Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i addresses his supporters at Gusii Stadium on 2 May, 2025. Photo/Jubilee Party/X
By Wanderi Kamau
In a political masterstroke, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i made a grand return to the Kenyan political stage on May 2, 2025, shaking the foundations of Gusii politics and toppling the influence of both Raila Odinga and President William Ruto in the region.
His dramatic homecoming tour across Kisii and Nyamira counties signaled not only his renewed political ambitions but also positioned him as a serious contender for the 2027 presidential race.
Matiang’i’s tour began in Kijauri near his rural home in Borabu and cut across Ekerenyo, Keroka, Keumbu, Kisii town, and Nyamira town. The reception was electric. Crowds thronged the streets, and the air was thick with expectation and excitement. It marked his first public appearance since returning from the United States, where he had been working in the private sector.
Addressing the masses, Matiang’i said:
“There are many challenges facing our country, but let us not lose focus. We are a country built on resilience. When the time comes, we will cross that bridge and fix those issues.”
Presidential declaration
In his speech, Matiang’i made his most direct hint yet about seeking the presidency:
“You know very well that I am a doer because you saw it when I served this country as a minister. I went to work abroad because others assumed power… But while there, I received many messages from Kenyans asking me to return and prepare to run for president. I now assure you that I am ready for the job.”
He added that he would resign from his overseas position to fully commit to the 2027 campaign.
Political analyst Peter Nyanchoka commented:
“Matiang’i’s comeback was not only symbolic but strategic. He didn’t just speak as a former minister — he spoke like a presidential candidate. The crowd, the messaging, and the coalition-building all point to a well-calculated political re-entry.”
ODM and UDA camps dented
One of the most striking aspects of the tour was the coalition of leaders who accompanied him — including Kisii Governor Simba Arati and a host of ODM MPs like Anthony Kibagendi (Kitutu Chache South), Clive Gisairo (Kitutu Masaba), and Obadiah Barongo (Bomachoge Borabu). Their presence confirmed a new alignment within the region.
Even more shocking was the involvement of North Mugirango MP Joash Nyamoko, a known ally of President Ruto and the only UDA MP from Nyamira County. His support suggested a major defection from the ruling party’s camp.
Read more: Matiang’i to kick off 2027 presidential bid preparations
“Today was just an introduction,” said Kibagendi. “Now go and speak to other Kenyans to help send President Ruto home in 2027.”
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i addresses his supporters at Kisii on 2 May, 2025. Photo/Jubilee Party/X
Political commentator Lilian Kerubo noted:
“This rally essentially pulled the rug from under both Raila and Ruto. Arati’s presence in Matiang’i’s camp is a death knell for ODM in the region, while Nyamoko’s involvement means Ruto’s grip is slipping too.”
The rise of Gusii’s undisputed kingpin
By uniting leaders from both ODM and UDA backgrounds, Matiang’i has emerged as the undisputed political kingpin of the Gusii region. The tour’s overwhelming turnout and multi-party support suggest a level of grassroots organization that is rare in Kenyan politics.
Governor Arati openly endorsed Matiang’i’s national ambitions:
“Go and seek partnerships from other regions,” he urged during the rally, effectively giving Matiang’i the green light to build a broader national coalition.
Maraga, Kebaso sidelined
The rise of Matiang’i has rendered other would-be Gusii leaders politically irrelevant. Former Chief Justice David Maraga and Gen Z activist Morara Kebaso, both seen as potential regional powerbrokers, now pale in comparison to Matiang’i’s influence and machinery.
Dr Charles Mokaya, a political science lecturer at Kisii University, observed:
“Matiang’i’s command of both the political class and the masses has left little room for others. Maraga is respected, but not politically active. Kebaso is vocal but lacks the networks. Matiang’i now owns the Gusii narrative.”
Beyond the borders of Kisii and Nyamira, Matiang’i’s declaration signals the emergence of a fresh force in national politics. His experience in government and his clean image give him an edge in a landscape where Kenyans are increasingly tired of political theatrics.
There is growing speculation that Matiang’i could attract support from factions disgruntled within the Kenya Kwanza coalition — including those allied with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Such a coalition could create a powerful Mt. Kenya–Gusii bloc.
“Matiang’i offers a technocratic image, and with discontent growing inside both ODM and UDA, he could offer a ‘third force’ option,” said Nairobi-based political analyst Eric Limo.
Behind the scenes, Matiang’i’s team has already laid the groundwork. Sources told Newsflash that before the rally, he held closed-door meetings with all former MPs and MCAs from the two counties, ensuring full local coordination.
Read more: The Matiang’i Effect: Passing cloud or serious renaissance?
His slogan during the rally — “Don’t lose hope” — was a subtle yet powerful message to a country grappling with economic and political frustration. It struck a chord with ordinary Kenyans and reinforced his image as a results-oriented leader.
“If this is just the beginning, then Matiang’i’s campaign is one to watch. He’s starting where it matters most — with his people — and building outwards,” said Kerubo.
A game-changer in 2027?
Fred Matiang’i’s return has dramatically reshaped the political map of Gusii and sent ripples across the national political arena. With his eyes now firmly on the presidency, and with a well-oiled campaign machinery already in motion, he has catapulted himself into the upper echelon of contenders for 2027.
Whether he can build a winning national coalition remains to be seen. But one thing is now certain — the Gusii region, once divided between Raila and Ruto, has found a new political home under Matiang’i.
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