We're not part of new Jubilee alliance, says United Democratic Forum Secretary General Justus Kizito

UDF leader Musalia Mudavadi

The United Democratic Forum (UDF) party has distanced itself from the newly-formed Jubilee Alliance Party (JAP).

Speaking to The Standard yesterday, Secretary General Justus Kizito said the approach taken by the coalition's two major parties, TNA and URP, is condescending to the small parties and an affront to democracy.

"What we are now seeing is an assault on multiparty democracy and an introduction of totalitarianism through formation of one party with a large base that is capable of lording it over junior parties and citizens. That JAP now intends to rule Kenya until 2032 is very telling," said the former Shinyalu MP.

Mr Kizito also questioned the intentions of Senate Majority leader Kindiki Kithure and Senate Devolution Committee leader Kipchumba Murkomen who have been at the forefront popularising the new party.

He said it is unfortunate for such 'backward' ideals to be championed by members of a House charged with fighting totalitarianism and bringing devolution and democracy closer to the people.

"Being members of the Senate, Kindiki and Murkomen are supposed to allow democracy grow under the new constitution instead of going round markets telling people of plans by one alliance to rule this nation for 20 years," he said.

Kizito also hinted at UDF's possible rebranding to Amani National Congress in order to distance itself from TNA and URP's "bullying tendencies".

He said the new alliance has a tough task ahead if they expect to "walk all over" small parties affiliated to the ruling Jubilee Coalition.

Lugari MP Ayub Savula last weekend asked UDF leader Musalia Mudavadi to keep off JAP, saying it is not interested in UDF.