Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has announced his intention to run for president in the 2027 General Election, stating that he is not currently aligned with any political party as he continues consultations with various leaders and groups.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV, Matiang’i said he is holding broad consultations with political leaders and parties across the country and will only commit to a political vehicle after inclusive discussions have taken place.
“I am not a member of any political party yet,” he said.
“If I joined one now, I would disadvantage others I’m in discussions with. Several political parties have approached me to be their candidate. I feel flattered, but I don’t want to close the door on anyone. I want comprehensive and inclusive conversations.”
Growing public frustration
He explained that his decision to run for the top seat was informed by the growing public frustration, a breakdown in trust between citizens and government, and what he termed as a lack of clear national direction.
“Kenya doesn’t need a saviour or ruler. It needs an honest, hardworking, consensus-building leader who can restore trust and guide the country forward. That’s the kind of leadership I want to offer,” he said.
“The level of pain and misery in the country is alarming considering our resources and capacity. When I talk to school principals and parents, I see frustration because there’s no clear direction in policy or support. That should not be the case.”
Fix governance failures
Matiang’i, who served in Cabinet for nearly 10 years, said he has a deep understanding of how government works and believes he can contribute meaningfully to fixing the country’s governance failures.
“I happen to know government like the back of my hand. I’ve worked with civil servants and private sector players across many sectors and crises. I know what our country is capable of,” he said.
The former CS said his recent political activity in Kisii County, his home region, should not be interpreted as ethnic mobilisation but rather a return to his roots following time away from public life.
“When I arrived back in the country, I went home. That’s common practice the world over. Everyone comes from somewhere. Even in the U.S., every presidential candidate works from their state—Bill Clinton from Arkansas, Obama from Chicago, Biden from Delaware. That’s what I did. I just went to my state,” he said.
He dismissed suggestions that his Kisii presence signals exclusivity or ethnic preference in his political plans.
“We chose democracy, not because it’s perfect, but because the alternative is horrendous. People are free to belong where they choose politically. Multiplicity of political expression is healthy for the country,” he said.
