A recent court ruling has put the state appointments of seven Jubilee Party leaders at risk. They must choose between their roles as public officers and their positions within the party. The leaders are part of a faction that tried to take control of the Jubilee Party. This faction includes Joshua Kutuny and Naomi Shaban.
They attempted to seize control from former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Justice Nduma Nderi made the ruling. It follows a petition filed by Joseph Kagai. He argued that holding both positions is unconstitutional under Kenyan law. The seven leaders have 30 days to make their decision or face losing their state appointments.
The court’s decision reinforces Uhuru Kenyatta’s control over the Jubilee Party. The affected leaders are seen as renegades. They sought to undermine his authority. The ruling matches the arguments of Kagai’s lawyer, Jackson Awele.
He cited violations of the 2010 Constitution. He also mentioned the Leadership and Integrity Act. Justice Nderi’s ruling emphasizes that individuals can’t hold public office in state corporations. They can’t serve as party officials at the same time. Leaders must choose their allegiance.
This legal development follows a prolonged struggle for control within the Jubilee Party. Various factions have been vying for power. The seven leaders were formerly appointed to government positions.
It is believed they received these roles as a reward for their attempts to challenge Uhuru’s leadership. The court’s ruling effectively ends their dual roles, allowing Uhuru to strengthen his influence over the party and its operations.
In a related ruling, Justice Janet Mulwa reinstated key Jubilee Party officials. These officials had been removed by the Chege-led faction. This action further solidified Uhuru’s position.
This series of legal decisions highlights the ongoing political tensions within the Jubilee Party. It also shows the broader implications for Kenya’s political landscape. Factions continue to clash over control and influence.
