Jubilee kicks off charm offensive in vote-rich Western ahead of new party's launch

From left: Water Minister Eugene Wamalwa, Mumias East MP Ben Washiali and Teso North Mp Arthur Odera during the Wanga Technical Training ground breaking ceremony held at Lubinu grounds Mumias subcounty Kakamega County on Feb 5th, 2016. The leaders who were present from across the country defended Jubilee leadership saying it was the only way the luhya community would improve in its development agenda. They also took the chance to protect Mumias East MP Ben Washiali against those accusing him of supporting the government of the day saying it was not against the law for the legislator to join JAP Party. [Photo:CHRISPEN SECHERE/Standard].

Even before the expected launch of Jubilee Party of Kenya (JPK) next month, leaders have hit the ground running to popularise it. Dr Noah Wekesa is already meeting leaders from Western and identifying point men. Last week, the committee coordinating the merger of affiliate parties created two zones and mandated Dr Wekesa to oversee party structures in Western, Nyanza, Central Rift, North Rift and Central Rift regions. Meru Senator Kiraitu Murungi will be in charge of Nairobi, North Eastern, Mount Kenya, Eastern and Coast regions.

“We are now focusing on getting support from the grassroots but nobody will be coerced to join the party as we ensure JPK gets a national outlook before the unveiling in March,” Wekesa told The Standard on Sunday.