Matiang’i focus shifts to political vehicle after Kisii tour

Former Interior CS Fred Matiang'i speaks in Wamunyoro on May 4, 2025. PHOTO/HANDOUT.

Matiang’i stirred excitement on May 2, 2025, when he stormed the Gusii region and declared his intention to run for President of Kenya, sparking a wave of enthusiasm among his supporters.

To solidify his new opposition role, Matiang’i attended a high-stakes political assembly at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Wamunyoro residence, signaling his determination to stake his place in the national race.

While at Wamunyoro, Matiang’i emphasised that he has no issue taking on any public service mandate, insisting the country needs a “fixer.”

“You give us this mandate, you will see how work is done. We need to clean our country, restore faith in government so that people can trust government again,” Matiang’i said on May 4, 2025.

With his eyes firmly set on the presidency, Matiang’i is now strategising on which political party he will use as his platform, even as other top opposition figures also push for the country’s highest office.

At the centre of his options are at least three political parties: the former ruling Jubilee Party, the Kenya National Congress, and the United Progressive Alliance (UPA).

Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni has confirmed that the party has endorsed Matiang’i as its presidential flag bearer.

“The Jubilee Party has endorsed Fred Matiang’i to fly its flag in the 2027 general election,” Kioni told The Star.

According to Kioni, Jubilee’s national reach offers Matiang’i a broader political base.

“Jubilee has networks across the country and solid grassroots support — that’s why we want Matiang’i to run under our ticket,” he said.

During Matiang’i’s homecoming tour in Gusii, Jubilee supplied two large campaign trucks branded in the party’s colours and Matiang’i’s image, underscoring the leadership’s commitment to backing his presidential bid.

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, the Jubilee party leader, is reportedly a key figure behind Matiang’i’s presidential ambitions.

Matiang’i served as a Cabinet Secretary in Uhuru’s administration for ten years, eventually becoming one of its most powerful and influential ministers.

Beyond Jubilee, Matiang’i’s advisers are also evaluating other options, including whether a Gusii-based political party could provide a viable platform for his presidential bid.

Kenya National Congress, linked to former South Mugirango MP Manson Nyamweya, and UPA are being touted as some of the regional parties in the cards.

The UPA party, led by Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, played a central role in Matiang’i’s homecoming, supplying branded vehicles and campaign merchandise during the May 2 tour, signalling the party’s interest in positioning Matiang’i as its 2027 presidential candidate.

There is a growing sentiment among Matiang’i’s Gusii supporters that he needs a homegrown political vehicle, which he could then use to negotiate coalitions and alliances with other parties ahead of the elections.

Ahead of the 2022 election, Matiang’i was also linked to UPA, although he eventually backed Azimio leader Raila Odinga, who narrowly lost to President William Ruto.

In March, UPA’s leadership confirmed that the party is preparing for the 2027 race, with Matiang’i as its presidential nominee. UPA has launched grassroots mobilisation efforts, seeking to expand its influence beyond the Gusii region.

Addressing a rally at Gusii Stadium on May 2, 2025, Matiang’i declared his readiness to run for president.

“I am ready to be President of Kenya,” Matiang’i announced, as the crowd erupted in cheers.

“You have asked me to come back and serve this country. Do you want me to leave that job and return to serve you? I will now resign officially, with respect, and come back to Kenya to serve my country,” he said.

However, some of his supporters fear that if Matiang’i runs under a political party based outside the Gusii region, he could face political tensions and even the risk of impeachment, similar to what Gachagua has faced.

Political analyst Alexander Nyamboga noted that Gachagua’s political troubles have taught many politicians the importance of securing their political vehicles rather than relying on parties controlled by others.

“Kenyan politics is local, and strong regional parties are good for any presidential candidate. However, the challenge is avoiding being perceived as a regional figure rather than a national leader,” Nyamboga said.

Insiders say consultations are ongoing to arrive at the most viable political vehicle, which will be unveiled in the next couple of months.