Former CS Matiang’i gains backing from top political figures

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has made a notable reappearance on the local political scene after weeks abroad in the United States.

Upon his return to Kenya, Matiang’i was seen engaging in a high-level meeting with key political figures, sparking fresh speculation about shifting alliances and potential realignments ahead of the next political season.

The meeting, held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, brought together a diverse group of influential leaders.

Among them were former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, both of whom have played central roles in recent national discourse.

Their presence alongside Matiang’i signals a possible coalition or joint initiative in the making.

Also present were People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, Democratic Action Party leader Eugene Wamalwa, former Public Service CS Justin Muturi, ex-Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi, Mukhisa Kituyi, and Maore Maoka.

The gathering, marked by its broad political representation, suggests that behind-the-scenes talks are intensifying as leaders position themselves for greater influence in the evolving political landscape.

Though specifics of the meeting remain undisclosed, the assembly of key political heavyweights suggests possible political shifts in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election.

Karua later shared a photo on her official X account showing the group after the meeting, expressing a warm welcome to Matiang’i, Muturi, Linturi, and Kitui, and hinting at a potential alliance under the People’s Loyal Coalition.

"Welcoming our brothers ⁦ @DrFredMatiang @skmusyoka @rigathi @EugeneLWamalwa," she wrote

Gachagua and Kalonzo have extended a warm welcome to Matiang’i, Muturi, and Linturi, highlighting their decision to join the movement as being aligned with the future of Kenya.

"The team working to liberate Kenya continues to grow stronger each day. Dr. Fred Matiangi, Hon. JB Muturi, and Hon. Mithika Linturi, welcome aboard. You are on the right side of history," Gachagua shared in a post.

Kalonzo also expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “A very good morning to all, and welcome to the team. This is the group that will bring freedom to Kenya.”

On Thursday, February 20, 2025, the Jubilee Party officially endorsed Matiang’i as its presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

In a statement, Kioni explained that the decision followed consultations with party representatives from all regions of the country.

"These members, along with others nationwide and leaders from different parties, have expressed their desire for the party to have its own presidential candidate," Kioni remarked.

On Friday, April 25, 2025, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka reiterated his backing for Dr. Fred Matiang’i’s presidential bid, emphasizing the importance of unity in supporting his candidacy.

“We have made it clear that anyone wishing to support our candidate, Dr. Fred Matiang’i, is welcome. I firmly believe that politics based on inclusion is far superior to one rooted in exclusion,” he stated.