Former Rarieda MP Raphael Tuju will be the campaign team leader of the Jubilee Party ahead of 2017 general election.
The choice by President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto surprised many, since he (Tuju) comes from opposition leader Raila Odinga’s backyard - Bondo.
It is believed that Tuju was given the post because he does not intend to vie for any political seat.
He is also not allied to any faction within the Jubilee Party.
It is also believed that Tuju’s choice was to give the team a national outlook and to quell the internal wrangles within the Jubilee Party on who should take up the position.
About 12 political parties folded to form Jubilee.
Several Jubilee leaders have lauded Tuju’s appointment, saying he has the energy to deliver.
They are; MPs Aden Duale (Garissa), Johnson Sakaja (nominated), Ndungu Gethenji (Tetu), Senator Kithure Kindiki, Deputy Speaker Joyce Laboso, Margaret Wanjiru and former minister Kalembe Ndile.
“He is not vying for any political seat and as such, he will have the energy to run the campaigns. His appointment is also a clear signal that Jubilee Party is a national outfit. The President’s mission is to unite the people,” said Duale as quoted by Standard.
Political analyst Adams Oloo says, “By picking Tuju, they are looking for somebody from Raila’s backyard to hit at him during the campaigns.”