Jubilee leaders have dismissed claims that there were factions in the ruling coalition.
They said opposition leaders were working hard to create confusion and division with the aim of scuttling the party’s vision for the country to achieve their selfish ends ahead of 2022 general elections.
The leaders included Governor Mutahi Kahiga (Nyeri), MPs Kimani Ichungwa (Kikuyu), Moses Kuria (Gatundu South), Rahab Mukami (Women Rep, Nyeri), Samuel Gachobe (Subukia), Sabina Chege (Women Rep Muranga), Gichomo Githinji (Gichugu), Antony Kiai (Murkurweini), Rigathi Gachagua (Mathira), Gichuki Mugambi (Othaya), Jeremiah Kioni (Maragua) and James Gichuhi (Tetu).
Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu also attended the function.
Mr Ichungwa said Jubilee leaders would jealously guard the party’s unity and focus for development.
“As Jubilee, we shall vigorously defend the unity and focus of our party, nation because that’s the right thing to do for our nation. Let’s stop unnecessary noises and serve Kenyans,” said Mr Ichungwa.
Speaking at the African Independent Pentecostal Church (AIPCA) Muthuaini in Nyeri County, attended by Deputy President William Ruto, Mr Githinji said Jubilee was too strong for a few errand members to destabilize it.
He said some leaders in Jubilee were working in cahoots with the Opposition to create an impression that there was division in the ruling coalition.
“The President and the Deputy President have good intentions for this country as far as unity and development of all Kenyans is concerned. Those who are not comfortable here should leave instead of causing confusion,” said Mr Githinji.
Mr Gichuhi said the handshake should not be used by a few as an avenue to divide the ruling coalition.
“President Kenyatta and the Deputy President worked hard to ensure the party was reelected in 2017 despite challenges and Opposition going to court to block our win. The same unity should continue for the betterment of our party and Kenyans,” said Mr Gichuhi.
But let me ask a question: If NASA had won during the last election, could it accept to enter into handshake with President Kenyatta and the Deputy President? No. In fact the party would have revived the ICC cases,” added Mr Gichuhi.
Mr Kuria urged leaders to focus their energies on development, saying when the time for elections comes Kenyans will decide on their leaders.
The leaders, at the same time, said they would not stop inviting the Deputy President to grace their development functions.
Mr Gachagua said it’s the leaders who were inviting the Deputy President to grace their functions and wondered why some people were uncomfortable.
“We are the ones who are inviting the Deputy President to our functions including the church, water, roads among others. We are surprised that some people are questioning why Dr Ruto is always attending church functions,” said Mr Gachagua.
Governor Kahiga said leaders should work together in addressing the challenges facing Kenyans.
Dr Ruto told Jubilee leaders to stop engaging in activities aimed at undermining the implementation of the Big Four agenda as part of the efforts to address the challenges facing the country.
“I want leaders to relax and stop focusing their attention on politics. Let’s focus our energies on serving our people because Kenyans will make their decisions on their leaders when the time comes,” said Dr Ruto.