When I Was Elected in 2013, I Started By Finishing Kibaki's Projects - Uhuru Kenyatta

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has opened up about his early years in leadership, revealing that his initial focus after assuming office in 2013 was completing projects started by his predecessor, the late President Mwai Kibaki.

Speaking in Murang’a County during a Jubilee Party grassroots meeting, Uhuru reflected on his administration’s journey, while also addressing internal wrangles within the party.

“When I was elected in 2013, I started by finishing President Mwai Kibaki’s projects in the first two and a half years,” Uhuru said. 

He explained that his goal at the time was to ensure continuity and stability in government.

“We wanted to build on what Kibaki had done instead of starting afresh. That way, Kenyans could see the results of consistent development,” he added.

Uhuru mentioned that his administration focused heavily on infrastructure, expanding road networks, and modernising key sectors like energy and education.

He said completing Kibaki’s flagship projects, including the Thika Superhighway’s supporting links and power expansion programmes, was crucial in laying a strong foundation for the Big Four Agenda that later defined his second term.

However, Uhuru used the same platform to warn Jubilee leaders against divisive politics and disrespectful behaviour. 

The former President expressed disappointment with some party officials who have resorted to attacking other leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

“I don’t want that nonsense in my party. People should do their politics respectfully,” Uhuru stated firmly, cautioning that he would not hesitate to discipline errant officials.

He specifically mentioned Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, warning him against leading personal attacks on other political figures.

Uhuru urged party members to focus on strengthening Jubilee’s grassroots structures and popularising the party’s manifesto instead of engaging in unnecessary conflicts.

“Let us go back to what made us strong—development, unity, and respect. Politics should not be about insults,” he said.

The former Head of State also threw his weight behind former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, praising him as a capable leader with the potential to take Kenya forward.

He dismissed claims that his support for Matiang’i was personal, insisting it was based on performance and experience.

Uhuru’s remarks come at a time when the Jubilee Party is struggling to regain its footing after years of internal divisions.