The Jubilee Party National Delegates Conference (NDC) kicked off in style at the Ngong Race Course, drawing hundreds of delegates eager to chart the party’s future under retired president Uhuru Kenyatta.
The event, marked by pomp, song, and dance, was meant to revive memories of Jubilee’s dominance in Kenya’s political scene. However, a dramatic incident involving Pauline Njoroge, the party’s deputy organising secretary, quickly stole the spotlight.
Viral Video: Security Stops Pauline Njoroge
A video from the event has gone viral, showing Njoroge attempting to approach Uhuru to greet him. In the footage, she is seen walking toward the former president, accompanied by a woman in a black dress, before being abruptly blocked by security officers.
The incident unfolded in full view of delegates and cameras, with officers first halting her companion and then preventing Njoroge from reaching Uhuru.
The move raised eyebrows among supporters online, sparking debate about why the outspoken Jubilee official—known for her loyalty to Uhuru—was temporarily barred.
Uhuru Later Embraces Pauline
Despite the tense moment, the matter was quickly resolved. Photos that surfaced after the clip showed Uhuru warmly embracing Njoroge, proving she eventually managed to exchange pleasantries with the former head of state.
Njoroge, a respected communications strategist and vocal political commentator, has built her reputation as a staunch defender of Uhuru’s legacy. Her influence, especially among young Kenyans on social media, has made her one of Jubilee’s most recognisable voices.
Jubilee’s Battle for Relevance
The NDC comes at a crucial moment for the former ruling party, which has struggled with defections and internal wrangles since Uhuru left office in 2022. Delegates waving red party flags cheered him on as he arrived, signalling his continued grip on the party despite the turbulence.
While the conference underscored Uhuru’s symbolic authority, it also exposed political undercurrents. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka skipped the event, citing feelings of exclusion at past Jubilee gatherings. His absence is seen as a potential blow to broader opposition unity talks.
What Next for Jubilee and Its Allies?
With Jubilee battling to reassert its position, Uhuru’s presence—and the drama surrounding Pauline Njoroge—highlighted both the party’s enduring influence and the challenges ahead.
As one delegate summed it up on social media: “If even Pauline can be blocked, it shows Jubilee still has a lot of internal fences to mend.”
