Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i. Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Writer
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i has formally tendered his resignation to the World Bank, signaling a return to active politics and laying the groundwork for a potential 2027 presidential run.
Sources within his campaign secretariat confirmed that Dr Matiang’i submitted his three-month notice to the Bretton Woods institution earlier this month. His current contract is set to expire in August, but he is expected to return to Kenya from the United States by the end of June.
His return will kickstart political engagements and strategic groundwork for his official campaign launch in August. Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi, who is part of the Team Matiang’i Secretariat, stated, “He has given formal notice and is in his final stretch. He’ll be back soon to reestablish political ties and rebuild his networks.”
Building alliances
According to Kibagendi, Dr Matiang’i’s comeback will feature critical meetings with key opposition figures as he positions himself as a strong contender for the presidency.
While speculation has been rife about his future plans, this marks the most definitive indication of his political intentions. Political strategists close to the campaign say Dr Matiang’i aims to unite a wide-ranging coalition grounded in principles of unity, transparency, and national development.
Efforts by Newsflash to contact Dr Matiang’i and the World Bank went unanswered. Nonetheless, he is reported to be aligning himself with other prominent leaders including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua (DCP), Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa, and PLP’s Martha Karua, all rallying behind a common mission to prevent President William Ruto from securing a second term.
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Kibagendi emphasized the importance of individual branding and support-building among the coalition members ahead of settling on a final flagbearer. He noted that regular polls will help assess each candidate’s strengths and weaknesses in a SWOT analysis, with electability and national appeal being key criteria for the final decision.
Quiet realignments
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is reportedly backing Matiang’i’s possible candidacy, with his Jubilee Party already pledging support. Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni noted that Matiang’i represents the people’s preferred choice.
“We are currently building party strength individually, but when we eventually unite, we believe Dr Fred Matiang’i is our best bet,” said Kioni.
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi, a close ally of Kalonzo Musyoka, echoed the need for unity but affirmed that parties should freely promote their preferred candidates. “Each party must first build itself before we consolidate our efforts. Ultimately, we aim to produce a single, formidable candidate to challenge Ruto,” he stated.
Supporters within Jubilee have rallied behind Matiang’i, while others remain loyal to Kalonzo, reflecting the diverse interests within the coalition. Nonetheless, the opposition’s focus remains on cohesion and identifying a candidate capable of galvanizing national support.
Dr Matiang’i’s entry into the race comes during a period of behind-the-scenes political restructuring. Known for his bureaucratic efficiency and disciplined leadership, he is regarded by some as a trustworthy technocrat who appeals to both traditional power bases and disillusioned voters. Critics, however, highlight lingering allegations from his time as Interior CS, including claims of corruption and complicity in human rights violations. He also faces challenges as a political newcomer with no electoral experience.
Read more: Matiang’i to kick off 2027 presidential bid preparations
To bridge that gap, his inner circle is organizing a national listening tour, hosting public forums, and building campaign energy. Dr.Matiang’i plans to engage with regional leaders, youth movements, professionals, and civil society in the coming months.
Meanwhile, both the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) and Jubilee parties are actively drumming up support for him, even though he has not formally announced his candidacy. Nyambega Gisesa, UPA’s National Chairman and a key figure in Team Matiang’i, said the campaign is already in motion through countrywide meetings and grassroots initiatives. “We were in Kisumu last week, and this Monday we have a meeting planned for Nairobi coordinators,” he told Newsflash.
Gisesa noted that a broad national network is taking shape to back Matiang’i’s presidential ambition. Among the mobilising groups are Women for Matiang’i, Nyanza Youths for Dr Fred Matiang’i, and Team Matiang’i — all described as passionate citizens committed to national renewal.
