Matiang’i coronated Abagusii spokesman as Opposition rallies behind him

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i during his coronation as Abagusii spokesman at Ekerenyo Grounds in Nyamira County on February 23, 2026/HANDOUT

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has hailed supporters of the United Opposition in Nyamira County for endorsing former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i for the presidency, describing the move as a major boost for the opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In a message posted on his official X account, Gachagua praised residents of Nyamira and Kisii counties for backing Matiang’i during a high-profile event held at Ekerenyo Grounds in Nyamira County, where the former CS was symbolically coronated as the spokesman of the Abagusii community.

“We thank you for endorsing our brother Dr Fred Matiang'i on a charge of the United Opposition to liberate our Nation,” Gachagua said.

“Dr Fred Matiang'i, congratulations my brother! The people have spoken, and welcome to the winning team.”

The ceremony, attended by key opposition leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa, marked a significant political moment in the larger Abagusii region.

Gachagua said the show of unity demonstrated a shifting political tide in a region that has traditionally backed the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“We have witnessed the will of the people of Nyamira and Kisii counties in the cause,” Gachagua added.

During the event, Kisii elders blessed Matiang’i and handed him traditional instruments symbolising his new role as the voice of the Abagusii community on the national stage.

The elders first draped him in a special cloth, a cultural symbol of leadership and responsibility within the community.

After receiving the blessings, Matiang’i expressed gratitude to the elders and pledged to honour the trust bestowed upon him.

He assured the community that he would not take the responsibility lightly and promised to deliver victory for the opposition.

Matiang’i further vowed that if he secures the presidency, he would continually seek guidance from the council of elders who blessed him as he campaigns across the country.

The endorsement comes as  United Opposition leaders intensify efforts to consolidate support and field a single presidential candidate to challenge President William Ruto in 2027.

Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has consistently maintained that unity within the opposition ranks will be crucial in mounting a formidable challenge against the incumbent.

He reassured supporters that the United Opposition remains cohesive and committed to fronting one presidential candidate in the next polls.

According to Gachagua, the opposition faction has agreed to rally behind whoever emerges as the consensus candidate, stressing that unity is the only viable path to unseat President William Ruto.

The opposition leaders are currently on a tour of the larger Abagusii region, an area that political observers say is gradually shifting from its traditional voting patterns.