Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has handed over the leadership button to Fred Matiang’i former Cabinet Secretary for interior ahead of the much awaited election in 2027.

This comes after the High Court ruling that upheld a law restricting retired presidents from holding any positions in political parties for more than six months after leaving office. The retired president had earlier mentioned that he was ready to comply and handover following the courts ruling.

Speaking on September 22, 2026 during a party meeting in Nairobi, Uhuru confirmed that Matiang’i would take over the party leadership. He added that the transition would allow the next generation to take up the mantle of leadership and greater responsibilities.

He however noted that him handing over leadership mantle doesn’t mean that he is leaving the party. He said that he would take up a senior advisory role which allows him to continue offering leadership and guidance to the party and the new leaders.

In October 2025 Matiang’i was appointed as Jubilee deputy party leader and was appointed as Presidential candidate for 2027. Uhuru called on the members to start preparing for the 2027 general elections and said that the party is open to working with other political parties.

The transition marks a new journey for the Jubilee party with Matiang’i taking up the leadership role and the retired president offering advise.