Jubilee Party Reshuffles Leadership as Kioni Moves from Secretary General to Deputy Party Leader
Nairobi, 22 January 2026
Kenya’s Jubilee Party has promoted Jeremiah Kioni from Secretary General to Deputy Party Leader, replacing him with former Narok North MP Richard Ole Kenta in a strategic leadership reshuffle announced Thursday.
National Executive Committee Approves Leadership Changes
The leadership changes were announced by former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i on Thursday, 22 January 2026, following approval by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) [1][2]. The decision was later ratified by the National Delegates Convention, marking a significant restructuring of the party’s top hierarchy [2]. Matiang’i confirmed that the NEC meeting took place on Thursday morning, where the proposal to appoint Ole Kenta as the new Secretary General was formally approved [5]. The reshuffle positions Kioni to work alongside Matiang’i, who assumed a deputy party leader role in October 2025 when the party endorsed him as its presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election [5].
Ole Kenta’s Political and Professional Background
Richard Moitalel Ole Kenta brings substantial political experience to his new role, having served as Narok North Member of Parliament for two consecutive terms beginning in 2013 on a TNA ticket [2][8]. Following his parliamentary service, he contested the Narok County gubernatorial seat in the 2022 General Election, though he was unsuccessful in that bid [2][5]. Ole Kenta is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi [2][8]. Beyond his political career, he has held senior positions in key public institutions, including serving as Chairman of Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) and as a Director at the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) [2][8]. The party described him as a principled leader known for his firm stance against corruption and consistent advocacy for the protection of the Mau Forest ecosystem [8].
Broader Leadership Appointments and Party Structure
The reshuffle extended beyond the top positions, with several other key appointments announced simultaneously. Vincent Mogaka Kemosi was named as the new national chairperson, taking over from Saitoti Torome, who will now lead the Jubilee Foundation [1]. Yassin Noor was appointed as the new party organising secretary, replacing Senator Yusuf Haji, who has been excused to focus on other responsibilities [1][5]. Former Chief Administrative Secretary Zach Kinuthia has been named the new Deputy Secretary-General of Jubilee party, while lawyer Dan Mwangi has been appointed Executive Director [1]. Additional appointments include Samuel Arama as Whip of the National Assembly and Senator James Lomenen as Senate Whip [5].
Strategic Positioning for 2027 Elections
The leadership changes come as Jubilee intensifies its preparation for the 2027 General Election, with the party positioning itself for what it terms an ‘aggressive grassroots comeback’ [8]. Matiang’i emphasised that Ole Kenta’s wealth of experience in the country’s political system will be fundamental in shaping the party’s vibrancy ahead of the highly anticipated polls [5]. The appointment occurs at a critical moment when Jubilee is strengthening its structures, rebuilding grassroots networks, revamping county offices, and coordinating coalition engagements as part of broader opposition realignments [8]. In his new role as Deputy Party Leader, Kioni will be charged with leading recruitment efforts for the party, working to expand its membership base [1]. The party called upon all members, supporters, and partners to accord Ole Kenta full cooperation and support as he undertakes his demanding new responsibilities [2][8].