The Jubilee Party has appointed former Narok MP Richard Ole Kenta as its new secretary general, with Jeremiah Kioni shifting to deputy party leader. This comes after the party's endorsement of Fred Matiang'i as its 2027 presidential candidate. The changes are intended to bolster the party ahead of the elections.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta's Jubilee Party announced significant leadership changes on Thursday, January 22, 2026. In an official statement, the party named Richard Ole Kenta as the new secretary general, succeeding Jeremiah Kioni, who has been appointed deputy party leader. Kioni will collaborate with Fred Matiang'i, who assumed the deputy role in October 2025.
"The party calls upon all members, supporters, partners, and Kenyans of goodwill to accord Hon. Kenta full cooperation and support as he undertakes this important and demanding responsibility," the party statement read.
Matiang'i confirmed the changes were approved by the National Executive Committee (NEC) during a morning meeting. Kenta, first elected Narok MP in 2013 on a TNA ticket and serving two terms, ran for Narok governor in the 2022 elections.
Matiang'i stated, "The NEC decided this morning to approve the proposal and appoint Ole Kenta as our new Secretary General. Ole Kenta is a very solid and respected political player, and we are very grateful for the work that he has done."
Other approved appointments include Zack Kinuthia as deputy secretary general, Yassin Noor Haji as national organizing secretary, Vincent Mogaka Kimoki as chairperson, Dan Mwangi as executive director, Kiembi Gitura as director of elections, and others. Additionally, Samuel Arama will serve as National Assembly whip, and Senator James Lomenen as Senate whip.
This announcement occurs just three months after Matiang'i's appointment as deputy and the party's endorsement of him as its 2027 presidential candidate. Kioni remarked on October 30, 2025, "We have received and formally accepted Dr. Fred Matiang’i’s application for his presidential bid, and the NEC has agreed that he carries our flag."
