Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has resigned as Chairperson of the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition, weeks after relinquishing his leadership position in the Jubilee Party.
Kenyatta announced his resignation in a letter dated October 5, 2026, saying the decision followed the formal handover of Jubilee Party leadership to former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i.
The former President said his resignation should not be interpreted as an end to his association with the coalition, describing it instead as part of the process of renewing democratic institutions.
"Following the official handover of the Jubilee Party Leadership, I am writing to formally resign from my leadership position within the Azimio La Umoja Coalition, effective immediately," Kenyatta said.
"This decision is not a departure from our shared political journey, but a necessary step in the continuous renewal of our democratic institutions."
Kenyatta said Azimio had been formed around the principle of bringing together Kenya's diverse political voices to protect democracy and advance national development.
He emphasised that parties within a coalition could maintain their individual identities while working towards a common objective.
"A coalition is not merely a temporary alliance of convenience; it is a permanent covenant of conviction," he said.
"Kenyatta expressed confidence that the coalition could continue its political journey under new leadership.
"I step down from this office with a heart full of gratitude for the trust you have place in me, and with absolute confidence in the collective strength of this coalition," he said.
Despite leaving the leadership position, the former President said he would continue supporting the coalition.
"I remain, as always, a committed member of the Azimio family, ready to support the institution from the ranks, and always available to offer counsel when called upon," he said.
Matiang'i Takes Over Jubilee Leadership
Kenyatta’s resignation came shortly after he handed over the leadership of the Jubilee Party to Matiang’i.
The transition followed a High Court ruling by Justice Lawrence Mugambi upholding Section 6 of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act.
The provision bars retired presidents from holding political party office for more than six months after leaving State House.
The court, however, clarified that the law does not prevent retired presidents from remaining members of political parties or participating in political activities.
Matiang’i, who had served as Jubilee’s deputy party leader, subsequently took over the party leadership after Kenyatta agreed to relinquish the position.
Following his appointment, Matiang’i said he would work with other like-minded leaders and focus on rebuilding Jubilee ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kalonzo Comments on Uhuru's Political Role
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who is identified in the source as the Azimio coalition party leader, said the court ruling specifically addressed leadership positions in political parties.
He said the judgment did not affect Kenyatta’s membership or participation in political activities.
Kalonzo said the Azimio Council would consider the judgment and determine the way forward in accordance with the coalition’s constitution and the law.
Azimio Rebrands as Ukombozi Alliance
The developments come after the coalition subsequently rebranded as The Ukombozi Alliance (TUA) in September.
Kalonzo said the rebranding had been unanimously agreed upon by parties within the faction.
The change adds another layer to the political transition surrounding the coalition as its constituent parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kenyatta's resignation from the leadership position therefore marks another significant change in the former President's formal political roles, although he has made clear that he intends to remain available to support the coalition and offer counsel.
