NAIROBI — Former president Uhuru Kenyatta returned to the political stage on Friday, using the Jubilee Party’s National Delegates Conference to defend his record and remind members of what he described as his administration’s lasting achievements.
Speaking at Ngong Racecourse in Nairobi, Mr Kenyatta reeled off a list of what he called “milestones” of his 10 years in office. They included the Standard Gauge Railway, the revival of Kisumu Port, and the development of Lamu Port. He also pointed to a dramatic rise in electricity access, from 35 per cent to more than 75 per cent, and the doubling of paved roads.
“Our administration successfully implemented the new constitution, restored the integrity of national exams, and made progress in ensuring access to education,” he said. “On healthcare, we rolled out Linda Mama and strengthened the medical equipment system to reach more Kenyans.”
The former leader also touched on security reforms, arguing that they had contributed to relative stability during his presidency.
But his speech was not simply a celebration. Mr Kenyatta acknowledged what he called “unfinished battles,” including a faltering war on corruption and strained relations with the judiciary. “Our intergovernmental relations left much to be desired,” he admitted, recalling tensions over the appointment of judges. “Government arms must be independent, but also interdependent for the common good.”
He dismissed those who tried to wrest control of Jubilee from him, accusing unnamed rivals of using “paid forces.” Yet, he said, he had long moved past bitterness. “Leadership cannot be driven by anger,” he told delegates, mixing English and Kiswahili. “Sisi hatuna chuki na mtu, tunapenda nchi yetu” — we bear no grudges; we love our country.
The conference, Jubilee’s first in three years, drew party leaders and former interior minister Fred Matiang’i, amid renewed attempts to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Mr Kenyatta’s message was clear: despite challenges, Jubilee had a record he believes will stand. “I can go on and on,” he said, with a smile. “But that is for another day.”
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