The Jubilee Party has announced it will not field a candidate in the upcoming Kariobangi North Ward by-election, instead endorsing Wiper’s flagbearer in what it terms as a show of opposition solidarity.
In a statement released Friday, Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni said the move is aimed at reinforcing opposition unity against the Kenya Kwanza Alliance. He noted that the seat had previously been held by the late Joel Munuve, who had aligned himself with the Wiper Party before his passing.
“In the spirit of opposition solidarity, and cognizant of the fact that this seat was previously under a leader working with Wiper, Jubilee has resolved not to present a candidate,” said Kioni. “We will rally our full support behind Wiper’s candidate to ensure that the people of Kariobangi North continue to enjoy effective representation.”
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has scheduled the by-election for November 27, 2025, following Munuve’s demise. With campaigns expected to heat up, Nairobi’s competitive political landscape is once again in the spotlight.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon confirmed that the commission is fully prepared for the polls, having resolved earlier budgetary shortfalls. “We would like to assure the country and citizens that all preparations are in top gear, and the resources we needed to conduct successful by-elections are now available to us,” he said.
Ethekon added that IEBC has held consultations with political parties through the Political Parties Liaison Committee and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties to enhance transparency and preparedness.
Political analysts view Jubilee’s move as a strategic effort to consolidate the opposition’s influence in Nairobi, where party rivalries often dictate voter turnout and representation. Kioni reinforced this sentiment, stressing that Jubilee’s priority is safeguarding democratic gains.
“Our unity is our strength,” he remarked. “This move reaffirms our commitment to strengthening the opposition’s voice and ensuring that Kenyans are adequately represented in all spheres of governance.”
