shared the party’s vision for the country.

“Our hands are open. We love all Kenyans and will never discriminate against anyone. Senator Edwin Sifuna and his team should feel free to work with us,” he said.

The appeal comes amid growing political realignments as opposition leaders explore possible coalitions and presidential candidates ahead of the 2027 polls.

The Linda Mwananchi movement has positioned itself as a platform championing the interests of ordinary citizens, with its leaders criticizing the government over the rising cost of living, taxation and governance.

Kenta also used the event to drum up support for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s anticipated presidential bid, describing him as the strongest candidate to lead the country.

The former Narok North MP said Matiang’i’s record in public service demonstrated his ability to manage government affairs and implement development programmes.

“Dr Fred Matiang’i is a performer, an incorruptible leader and a unifying figure. He is the best bet for this country,” Kenta said.

Jubilee has increasingly promoted Matiang’i as a potential presidential candidate as the party seeks to rebuild its political influence following its poor performance in the 2022 general election.

Matiang’i served in several Cabinet positions under former president Uhuru Kenyatta, including the powerful Interior docket. He was also appointed chairperson of the National Development Implementation and Communication Cabinet Committee, a role that placed him at the centre of government programme coordination.

Kenta, who is expected to make a second attempt at the Narok governorship in 2027, also received endorsements from a section of leaders and teachers attending the ceremony.

The speakers described him as accessible and responsive to the needs of residents, pledging to support his bid for the county’s top seat.

Former Narok County Chief Officer Lucy Kashu said the county needed accountable leadership to address corruption, improve service delivery and ensure residents received tangible benefits from devolution.

She argued that countries frequently cited as development models, including Singapore, had succeeded by promoting integrity and strengthening public institutions.

“Singapore, which is often praised for its prosperity, has achieved progress by fighting corruption. Narok also needs an upright leader who can deliver that kind of transformation,” Kashu said.

She endorsed Kenta’s governorship bid, saying he represented an opportunity to restore public confidence in the county administration.

Kashu accused the current county leadership of failing to translate devolved resources into meaningful improvements in the lives of residents.

“People in Narok are yet to fully see the benefits of devolution. The county needs leadership that is accountable, accessible and committed to development,” she said.

Kenta unsuccessfully contested the Narok gubernatorial seat in the 2022 election. His renewed bid is expected to feature prominently in the county’s 2027 political contest as parties and candidates begin positioning themselves for the polls.

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