According to reports published by People Daily, Wambugu praised ODM’s approach to internal party democracy, arguing that political parties should allow structured and transparent competition before settling on presidential candidates.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, the former lawmaker said Jubilee officials should avoid prematurely endorsing a presidential candidate without first giving aspirants a fair opportunity to engage party members through open forums.
“This is the kind of thing I expect to see from our Jubilee Party before officials of the party declare anyone the presidential candidate,” Wambugu stated while applauding ODM’s process.
The remarks come amid growing debate within Jubilee over leadership direction and preparations for the 2027 elections.
Wambugu has recently emerged as one of the strongest internal critics of the party’s leadership, particularly regarding the treatment of aspirants and internal consultation processes.
The former MP was previously summoned by Jubilee officials after helping establish an aspirants’ forum aimed at bringing together party hopefuls and mobilizing grassroots support.
Defending the initiative, Wambugu argued that large political parties should encourage dialogue and engagement among members rather than treating political mobilisation as misconduct.
He questioned why consultations and meetings among aspirants were being viewed negatively within the party despite being common practices in other political formations.
“Since when did mobilisation become misconduct?” he posed during an earlier press briefing.
Wambugu also challenged party leadership to specify which party rules he allegedly violated, insisting he was ready to face any lawful disciplinary process.
At the same time, the outspoken politician has publicly questioned the political visibility of Fred Matiang'i, who has been associated with Jubilee’s future presidential ambitions.
In previous remarks, Wambugu expressed concern over what he described as Matiang’i’s low national profile and suggested the party should instead rally behind Jeremiah Kioni.
Political observers say the growing internal debate within Jubilee reflects wider struggles among opposition parties as leaders position themselves ahead of the next general election.
Analysts also note that ODM’s move to formally open aspirant registration may increase pressure on other parties to adopt more transparent nomination systems as competition for political influence intensifies ahead of 2027.
Tags
Politics