Jubilee's plan to deny Ruto's UDA a super majority in Parliament

The Jubilee party has set its sights on at least 50 parliamentary seats in Mt Kenya region in the August General Elections.

According to Jubilee officials, having at least 50 MPs from the region will prevent Deputy President William Ruto’s UDA from controlling majority seats in Parliament.

The target, according to President Uhuru Kenyatta's allies, will give their party leader the authority to negotiate on behalf of Mt Kenya voters if the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition candidate Raila Odinga wins the election.

President Uhuru Kenyatta with ODM leader Raila Odinga at the Jubilee National Delegates Conference Pulse Live Kenya

In the 2017 General Election, Jubilee has 25 governors, 25 senators, 140 MPs and 25 women reps.

“The President has urged us to leave our offices, boardrooms and hotels to campaign. It’s time to hit the ground running,” Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni stated.

The Jubilee Sec-Gen also hinted that Odinga could be viewed as a one-term president after he mentioned that the 2027 General Election was also a factor.

“We are in the process of identifying aspirants in Nairobi, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Kiambu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Embu, Meru, Tharaka Nithi and Laikipia. We need numbers in 2027,” he added.

Former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth said that Jubilee also plans on clinching victory in at least 11 governor seats.

Peter Kenneth Pulse Live Kenya

“If we manage to post 11 counties to the Council of Governors, and an equal number of senators and woman reps, then top up with at least 50 MPs, Mr Kenyatta will be leading a vibrant legion and will have the direct ear of President Odinga, should he win,” he stated.

However, according to UDA Secretary General Veronica Maina, Ruto’s party has a large following and a majority in both Houses.

“We are looking at a super-majority in the Senate and National Assembly, just like Jubilee had. We have close to 165 MPs, but with Kenya Kwanza partners on board, the figures will be much higher. We expect to have 65 per cent of members in the National Assembly and the Senate. We want to win in at least 32 counties. This will ensure we do not encounter a challenge of numbers should our President need something done,” she said.