Uhuru Kenyatta to Step Down as Jubilee Party Leader After High Court Ruling

Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta will officially step down as the leader of the Jubilee Party, complying with a landmark judgment from the High Court.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi delivered the decision, ruling that the law bars retired presidents from holding political party offices for more than six months after leaving State House. However, the ruling clarifies that former heads of state retain the right to join or participate in general party activities.

Justice Mugambi issued the directive after considering a petition that accused Mr. Kenyatta of violating Section 6 of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act. In his verdict, the judge noted that former presidents occupy a unique political position and can wield significant influence capable of skewing genuine political competition.

The court also highlighted the historical context of the 2003 law, which Parliament designed specifically to prevent former presidents from retaining power through successors.

Responding through the Communications Secretary at the Office of the 4th President, Mr. Kenyatta welcomed the judgment as a testament to Kenya’s democratic maturity and confirmed his immediate intention to honour the directive.

“He notes that the court’s ruling is not a restriction on his political life…the 4th President of the Republic of Kenya acknowledges that leadership is not the chair one occupies; it is the trust one cultivates,” a statement read in part.

Uhuru Kenyatta confirmed his readiness to hand over the position in accordance with the Jubilee Party constitution, reassuring supporters that the transition will move forward seamlessly.

“In regard to the long-delayed handover of the Party chairmanship, the Office clarifies that this process was not stalled by reluctance but by a contested internal dispute that required legal clarity. With the court’s guidance, that path is now clear,” he said.

“H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta welcomes this new chapter for Jubilee, built on the rule of law, guided by the Party’s constitution, and carried forward by the next generation of leadership.”

The decision marks a major shift for the Jubilee Party as it prepares to navigate Kenya’s evolving political landscape and the upcoming 2027 polls under the guidance of new leadership.

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