Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has voiced deep concern over Kenya’s current state, warning that the country is veering off course amid worsening economic conditions and mounting political tensions.

Speaking in Thika Town on Sunday, June 29, after attending a service at PCEA Thika Church, Matiang’i described this period as a moment of national reflection that requires leaders to put aside political ambitions for the sake of stability.

“Our nation is not on the right track. This is the time to be patriotic let’s put politics aside. Elections are still 28 months away. The survival of the country must come first,” he said.

Matiang’i urged fellow leaders to focus on preserving peace and ensuring the well-being of citizens rather than fueling premature election discourse.

He stressed that admitting the country is facing difficulties should not be seen as a weakness, but rather a courageous step toward finding solutions.

“Admitting challenges doesn’t weaken leadership. Everyone makes mistakes. But when things go wrong, we must speak up and come together to fix them,” Matiang’i said.

Echoing calls by the Conference of Catholic Bishops, he backed the push for national dialogue, saying finger-pointing in times of crisis only deepens division.

He also highlighted the recent Gen Z-led protests as a reflection of youth frustrations that must be addressed not silenced.

“The anger we are witnessing from our young people cannot be ignored. We must create safe spaces for them to speak and be heard,” he said, calling on parents to build stronger relationships with their children.

“We can’t keep shutting down their voices. Instead, we must listen, guide, and nurture them into responsible citizens who can carry this nation forward.”