The Jubilee Party has formally disowned an endorsement of Mithika Linturi for the governorship of Meru by its county branch officials. The decision came after a press statement issued on Friday, October 30, 2026. The party emphasized that it has a binding coalition agreement with the Party of National Unity (PNU).
The endorsement in question was made by officials of the Meru branch of the Jubilee Party. Mithika Linturi, a former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, was being considered for the gubernatorial seat. The party’s Secretary General, Moitalel Ole, issued the statement to clarify the party’s stance. The Jubilee Party maintains that its coalition with the PNU is non-negotiable.
This development follows growing tensions between the Jubilee Party and its local branches over candidate selection. The party has previously faced criticism for perceived lack of control over internal nominations. The disowning of the endorsement marks a significant move to assert central authority. The governorship of Meru is a key position in Kenya’s political landscape, with implications for regional governance.
The situation highlights the challenges of maintaining party discipline in a multi-party system. The Jubilee Party’s action underscores the importance of coalition agreements in Kenyan politics. The outcome of the governorship race remains uncertain as the political landscape continues to shift.
