Arati hosts Matiang'i as ODM political winds in Kisii shift

Matiang’i paid a courtesy call on Arati at his office in Kisii Town before they addressed a public rally at the Capital Roundabout during his triumphant entry to his homeland.

The closed-door meeting, which included other elected leaders, lasted about 30 minutes before Matiang’i and Arati emerged and rode in the same car in the streets of Kisii town.

Arati, one of ODM’s high-ranking officials and the party’s deputy leader, has remained loyal to Raila for decades, dating back to his days as an MCA and later as MP for Dagoretti North in Nairobi.

The governor is known for his formidable mobilisation skills and bold political moves, which saw him defeat seasoned rivals to capture the Kisii governor’s seat in 2022.

While Arati’s hosting of  Matiang’i may not be enough to declare a shift in allegiance, it does shed light on the political dilemma he faces as Matiang’i’s growing influence sweeps across the Kisii region.

Previously, Arati has been seen walking a political tightrope over which camp to align with, as the region undergoes major realignment ahead of the 2027 polls.

Earlier, while addressing Gusii residents at various stopovers, Matiang’i told his native region that he would reveal their political direction at the appropriate time.

Speaking during a series of mini-rallies in major towns along the Kisii-Sotik Road, Matiang’i said he is first listening to the people before making any final decisions.

He acknowledged that he has accepted the people’s go-ahead to engage with leaders nationwide, promising that his 2027 plans will soon be unveiled.

“I thank you for giving me the green light to sit down and engage with other leaders. When the right time comes, I will come back here and tell you what’s next,” Matiang’i told ecstatic crowds at Nyansiongo Market.

Thousands of supporters turned out to welcome him during his first tour of the entire Gusii region since his return from the United States, amid growing speculation about a 2027 presidential bid.

“The time will come, and I will sit down with you so that we agree, as a people, on the way forward,” he told cheering supporters.

Matiang’i is widely expected to run for the presidency in 2027, especially after recent talks with key opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Speaking in Keroka on May 2, Matiang’i called on the Gusii community to remain united but stopped short of formally declaring his presidential bid, despite mounting pressure from local MPs.

“I want to thank you for your love — I love you from the bottom of my heart. Let’s move forward together and do all that gives praise to our Father in heaven,” Matiang’i said.

His remarks came as MPs from the Gusii region closed ranks on May 2, declaring their support for him ahead of the 2027 elections.

Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo also called on the community to rally behind Matiang’i, saying, “We have given him the authority to go and consult with others and prepare for 2027.”

Lawmakers from across the political divide made similar remarks during Matiang’i’s homecoming rallies in Kisii and Nyamira counties.