Former Nyeri MP Wambugu Pushes Back Against Jubilee Over Aspirants’ Forums Row

Former Nyeri member of parliament and Jubilee party  diehard Ngunjiri Wambugu has pushed back against the Jubilee Party leadership over its recent warning on unauthorized aspirants’ forums, defending the gatherings as legitimate platforms for political engagement ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In a press statement released on March 28, Wambugu said while the party has the mandate to safeguard its structures, such authority should not be used to suppress what he termed as “legitimate political engagement” among members and aspiring leaders.

The Jubilee Party had earlier raised concerns over what it described as “purported aspirants’ forums” operating outside official party frameworks, warning that members associated with such initiatives could face disciplinary action.

However, Wambugu dismissed the characterization, arguing that the forums are not acts of indiscipline but rather a reflection of a vibrant and democratic political movement. He maintained that members have the right to consult, organize, and mobilize within the broader spirit of internal democracy.

“At the core of this matter is a simple principle: members of a political party must remain free to engage and mobilize,” he said, adding that such efforts are critical for a party preparing for future elections.

Wambugu further cautioned against what he described as a growing perception that some individuals within the party are uncomfortable with independent, member-driven initiatives—especially among aspirants gearing up for 2027.

On the threat of disciplinary action, the former lawmaker said he is ready to respond to any lawful process but insisted that any such action must be clear, fair, and anchored in specific provisions of the party constitution.

He challenged the party to clearly outline any alleged violations, including the exact conduct and constitutional provisions breached.

“Political engagement should not be criminalized simply because it is inconvenient to some within the system,” he stated.

He also raised broader concerns about what he termed as attempts to intimidate or frustrate members whose political activities are not controlled by a select few, warning that such trends could undermine the party’s credibility and internal democracy.

Wambugu urged the Jubilee leadership to protect members’ rights, avoid actions that may be perceived as intimidation, and foster a more open and inclusive political environment as the party reorganizes ahead of the next general election.

Despite the standoff, he reaffirmed his loyalty to Jubilee, noting that his position is not a confrontation but a call for the party to remain true to its founding democratic ideals.

He also revealed plans for a meeting of like-minded aspirants in early April to advocate for fairness, transparency, and respect for ordinary members within the party.