The Jubilee Party has announced that it will not field a candidate in the upcoming Kariobangi North Ward by-election, instead choosing to support the Wiper Party’s candidate. The decision marks another step in strengthening opposition unity as political parties prepare for the next general elections.
In a statement released on Friday, October 3, Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni confirmed the party’s position. He explained that the decision was influenced by the ward’s political history, noting that the seat was previously held by Hon. Munuve, who worked with Wiper. “In the spirit of opposition unity, the Jubilee Party has resolved to rally its full support behind the Wiper Party candidate,” the statement read.
This is not the first time Jubilee has opted out of a by-election in favor of a coalition partner. Just last month, the party clarified its stance regarding the Mbeere North Parliamentary by-election. Jubilee Deputy Organizing Secretary Pauline Njoroge stated on September 12 that the party’s National Executive Council, chaired by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, had not issued nomination papers to any aspirant. She emphasized that Jubilee would instead support a joint opposition candidate. “The Jubilee Party will not be fielding a candidate in this race. Instead, we will stand firmly behind the joint opposition candidate. Take this to the bank, and treat all other claims as pure hearsay,” she said.
Elsewhere, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) also declared that it would not present a candidate in the Mbeere North contest. On September 10, DCP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua announced the party’s decision to back the Democratic Party’s nominee, explaining that the seat had historically belonged to DP and should remain with them. He framed the move as one of fairness, respect, and unity under the opposition pact.
In addition, DCP confirmed it would support opposition allies in other contests, including the Wiper candidate in Muumbuni Ward and the DAP-K candidate in Kabuchai/Chwele Ward in Bungoma County. However, the party noted that for other by-elections, it would field its own candidates and campaign independently while respecting opposition partners.
These moves highlight a growing trend among opposition parties to collaborate strategically in by-elections, presenting a united front in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
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