Jubilee faction supports Ruto's call for dialogue

The Sabina Chege-led faction of the Jubilee Party has supported President William Ruto’s call for dialogue in the wake of unrelenting Gen Z protests.

Reading a different script from Jeremiah Kioni’s group, the Sabina faction that comprised the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Parliamentary Group (PG) welcomed the olive branch extended by the President.

The Sabina faction said it was ready to participate in the proposed dialogue.

The Kioni group, however, has dismissed calls for national dialogue.

“As a party, we recall on 10th February 2023 the leadership and membership of the party unanimously resolved that the only way to resolve the issues facing Kenya is not through violent demonstrations but through consultations and dialogue,” said the nominated MP.

It was for this reason, she said, the party supported and actively participated in the national dialogue and reconciliation process that has now made several recommendations including IEBC reforms. 

The Sabina faction also called upon the government to expedite investigations into the loss of lives and destruction of property during the recent protests.

“We call upon the government to expeditiously investigate all the cases of loss of life and bring to book all those responsible for these heinous crimes. The party condoles with the families of Kenyans who have lost their lives during the demonstrations,” they said.

In a statement signed by party leaders led by Ms Chege and 25 Jubilee Party MPs, the officials also empathised with those who have lost livelihoods as a result of destruction of businesses and property.

“We unanimously condemn the loss of life that has been occasioned by goons infiltrating demonstrations by the Gen Z and by rogue police officers,” said the party officials.

Ms Chege encouraged the President to continue consulting across various sectors, political formations and interest groups towards the formation of a broad-based government.